Archibalds Marques Wins at the 2024 WhatCar? Awards
It is with great pride that we share that an array of vehicles from brands we represent have claimed titles in the 2024 WhatCar? Awards.
The prestigious WhatCar? Awards have been crowning the best-in-class vehicles since 1973, and the annual accolades are highly regarded as an indispensable guide to the best cars you can purchase on the market.
Keep reading as we explore all the winners, or browse by brand below.
Please note that international imagery, concept imagery, and international specifications are referenced in this blog, speak to our product specialists for details on New Zealand models.
“It’s much quieter than the A45 on the motorway and generally less demanding in everyday use, with lighter steering and less body-hugging (but still supportive) front seats. Throw in a melodious engine noise and the RS3 is the hot hatch to pick if you don’t want to be ‘on it’ all the time.” – WhatCar?
“Just as there are some absolutely delicious low-fat recipes out there, the Cupra Born rails against the idea that small electric cars have to be boring. Compared with the closely related Volkswagen ID 3, the Born sits slightly lower and its steering is set up differently, the result being a more engaging driving experience.”- WhatCar?
“Do you believe in love at first sight? We reckon you will after you’ve climbed behind the wheel of a Volvo EX30 in range-topping Ultra trim, because the interior of this is properly special. Build quality feels rock solid throughout, and all of the materials used higher up look and feel expensive. Lower down, Volvo hasn’t tried to hide the fact that the plastics are recycled, which lends them an interesting texture and emphasises the car’s eco credentials.” – WhatCar?
“Like a Swiss Army knife or a Leatherman multi-tool, the Land Rover Defender has gained a reputation for versatility that has stood it in good stead with buyers – whether they’re celebrities, royalty or fictional secret agents. You can have the current iteration in five, six, seven or eight-seat forms, with three or five doors and with petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid power; there’s likely to be a version to suit everyone.” – WhatCar?
“In entry-level SE trim, the Leon is cheaper to buy than an equivalent Ford Focus or Volkswagen Golf, yet it’s surprisingly well equipped. It also has loads of space inside, plus a big boot, and it’s more fun to drive than most rivals, being agile and grippy even without the firm suspension you get with sporty FR trim.” – WhatCar?
WhatCar? Sports Car of the Year 2024: Porsche 718 Cayman GTS
“The calibre of the engine and gearbox alone might be enough for some, but the Cayman is at least as special when it comes to handling. With precise, well-weighted steering, sublime balance and seemingly endless grip, it gives you complete confidence to push hard along twisty roads, and it’ll run rings around any M2 or Jaguar F-Type you might meet along the way. An Alpine A110 would give it a run for its money, but virtually nothing else handles as sweetly or is as rewarding as the Cayman.” – WhatCar?
WhatCar? Best Sports SUV for Thrills 2024: Porsche Cayenne S
“As you might imagine from a sports SUV with 468bhp (15bhp more than the old GTS) and 443lb ft of torque, the S is effortlessly quick; 0-60mph takes just 4.7sec. But what makes the S our favourite is that it’s more fun in bends than the heavier, pricier hybrid models. And if you add air suspension and active anti-roll bars (£4306), you can throw it around like a sports car, revelling in the precision and dexterity of its handling. In short, it’s a riot.” – WhatCar?
WhatCar? Best Electric Performance car 2024: Porsche Taycan Cross Turismo 4S
“With an official range of 304 miles, the Cross Turismo 4S is as much a cross-country runner as it is a sprinter, and when its huge battery (with a usable capacity of 83.7kWh) runs out of puff, an astonishing 270kW maximum charging rate means its full stamina can be quickly restored. A 10-80% boost takes just 17 minutes or so, and that rounds off a convincing gold-medal performance.” – WhatCar?
View all winners
Please note that while care is taken to ensure all details displayed here are correct, specifications, pricing, imagery, and offers often change and information here may no longer be accurate. Images may also include overseas specification and/or optional accessories not included in the price or available in New Zealand. Content can also, of course, be subject to the occasional human error. For all current and correct details, please speak to our friendly and informative Sales Specialists. If you notice information that may be inaccurate, please don’t hesitate to let us know as soon as possible. Thank you for your support and understanding.