The winners of the 2015 World Car of the Year competition were announced at the New York Auto Show, with the grand prize going to the Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
The initial entry list included 24 vehicles from all over the world, then turned into a short list of twelve and finally three finalists: Ford Mustang, VW Passat and Mercedes-Benz C-Class.
The jury for the World Car Awards, which includes 75 automotive journalists from 22 countries, noted the C-Class “delivers levels of refinement, luxury, safety, ride and handling that challenge best-in-class,” thanks to its all-new aluminum/steel hybrid platform, updated rear-drive powertrains and design and technological cues from the S-Class.
To be eligible for the overall 2015 World Car award, a vehicle must become available for sale on at least two continents during the period beginning January 1, 2014 and ending May 31, 2015. Previous World Car of the Year winners were Audi A3 (2014), VW Golf (2013), Volkswagen Up! (2012), Nissan Leaf (2011), VW Polo (2010), VW Golf (2009), Mazda2 / Mazda Demio (2008), Lexus LS460 (2007), BMW 3-Series (2006) and the Audi A6 (2005).
Besides the top prize, Mercedes-Benz also won two other categories this year: 2015 World Luxury Car (S-Class Coupe) and 2015 World Performance Car (AMG GT). The Citroën C4 Cactus won the 2015 World Design of the Year, while the 2015 World Green Car award went to the BMW i8.
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