Get ready for a thrilling ride as we dive into the world of automotive excellence! The BMW iX3 has just been crowned the Car of the Year by What Car? But here's where it gets controversial...
This electric SUV has taken the automotive industry by storm, and it's easy to see why. With an impressive 500-mile range and lightning-fast 400kW charging capability, the iX3 offers an unparalleled driving experience. It's not just about the numbers though; this big car handles like a dream, providing an exhilarating drive that has won over critics and consumers alike.
Steve Huntingford, editor of What Car?, praised the iX3, stating that it represents "a stepchange in capability" for electric vehicles. And he's not wrong! The iX3 has joined an elite club, becoming the fourth BMW to win this prestigious award, following in the footsteps of the 5 Series, 3 Series, and 7 Series. Additionally, it's the fifth EV to take the top prize, solidifying its place in automotive history.
But wait, there's more! Last year's Car of the Year, the Renault 5, continues its reign as the Small Electric Car of the Year. It's a testament to the growing popularity and innovation in the electric vehicle market.
Now, let's take a closer look at the full list of What Car? Award winners for 2026. From small cars to luxury estates, and everything in between, these vehicles have been meticulously tested and evaluated to bring you the best of the best.
What Car? Car of the Year Awards 2026
- Small Car - Toyota Aygo X 1.5 Hybrid Icon
- Small Electric Car - Renault 5 52kWh Comfort Range Techno+
- Family Car - Honda Civic 2.0 e:HEV Elegance
- Small SUV - Volkswagen T-Roc 1.5 eTSI 150 Life DSG
- Small Electric SUV - Kia EV3 Standard Range Air
- Family SUV - Kia Sportage 1.6T Hybrid Pure
- Family Electric SUV - Smart #5 Pro+
- Premium SUV - Land Rover Defender 110 D250 S
- Premium Electric SUV - BMW iX3 50 xDrive M Sport
- Plug-in Hybrid - MG HS 1.5T Plug-in Hybrid SE
- Executive Car - Tesla Model 3 Long Range RWD
- Luxury Car - BMW X7 xDrive40i M Sport
- Estate - Skoda Superb 1.5 TSI 150 e-TEC SE L
- MPV - Kia PV5 Long Range Plus
- Seven-Seat SUV - Hyundai Santa Fe 1.6T Hybrid 2WD Premium
- Coupé - BMW 4 Series 420i M Sport
- Convertible - Mercedes CLE Cabriolet 200 AMG Line Premium
- Performance Car - BMW M3 Touring xDrive Competition
- Sports Car - Porsche 911 Carrera T
And that's not all! There are some special awards that deserve a mention too:
- Reader Award - Volvo EX60
- Tow Car Award - Skoda Kodiaq 2.0 TDI 193 4x4 SportLine DSG (7 seats)
- Reliability Award - Honda
- Safety Award - BMW X3
So, what do you think? Are you ready to join the electric revolution? The BMW iX3 has certainly made a strong case for itself. And this is the part most people miss... Electric vehicles are not just about being environmentally friendly; they offer an incredible driving experience too.
Do you agree that the iX3 deserves the Car of the Year title? Or do you think another vehicle should have taken the crown? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's spark a discussion about the future of automotive excellence!
