THE Volkswagen ID. Buzz has been voted the Best Cars of the Year 2023-2024 winner.

It pipped both the Toyota GR86 and Nissan Ariya in taking the accolade awarded by a panel of industry professionals including international car designers, engineers, motorsport legends, specialist journalists and members of the public.

Relative newcomer Genesis won the Car Company of the Year title after impressing many members of the panel with an exciting and extensive range of all-new luxury models to be rolled out across Europe and the rest of the world in 2023/2024.

The Korean firm was ecstatically happy, not least because it comfortably beat long-established rival firms such as Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz and Lexus in the judging process.

"What an honour for Genesis to be awarded Best Car Company of the Year - especially at such an early stage in our journey," said company spokesperson.

"To be recognised by such an illustrious and renowned group of judges with this prestigious award is something special. But what adds to it and makes the win all the more exceptional is the way Genesis has been accepted in Europe - by the official Best COTY judging panel and the public."

And a Volkswagen spokesperson said: "We are delighted with the recognition and the win for the pure-electric ID. Buzz.

"We're grateful to the uniquely diverse and highly knowledgeable Best Cars of the Year judging panel for voting for it as their overall winner."

Accolades also went to the Dacia Duster as Best Bargain Car of the Year, the MG4 - Best Affordable Electric Car of the Year, Toyota GR86 - Best Affordable Sports Car of the Year, VW ID. Buzz Cargo - Best LCV of the Year and the Citroen AMI as Best Quadricycle of the Year.