MSN Cars is delighted to announce that the Range Rover Evoque has been named the winner of the eighth annual MSN Cars Car of the Year award.

The Range Rover Evoque collected 12% of the total votes to take the top spot, with two other home-grown rivals rounding out the top three. The Aston Martin Virage claimed second spot with 9% of the votes, followed by the McLaren MP4-12C with 8%.

On receiving the award, Richard Else, director, Jaguar Land Rover Halewood Operations, said: "I am delighted to accept the MSN Cars Car of the Year award on behalf of the plant and also the wider company. It is always great to receive external awards for our products - especially when the recognition comes from members of the public.

“We have been overwhelmed by the extremely positive reaction to the Evoque and are working hard here at Halewood to continue the delivery of an outstanding vehicle to our customers."

Tom Evans, managing editor of MSN Cars, comments: “With over 30,000 votes, this year’s competition generated a great deal of public interest. The MSN Cars Car of the Year award is often won by supercars like the Audi R8 or Ferrari 458 Italia. I’m really pleased to see our prize being won by a car that many people can realistically aspire to own.

“The Evoque is a thoroughly worthy winner, and a British one too. The enthusiasm for this global smash hit is palpable. It has gorgeous looks, strong performance both on and off the road, and can still return up to 63 miles-per-gallon. Huge congratulations to everyone at Land Rover.”