The Austrian Automobile Association (ARBà–) has presented its “2009 Car of the Year” award to the Mercedes-Benz E-Class, choosing the successful luxury saloon as Austria’s favourite premium car.

For the 26th time, the Austrian Automobile Association (ARBà–) asked a renowned jury of experts and readers of the ARBà– club journal Freie Fahrt to choose Austria’s favourite car. Candidates are assessed based on criteria such as technical perfection, design, economy, reliability, safety, eco-friendliness and value for money. In the premium category, the jury and readers chose the Mercedes-Benz E-Class as the clear winner with 177 out of a possible 195 points. The coveted Austrian Car of the Year Award 2009, presented by the Austrian Automobile Association (ARBà–), is Austria’s premier car award.