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If you want your next new car to be an award winner, then Smiths Motor Group is definitely the place to look. Seven models available from our dealerships won their categories at the 2021 Auto Express New Car Awards, with the recently launched Hyundai IONIQ 5 taking the overall Car of the Year crown. What's more, a further eight models were commended by Auto Express across seven award categories.
Car of the Year | Premium Electric Car of the Year | Mid-size Company Car of the Year | Design Award
The Hyundai IONIQ 5 sets a new benchmark in electric mobility, featuring innovative exterior design, strong performance, eco-friendly materials, and ultra-fast charging.
What Auto Express said:
"It’s no mean feat to be crowned Auto Express Car of the Year. Our winner needs to have a huge range of talents; it should move the game on, and not just in its own segment, but in the new-car market as a whole. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 does exactly that."
Supermini of the Year
Sensual lines, dynamic profile, sculpted sides and new full LED signature lighting... The Renault CLIO seduces you with style from the first look.
What Auto Express said:
"One of the Clio’s strongest points is its practicality, which is far better than you might expect of a car of this size. It has a 391-litre boot that is more spacious than in cars from the class above, plus plenty of space for passengers inside."
Affordable Electric Car of the Year
Enjoy zero tailpipe emissions driving in the ZOE E-Tech electric, with up to 245 miles of range, an 8-year traction battery warranty and MY Renault app connected services.
What Auto Express said:
"There are many reasons why the Zoe wins, but chief among them is its range. Updates last year saw the introduction of a 52kWh battery, which gives an impressive claimed range of 245 miles. Rapid 50kW charging is also available, giving 80 per cent capacity in a little over an hour."
Hot Hatch of the Year
Innovations directly from Hyundai Motorsport and our global R&D team to deliver the very best high performance road cars. The i20 N also has one of the best power-to-weight ratios in its class.
What Auto Express said:
"it’s the [N] division’s second hot hatchback, the i20 N, that’s an absolute corker. Developed under the direction of ex-BMW M head Albert Biermann, the car distils everything we love about hot hatchbacks into an appealing, aggressive and affordable package."
Small SUV of the Year
Captur has an unmistakable presence on the road with its athletic SUV design complimented with the iconic two-tone body paint and the C-shaped LED signature lighting.
What Auto Express said:
"The Renault Captur grabs a second consecutive win in the Small SUV category in 2021... it’s still an affordable offering that delivers plenty of space inside, the option of hybrid powertrains, and advanced technology – all things that small SUV buyers are looking for."
Mid-size SUV of the Year
The all-new Tucson is a full-blown design revolution. Leading the way in progressive design, it also offers state-of-the-art smart tech and the most electrified powertrain line-up in its segment.
What Auto Express said:
"...it looks great, with bold lines, sharp creases and distinctive LED light signatures allowing it to stand out for all the right reasons. It’s a similar story inside, where eye-catching design and high-grade materials create a truly upmarket experience, while the lengthy list of standard kit includes a wide-screen infotainment touchscreen, TFT dials and numerous advanced driver aids."
Electric Van of the Year
Durable, dependable, and practical. The Vauxhall Vivaro-e works hard keeps running costs low, making it the perfect vehicle for professionals.
What Auto Express said:
"Electrification is big news in the van market, which is why we’ve created this new category. The Vauxhall Vivaro-e is a worthy first winner, because it helps to banish concerns about range anxiety... it also comes as a five-seat Crew Van."
In addition to the winners, models available from Smiths Motor Group dealerships were commended in seven categories.