Eligible cars must essentially be new models, and available in at least five European countries at the time of voting. Some 60 judges, representing 23 European countries, select the shortlist in a simple vote. Second-stage voting takes place in the new year, with the winning car announced at the Geneva motor show in March 2019. 

Autocar is one of seven organising publications. The Volvo XC40 won the Car of the Year 2018 award. Let's take a look at the seven finalists: