The 2026 Car of the Year award has been narrowed down to seven exceptional cars, each a winner in its respective category. These finalists include high-end performance SUVs from Germany, new contenders from China, a game-changing ute, family-friendly hybrids, and top-notch EVs.
The list of finalists is made up of category winners, including the Kia EV3, BMW X1, Zeekr 7X, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Hyundai Santa Fe, Porsche Cayenne, and BYD Shark 6.
Category Winners
The Kia EV3 won the Best Small Car Starting Under $50,000 category, thanks to its striking design, engaging drive experience, and high levels of standard equipment.
The BMW X1 took the Best Small Car Starting Under $80,000 category, with its punchy petrol powertrains and well-calibrated electric version.
Large SUV Category
The Hyundai Santa Fe won the Best Large SUV Starting Under $100,000 category, with its bold design, spacious and flexible interior, and choice of two excellent powertrains.
The Porsche Cayenne outpaced its rivals in the Best Large SUV Starting Under $220,000 category, thanks to its performance and prestige.
The BYD Shark 6 was a standout in the Best Ute Under $85,000 category, bringing plug-in hybrid power to the masses in a big way.
And the Winner Is…
The winner of the 2026 Car of the Year award is the Hyundai Santa Fe. The Santa Fe won over the judges with its phenomenal family car credentials, including acres of occupant space, decent cargo space, and high levels of comfort and refinement.
The Santa Fe‘s interior design and layout is modern, with a retro twist, and the materials used throughout are second to none. The availability of two excellent powertrains, including a 1.6-litre turbocharged hybrid and a 2.5L four-cylinder turbo-petrol version, further boosts the Santa Fe.
Related: Honda Ridgeline to Use New Frame Design
Value for money was also one of the Santa Fe‘s biggest strengths, with pricing ranging from around $54,000 for the entry petrol grade to $77,000 for the fully kitted out Calligraphy hybrid.
In comparison to other family SUVs, the Hyundai Santa Fe stands out for its unique design and exceptional features, making it a well-deserved winner of the 2026 Car of the Year award.
The Hyundai Santa Fe is not only the best family car in 2026, but it’s also the best car money can buy, according to the judges.
The Santa Fe’s spacious interior is a major advantage, with acres of occupant space across all three rows, making it an ideal choice for large families. The decent cargo space also provides ample room for luggage, sports equipment, or other items, adding to the vehicle’s practicality.
The judges were also impressed with the Santa Fe’s modern interior design and layout, which features a retro twist and premium materials throughout. The use of eye-catching seat materials and various touchpoints that look and feel like they belong in the premium segment further enhance the vehicle’s interior.
The availability of two excellent powertrains, including a 1.6-litre turbocharged hybrid and a 2.5L four-cylinder turbo-petrol version, provides buyers with a choice of efficient and refined engines. Both powertrains are available in front and all-wheel drive, and they come with a full-size spare wheel, which is a notable feature in the hybrid segment.
The Santa Fe’s exterior design, although polarizing, stands out among a largely vanilla bunch of family SUV rivals. The bold design and unique features make it a head-turner on the road, and the judges agree that it’s a standout in its class.
The Santa Fe’s value for money is also a significant strength, with pricing ranging from around $54,000 for the entry petrol grade to $77,000 for the fully kitted out Calligraphy hybrid. Even at the entry point, the Santa Fe is packed with comfort and safety features, making it an attractive option for buyers.
Overall, the Hyundai Santa Fe is a brilliantly executed car that deserves its win as the 2026 Car of the Year. Its unique design, exceptional features, and value for money make it a standout in its class, and it’s an ideal choice for families or anyone looking for a practical and comfortable vehicle.
Leave a Reply