Sometimes the best doesn’t get to number one and sometimes the runner up is the one we remember. With that in mind, Diesel Car picks out its favourite three Car of The Year runners up.
1. Ford Fiesta
When the MkVI Fiesta was unveiled in 2008 it was met with wide-scale support and praise from the motoring media. Diesel Car editor Ian Robertson ran one as a long-termer and soon found himself falling for the Fiesta. With a great range of diesel engines powering a superb chassis, it’s no surprise. The only surprise was that it didn’t take the 2009 title.
2. Peugeot 406
Nobody would have been surprised if the 406 had won the 1996 European Car of the Year – it’s predecessor, the 405 had won the title and the 406 took everything that made the 405 great and refined it. The 406 proved immensely popular and would become Europe’s best-selling diesel. It didn’t prove as popular with the judges, however, being beaten by the Fiat Bravo/Brava.
3. BMW i3
BMW has taken its time getting into the electric car market, but that time seems to have been well spent judging by the breath-taking i8 and the cute and cool i3. Having won a raft of awards from around the globe, the BMW’s city-chic plug-in was many people’s pick to win the award, so there was quite a stir when it was beaten by the Peugeot 308. Which we will remember more in 20 years’ time?
Leave a Reply