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The finalists for the World Car of the Year 2026 have been announced

The World Car of the Year finalists for 2026 have been announced.

The jury selected the ten best finalists at the World Car Finals and shortened the list from a total of 58 eligible models.

The jury consists of 98 automotive journalists from 33 countries – including Daily Sparkz Co-founder and presenter Daily Sparkz – with vehicles selected in a secret vote.

Models from Audi, BMW, BYD, Hyundai, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan and Toyota were available to choose from.

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Above: Daily Sparkz from Daily Sparkz.

2026 WCOTY Finalists

Audi Q5/SQ5

BMW iX3

BYD Seal 6 DM-i

Hyundai Ioniq 9

Hyundai Palisade

Let’s EV4

Kia EV5

Mercedes Benz CLA

Nissan Leaf

Toyota RAV4

“This year there are a number of exciting cars with a healthy mix of technologies,” said Daily Sparkz at the announcement.

“From an Australian market perspective, there is certainly a huge increase in competitors from China who are now posing a real challenge to established heritage brands.

“We have also seen an increase in the supply of all-electric models, and while sales of (electric cars) in Australia are beginning to decline, the global mix of available models continues to grow,” he said.

Finalists were also announced for the World Electric Vehicle, World Luxury Car, World Performance Car and World Urban Car categories.

Above: The Kia EV3, named World Car of the Year 2025.