FIFTY-NINE automotive journalists from 25 countries selected the Volkswagen (VW) Polo as the 2010 World-Car-of-the-Year at the New York International Auto Show, marking the second consecutive victory for the German automaker.

Last year the VW Golf was adjudged car of the year.

The VW Group also topped in another category having the Audi R8 V10 selected this year’s World-Performance-Car-of-the-Year.

Both brands are now represented in Jamaica by ATL Autohaus, which will open its doors on April 12 for the servicing of existing Audi and VW models locally.

Volkswagen’s Polo was recognised as the year’s most outstanding vehicle based on merit, value, safety, environmental impact, significance and emotional appeal, according to show reports .

Facing stiff competition the Polo swept aside top luxury and green car contenders such as the Mercedes – Benz E-Class and the hugely popular hybrid Toyota Prius to earn the title.

In addition, the automaker’s BlueMotion models were awarded the 2010 World Green Car of the Year ahead of the Honda Insight and the Prius .

Interestingly VW’s Green Car of the Year award was copped by three models instead of one — the Volkswagen Polo, Golf and Passat, all featuring its BlueMotion fuel-saving technology .

Although given the nod by international auto journalists, including those from the US, the VW Polo is however not sold in that country.

The New York International Auto Show 2010 opened on Friday, April 2, at the Jacob Javits Convention Centre in Manhattan and closes this Sunday. The show features nearly 1,000 vehicles from automakers all around the world showcasing their latest models and innovations. Top vehicles in selected categories are announced at the show after months of judging.

Now in its seventh year, the awards have become one of the world’s most prestigious, credible and significant judgement calls on new automobiles.