MUMBAI: Hyundai i10 drove away with the Car of the Year award at the 7th edition of the CNBC-TV18 Autocar Auto Awards in New Delhi. In the glittering awards ceremony, the 'Bike of the Year' award went to Bajaj - XCD DTS-Si.

The finalists were chosen based on the following criteria: fitness for purpose, relevance to the Indian market, value for money, design and styling, interiors, engine, gearbox, performance, ride, handling, brakes, driving pleasure, fuel efficiency and ownership experience. Brands launched in the calendar year 2007 were part of the contenders line-up in these awards.

The agenda of the ceremony was set around a special theme - "A Green Future," which also comprised a special pledge from manufacturers and industry doyens.

Speaking on the occasion, TV 18 business media director Ajay Chacko said, "The CNBC-TV18 Autocar Autoawards is one of our premier properties, widely recognised as a benchmark for auto excellence in India. This year, through the Green Future theme, we intend to make these awards a catalyst for a cleaner and greener progress of the industry by raising awareness and eliciting a commitment from manufacturers."

Autocar India editor Hormazd Sorabjee added, "Since the inception of these awards, we have strived to ensure that the CNBC-TV18 Autocar Auto Awards truly reflect the choices and sentiments of all stakeholders including consumers, manufacturers and auto experts. We have always maintained the most stringent standards to ensure only the best win this accolade."

The CNBC-TV18 Autocar Auto Awards was ratified and validated by Ernst & Young.