The best passenger car was recognized as the Dodge Charger, the Ford Maverick Lobo won in the pickup category, and the Hyundai Palisade received the award among crossovers and SUVs.
The Dodge Charger received 195 votes in the passenger car category. Jury member Henry Payne from The Detroit News called the model a powerful return to the brand's gasoline roots after experiments with electrification.
The Ford Maverick Lobo was named the best pickup, receiving 277 votes. According to Detroit Free Press automotive reviewer Mark Phelan, the model created a new class of compact pickups with a focus on handling and dynamics, while maintaining an affordable price.
In the Utility Vehicle category, the Hyundai Palisade won with a result of 270 votes. John Vincent from U.S. News World Report noted that the updated 2026 Palisade, especially in the hybrid version, once again sets benchmarks in its segment.
The NACTOY award has been presented since 1994. The winners are determined by 50 automotive journalists from the USA and Canada. The vote count is conducted by Deloitte.
Source: NACTOY
