#Germany #Hyundai IONIQ 9 #Friedrichshafen #German Car of The Year #Dacia Bigster

Class Winners for the German Car of The Year 2026 Selected

In an exciting announcement from Friedrichshafen, Germany, a distinguished jury consisting of 40 automotive journalists and experts has revealed the class winners for the German Car of the Year 2026. This prestigious award program evaluates new vehicles released in Europe in the last twelve months and celebrates the best in different categories.

The Class Winners

The results showcased a diverse range of vehicles, each excelling in its respective category:

• - Budget Segment: The Dacia Bigster took the crown for the newly established budget category, designed to highlight affordable automotive options priced up to €25,000.
• - Compact Segment: The Skoda Elroq was recognized as the standout in the compact category, with a price cap of €40,000, appealing to those looking for an affordable yet spacious option.
• - Premium Segment: Leading the premium category (vehicles priced up to €70,000) was the impressive Hyundai Ioniq 9. Known for its advanced technology and elegant design, it has captured the attention of both consumers and critics alike.
• - Luxury Segment: The award for the luxury category, which focuses on vehicles over €70,000, went to the Cadillac Vistiq, signaling the brand's commitment to exceptional quality and performance.
• - Performance Segment: Finally, the Lucid Air Sapphire was honored in the performance class, showcasing remarkable power and innovation in electric mobility.

The Evaluation Process

The jury that selects these winners comprises experts from various fields of the automotive industry, both German and international. Each jury member evaluates participating vehicles based on extensive criteria, including design, technology, performance, and overall value.

The jurors will engage in two thorough days of testing to determine the overall winner for German Car of the Year 2026 from these class leaders. The announcement of this prestigious title is eagerly awaited and is set to take place on November 17, 2026.

The sponsors of this year’s awards program include notable companies such as Aitastic, AutoCom Associates, Bridgestone, Gentex, KST Motorenversuch, and ZF Friedrichshafen. Their support highlights the importance of innovation and excellence in the automotive industry. An overview of the jury members can be found at gcoty-awards.com.

Why This Matters

The selection of class winners for the German Car of the Year 2026 not only reflects the preferences of automotive experts but also influences consumer choices in the marketplace. This award has significant implications for manufacturers aiming to elevate their brands in a competitive environment, and it informs potential buyers about the best options available. As advancements in technology and design evolve rapidly, recognition in such awards encourages brands to innovate and improve continuously.

Stay tuned for the final announcement and prepare to see which vehicle emerges as the overall champion in this prestigious event!