Female motorists and motoring journalists in South Africa have ranked the Jaguar XF tops. That's according to the third annual WOW (Women on Wheels) Women's Car of the Year Awards.

The Jaguar XF came first in the category for cars with a retail price of R250 000 and above, beating the Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Porsche Boxster/Cayman, Audi A4, Lexus IS250, Honda Accord, MINI Convertible, Alfa GT, Audi A3 and BMW Z4.

Associated Magazines, the publisher of WOW, in a statement said: "These are the only car awards in South Africa designed and run by women, for women."

A panel of women (obviously) were assembled to judge the cars in various categories. WOW readers were also given an opportunity to vote.

WOW editor Justine Joseph in the statement said Jaguar's award is a sign that the brand is evolving from a classic – and a classically male car – to a "cutting-edge choice" for women.

Jaguar South Africa managing director Andrew Daniel was, of course, delighted at the news.

He said: "The XF epitomises the ultimate luxury car for any buyer. The XF has been critically acclaimed for its looks and superb driving experience … the victory is in keeping with the XF's global success.

"The car is a firm favourite with motorists the world over, including members of the fairer sex. Last year, Britain's best motoring website for women – evecars.com – named the Jaguar XF "Best Executive Car" in its 2008 honours list."

The XF has won more than 20 international awards since its launch.

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