ACTON, Mass. -

The 2012 WheelsTV Pre-Owned Vehicle of the Year Award was presented recently, and for the second year in a row, top honors went to a domestic model.

The 2007–10 Chevrolet Silverado drove to the top among six finalist categories to earn the this year’s recognition. The award was handed out last week at the New England Motor Press Association’s annual meeting and awards dinner, and was accepted by Laura Toole, manager of communications for General Motors’ Northeast Region.

“The Silverado has demonstrated for decades that it is the most dependable, longest lasting pickup on the market and this award is further proof that Chevrolet is delivering the products that more people want with the right technologies and capabilities at a true value,” Toole said.

WheelsTV chief executive officer Jim Barisano added, “Fuel economy and alternative fuels are all the buzz today and every family needs a fuel efficient, reliable day-to-day driver. But, as has been the case for hundreds of years, having a solid workhorse in the barn remains essential for many families and businesses. This year’s POV of the Year recipient, the ’07 to ’10 Chevy Silverado, is exactly that, having proven itself through years of dependable service.”

Now in its third year, the POV of the Year Award recognizes vehicles proven dependable by providing trouble-free service and good consumer value in day-to-day use for at least two years.

The 2007–10 Silverado was the finalist in the Truck category prior to winning the overall award. Additional finalists were Sedan, 2007–10 Toyota Camry; SUV/Crossover, 2007–10 Toyota Highlander; Small Car, 2004–2009 Mazda3; Sporty Car, 2005–2010 Mazda Miata; and Hybrid, 2003–2009 Toyota Prius.

Each POVY trophy is custom made for that year’s recipient; this year’s trophy features an authentic 17-inch 1937 Chevrolet pickup truck steering wheel.

In 2011, the 2006–09 Ford Fusion won the award, which featured a 1918 Model T steering wheel that now sits below a portrait of Henry Ford at Ford’s World Headquarters in Dearborn, Mich., WheelsTV noted.

The first POVY recipient, in 2010, was the 2007–10 Toyota Camry.

The POVY was also presented at the Faculty Club of the MIT Sloan School of Management following NEMPA’s annual Technology Conference. Wayne Carini, the host of Chasing Classic Cars on the Velocity Network, hosted the event along with NEMPA President Keith Griffin.

“NEMPA is proud to present this award in conjunction with WheelsTV because the previously-owned vehicle market is where most Americans buy their cars and trucks,” Griffin said. “The selection of the Silverado was an excellent choice because of its durability and functionality."