European Car of Year winner to be announced

(Car of the Year)

One of seven finalists for the 2010 European Car of the Year will be crowned the winner on November 30.

The award's recipient is decided by an international panel of 59 motoring journalists drawn from 23 member countries. The shortlist was released at the start of November, comprised of both updated modern classics  and some new concepts.

In 2009 the Citroen C3 Picasso, Mercedes E-Class, Opel/Vauxhall Astra and Volkswagen Polo all featured major facelifts to perennial best sellers.

But if the judges value efforts that feature technological breakthroughs the Toyota iQ supermini, Peugeot 3008 MPV or Skoda Yeti MPV may earn the title.

First prize last year went to the Opel/Vauxhall Insignia, with the Ford Fiesta and Volkswagen Golf taking second and third place respectively. Next week will also see the annoucement of the 2010 Green Car of the Year at the Los Angeles Auto Show, on December 3.

2010 European Car of the Year shortlist

Citroen C3 Picasso
Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Opel/Vauxhall Astra
Peugeot 3008
Skoda Yeti
Toyota iQ
Volkswagen Polo