OWINGS MILLS, MD -- MotorWeek names the Volvo XC90 as the 2016 Drivers’ Choice Awards “Best of the Year”. The all-new XC90 was the clear standout amongst the 13 categories this year that span from a wide variety of vehicle segments from “Best Small Car” to “Best Dream Machine.” The Volvo XC90 is the first utility vehicle to win the top Drivers’ Choice honor in the 34 year history of the awards. The Volvo XC90 also won the honor of “Best Luxury Utility.” 

Fourteen years have passed since Volvo made its mark in the three-row luxury crossover segment with its first XC90. That first XC90 proved to be the right vehicle at the right time, and this innovative second-generation 7-seater scores again. The Volvo XC90 impresses with top notch safety, otherworldly comfort, and extra family-friendly features; all wrapped up in an unmistakably Swedish style.

“In selecting the Volvo XC90 as our Drivers’ Choice Best of The Year, we’re honoring both the car and the brand for their supreme achievement.” says MotorWeek Creator and Host John Davis. “The XC90 is not only a vehicle we like to drive, but one we like to be surrounded by as well. That doesn’t mean it’s a cocoon, but rather one that invites the driver and occupants to be involved with it. The technology, the safety, and of course the luxury, are all very personal in this car. Plus, Volvo, in this one new design, completely changed our perception of the brand; from conservative and safe to visionary and smart. Be it the advanced powertrain and chassis, or just the ease at which everything in the XC90 is controlled. Plus, this ground breaking crossover is priced as much for those that live on Main Street as on Wall Street.”

"We are honored to receive a MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Award for the Volvo XC90, the first of a new generation of vehicles from Volvo Cars. The XC90 brings Volvo firmly into the luxury space and fully represents the company’s new direction," said Dean Shaw, Vice President, Corporate Communications, Volvo Car USA. 

All Drivers’ Choice winners are featured on Motorweek.org, and will be appearing on a special episode (#3523) of MotorWeek airing on public television stations beginning February 12, 2016, and on cable’s Velocity beginning February 23, 2016. MotorWeek and the 2016 Driver’s Choice Awards are nationally sponsored by RockAuto and Tire Rack.

Known as one of the auto industry’s most coveted honors, The MotorWeek Drivers’ Choice Awards were announced at the largest consumer-driven auto show in North America, the 2016 Chicago Auto Show. In selecting the annual Drivers’ Choice Awards, the MotorWeek’s editorial staff evaluates more than 150 cars, trucks, and sports utility vehicles every year. Winners are chosen based on driving performance, technology, practicality, fuel efficiency, and value for the dollar.

2016 Drivers’ Choice Winners:

Best Small Car - Honda Civic

Best Family Sedan - Chevrolet Malibu         

Best Convertible - Mazda MX-5

Best Luxury Sedan - Jaguar XF

Best Sport Sedan - Nissan Maxima

Best Sport Coupe - Chevrolet Camaro

Best Performance Car - Ford Shelby GT350R Mustang

Best Small Utility - Hyundai Tucson

Best Large Utility - Honda Pilot

Best Luxury Utility - Volvo XC90

Best Pickup Truck - Nissan Titan XD

Best Eco-Friendly - Chevrolet Volt

Best Dream Machine - Lamborghini Aventador LP 750-4 SV, Mercedes-AMG GT S, Land Rover Range Rover Sport SVR

 

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