E-Class takes out title

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class saloon has been named the 2024 New Zealand Car of the Year by the New Zealand Motoring Writers’ Guild.

The vehicle emulates the success of the previous E-Class, which won the title in 2016. Mercedes-Benz also scooped the gong with its C-Class saloon in 2000 and the all-electric EQC in 2020.

Joerg Schmidt, Mercedes-Benz New Zealand general manager, says the company is honoured its latest E-Class, pictured, scooped the award ahead of 10 other finalists. 

“This accolade is a testament to Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to delivering unparalleled design, cutting-edge technology and award-winning safety,” he adds.

“We appreciate the guild’s recognition for everything the new E-Class offers.”

Judges assess the finalists for the honour on a range of criteria including how the vehicle performs its intended role, ride and refinement, performance, value for money, active and passive safety, and environmental responsibility.

To be eligible for the award, cars must have been launched in New Zealand as all-new models in the past 12 months.

The other vehicles vying for the 2024 prize were the Honda CR-V, Hyundai Santa Fe, Kia EV9, MG3, Polestar 4, Subaru Solterra / Toyota bZ4X, Suzuki Swift, Toyota C-HR and Volvo EX30.

Last year’s winner was the MG4, which was also named the AA Driven Car Guide New Zealand Car of the Year for 2023.