NISSAN MALTA

The Nissan ARIYA has been named the UK's Best Car for Long Distances at the AutoTrader New Car Awards 2024, beating competition from both the Volvo XC60 and BMW iX3 to secure the title. 

The Auto Trader New Car Awards differ from other automotive awards schemes – the winners aren't decided by industry insiders, but by the people whose opinions matter most: car owners.

This year, more than 200,000 UK car owners completed an online survey sharing exactly what they think of their cars, meaning that their all-important views, derived from own real-world experiences, determined the winners.

The Auto Trader recognition for the Nissan ARIYA is the latest in a long line of awards the all-electric coupe crossover has received since its arrival on UK shores.

Among organisations to have recognised its many qualities – such as its range of up to 330 miles ­– are the Caravan and Motorhome Club, Company Car & Van and The Car Expert. ARIYA is also a former Auto Express Car of the Year.

As part of the Auto Trader survey, car owners who have bought, driven and lived with their vehicles, were asked to rate them taking into account a variety of lifestyle factors.

Erin Baker, Auto Trader's Editorial Director, said: "With its long range, comfort and sleek looks, it's no wonder the Nissan ARIYA is the car of choice for those travelling long distances. Owners love how cost-efficient it is to run, and its features and technology make driving long distances a breeze.

''One owner said: 'It's a comfortable long-distance cruiser. Excellent performance and cheap to run. Very environmentally friendly. Can't fault it.' Who are we to argue?''

Fiona Mackay, Nissan GB Marketing Director, said: ''Naturally, we're delighted that ARIYA has been named 'Best Car For Long Distances' at this year's Auto Trader New Car Awards.

''It's particularly pleasing because this accolade is based on the real-world opinions of ARIYA owners from across the UK. It will help dispel any remaining myths that electric vehicles are suitable for short journeys only.

''Aside from its long-distance cruising credentials, ARIYA has so much to offer. A stylish, fully electrified crossover, it combines the practicality of a versatile SUV and the space, comfort and styling of a premium city car. We're incredibly proud of it and, as I say, thrilled to have won this Auto Trader award.''

As part of the awards survey, people were asked to rate their cars across 16 different categories, from reliability and performance to appearance and running costs. They were also asked about their overall satisfaction with their vehicle and how likely they would be to recommend it to others.

Erin Baker said: "The Auto Trader New Car Awards set out to achieve something different than other awards, and that is to recognise the brands and cars that are achieving excellence in the eyes of real-world car owners, not just industry experts.

''The awards are now in their eighth year and in 2024 we saw over 200,000 car owners telling us exactly how they feel about their cars, making them the most accurate indicator of consumer opinion. Many congratulations to all of this year's winners and finalists."

A full list of this year's winners can be found here: www.autotrader.co.uk/new-car-awards