HYUNDAI has become the first Asian car maker to land the prestigious Golden Award at this year's EuroCarBody Conference.

The Korean manufacturer beat nine of  Europe and Japan's largest automakers to claim the prize, courtesy of its new i40 model.

Hosted by Automotive Circle International - an organisation consisting of top automotive suppliers and manufacturers - the EuroCarBody awards were judged by more than 500 attending delegates, including industry experts from across the world.

The judges praised the comprehensive engineering and effective development of materials, as well as the production efficiency of the i40 which scored 37.98 out of a maximum 50 points.

Audi's A6 was second with 35.86 points and the Mercedes-Benz B-Class third on 34.66, giving Hyundai a clear victory on what was the company's first entry in the competition.

The judging panel was impressed by Hyundai's use of high-strength steel and improved joints in the i40's structure, meaning the car's lightweight body has high energy absorption efficiency which provides increased occupant safety.

Hyundai vice president Allan Rushforth said: "Winning the EuroCarBody Golden Award demonstrates our commitment to providing the highest levels of safety for Hyundai customers.

"The i40 was recently awarded a maximum five-star rating in the Euro NCAP crash test, and this latest award is further independent evidence that our technology is market-leading."

Available in estate and - from next year - saloon body styles, the all-new i40 was designed and engineered in Europe, specifically for the European market. It was recently rated in the lowest insurance grouping for a D-segment car in the UK.