Mercedes, BMW, Range Rover vie for Nigeria’s Luxury SUV Crown at 2024 NAJA Auto Awards

The 2024 Nigeria Auto Journalists Association (NAJA) Awards promises a fierce contest as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Range Rover battle for the title of Nigeria’s top luxury SUV.

This year’s competition highlights cutting-edge designs, advanced technology, and unmatched performance from the flagship models of these global auto giants.

Mercedes-Benz’s GLS SUV impresses with its opulent interior and innovative driver-assistance systems, while BMW’s X7 showcases its sporty elegance and precision engineering.
Range Rover Autobiography’s latest iteration, blending British craftsmanship with rugged luxury, completes the trifecta.

The awards, set to take place on December 11, at Oriental Hotels, Victorial Island, underscore the growing appetite for high-end SUVs in Nigeria’s luxury car market, driven by increasing demand among affluent buyers.

Analysts suggest that the winner could reshape consumer preferences in 2024.

While the nominees for the flagship “Car of the Year” category are still under wraps, other category contenders have been unveiled.
These nominations highlight the industry’s best in manufacturing, innovation, and service delivery.

In the Heavy-Duty Truck of the Year category, JAC, FAW, and Howo Sinotruk are set for a fierce contest.

The Assembly Plant of the Year for cars sees local players Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing, GAC Motors, and Mikano Motors competing for the top spot.

Similarly, Lanre Shittu Motors (LSM), Dangote Sinotruk West Africa Ltd, and Perfection Motors are vying for supremacy in the Truck Plant of the Year category.

Chisco Transport, GUO Transport Company and Okeyson Transport have been shortlisted for the transport company of the year award.

The Mini-Bus Assembly Plant of the Year includes nominees such as Jet Systems, Innoson, and Nord, while the Product Launch of the Year features entries like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Toyota Rumion, Toyota Belta, and the Suzuki Vitara.

In the Compact SUV of the Year, nominees include the Kia Sonett, Changan CS35, and Hyundai Venue, while the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado, Chery Tiggo Pro 2, and Nord A9 are vying for the Outstanding Entrant of the Year.

Theodore Opara, Chairman of the awards committee, explains the growing significance of these awards, saying, “Winning a NAJA Award is not just about prestige; it’s about solidifying a brand’s position in an increasingly competitive and challenging market.”

According to Mike Ochonma, NAJA Chairman, “Brands that were previously not dominant in the market are now making bold moves through customer engagement and leveraging digital platforms to enhance the purchasing experience.

MIKE OCHONMA
Editor