THE Suzuki Ignis compact crossover has scooped the 2017 Northern Car of the Year title.
It is the second time in four years that the Japanese manufacturer has received the award, having also won with the Swift Sport in 2014.
Members of the Northern Group of Motoring Writers placed the Ignis top of a list that covered every new model introduced over 12 months.
Filling the places behind the Ignis were Mazda’s MX-5 RF, the SEAT Ateca and Peugeot 3008.
NGMW general secretary and contest organiser Alan Domville said: “Suzuki’s tremendous sales performance in recent years has been remarkable and our members’ judgment this year once again reflects that.
“Ignis is one of the marque’s many splendid vehicles and truly satisfies our principal criteria – value for money.”
Suzuki PR chief Alun Parry, centre, receives the miner’s lamp from NGMW chair Julie Marshall
Receiving the award at the annual test day for automotive writers organised by the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders at Wetherby racecourse, Alun Parry, Suzuki’s Head of Press and PR, expressed his delight.
“This is more good news for the highly acclaimed Ignis and we are very proud to receive the Car of The Year award from the Northern Group, particularly when more than 60 per cent of our editorial coverage is generated by the regional media.
“Ignis is an important and popular model in our range and this award will certainly help us with further awareness of it.”
The traditional prize is an inscribed genuine miner’s lamp – a symbol of the north.
Rather than being called an “Oscar” it is affectionately known as the “Arthur” …in deference to Mr Scargill. The award has been held annually since 2005.
The Ignis is available from £10,499 for the SZ3 model and standard equipment for all variants includes DAB Radio with Bluetooth, air conditioning, six airbags and front electric windows.
