Congrats to the automotive teams behind the winners of the 2026 North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year awards! The winners were announced Wednesday at the opening of the Detroit Auto Show, highlighting three vehicles judges said best represent innovation, performance, design, safety and value for the upcoming model year.
The awards, commonly known as NACTOY, are considered among the most credible honors in the auto industry because they are decided by a jury of about 50 independent automotive journalists from the United States and Canada. Jurors spend a full year evaluating eligible vehicles through real-world driving, comparative testing and technical analysis before casting secret ballots.
The 2026 North American Car of the Year award went to the Dodge Charger, a model jurors said successfully blends performance heritage with modern practicality. The latest Charger marks a significant shift for the nameplate, offering strong acceleration, contemporary styling and usable cargo space while remaining true to Dodge’s performance roots.
Judges praised the Charger for combining everyday drivability with muscle-car character, noting its refined interior, available all-wheel drive and broad appeal. Several jurors described it as a performance car that works just as well for daily use, signaling Dodge’s ability to modernize an iconic model without losing its identity.
In the truck category, the 2026 North American Truck of the Year honor was awarded to the Ford Maverick Lobo, a sport-focused version of Ford’s compact pickup. The Maverick has already reshaped expectations for entry-level trucks, and the Lobo variant builds on that success with enhanced driving dynamics and distinctive styling.
Jurors said the Maverick Lobo demonstrates that innovation in the truck segment does not require larger size or higher prices. Its blend of performance, versatility and efficiency was cited as a major factor in its win, reflecting growing consumer interest in compact pickups that offer capability without the bulk of full-size trucks.
The 2026 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year award went to the Hyundai Palisade, which judges said sets a new benchmark in the competitive three-row SUV segment. The latest Palisade impressed evaluators with its spacious interior, thoughtful technology, and strong value proposition, along with the availability of a hybrid powertrain aimed at improving fuel efficiency.
Jurors noted that the Palisade delivers a near-luxury experience at a mainstream price, with generous standard equipment and a refined cabin that appeals to families and long-distance drivers alike. A starting price below $40,000 was also highlighted as a key advantage at a time when affordability remains a top concern for many buyers.
Founded in 1994, the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year awards are among the longest-running automotive honors on the continent and are not affiliated with any single media outlet or automaker. Vehicles are judged on criteria that include innovation, design, safety, performance, technology, driver satisfaction and overall value.
Finalists are selected following extensive testing and comparison drives, with winners traditionally announced during the Detroit auto show. Organizers said the 2026 winners reflect broader industry trends, including the evolution of performance vehicles toward greater practicality, the continued rise of smaller and more efficient trucks, and increasing competition in the three-row SUV market.
As automakers navigate changing consumer preferences and shifting market conditions, the 2026 NACTOY winners highlight vehicles that judges believe stand out not only on paper, but in real-world ownership and driving experience.
