The Rolls-Royce Dawn has picked up one of the most impressive automotive accolades of the year to date, after being named the Design of the Year winner by Robb Report in its inaugural Cars of the Year awards.

Having received global acclaim following its launch in South Africa earlier this month, the new Dawn has gone on to impress the judges of these high-profile awards, with its stunning looks and luxury pedigree helping the model to stand out from the crowd.

Indeed, Robb Report Cars of the Year judge Harry Metcalfe argued: "This machine is the epitome of elegance – a masterclass by Rolls-Royce design."

With the model's 6.6-litre twin-turbocharged V12 engine delivering stunning performance and its multi-layer foldaway fabric roof making this the world's quietest convertible, there really are so many elegant and impressive touches that help to take the model a step above its rivals.

Responding to the recognition, chief executive officer of Rolls-Royce Motor Cars Torsten Muller-Otvos commented: "To be recognised by a true arbiter of luxury like Robb Report for this new model's aesthetic is an important accolade, and one which is truly gratifying to everyone concerned with the car's design and development."

He added that the styling of the new Dawn is "sensuous yet contemporary" and makes this model one of the most glamorous new releases by the luxury vehicle manufacturer of recent years.