The XPENG G6 was a revelation when it first arrived because it showed everyone that a tech company was more than capable of building a fantastic electric SUV. Buyers responded positively, with over 300 units sold in its first year alone. Considering the newness of the brand, that says a lot.

This year, the G6 became even better following an update that brought more than 80 improvements to the model. The exterior looks bolder and sharper, especially with the addition of a ducktail to the tailgate. Even bigger changes are found inside. The materials are even better, while the cabin is now brighter thanks to the new mood lighting. Both the instrument cluster and infotainment display have grown larger.

More useful changes can be found within the OS. The built-in dashcam gets an Emergency Recording feature, and owners can personalise their car's functions with XCOMBO, which enables the car to perform specific actions under certain conditions. For instance, the air-con can be automatically activated at a particular time every day, ensuring the cabin is cooled prior to the drive to work.

On top of all these, the G6's now appeals to keen drivers with the introduction of an aptly named Performance variant. Packing 358kW (480bhp) and 660Nm of torque, it zips to 100km/h in 4.1 seconds. The excellent G6 becomes even more compelling and a deserving winner of this prize.