Mazda 2 has completely trampled competition to earn the title of “World Car of the Year.” It wasn’t an easy win. As expected, tough competition was encountered with competitors like the Mercedes Benz C-class and the Ford Monteo.

There were 39 brand new vehicles from all around the world battling it out for this year’s prestigious award. Fifty motoring journalists acted as critics, choosing the 2008 World Car of the Year through secret ballot, and Mazda 2 emerged victorious.

Results were announced during the New York International Auto Show.