Honda Civic wins 2026 Canadian Car of the Year for second consecutive year.
Hyundai Palisade leads utility category for second straight annual award.
Porsche Taycan and Kia EV9 top 2026 electric vehicle categories.
The 2026 Canadian Car of the Year winners were announced earlier today by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) during the opening ceremonies of the 2026 edition of the Canadian International AutoShow in Toronto.
AJAC named four category winners for 2026, covering internal combustion and electrified passenger cars and utility vehicles.
2026 AJAC Winners | Photo: Matt St-Pierre2026 Canadian Car of the Year
The Honda Civic retained its title as Canadian Car of the Year, making it a back-to-back winner and giving it its third victory in five years.
The Canadian-built Civic remains the country’s best-selling passenger car. AJAC jurors cited overall quality, interior ergonomics, and wide consumer appeal as key factors in its selection.
2026 AJAC Winners | Photo: Matt St-Pierre2026 Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year
The Hyundai Palisade earned the 2026 Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year award.
The win marks the second consecutive year that Hyundai has secured the utility category, following the Santa Fe’s victory in 2025. Judges highlighted the Palisade’s build quality and interior design.
2026 AJAC Winners | Photo: Matt St-Pierre2026 Canadian Electric Car of the Year
The Porsche Taycan was named the 2026 Canadian Electric Car of the Year.
AJAC jurors evaluated the updated Taycan as more efficient than its predecessor. They also cited its interior design and driving dynamics in awarding the top honour in the electric passenger car segment.
2026 AJAC Winners | Photo: Matt St-Pierre2026 Canadian Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year
The Kia EV9 received the 2026 Canadian Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year award.
The EV9 previously finished as a runner-up in 2024 and 2025. Judges pointed to its exterior styling, infotainment system, and safety features as decisive strengths.
Evaluation Process
AJAC President Evan Williams said that 53 jurors from across Canada drove every eligible vehicle before casting ballots. Jurors tested vehicles on Canadian roads and in typical winter and all-season driving conditions.
Jason Campbell, General Manager of the Canadian International AutoShow, said announcing the results at the Toronto event connects Canadian-built vehicles, industry stakeholders, media, and consumers in one venue.
