Honda was recently given the first-ever “Driver Engagement” award at the Chicago Auto Show. Since social media has become an integral part of marketing for most major car companies, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association decided to introduce a new award at the 2013 Chicago Auto Show to showcase the effectiveness of marketing through sites like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The Japanese automaker’s campaign, Honda Loves You Back, beat out runners-up Nissan and Dodge to take the prize. 

“We are thrilled and proud that the latest edition in our Honda Loves You Back social media campaign has been recognized. We’re so grateful for the love our customers express for their Honda vehicles,” said Alicia Jones, manager of social media at American Honda Motor Co., Inc. “I think it’s the simplicity of the campaign’s intent – to say thank you and share the conversation with them – that makes it work.”‘

The Honda campaign showcased a music video from the up-and-coming band Monsters Calling Home, as the video was filmed inside one of the band member’s Honda. The car company got the band booked on” Jimmy Kimmel Live!” in a symbolic gesture of giving back to fans of the brand.

Social media campaigns like this help drivers connect more personally with a brand, as they can interact with a company by uploading their stories and photos. Toyota, for instance, ran a campaign for fans to upload photos to Instagram. The winning picture was featured during Toyota’s Super Bowl commercial.

Whether drivers have been won over by a marketing campaign or they just prefer a certain brand, they’ll be able to find a variety of used models at New Jersey State Auto Auction. Every vehicle on the lot comes with a full CARFAX vehicle history report, so drivers know exactly what they’re buying.