Jurors pick finalists for gongs

World Car Awards announces the remaining contenders for prizes in this year’s competition.

Posted on 13 March, 2026

Judges have announced the top three finalists in the categories for this year’s World Car Awards, with the winners set to be announced at the 2026 New York International Auto Show in April.

The BMW iX3, Hyundai Palisade and Nissan Leaf are the remaining contenders for the World Car of the Year category after a secret ballot among a jury of 98 automotive journalists from 33 countries.

It’s a similar line-up for the electric vehicle section, where the iX3 and Leaf face competition from the Mercedes-Benz CLA.

Other categories cover luxury, performance and urban cars and there is also a prize for design of the year. The gongs will be handed out in New York on April 1.

The Road to the World Car Awards has followed jurors since September last year as they evaluate eligible vehicles as part of their everyday work.

Some 48 cars were originally in contention for the annual awards, with that number whittled down further in January.

Mark Schienberg, president of the New York International Auto Show, says: “The announcement of the finalists is an important moment for the global automotive industry as it represents one of the most respected honours in our business.

“The anticipation surrounding this year’s contenders reflects the innovation, performance, and vision shaping the future of mobility, and we extend our congratulations to the finalists and to the World Car organisation for its continued leadership.”