Unlike the usual “car of the year” awards, World Car Awards takes the votes of 86 automotive journalists from across the world, and this year, those journalists concluded that the Jaguar I-PACE was head and shoulders above the rest.

The I-PACE not only won the World Car of the Year but also went on to scoop the World Car Design of the Year and the World Green Car award as well; becoming the first vehicle to win three different categories.

Extending its dominance further, the car went on to win three more awards at The International Engine + Powertrain of the year award; winning in the best electric powertrain, best new engine and the 345 to 444 bhp categories.

Since its launch, the Jaguar I-PACE has won 66 global awards including European Car of the Year, UK, German and Norwegian Car of the Year among others. Here are five reasons why the car is viewed in such standing;

1. The design

The I-PACE looks great. The rectangular grille with rounded edges is placed between slim headlights. The small rear deck with a tail that features slim LED taillights further adds to its slick profile. Though a high-riding vehicle often implies a high center of gravity, the I-PACE’s height is perfect.

The vehicle’s interior is modern, featuring three displays with touch-capacitive controls, while the center console’s floating bridge design gives it a cockpit-like finish. Finishing touches like the trim on the doors and dash are in line with the glass cockpit while the harness loops on the seats give it a sporty feel.

2. Performance and handling

It’s 394 hp and 512 lb-ft of torque positions the I-PACE neatly in between rival vehicles like Audi’s E-Tron and Mercedes’ EQC. It is, however, faster than both of them; hitting 60 at 4.5 seconds, edging EQC’s 4.8 seconds and E-Tron’s 5.5 seconds. The reason is partly due to its single-speed automatic transmission.

The more aggressive air suspension and lower center of gravity allow it to deliver much sharper handling; providing quick steering and a darty way of changing directions.

3. Technology and connectivity

The I-PACE has a pair of touch screen displays making up the center stack. The 10-inch upper screen is where most input is made, while the 5.5-inch lower screen mostly handles climate control. The changes Jaguar has made to the infotainment system have made changing regen modes easier.

The vehicle has a high level when it comes to the standard equipment it offers. Even the base I-PACE S still features LED headlights, glass cockpit with navigation, Wi-Fi hotspot, lane-keeping assist, automatic braking, and a 360-degree camera.

Extra features are highlighted by the seats that have heating and ventilation, four-zone climate control, a head-up display, and an ambient lighting system.

4. Comfort and safety

The vehicle’s cab-forward design grants more headroom for front-seat passengers. Though the standard 20-inch wheels aren’t the best, the air suspension manages imperfections on the road by transmitting their impact into the cabin, while being able to avoid affecting the steering.

When it comes to safety, the Jaguar I-PACE aced its crash test. The safety gear and the vehicle’s adaptive cruise control work well.

5. Fuel economy

The car’s 90 kilowatt-hour battery enables it to cover 234 miles with one charge, which is farther than the E-Tron and the EQC. The time it takes to charge the lithium-ion battery from zero to 80% is 10 hours if you are using a 240-volt outlet. If you are using a DC fast charger, then the battery can go from zero to 80% in 85 minutes.

With the Jaguar I-PACE’s impressive features, it is no surprise to see it continuously garner rave reviews. Check out MotorBiscuit for the latest automotive news.