CR-V drives to top gong
Honda’s CR-V is 2023 NZ Autocar’s car of the year, edging out the other class finalists, and has also been judged to be the best family model on local market.
Kyle Cassidy, the magazine’s editor, says: “The CR-V is a highly competent vehicle, doing most things in an accomplished fashion while managing to have few annoying traits.
“This SUV will suit a family’s needs and there’s something for everyone at a reasonably affordable price.
“It’s good value, a decent drive and is dependable. With three well-considered variants, including a seven-seater, there’s something for every Kiwi family here.”
Other worthy points that saw the CR-V rise to the top include the choice of an efficient internal combustion engine and a hybrid for emissions-conscious buyers.
NZ Autocar’s luxury car of the year was the RX, “the best all-round Lexus”, say the judges. “The all-hybrid line-up blends power and efficiency for refined, easy progress. It’s practical, highly specified and the big Lexus after-sales care package gives peace of mind.”
BYD’s Seal came out as “most electrifying” and is described as “a polished package” – comfortable, quick and well-specified.
“To drive, the Seal is refined, a model of smoothness, which adds to the quality feel of the car.”
Volkswagen’s Amarok was NZ Autocar’s ute of the year, “a capable work truck, yet it’s as refined as an SUV to drive”. Its engines are “well-mannered and deliver more than enough torque for the job. Inside, it’s rather flash for a ute and there’s a heap of safety gear on-board”.
Hyundai’s Kona Hybrid was eco car of the year. “The hybrid is the pick of the new range. This hybrid works just as well out of town as it does in the city, helping lower your emissions profile. The new, bigger model is now more practical too.”
The all-electric MG4 secured the gong for best value. “It drives well, is well-specified and there’s a generous seven-year warranty.”
Other winners were the MG4 Xpower (bang for buck), Cupra Born (most dynamic), BYD Dolphin (urban), Audi Q4 e-tron (most desirable), Porsche 911 GT3 RS (performance) and Royal Enfield’s Super Meteor 650 (motorbike).
Vehicles eligible for NZ Autocar’s annual awards must be new models introduced in the past 12 months and which the magazine has reviewed in full.
Points for consideration include overall value, specification and after-sales service. Dynamics are important, as is performance, but this must be balanced with impact on air quality. Safety is vital as is practicality.
