Geneva Motor Show crowns the 2024 European Car of the Year
At the Geneva Motor Show, the European Car of the Year jury unveiled its verdict for 2024, naming the Renault Scenic E-Tech crossover as the winner. The decision came from the official Car of the Year organizing committee, highlighting a strong performance from Renault in the latest roster of finalists.
The Scenic E-Tech secured 329 points in the juried vote, with 22 of the 58 judges declaring it the top pick among the seven finalists. This result reflects the model’s blend of electrified accessibility, practical design, and modern tech features that resonate with judges across Europe and beyond.
In second place, the new generation BMW 5 Series earned 309 points. It received maximum points from 19 jury members, underscoring the sedan’s appeal through dynamic driving dynamics, upscale interior quality, and advanced driver assistance systems that appeal to a broad critic base.
The third spot went to the Peugeot 3008, which collected 197 points. Closely following in the finalist list were the Kia EV9, Volvo EX30, the BYD Seal from China, and the Toyota C-HR, each contributing to a diverse field that showcased both traditional and new-energy vehicles among the contenders.
Among the seven finalists, electric and electrified models held a meaningful presence, with four entries powered at least in part by battery-electric propulsion. The jury, composed of 58 automotive journalists and experts representing 22 countries, evaluated each candidate on criteria including efficiency, innovation, value for money, and market readiness for Europe and North America alike.
In the broader context of Renault’s lineup, the Scenic E-Tech marks a continuation of the automaker’s shift toward electrified practicality. Earlier, Renault’s Megane line received an E-Tech reclassification in fall 2023, signaling the brand’s ongoing strategy to blend compact practicality with electric technology. The Geneva stage also previewed other noteworthy movements in the region’s auto calendar, including recent introductions from major brands and a renewed push toward electrification in compact and family-oriented segments.
Meanwhile, the launch momentum at Geneva this year also reflected a broader industry trend: mainstream crossovers and family-friendly SUVs are increasingly electrified, and automakers are balancing efficiency targets with comfort, safety, and intuitive tech. The Car of the Year competition continues to serve as a barometer for European automotive sentiment—highlighting designs that prioritize everyday usability, environmental considerations, and a forward-looking technology suite that appeals to both consumers and fleet operators across North America and beyond.
Overall, the 2024 results reinforce a landscape where familiar brands and new entrants alike push toward electrified versatility, with the Renault Scenic E-Tech’s win signaling strong consumer-oriented design paired with practical electric performance. As automakers refine battery technology, charging ecosystems, and lightweight architectures, the competition remains a coveted platform to showcase what European markets — and increasingly global buyers — seek in the next generation of family cars.