Holden VE Commodore goes for World Car Of The Year

The award, presented by a worldwide jury of motoring journalists, is judged according to styling, performance, handling, comfort, value, safety and environmental responsibility.

To be eligible, a new car must be available in a minimum of five countries on at least two continents.

The Commodore is sold in Australia and exported to countries including New Zealand, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Yemen, Lebanon, Oman, Fiji and South Africa.

Holden chairman and managing director Denny Mooney said the nomination reinforced the VE Commodore's status as a truly global car.

"It is especially significant given our aim was to compete against some of the most expensive and most carefully crafted cars around the world," Mr Mooney said.

"Careful consideration of global expectations and potential markets was always at the forefront of the design and engineering of VE Commodore."

Other cars in the final list include models from Audi, BMW, Mercedes Benz, Citroen, Jeep, Nissan, Toyota, Volkswagen, Volvo and Honda.

AAP