The shortlist for the Auto Express Special Honour is always the most varied of the year. It’s designed to recognise any special achievement by a car, innovation, manufacturer or development. Previous years have seen the Honda ADAS driver-assist system, Toyota Prius and Bentley clinch the silverware.

This year’s winner continues the trend for diversity. When launched earlier this year, the Kia Cee’d was met with a considerable fanfare. Out of the blue the Korean car maker had produced a family hatchback that has the measure of the best in the class. With great build, lots of equipment and competitive pricing, it has given the established opposition a lot to think about.

However, its most outstanding feature has nothing to do with how it’s made or the way it drives.