Volkswagen rides high at Fleet World Honours 2008

Volkswagen has won four key awards at the 2008 Fleet World Honours, which were presented at a ceremony earlier today. The mainstay of the Volkswagen range, the Golf, was named Best Fleet Car for the second year running, while the manufacturer also claimed the gong for Best Diesel Range. In the Commercial Vehicle awards, Volkswagen’s Caddy won the accolade for Best Small Van, while the Crafter was crowned Best Large Van.

The Fleet World Honours are presented annually to those motor manufacturers who have, in the opinion of the judges, achieved the highest possible level of excellence in their sector. The judging panel is chaired by industry professional, George Emmerson, who has managed fleets at IBM, NHBC and Black Horse Agencies. Members of the panel include Ken Rogers, John Kendall, and Ross Durkin from Fleet World’s editorial team, and fleet manager Jackie Pomfrett. Residual value, maintenance cost and reliability data is also provided by ALD Automotive, Masterlease and ING Car Lease.

Commenting on the Golf, Emmerson said: ‘The panel considered the Golf as the “perfect fleet car” and it is difficult to argue with this conclusion. It continues to carry the banner for reliability and together with a superb build quality and competitive operating costs it is not difficult to see why it is once again voted Best Fleet Car.’

Fleet World editor, Ken Rogers, summed up the appeal of the diesel range adding: ‘Volkswagen’s diesel range – from Polo to Touareg – encompasses every segment of the fleet market. The BlueMotion range appeals particularly. Quality is beyond reproach and the range is particularly suited to company drivers seeking to “downsize” without risking that perceived loss of status in the company car park.’

Volkswagen’s Head of Fleet Services, Vincent Kinner, said: ‘We’re delighted to have been recognised in this way. Our products are key to the brand’s popularity, but of equal importance to me is to ensure our people and the fleet back-up we provide to customers large and small are just as good, if not better.’

John Kendall, Editor of Commercial Fleet World commented: ‘Good build quality and an expanding range of proven diesel engines are important factors in Volkswagen’s success. The company has added the Caddy Maxi range, offering a choice of cargo and passenger carrying combinations. Meanwhile the Crafter, from launch in 2006, has been equipped with standard load-sensing ESP, recognised as a significant safety enhancement for any vehicle and particularly valuable to safety-conscious fleets.’

National Fleet Manager at Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles, Chris Blue, added: ‘These awards are a great endorsement for us and add to the already impressive list of accolades given to these vans. I’m very proud of our vehicles and our network of dedicated Van Centres who serve our fleet customers across the UK.’