IRELAND - Irish Car Of The Year nominations whittled down to 14, with our choice highlighted.

The shortlist of models for the 38^th annual Continental Irish Car of the Year 2015 has been announced by the Irish Motoring Writers Association (IMWA).  Sponsored by Continental Tyres Ireland, the overall winner of the 2015 title will be announced at an awards ceremony in The Marker Hotel, on Friday 28^th November.

The shortlisted models are as follows (in alphabetical order):

1. Alfa Romeo 4C
2. BMW 2 Series
3. BMW 2 Series Active Tourer
4. Citroen C1
5. Citroen Cactus - The Motoring World Choice
6. Citroen Grand C4 Picasso
7. Hyundai i10
8. Mercedes-Benz C-Class
9. Mercedes-Benz GLA
10. Nissan Qashqai
11. Nissan X-Trail
12. Peugeot 308
13. Peugeot RCZ R
14. Toyota Aygo

From 39 eligible cars, selection of the shortlisted vehicles is based on votes from the 18 voting members of the IMWA, taking into account such factors as value for money, style, engineering and performance. 

Tom Dennigan of sponsor Continental Tyres Ireland said: “We’re delighted to see such a dynamic shortlist announcement today, one that features some of Ireland’s most recognisable car manufacturers - some of who have a number of models shortlisted which only goes to show their popularity in Ireland.”

Austin Shinnors, Chairman of the IMWA, said: “Once again this year’s shortlist does not fail to excite.  It’s going to be a very difficult decision making process for all our members - we look forward to honouring the overall winner on November 28^th.”

The winner of last year’s Continental Irish Car of the Year was the Citroen C4 Picasso.