In a significant shift for the automotive landscape in the Czech Republic, the Škoda Elroq has been awarded the title of Car of the Year for 2026, breaking an eight-year streak during which no Czech brand claimed the title. The last homegrown winner was Škoda itself in 2018. Competing against contenders like the Mercedes-Benz CLA, which finished a close second, the Elroq distinguished itself not only as a quality vehicle but also as the first electric car from Škoda to win this award. The CLA won the European Car of the Year title, highlighting the competitive landscape across different markets and awards.

The competition featured a diverse set of five finalists, including notable models such as the Audi A6, BMW iX3, and Dacia Bigster, with the jury comprising 19 Czech automotive journalists evaluating these vehicles based on a comprehensive set of criteria. These included technical characteristics, driving performance, and build quality, alongside the crucial factor of potential sales success within the Czech market. This latter criterion has gained importance in recent years, raising questions about market position and commercial viability for various finalists, particularly among newer entrants.

The Škoda Elroq's victory signifies not only a triumph for the local automotive industry but also reflects a larger trend towards electrification in the automotive sector. As consumers increasingly favor electric vehicles, Škoda's success with the Elroq may pave the way for further innovations and a stronger foothold in this rapidly evolving market. It embodies the challenges and opportunities faced by traditional manufacturers adapting to a new automotive era, where sustainability and technology play pivotal roles in shaping consumer preferences and industry standards.