Honda's Accord, Jazz and Civic Type R emerged winners in its categories at the Autocar ASEAN Car Of The Year Awards 2008 recently.
The 8th generation Honda Accord which was launched in April this year won in the Large Sedan category beating two other rivals; the Mazda 6 and Kia Optima.
Honda's recently launched premium 5-door hatchback, the Honda Jazz emerged tops in the Compact Sedan / Hatchback / Coupe category. Among the Honda Jazz's competitors eyeing this award were Toyota Vios, Proton Persona, Suzuk SX4, Kia Spectra 5, Chevrolet Aveo, Suzuki Swift Sport, Nissan Latio, Proton Gen2 CPS, Volkswagen Polo GTI and Hyndai Coupe.
Meanwhile, the long-awaited Civic Type R beat rivals Mitsubishi Lancer Evo and BMW M3 to walk home with the award for the Performance category.
The awards were presented to Honda Malaysia Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mr. Atsushi Fujimoto at The Saujana Kuala Lumpur hotel.
The Autocar ASEAN Car of the Year Awards 2008 finalists were chosen from new cars launched between June 2007 to end-August 2008. A total of 50 models were shortlisted for the awards. The judging criteria include styling, utility, safety, features, build quality, brand image, ride, and handling, economy, performance and value for money.
Mr. Atsushi Fujimoto, MD and CEO of Honda Malaysia, receiving the award from Mr. Chips Yap, Associate Editor of Autocar ASEAN.
Mr. Atsushi Fujimoto, MD and CEO of Honda Malaysia, receiving the award from Ms. Kate Stearman-Smith, Managing Director of MTM Publications Sdn. Bhd.
Commenting on the win, Honda Malaysia Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer Mr. Atsushi Fujimoto said, "We thank Autocar ASEAN and the award's panel of judges for these recognitions. As always, delivering highest quality products and servicse to our customers at an affordable price has always been our commitment. These three awards is a great encouragement and motivation to all Honda's associates who have worked very hard to give the very best to Malaysians."
Mr. Fujimoto also added that Honda always strive towards ensuring high quality in products, sales and after sales services. Honda will continue to work hard to meet and fulfill the ever changing expectations of its customers in Malaysia.