The finalists for the 2026 World Car Awards have been announced, with the top three contenders in six categories now confirmed ahead of the winners’ reveal in April.
The overall winners will be announced live at the New York International Auto Show on April 1, during an awards ceremony held as part of the show’s opening media breakfast. This year marks the 21st year of the World Car Awards’ partnership with the New York event.
A jury of 98 automotive journalists from 33 countries selected the finalists by secret ballot. The panel includes TimesLIVE Motoring contributor Brenwin Naidu. Voting results were independently tabulated by KPMG.
Below are the top three finalists in each category:
World Car of the Year
- BMW iX3
- Hyundai Palisade
- Nissan Leaf
World Electric Vehicle
- BMW iX3
- Mercedes-Benz CLA
- Nissan Leaf
World Luxury Car
- Cadillac Vistiq
- Lucid Gravity
- Volvo ES90
World Performance Car
- BMW M2 CS
- Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray
- Hyundai Ioniq 6 N
World Urban Car
- Baojun Yep Plus / Chevrolet Spark EUV
- Firefly
- Hyundai Venue
World Car Design of the Year
- Kia PV5
- Mazda 6e / Mazda EZ-6
- Volvo ES90
“The announcement of the finalists is an important moment for the global automotive industry as it represents one of the most respected honours in our business,” said New York International Auto Show president Mark Schienberg.
“The anticipation surrounding this year’s contenders reflects the innovation, performance, and vision shaping the future of mobility, and we extend our congratulations to the finalists and to the World Car organisation for its continued leadership.”
Last year, the Kia EV3 took overall honours.
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