One of these seven finalists will be the Car of the Year 2026

Every year, no fewer than 59 jury members from 22 countries determine the final order of the seven finalists. On behalf of the Netherlands, Frank Buma (ANWB), Jaco Bijlsma (Autovisie) and Peter Hilhorst (De Telegraaf/Autovisie) will sit on the jury.

The seven finalists for Car of the Year 2026

The jury members will test the models mentioned even more extensively in the near future to arrive at a final winner. Below you can see the shortlist, now in alphabetical order.

1. Citroen C5 Aircross

Although the new Citroën C5 Aircross shares the necessary components with Stellantis brothers such as the Peugeot 3008 and Opel Grandland, it has one major advantage over its peers: its price.

2. Dacia Bigster

Dacia blows up the Duster to greater proportions and names it Dacia Bigster. To score higher in a segment with the trusted Dacia formula: a lot for little. Is that enough for the title of Car of the Year 2026?

3. Fiat Grande Panda

With its retro appearance, compact size and… attractive starting price this Fiat Grande Panda has to challenge the Renault 5, which won last year.

4.Kia EV4

Kia dominates the Dutch sales lists with, among others, the Picanto and EV3. The Koreans now add the Kia EV4 to the arsenal. A possible top seller that could soon call itself the Car of the Year 2026.

5. Mercedes-Benz CLA

With the new CLA, Mercedes-Benz suddenly deviates from the EV strategy that the brand previously used. No suppository-shaped EQ models more that will only be available with a fully electric powertrain. In terms of looks, this is another real Mercedes-Benz that can be hybrid or electric as desired, without sacrificing efficiency. It makes the new CLA a serious contender.

6. Renault 4

Renault has won the Car of the Year title in the past two years. The Scenic won in 2024 and the 5 at the beginning of this year (which then scored a shared first place with this cool car). Will the French succeed a third time with the equally retro styled one? Renault 4?

7. Skoda Elroq

The new Skoda Elroq must single-handedly uphold the Volkswagen Group’s honor during the 2026 Car of the Year election. The Elroq is Skoda’s weapon for the price war that is currently raging in EV land.

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