Hyundai knocks rivals for six at the 2021 Auto Express New Car Awards

Here at Johnsons, we were thrilled to see Hyundai scoop six pieces of silverware at the 2021 Auto Express New Car Awards – including the coveted ‘Car of the Year’ gong – with the IONIQ 5TUCSON and i20N all taking home awards.

As they announced the winners, Auto Express certainly had reason to be cheerful, saying: “New-car registrations were up 42.5% on last year’s numbers to the end of May, no doubt boosted by so many exciting new car releases”. Indeed, every car on sale in the UK is eligible for the annual New Car Awards, which were first held in 1993, and are judged by Auto Express’ panel of road testers.

The all-electric IONIQ 5 reigned supreme, winning the top award, plus ‘Mid-Size Company Car’, ‘Premium Electric Car’ and the prestigious ‘Design Award’. Auto Express Editor-in-chief, Steve Fowler, commented:

“When we first saw the Concept 45 that previewed the IONIQ 5, we knew the production car would be something special. The IONIQ 5 delivers on styling, quality, driver appeal and quality. Hyundai has already proven to be a technology leader in the Electric Vehicle space, and the IONIQ 5 takes it one step further. It’s a brilliant car.”

The futuristic-looking IONIQ 5 is based upon Hyundai’s breakthrough E-GMP platform, which delivers faster charging, an impressive 310-mile range, superior handling and more interior space. Offering a refreshing take on electric vehicles, the model celebrates the simple joy of minimalistic structures – all while incorporating next-level aerodynamics to deliver the best performance possible.

Auto Express offered their readers the chance to vote for this year’s ‘Design Award’ – with the IONIQ 5 taking 19% of the poll. The magazine said: “It’s a showcase of styling done right; retro without being overtly pastiche, unique without being fussy and, despite its size, well-judged proportions.”

Ashley Andrew, Managing Director of Hyundai Motor UK, commented on the awards’ success:

“We are absolutely delighted with the six awards bestowed by Auto Express. For the IONIQ 5 to be named Car of the Year alongside three other category wins shows just how far Hyundai has come on its pioneering sustainable mobility journey.”

Not to be left out of the festivities, the Hyundai TUCSON and i20 supermini also claimed titles. The TUCSON was named best Mid-Size SUV, with Fowler describing it as “the perfect SUV for our times”. The Auto Express road-testers were impressed by the model’s broad choice of efficient powertrains and high-value trims. The Hyundai i20N, meanwhile, took to the podium for best Hot Hatchback, against some incredibly tough opposition. Honed on the Nürburgring Nordschleife race circuit in Germany, the i20N packs a punch, with a potent 204PS turbocharged petrol engine and a mechanical limited-slip differential. Auto Express said:

“Hyundai’s N badge is fast becoming the must-have accessory for anyone who loves to drive. The new i20N is all about fun – this is a hot hatch that will put a smile on your face every time. We love the snappy acceleration and secure handling that gives it an old-school hot hatch feel, but brought bang up to date with Hyundai technology and quality.”

If these award-winning models have caught your eye, contact your local Johnsons Hyundai to get behind the wheel today!