Aussies might have an enduring and expanding love affair with SUVs but it seems they also like the combination of high tech and performance. That’s the clear message from the final results of the carsales Car of the Year presented by Bingle People’s Choice poll.
The People’s Choice poll was opened last week. Voting from the 10 finalists for 2020 carsales Car of the Year presented by Bingle, carsales readers were asked to pick their top car of 2020 and the resounding winner was the Porsche Taycan.
The all-electric super-saloon was an easy victor, attracting 21.6 per cent of the votes.
Second and third were a pair of all-new SUVs, the Kia Sorento and the Land Rover Defender, with 14.2 and 13.8 per cent of the votes respectively.
Readers praised the Porsche Taycan as a step-change for both Porsche and electric cars in general, with verbatims such as:
“It is the first car to represent the fact that electric cars can be beautiful, fast, luxurious and interesting.”
“Industry leading technology from a extremely reputable brand. EVs need a variety of different levels and the higher end of the spectrum is quite limited. The Porsche offers what is considered the pinnacle of EVs, setting a benchmark for car manufacturers.”
“The Taycan will become the benchmark in technology, build quality and performance. Porsche has been around for a very long time and has no doubt done its homework prior to releasing the Taycan.”
“[Taycan is] a great mix of performance and style… Almost affordable in base model (for a Porsche). Good to see a performance car brand pushing the EV ideology.”
“Electric car done right. Makes me excited about what is coming in the future of the car industry.”
The Kia Sorento won praise for its tech and convenience… and Kia’s general progression to be a brand that’s a step above the pack.
“Looks great, and is loaded with Tech. Great warranty, and great value.”
“Full of safety features, Warranty, Value for money, and great modern technology.”
“A quality seven-seater with all safety, driver aides, tech and with an eight-speed auto like in BMW… It’s been a while since there’s been a true spiritual [Ford] Territory replacement that looks good and drives well and feels good being in it.”
The Land Rover Defender proved popular and its design especially attracted strong approval…
“Design clues are fantastic. It is also the only car on the list that I could see myself buying with family size and needs.”
“A fantastic reimagining of a classic. If only I had the dollars to spend on one myself.”
“Rugged design, proper off road and finally mod cons for its price tag. Nothing will be missed from the previous generation and will look schmick on 22s.”
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the 2020 carsales Car of the Year presented by Bingle process was modified. Using comprehensive RedBook.com.au data and our expert panel’s opinion, 10 finalists were chosen for back-to-back testing from 27 contenders.
The 10 finalists plus two wildcards (voted on by our judges) will face a gruelling five-day test schedule as soon as COVID-related restrictions are lifted to allow comprehensive evaluation by the carsales team.
As it has proved popular with readers, we are considering whether the carsales Car of the Year presented by Bingle People’s Choice poll should become a permanent addition to the COTY process.
What do you think?