The 2026 What Car? Awards have officially arrived, signalling a massive shift in the UK car market. From the long-awaited return of iconic nameplates like the Renault 5 to the continued dominance of the Kia Sportage, this year’s winners prove that excellence is no longer just about luxury—it’s about accessibility. We’ve rounded up the models that mastered the rigorous testing for comfort, safety, and real-world efficiency.
Category Winners
Small Car of the Year: Toyota Aygo X (1.5 Hybrid Icon)
In a segment where many brands are retreating, the Aygo X stands out by offering a rugged, SUV-inspired look in a compact, city-friendly package. Its hybrid powertrain delivers exceptional fuel economy, making it one of the most cost-effective ways to get on the road without sacrificing modern safety tech.
Small Electric Car of the Year: Renault 5 (52kWh Comfort Range Techno+)
The return of this icon has been the talk of the industry. The Renault 5 doesn’t just win on nostalgia; it wins on merit. With a punchy electric motor, a high-tech interior, and a competitive real-world range, it proves that “small and electric” can also be incredibly fun and stylish.
Family Car of the Year: Honda Civic (2.0 e:HEV Elegance)
The Honda Civic remains the gold standard for the traditional hatchback. Its hybrid system is seamless, providing effortless performance while sipping fuel. Judges praised its driver-focused cabin and its ability to blend everyday practicality with a surprisingly engaging driving experience.
Family SUV of the Year: Kia Sportage (1.6T Hybrid Pure)
Securing this title for an incredible fourth consecutive year, the Sportage remains the “one to beat.” Following a mid-life refresh in 2025 that introduced a sharper look and upgraded tech, it continues to offer the best balance of cabin space, safety features, and sheer value for money in the UK.
Small Electric SUV of the Year: Kia EV3 (Standard Range Air)
The EV3 brings the futuristic appeal of Kia’s larger electric models into a more compact, affordable format. It offers a “big car” feel with a lofty driving position and a remarkably spacious interior for its footprint, making the transition to electric easy for young families.
MPV of the Year: Kia PV5 (Long Range Plus)
The MPV is back and more advanced than ever. The Kia PV5 Passenger is a purpose-built electric vehicle that prioritises “living space.” With its flat floor, clever storage solutions, and vehicle-to-load (V2L) capabilities, it is the ultimate tool for active families who need maximum flexibility.
7-Seat SUV of the Year: Hyundai Santa Fe (1.6T Hybrid 2WD Premium)
The Santa Fe’s bold, angular design isn’t just for show—it creates a massive amount of internal volume. It is one of the few SUVs that can genuinely seat seven adults in comfort, with even the third row getting plenty of headroom. Its focus on soft, comfort-oriented suspension makes it a dream for long hauls.
Plug-in Hybrid of the Year: MG HS (1.5T Plug-in Hybrid SE)
MG continues to disrupt the market by offering high-end specs at accessible prices. The HS PHEV impressed judges with its class-leading electric-only range of up to 75 miles, allowing most owners to complete their daily commute without ever touching a drop of petrol.
Special Awards
Readers’ Choice Award
Voted for by the public, the Volvo EX60 is the most anticipated car of 2026. Following its global reveal, the excitement surrounds its promise of a 500-mile range and Volvo’s legendary commitment to safety, proving that the brand’s “next generation” of SUVs is exactly what buyers want.
Reliability Award
After a seven-year gap, Honda has returned to the top of the What Car? Reliability Survey with a staggering 96.6% rating. Whether it’s the Jazz, the Civic, or the HR-V, Honda owners report fewer faults and better dealer service than any other brand, cementing its reputation as the most dependable name in motoring.
Driving Into the Future
The 2026 What Car? Award winners highlight the evolving landscape of the automotive industry.
Whether you’re looking for an efficient city car, a spacious family SUV, or a tech-forward electric vehicle, this year’s selections offer something for everyone.
As manufacturers continue pushing the boundaries of design and performance, we can expect even more ground-breaking innovations in the years ahead.
Which of this year’s winners excites you the most? Let us know in the comments!
