Top Gear magazine has chosen the BMW i8 as its global Car of the Year 2014.

The plug-in hybrid performance vehicle beat off some stiff competition from a host of other premium and luxury manufacturers to win the overall award, stated the magazine’s management.

The editorial team of Top Gear commended the BMW i8 for its breadth of abilities. Its 1.5-liter three-cylinder turbocharged gasoline engine combined with an electric motor provide a powertrain integrated in a car that offers driver enjoyment in a package delivering CO2 emissions rated at less than 49g/km and a 135 imperial mpg combined cycle figure.

“The BMW is a milestone in the annals of automotive history and a glorious statement for an exciting and positive future,” said Charlie Turner, Editor in Chief at Top Gear magazine. “The i8 delivers – and then some. It’s the kind of car we should celebrate, a beautiful vision of the future, delivered now. It is a resounding success for the BMW i8 and the whole team were unanimous in naming the BMW i8 as Top Gear magazine’s Car of the Year.”

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Top Gear magazine describes itself as one of the most influential global motoring and lifestyle magazines and, in addition to the original UK publication, has 31 international editions. There is also a very popular television show linked to it.

“We always knew the BMW i8 was going to be a game changing vehicle and the strength of orders shows just how desirable this car is for customers,” said Dr Ian Robertson, BMW AG Management Board member for Sales and Marketing BMW. “Prestigious awards such as this one from Top Gear magazine prove that it has global recognition within the industry too. In 2015, both the i3 and the i8 will play their part in ensuring we build on our market leading position as the world’s best-selling and most innovative premium car manufacturer.”