2022 Car Of The Year Finalists

The recent announcement of European Car of the Year Award finalists has seen electric vehicles (EVs) dominate the list, contrasting the 2021 finalists which had only two EVs.

The annual award celebrates new car models released in 2021 available in at least five countries within Europe. Contenders are usually voted for by 61 motor trade journalists and industry professionals, like vehicle mechanics and motor trade insurance board members to compete for the award.

he seven finalists unveiled feature six electric cars, which is no surprise with the increasing popularity of these new battery-powered models, the new Peugeot 308 is the only non-electric finalist.

n this article we look at the list of contenders as we wait for the overall winner announced on 28th February.

Cupra Born

Cupra Born is a competent electric hatchback with sharp styling and a roomy interior. The exterior has a boxy shape with short overhangs, while the interior features sophisticated neutral colours with copper-coloured detailing. With its e-Boost performance pack and the rear-mounted electric motor, you can drive the rear wheels with 228bhp, which is more powerful than the current ID.3 at 201bhp. The Spanish performance brand is also impressive due to its sporty driving experience.

Ford Mustang Mach-E

Ford Mustang Mach-E isn’t the usual Mustang; it is an electric crossover with an electric range of 379 miles. The bold electric vehicle is built on a new platform with an extended range battery of 98 kWh.

While the car has a Tesla-aping touchscreen, it has a physical knob controller that acts as switchgear, providing a perfect blend of the past and future. At first glance, it doesn’t look like a Ford due to the lack of Ford branding.

Hyundai Ioniq 5

Ioniq 5 is an impressive Hyundai vehicle with retro hot hatch bodywork. Its design is made specifically for an electric vehicle, and its position in the finalists isn’t a surprise given the awards it has won. With its raised seating position, the car looks spacious. It is a worthy contender for the prize with a power of 215bhp and a battery range of 298 miles.

Kia EV6

Kia EV6 is mechanically similar to Ioniq 5 with a distinctive style and slightly sportier look. The SUV is a pure-electric hatchback slightly bigger than regular vehicles on European roads. Unlike Hyundai, it has a slightly larger battery with 77.4 kWh and covers 250 miles.

Peugeot 308

While Peugeot 308 is the only non-electric car in the collection, it is still a worthy contender. Don’t bet against it! The previous Peugeot 308 won the Car of the Year Award in 2020. The car upgraded to a refreshing interior and exterior design with lots of tech and competent dynamics. It also has hybrid models for those who want something electrified.

Renault Megane E-Tech

The Renault is fun to drive with a well-finished interior and cabin. While it’s a normal size hatch, it feels roomy due to the additional cabin storage. With a battery power of 60 kWh, you can drive up to 292 miles.

Skoda Enyaq IV

This Skoda electric car is the best alternative to Volkswagen ID.4 with a spacious and stylish interior. The affordable SUV wins in all key areas, from tech refinement to battery power.

Good luck to all the finalists from everyone at Unicom Motor Trade Insurance.