Best cars to buy in 2026: UK Car of the Year category winners revealed

• Eight cars picked from 59 contenders
• Five electric cars among category winners
• Overall winner will be revealed on 26 February

Eight cars have been announced as category winners in the UK Car of the Year Awards. 

Voted for by 33 of the country’s top motoring journalists, including Honest John Editor David Ross, UKCOTY was established in 2014 and the awards are designed specifically for the UK car buying public.

2026 saw 59 contenders whittled down to individual winners in eight categories. These will now compete for the overall title of UK Car Of The Year 2026, which will be announced at the end of February.

Category	Winner
Small car	Renault 5 E-Tech
Family car	Kia EV4
Small crossover	Citroen C3 Aircross
Medium crossover	Skoda Elroq
Large crossover	Hyundai Ioniq 9
Executive car	Audi A6
Estate car	Audi A6 Avant
Performance car	Alpine A290

Audi picked up two category wins for the A6 Saloon and the A6 Avant estate while five electric cars picked up awards, reflecting the growing share of battery-powered sales in the UK market.

Kia, which received the overall title in 2024 with the Kia EV9 and in 2025 with the Kia EV3, picked up another category win in 2026 with the Kia EV4.

Hyundai was awarded the Large Crossover title for the second year in a row, with the Hyundai Ioniq 9 emerging triumphant. The Hyundai Santa Fe won in 2025.

Alpine, winner of the Performance Car category in 2019 with the Alpine A110, returns to the podium in the same category for the new Alpine A290.

The overall winner of the UK Car of the Year will be announced on 26 February.

Small car - Renault 5 E-Tech

UKCOTY verdict: From the retro looks and feel, to the small but perfectly formed electric powertrain, the new Renault 5 E-Tech has plenty to offer. This small car was eagerly awaited when the initial news of its arrival was announced and the driving experience certainly didn’t disappoint.

Family car - Kia EV4

UKCOTY verdict: Kia’s range of EVs is strengthened with this hatchback (also available as a fastback), which offers an impressive levels of driving range, interior space and tech. With its EV9 and EV3 proving exceptional electric vehicles it was no surprise that the EV4 would follow suit.

Small crossover - Citroen C3 Aircross

UKCOTY verdict: For years, Citroen has prided itself on daring to be being different – and the C3 Aircross and e-C3 Aircross are testament to this innovative approach. Decent driving dynamics, a comfortable ride and the option of seven seats in the C3 Aircross make for an impressive package.

Medium crossover - Skoda Elroq

UKCOTY verdict: Faced with more competition than any other category in the awards in 2026, the Skoda Elroq impressed judges by being a hugely impressive all-rounder and quietly going about its business. A perfect example of sticking to an proven approach and adapting it to suit different drivers.

Large crossover - Hyundai Ioniq 9

UKCOTY verdict The demand for electric vehicles with seven seats continues to grow and the Ioniq 9 is a superb option for those looking for such a car. With a high-quality interior that offers ample room for all passengers, this is one crossover that truly leaves a lasting impression.

Executive car - Audi A6

UKCOTY verdict Despite increased competition from new entrants and legacy brands, Audi continues to impress when it comes to the executive vehicle sector, helped by a generous range of powertrains. The German brand is famed for its quality interiors and the A6 underlines that reputation.

Estate car - Audi A6 Avant

UKCOTY verdict The market for estate cars might not be as popular as it once was in the UK, but drivers are not left wanting. The A6 Avant has a real premium feel about it and also scores highly on comfort, driving dynamics and, naturally, interior space.

Performance car - Alpine A290

UKCOTY verdict The resurgence of Alpine continues – and the A290 is a hugely impressive addition to iconic French brand’s product lineup. Starting with all the fun of the Renault 5, Alpine has taken that base to the next level in terms of performance, while keeping practicality and style.