Every year, car lovers, industry insiders, and tech geeks eagerly await the list of the world’s top-performing vehicles. So, what makes a car the “best”? Is it raw power, sleek design, next-level tech, or a mix of everything? Well, in 2026, a panel of over 100 elite automotive journalists from around the world came together to answer that exact question—and their rankings are in!
If you’re in the market for a new ride, dreaming about your next one, or just curious about which cars are setting the bar for automotive excellence, keep reading. We’ve broken down the highlights from the original Forbes article in a simplified, friendly way that’s easy to follow.
Before we dive into the list, it’s worth understanding how these cars earned their spots.
The World Car Awards are a huge deal—kind of like the Oscars but for cars. Over 100 experienced auto journalists from 29 countries test-drove and reviewed dozens of new vehicles. They looked at multiple factors, like:
After hundreds of hours behind the wheel, these experts cast their votes for the best of the best across several categories.
Taking the top honor as the 2026 World Car of the Year is the stylish and spacious Kia EV9. This all-electric SUV beat out some tough competition—and for good reason!
If you haven’t seen the EV9 yet, think of it as a futuristic family-mobile. It seats up to seven, offers plenty of room for road trips, and is packed with smart features like:
What sets the EV9 apart is how it blends utility with innovation. It’s practical, comfortable, and green—all in one.
I got to test drive an EV9 last month during a media demo, and honestly, I was blown away. The cabin felt roomy yet cozy, almost like you’re sitting in your living room—but with a dashboard from the future. Even better, the acceleration had some serious kick. So if you’re still on the fence about going electric, this might be the car to change your mind.
City dwellers, meet your new best friend: the Volvo EX30. This compact electric SUV is designed for tight parking spots and quick errands—but don’t let the size fool you.
The EX30 packs in big-car tech like:
It’s perfect for urban lifestyles, where space is limited but style still matters.
BMW strikes again, this time with two variations of its legendary 5 Series—the classic gas-powered version and its all-electric sibling, the BMW i5.
Both versions offer what you’d expect from BMW: silky-smooth performance, incredible attention to detail, and a driving experience that just feels… right.
What’s extremely cool is how these models give you the freedom to choose—go green with the i5 or stick with traditional fuel efficiency. Either way, you’re in for a smooth, luxurious ride.
Need a car that puts the fun back into driving? The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N might be the answer.
This isn’t your average electric car. The Ioniq 5 N brings track-level performance while still being a practical daily driver. Some key features include:
It’s the perfect blend of everyday usability and weekend adrenaline. Basically, it’s a rocket ship with cup holders.
You might be wondering, “Okay, but how does this help me choose my next car?” Great question!
The World Car Awards are a helpful shortcut to understanding which vehicles are truly changing the game. If a car made the list, it means hundreds of experts around the world gave it their stamp of approval. That’s not just good marketing—it’s a solid recommendation you can trust.
Whether you’re shopping for a family SUV, a zippy city car, or a performance powerhouse, these award winners are a great place to start your search.
The 2026 winners show a clear trend: electric vehicles are here to stay—and they’re getting better every year.
Cars like the Kia EV9, Volvo EX30, and Hyundai Ioniq 5 N aren’t just eco-friendly; they offer cutting-edge tech, safety, and style. It’s no longer about choosing between performance and sustainability—you can now have both.
So, is it time to upgrade?
If you’re ready to make the switch—or simply want to experience what modern driving feels like—taking one of these top-rated cars for a test drive might just change your outlook on what a car should be.
As the industry shifts toward smarter, more responsible transport, these vehicles are leading the way. And who knows? Your next car might just be on next year’s best-of list.
Let us know in the comments! We’d love to hear your thoughts and driving experiences. 🚗💬
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