The results of the Auto Express New Car Awards 2026 are officially in, bringing fantastic news for British motorists. At Stoneacre, we are absolutely delighted to celebrate the incredible achievements of our manufacturer partners who have completely dominated the podium this year. From eco-friendly city cars to versatile commercial workhorses, these awards highlight the absolute best vehicles available right now.
Why These Vehicles Were Chosen by Auto Express
The expert judging panel at Auto Express selects its winners based on rigorous real-world testing across UK roads. They prioritise vehicles that deliver exceptional value for money, practical everyday usability, and innovative engineering. Rather than simply focusing on premium price tags, the judges champion cars and vans that genuinely improve the daily lives of motorists, offering efficient running costs and cutting-edge technology that is accessible to everyone.
The All-Conquering Nissan LEAF Treble
Car of the Year 2026: Nissan LEAF
Claiming the ultimate prize of Car of the Year 2026, the spectacular Nissan LEAF has cemented its place in automotive history.
This latest generation transforms the iconic electric pioneer into a stunning, practical crossover that effortlessly handles the demands of modern British life.
The judges were deeply impressed by its smooth refinement, impressive real-world range, and standard-setting build quality, making it the definitive vehicle of the year.
Small Company Car of the Year 2026: Nissan LEAF
The Nissan LEAF continued its historic winning streak by taking home the Small Company Car of the Year 2026 title. Business drivers and fleet managers across the UK are looking to slash their monthly outgoings, and the LEAF delivers the perfect solution. Thanks to its exceptionally low Benefit-in-Kind tax rates, zero-emission capability, and advanced cabin connectivity, it represents a highly intelligent, cost-effective choice for modern professionals.
Affordable Electric Car of the Year 2026: Nissan LEAF
Securing an incredible treble, the Nissan LEAF was also named the Affordable Electric Car of the Year 2026. Transitioning to electric power can often feel financially daunting, but Nissan has democratised zero-emission motoring. It offers a premium driving experience, a generous battery range, and a wealth of high-tech safety equipment, all at a price point that keeps household budgets firmly on track.
Compact and City Car Champions
City Car of the Year 2026: Kia Picanto
The evergreen Kia Picanto has been crowned the City Car of the Year 2026, proving that compact dimensions can deliver massive character.
Ideal for navigating tight urban streets and squeezing into awkward multi-storey parking spaces, the Picanto offers nimble handling and excellent visibility.
With its incredibly frugal petrol engine and Kia’s industry-leading seven-year warranty, it remains the ultimate peace-of-mind choice for budget-conscious city drivers.
Supermini of the Year 2026: CUPRA Raval
Injecting a bold dose of sporty emotion into the compact segment, the striking CUPRA Raval has walked away with the Supermini of the Year 2026 award.
This fully electric hatchback stands out proudly from the crowd with its aggressive styling and driver-focused cabin layout.
It offers an incredibly agile chassis that turns regular daily commutes into genuinely exciting drives, proving that sustainability and high performance can coexist beautifully.
Family Innovation and Small SUVs
Family Car of the Year 2026: Kia PV5 Passenger
Breaking the traditional mould for passenger transport, the revolutionary Kia PV5 has earned the highly competitive title of Family Car of the Year 2026.
Built on an incredibly flexible, modular platform, this vehicle reimagines what interior space can look like.
Busy parents will appreciate the wide-opening doors, the flat cabin floor, and the sheer adaptability of the seating arrangements, which easily swallow up everything from strollers to bulky holiday luggage.
Small SUV of the Year 2026: Renault 4 E-Tech Electric
Blending wonderful retro charm with futuristic technology, the new Renault 4 E-Tech Electric has secured the title of Small SUV of the Year 2026.
Renault has brilliantly reimagined an iconic heritage classic for the electric generation, creating a high-riding crossover packed with personality.
It offers excellent ground clearance, a commanding view of the road ahead, and a highly practical boot, making it a fantastic companion for weekend adventures.
Open-Top Thrills and Smart Hybrid Value
Convertible of the Year 2026: Mazda MX-5
True driving enthusiasts will be thrilled to see that the legendary Mazda MX-5 has once again claimed the Convertible of the Year 2026 award.
By sticking resolutely to its time-tested formula of lightweight engineering, perfect weight distribution, and a tactile manual gearbox, this iconic roadster offers unmatched open-top thrills.
It proves that you do not need an exotic supercar budget to experience pure, unadulterated motoring bliss on a sunny British afternoon.
Affordable Hybrid Car of the Year 2026: MG HS
Addressing the vital need for cost-conscious family transport, the impressive MG HS has rightfully won the Affordable Hybrid Car of the Year 2026 crown.
MG has established a stellar reputation for giving buyers an immense amount of equipment for their money, and this hybrid SUV is no exception.
It combines a plush, comfortable cabin with a highly sophisticated powertrain that delivers excellent fuel economy and reduces weekly fuel stops.
Unbeatable Commercial Vehicles and Pick-Ups
Pick-Up of the Year 2026: Ford Ranger
The unstoppable Ford Ranger has comfortably retained its title as Pick-Up of the Year 2026, dominating both the commercial and lifestyle markets.
Renowned for its immense towing capacity, rugged off-road durability, and heavy-duty payload capabilities, the Ranger handles tough tasks with absolute ease.
Yet, step inside the cabin, and you are greeted by car-like refinement, luxury materials, and advanced touchscreen infotainment that makes long journeys a pleasure.
Electric Van of the Year and Small Van of the Year 2026: Kia PV5 Cargo
Securing a magnificent double victory in the commercial classes, the innovative Kia PV5 Cargo has been named both Electric Van of the Year and Small Van of the Year 2026.
This fully electric workhorse takes the ultra-practical, space-optimising design of its passenger sibling and tailors it perfectly for British businesses.
Offering zero-emission delivery capabilities, low running costs, and unmatched cargo access, it represents the future of urban fleet operations.
Mid-Size Van of the Year 2026: Ford Transit Custom
The iconic Ford Transit Custom continues its legendary reign by securing the Mid-Size Van of the Year 2026 award.
Long considered the absolute backbone of British business, the latest Transit Custom refines an already winning formula with car-like handling, a highly ergonomic cabin, and brilliant load-space solutions.
It is a dependable, hard-working partner that keeps tradespeople moving efficiently right across the country every single day.
Large Van of the Year 2026: Renault Master
Rounding out the commercial triumphs, the massive Renault Master has been rightfully named the Large Van of the Year 2026.
The judges praised its highly advanced multi-energy platform, class-leading aerodynamics, and exceptional load-carrying capabilities.
With a mobile-office interior design that prioritises driver comfort during long shifts, the Master offers heavy-duty fleet operators an incredibly efficient, reliable, and comfortable tool for the job.
Experience the Winners at Stoneacre
The Auto Express New Car Awards 2026 have highlighted a fantastic lineup of vehicles, and they are all available across our retail network. Whether you are ready to experience the triple-winning Nissan LEAF, test the family-friendly Kia PV5, or upgrade your business fleet with a new Ford Transit Custom, our friendly teams are here to help. Drop by your local Stoneacre dealership today to take a test drive and find your perfect award-winning vehicle.
