The Volkswagen Passat CC was the big winner at the New Straits Times/Maybank "Car of the Year 2010" (COTY) Awards.
The Passat CC picked up three awards, namely the coveted "Overall Car of the Year 2010", as well as "Premium Executive Car 2010 (below RM300,000)" and the "Good Design 2010" award.
Priced at RM243,888 (without insurance), the Volkswagen Passat CC has a powerful turbocharged 2.0-litre engine mated to a famed six-speed dual-clutch DSG (direct shift gearbox).
The nine-man judging panel was impressed with the exterior and interior design and styling, competitive pricing, creature comforts, as well as the handling and safety qualities offered by the Passat CC. Another Volkswagen model, the Golf GTI Mk6, won the "Performance Car 2010 (below RM300,000)" award. Volkswagen was also voted the Most Improved Brand in Malaysia this year, thanks to its beautiful product models, competitive pricing and advertising.
SM Nasarudin SM Nasimuddin, joint group executive chairman of Naza Group of Companies, was voted Automotive Man of the Year for spearheading the direction and growth of Naza Group's automotive ventures beyond the boundaries of Malaysia.
It was a double celebration for SM Nasarudin as it was announced in October that he will tie the knot next month with television personality Marion Caunter.
Caunter, 30, is the host of E! News Asia.
Kia Forte was the winner of the inaugural People's Choice 2010 award, which was based on votes garnered at the recent New Straits Times/Maybank COTY2U CARnival 2010 at the Matrade Exhibition and Convention Centre, Kuala Lumpur.
The carnival received about 25,000 visitors, and votes for the People's Choice 2010 award were based on an individual's favourite car from the 52 new cars nominated for this year's COTY awards.