Every car lover knows the thrill of waiting for the annual North American Car, Truck & SUV Awards, but the 2026 North American Car, Truck & SUV Awards feel even more exciting. With electrification reshaping the auto world, this year’s list of nominees highlights innovation, power, and the future of mobility in ways that speak directly to the heart of both casual drivers and enthusiasts. On January 14, 2026, in Detroit, we’ll discover which of these impressive machines earns the honor of being crowned the best car, truck, and SUV of the year.
Why the 2026 North American Car, Truck & SUV Awards Matter
The 2026 North American Car, Truck & SUV Awards aren’t just about trophies or headlines; they represent the pulse of the auto industry. Jurors carefully evaluate new models, looking at technology, safety, design, performance, and overall value. Being recognized in these awards can transform a vehicle’s reputation and even boost sales, making this moment hugely important for automakers.
This year’s contenders show just how much the industry is changing. Nearly half of the 30 vehicles competing are electric or hybrid, reflecting the shift toward sustainable driving. From high-performance muscle cars to sleek electric sedans and rugged trucks, the competition embodies both tradition and progress.
The Breakdown of 2026 North American Car, Truck & SUV Awards Nominees
The list of candidates announced on September 17 at Michigan Central includes 30 vehicles: 6 cars, 5 trucks, and 19 utility vehicles. Each one represents a different approach to what drivers want today.
Nine vehicles are fully electric, while at least six are hybrids. One of the most striking entries, the Dodge Charger, gives consumers options with both electric and internal combustion drivetrains, blending nostalgia with innovation.
Automakers from around the globe are well represented. Hyundai-Kia and Stellantis each boast four nominees, while giants like General Motors, Ford, Honda, and VW/Audi bring three contenders apiece. Toyota and Nissan have two each, and luxury and niche brands like Lucid, Mercedes-Benz, Polestar, Rivian, Subaru, and Volvo each have one entry.
Cars Leading the 2026 North American Car, Truck & SUV Awards
Among the cars, performance and electrification take center stage. The Audi A5 grows into a larger, sportier compact sedan, while the Dodge Charger and Charger Daytona reinvent muscle cars with both twin-turbo power and up to 670 horsepower of electric energy.
Honda also makes waves by reviving the Prelude name, offering a hybrid coupe with components drawn from the Civic R’s performance DNA. This return blends nostalgia with cutting-edge engineering, appealing to fans who remember the iconic Prelude while speaking to a new generation of drivers.
Trucks in the Spotlight for 2026 North American Car, Truck & SUV Awards
The truck category is smaller but packed with innovation. From redesigned classics to electric newcomers, these nominees reflect how versatile and essential trucks remain for North American drivers. While full details of each truck contender will be evaluated in October’s comparison event, one thing is clear: utility, strength, and efficiency are the defining factors this year.
The growing presence of electrified trucks shows just how much the segment is changing. No longer focused only on raw power, these vehicles aim to prove that capability and sustainability can coexist.
SUVs and Crossovers Dominate the 2026 North American Car, Truck & SUV Awards
SUVs and crossovers continue to dominate the market, and the 2026 North American Car, Truck & SUV Awards reflect that reality. With 19 nominees in this category, jurors face the toughest decisions here.
From family-friendly hybrids to luxurious all-electric crossovers, the lineup showcases how versatile SUVs have become. Automakers are focusing on advanced driver assistance systems, connectivity, and bold designs to set themselves apart. For consumers, this means more choice than ever, whether they prioritize style, practicality, or cutting-edge technology.
The Road to the Winners
The 2026 North American Car, Truck & SUV Awards process is meticulous. This September, jurors narrowed down the eligible field to the 30 most promising candidates. Next comes the October comparison event, where vehicles will be driven back-to-back, allowing jurors to see how they truly measure up in real-world conditions.
In November, nine finalists, three from each category, will be revealed at the Los Angeles Auto Show. The final winners will then be announced in Detroit on January 14, 2026, marking one of the highlights of the Detroit Auto Show.
Scholarships and a Vision for the Future
This year, the jury also introduced something beyond awards: a scholarship fund for aspiring journalists and automotive engineers. Managed by the SAE International engineering society, this fund is designed to inspire the next generation of talent in both media and design. It’s a reminder that the 2026 North American Car, Truck & SUV Awards are about more than just vehicles, they’re about shaping the future of the industry.
FAQs
- What are the 2026 North American Car, Truck & SUV Awards?
They are prestigious honors given each year to the best new car, truck, and utility vehicle sold in North America, judged by a jury of 50 automotive experts. - When will the winners be announced?
The winners will be revealed on January 14, 2026, at the Detroit Auto Show, after months of testing and evaluation. - How many nominees are there for 2026?
There are 30 vehicles in total: six cars, five trucks, and 19 utility vehicles, nearly half of which are hybrid or fully electric. - Which automakers have the most nominees?
Hyundai-Kia and Stellantis each have four, while Ford, GM, Honda, and VW/Audi follow closely with three nominees each. - Why are these awards significant?
The awards highlight innovation, safety, performance, and value. Winning can boost a vehicle’s credibility and sales, while also reflecting industry trends like electrification and sustainability.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 North American Car, Truck & SUV Awards give us a glimpse into the future of driving. With electric and hybrid models taking center stage, automakers are proving that performance and sustainability can go hand in hand. Whether it’s the reborn Honda Prelude, the powerful Dodge Charger, or an all-new electric SUV, these nominees show just how far the industry has come. As January approaches, anticipation builds not just for the winners but for what they represent, the next chapter in the story of mobility.
Disclaimer: This article is written for informational purposes only. It does not provide financial, technical, or purchasing advice. Readers should consult official automotive sources or professional reviews for detailed insights into the nominees of the 2026 North American Car, Truck & SUV Awards.
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