December 13, (THEWILL) – The Nigeria Auto Journalists’ Association has crowned the Changan CS55 as Nigeria’s 2024 Car of the Year.
The announcement was made during an elaborate award ceremony held on Wednesday night in Lagos, marking a milestone for Changan, as it clinches the prestigious title for the first time.
The Changan CS55, a compact crossover SUV, outperformed the Toyota Corolla and Kia Rio, both past winners of the award, to claim the top spot.
Known for its sleek design, versatility, and performance, the CS55 is marketed and assembled in Nigeria by Mikano Motors.
Powered by a 1.5L turbocharged engine generating 178 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque, the Changan CS55 offers fuel efficiency rated at 27 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway.
Its innovative design and practicality have made it a standout in the Nigerian automotive market.
The night also celebrated significant players in Nigeria’s auto industry.
Toyota (Nigeria) Limited received the Auto Company of the Decade award, while Auto Company of the Year went to CIG Motors. Globe Motors was recognized as the Most Resilient Company of the Year.
Coscharis Motors took home two awards: Multi-Luxury Brand of the Year and Luxury SUV of the Year for the Range Rover Autobiography.
Lanre Shittu Motors was honored posthumously, with its late founder, Alhaji Olanrewaju Shittu, recognized for his contributions to the industry.
His son, Mr. Taiwo Shittu, now the company’s managing director, was named Auto Personality of the Year, and the company won the Heavy-Duty Truck of the Year award for the JAC truck.
New vehicle launches that received accolades included the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Toyota Belta, Toyota Rumion, Nord A9, Chery Tiggo 8 Pro, and Suzuki Vitara. Chief Chidi Anyaegbu, Founder of Chisco Transport, was named Transport Icon of the Year, while Mrs. Karima Okunola of Mikano Motors was awarded Auto Marketing Manager of the Year.
CFAO Mobility and Carloha (Chery) also took home awards for their contributions to innovation and enterprise within the sector.
Auto industry consultant, Dr. Oscar Odiboh, commended NAJA for raising awareness about vehicles and helping Nigerian buyers make informed choices.
“There is more awareness now about cars, thanks to the work of auto journalists. This year, for the first time, detailed information about the Car of the Year was made available. The industry has evolved, and so has the knowledge of buyers,” he said.
The awards continue to underscore the growth and innovation within Nigeria’s automotive industry, celebrating excellence across brands, products, and individuals driving progress.
Anthony Awunor, is a business correspondent who holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Linguistics (UNILAG). He is also an alumnus of the Nigerian College of Aviation Technology (NCAT), Zaria Kaduna State. He lives in Lagos.
