What's all this about?

Volvo's magnificent second-generation XC60 SUV has won the coveted UK Car of the Year (UKCOTY) Award for 2018. The Swedish SUV saw off tough competition from the likes of the Hyundai i30, Kia Stinger, Peugeot 3008, Rolls-Royce Phantom and more to take the crown. It was voted for by 27 leading UK motoring journalists (well, 26 and yours truly...) from a shortlist of 13 category-winning cars.

What did the overall podium look like?

In the end, the XC60 - fresh from winning the Best Medium Crossover segment in the first round of voting - squeaked to victory by one point, beating the Skoda Kodiaq (Best Large Crossover) into second, with the two SUVs pushing BMW's impressive 5 Series (winner of both Best Executive and Best Estate Car) into third.

Why do you think the XC60 won?

Well, Volvo is on a roll with its products right now and it only came away with second place in the UKCOTY two years ago, for the sublime XC90 (which really should have won that year, but we digress...). The XC60 condenses everything that's truly great about the XC90 into a slightly smaller, more affordable package, including the first-class interior and nine-inch touchscreen infotainment. Thus, what's not to like?

Any thoughts from the team behind the UKCOTY?

Yes, John Challen, the editor and managing director of UKCOTY, said: "The XC60 being crowned UK Car of the Year 2018 is very well deserved, at a time when crossovers are becoming increasingly popular. Having been runner-up in 2016 with the XC90, it's fantastic to see Volvo now claim the top spot with its smaller - but every bit as impressive - stablemate."

And presumably Volvo UK is pleased?

Oh, undoubtedly so. Jon Wakefield, managing director of Volvo Car UK, said: "Winning both the overall UK Car of the Year and Best Medium Crossover awards is a fantastic accolade for Volvo. The awards reflect the desirability and sophistication of the XC60. The XC60's elegant Scandinavian design, cutting-edge technology and luxurious equipment levels have proved a big hit with customers, continuing the XC60's success story in the UK."

Come on, then - did you vote for the XC60?

Nope, we plumped for the i30 N overall, but we can understand why the Volvo swept to victory and we're delighted it triumphed. It really is quite tremendous in every respect. Anyway, for more information on UKCOTY, go to www.ukcoty.co.uk.

Matt Robinson - 23 Feb 2018