These are the finalists for the Best Cars in the World 2026.
An international jury of 98 journalists selected the best vehicles in each category for the World Car of the Year awards after an extensive evaluation process.
This executive was named World Car Person of the Year 2026
BMW executive Zipse has been recognized as the World Car Person of the Year 2026 ahead of the New York International Auto Show.
The car brand Ebro, manufactured in Barcelona, begins its international expansion in Portugal
The Ebro car brand, now owned by Chinese group Chery, is set to launch its international expansion into Portugal with ten sales points by the end of the year.
Chinese brands drive new car sales in Europe
The European passenger car market is entering 2026 boosted by rising demand following a recent increase in dealership activity after a decline in the first three quarters of the year.
Toyota is (again) ahead of Volkswagen
Toyota has maintained its lead over Volkswagen, securing its title as the world's best-selling car brand for another year.
Nissan LEAF is the Best Compact Car for Women
The all-new Nissan LEAF has been awarded the title of the world's best compact car by the Women's Worldwide Car of the Year (WWCOTY) jury, comprising only female automotive journalists.
LEAF third generation: the WWCOTY crowns it as Best Compact Car in the World
The new Nissan LEAF has been awarded the title of 'Best Compact Car in the World' by the Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year (WWCOTY), an international automotive award granted exclusively by female journalists in the field.
Audi E5 Sportback wins the title of 'Car of the Year 2026' in China
The Audi E5 Sportback has been named 'Car of the Year 2026' in China following a decision by a panel of automotive industry media experts.
Mercedes-Benz CLA declared Car of the Year 2026
The Mercedes-Benz CLA has been named Car of the Year 2026, marking the German manufacturer's first victory in this prestigious competition since 1974.
Elroq was close, but in the end, it came up short. Car of the Year is the Mercedes after half a century
The Mercedes-Benz CLA has been named European Car of the Year for 2026, narrowly beating out the Czech electric car Å koda Elroq, which finished in second place.
Car of the Year 2026: Choose Your Car of the Year!
The winner of the Car of the Year 2026 will be announced during a gala at the Brussels Auto Show on Friday afternoon, featuring seven finalists praised by 59 European automotive journalists.
Everyone is captivated by the Car of the Year – we already know what it can really do
BYD launches the Seal 6 in Germany, raising curiosity about its performance and potentially marking a breakthrough for Chinese vehicles in the German market.
Geely EX5 proclaimed electric car of the year in Brazil
Geely's EX5 has been awarded 'Best Electric Vehicle 2025' by UOL Carros in Brazil and has maintained a leading sales position in its category for four consecutive months since its launch.