Anyone in the market for a new car was spoiled for choice in 2017. With 350 different models available in fuel types and body styles to suit all lifestyles, it’s easy to see how buyers may have been left confused and overwhelmed.

The choice is only going to get wider this year, with another 60 new models expected to launch in 2018.

So the obvious question for new car buyers would be ‘what are the best cars in their respective class?’. Luckily, the UK Car of the Year (UK CotY) shortlist has just been published, essentially answering that very question.

Ranging from the slightest supermini to the hottest hatch, all 13 best-in-class category winners will now be considered for the top title of UK Car of the Year, set to be announced on February 23rd.

See who won what last time round – UK Car of the Year 2017: full winners list

BMW was the only manufacturer to secure more than one award – first for the 5 Series in the best executive category, then again for the Touring version of the same model in the best estate group.

The UK CotY awards were first held in 2014 but 2017 saw Peugeot and Lexus pick up their first category wins at the UK CotY awards. The 3008 was named best family car while the LC came out top in the best coupe class.

Mazda’s MX-5 was the overall winner last time round and the hardtop version could reprise 2016’s triumph after the MX-5 RF won best cabriolet.

Which car goes on to be named UK Car of the Year will be decided by a panel of 27 motoring journalists, who write for influential titles such as The Sunday Times, The Independent, The Telegraph, Top Gear, Auto Express and Auto Trader.

All the category winners at UK Car of the Year Awards 2018:

Best supermini: SEAT Ibiza

Best small hatch: Volkswagen Golf

Best family: Peugeot 3008

Best executive: BMW 5 Series

Best luxury: Rolls-Royce Phantom

Best estate: BMW 5 Series

Best small crossover: Citroen C3 Aircross

Best medium crossover: Volvo XC60

Best large crossover: Skoda Kodiaq

Best coupe: Lexus LC

Best cabriolet: Mazda MX-5 RF

Best hot hatch: Hyundai i30 N

Best performance: Kia Stinger

Like What You’ve Read?

For more articles like this, receive our weekly e-newsletter, including partner deals and all things motoring, register your email below.

Please note: You cannot subscribe to Smart-Motoring unless you put a tick in the checkbox below to indicate have read and agreed to our privacy policy.

Email[email protected]

Sign Up

I have read and agree with Smart Motoring's Terms, Conditions and Privacy Policy.