In presenting the award, Charles Hallett, Editor of AutoCar, commented: "It’s a brilliant concept car – but, importantly, a concept car that will become a reality. We like to think of it as a 21st Century Beetle – a stylish car that will provide affordable motoring for all, both here and in the developing world."

Accepting the award was Dr Ulrich Hackenberg, Board Member for Research and Development at the Volkswagen Group. Dr Hackenberg commented: "This award is a great honour and one that comes at an exciting time for us. The reaction to the Up! family of vehicles since they were revealed has been tremendous – the next step is to make them a reality."

The Up! concept was revealed at the Frankfurt Motor Show earlier this year before being joined by the versatile Space Up! concept, which made its debut at the recent Tokyo Motor Show. Completing the Up! family was the highly innovative Space Up! blue concept, which was unveiled at the Los Angeles Motor Show last week.

Despite its modest dimensions the Up! features space for four adults as well as two cargo areas – one in the nose and one just above the rear-mounted engine. The Autocar judges also praised Volkswagen willingness to replace the traditional transverse front-wheel drive layout with a rear-engined, rear-wheel drive system.