From a total of 52 vehicles considered, three categories each have three finalists. Notably, each category includes at least one electric vehicle (EV). The utility segment is exclusively represented by EVs: the Genesis Electrified GV70, the Kia EV9, and the Volvo EX30.
The car category also emphasizes electrification, with all finalists offering some form of electric power. These include the Honda Accord, the Toyota Prius/Prius Prime, and the Hyundai Ioniq 6.
Furthermore, the truck category features the Chevrolet Silverado EV as its sole electric contender, alongside the Chevrolet Colorado and the Ford F-Series Super Duty.
North American Car, Truck, and Utility Vehicle of the Year Finalists:
Car:
- Honda Accord
- Hyundai Ioniq 6
- Toyota Prius Prime
Truck:
- Chevrolet Colorado
- Chevrolet Silverado EV
- Ford Super Duty
Utility Vehicle:
- Genesis Electrified GV70,
- Kia EV9,
- Volvo EX30
“Electric vehicles again make up more than half of our finalists,” said Jeff Gilbert, president of NACTOY. “That shows how important they are to carmakers and how many more choices car buyers now have. But there is a lot of variety in this group, including a big work truck, a hybrid and a family sedan.”
The field of finalists was selected by a jury of 50 respected automotive journalists, who winnowed down the field of entrants to 25 semi-finalists in September, and then to nine vehicles today. They make their selections based on criteria such as outstanding innovation, design, performance, driver satisfaction, and value.
The jurors will make their final evaluations over the coming weeks, and will cast their ballots for their favorites. The winners will be announced on January 4, at M1 Concourse in Pontiac, Michigan.
Source: NACTOY
