High fives as Volkswagen triumphs at 2011 Australia's Best Car Awards

BOTANY, AUSTRALIA – Dec 2, 2011: Volkswagen has recorded one of its strongest performances to date taking out five category wins at this year’s Australia’s Best Car Awards.

The remarkable Polo 66TDI continues its winning streak claiming the ‘Best Light Car over $20,000’ for the second consecutive year.

The Volkswagen Golf 90TSI has also been recognised in the small car segment winning the title of ‘Best Small Car under $35,000’.

In the medium car segment, the new Jetta 118TSI was rated the best under $50,000, while Volkswagen’s two SUV’s, the new Tiguan 103TDI and its big brother, the Touareg V6 TDI, have each been awarded ‘Best SUV under $40,000’ and ‘Best Luxury SUV over $60,000’ respectively.

Anke Koeckler, Volkswagen Group Australia’s Managing Director, was honoured to receive these accolades: “2011 has been huge for Volkswagen, with awards such as these, it is really the perfect conclusion to what has been an overwhelmingly positive year.

“With the launch of eight passenger vehicles this year, obviously we continue to hit the mark with our products.

“The Polo continues to impress, being recognised for the second consecutive year. One of our strongest and most popular models, the Golf 90TSI, has been judged as one of Australia’s best vehicles marking it the sixth time a Golf has appeared amongst the winners at Australia’s Best Cars. The Golf is fast becoming one of Australia’s favourite vehicles, and I am glad the Best Car judges agree.

“The previous Jetta, another pillar for Volkswagen, has twice been recognised at these awards. Having the new Jetta receive recognition this year proves that we continue to do the right thing by our customers.

“In addition, having the Touareg and the Tiguan claim top spots in the highly competitive SUV segment is a significant accomplishment.

“The judging panel assessed each vehicle on value for money, its overall design and function, and of course the on-road experience. With the judging panel amongst the most highly regarded industry professionals, these accolades bring with them an ever greater sense of achievement,” Anke Koeckler concluded.

Australia’s Best Cars chief judge Mark Borlace said the driveline technology in the Volkswagen range put it ahead of its competition.

The Australia’s Best Cars judges were impressed with the Volkswagen Polo: “The Volkswagen Polo has redefined the class with the German carmaker adding a touch of esteem and luxury to a sector of the market not traditionally known for above average levels of quality and refinement.”

The Volkswagen Jetta was praised for the new model for being bigger, cheaper and better equipped than its predecessor.

“With well-above average scores in most areas, the new Jetta once again convinced ABC judges it deserved the Best Medium Car under $50,000 title.”

While the Tiguan also held onto its title from last year, with its mid-life refresh further strengthening its hold on the crown.

‘Australia’s Best Car Awards’ are in their eleventh year as a co-operation between the seven State and Territory based car clubs of Australia. This is the nation’s most comprehensive and independent consumer focused vehicle testing and award program.