A total of six cars have been shortlisted as finalists by the European Autobest jury in its Best Buy Car of Europe for 2023. These are, in alphabetical order, the Dacia Jogger, Honda Civic, Opel Astra, Peugeot 308, Renault Austral, and Toyota Aygo X. This annual award is decided by a 31-strong jury that includes Complete Car's Dave Humphreys.
Later this month, all of the finalists will undergo a detailed assessment by the jury, examining their dynamic and practical abilities and other aspects, including the cost of ownership. Build quality, equipment standards and even the accessibility of the dealer network are factors that go towards deciding the overall winner.
Last year the winner was the Dacia Spring, which is one of the most affordable electric cars on sale in Europe. Although the Dacia Spring isn't currently sold in right-hand drive markets, there are plans to introduce an updated model in 2024 that will go on sale in Ireland.
Winners of other categories have already been announced, including the induction of Jean-Pierre Ploué to the Autobest Design Hall of Fame. He is currently the Chief Design Officer of Stellantis and has enjoyed a long career that has included spells at Ford, Citroen, Peugeot and DS Automobiles. Jean Pierre is now acting as Chief Design Officer, contributing to the future designs of the Abarth, Alfa Romeo, Citroën, DS Automobiles, Fiat Europe, Lancia, Opel, Peugeot and Vauxhall brands.
Renault has won the Smartbest award for integrating the Android Automotive OS into the Megane E-Tech Electric and Austral models. Its slick operation and added electric platform functionality improve the user experience.
Advancements in technology aren't only about infotainment, and the Safetybest award recognises innovations in safety. The 2023 award goes to Valeo for its lidar system, which will become an essential part of enabling the roll-out of Level 3 assisted driving.
The top award in the automotive management category goes to Artur Martins, the Global Brand & CX Division, CBO and CXO of Kia. Martins has played a vital role in the transformation of Kia, initially developing the business in Europe before moving to the headquarters in South Korea. He currently has a central role in the brand transition towards electrification.
The overall winner of the 2023 Autobest award will be announced in mid-December.