The British-built Vauxhall Astra has been named as the European Car of the Year 2016.
The family car, which is built at Ellesmere Port in Cheshire, was voted the best European car of 2016 by a panel of 58 automotive journalists on the eve of the Geneva Motor Show 2016.
The Astra finished ahead of the Volvo XC90 and the Mazda MX-5 in the voting, making it the first Vauxhall car to win the coveted title since the Vauxhall Ampera in 2012.
“We’re delighted the Astra has been recognised for yet another award,” said Rory Harvey, Vauxhall’s Chairman and Managing Director. “To be named European Car of the Year by judges throughout Europe is a testament to the hard work that has gone into the Astra. This is the new model’s first full year of sales, and it has already been well-received.”
The award was announced a day before the opening of the 86th Geneva Motor Show, which will see car makers from across the world gather to demonstrate their new cars and concepts to the automotive press and public.
Vauxhall plans to showcase the new Vauxhall Astra Sports Tourer as part of its show stand, as well as the striking Vauxhall GT Concept, a sporty two-seat car with futuristic technology including a rear camera and screen to replace the traditional rear window.
Production of the new Sports Tourer at the Cheshire factory began early in 2016, and orders are open for the new car.
