Winners of the 2026 TopGear US Car Awards

The TopGear US Car Awards are the American counterpart to the well-known British car awards, adapted to reflect the realities of the U.S. market. While the name is familiar, the format stands on its own. The focus is on production vehicles that are actually sold in the United States and that align with local priorities—power, practicality, technology, and driving excitement.

The awards cover models that were introduced or entered production over the past year. Editors and automotive journalists took part in the judging process, with vehicles tested both on public roads and on closed race tracks. In several categories, contenders were evaluated head-to-head to determine winners based on real-world performance rather than specifications alone.

Car of the Year: Dodge Charger Sixpack

Shortlist:

• Kia K4

• Tesla Model 3 Performance

• Hyundai Elantra N

• Dodge Charger Sixpack

The new Dodge Charger Sixpack represents a modern take on classic American muscle. It may no longer look like a retro throwback, but the core values remain intact: power, presence, and driving enjoyment.

Under the hood is a 3.0-liter twin-turbo inline-six producing up to 550 horsepower and roughly 531 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive comes standard, but drivers can send all of that power to the rear wheels if they prefer a more traditional setup.

What makes the Charger especially impressive is its versatility. It’s quick, composed in corners, comfortable for daily driving, and surprisingly practical. The trunk can even fit a full set of track wheels—an insight into the car’s true character.

SUV of the Year: Cadillac Lyriq-V

Shortlist:

• Ford Expedition Tremor

• Hyundai Ioniq 9

• Tesla Model Y

• Cadillac Lyriq-V

• Toyota 4Runner Trailhunter

The Cadillac Lyriq-V shows what a modern premium electric SUV should be. With 615 horsepower and a 0–60 mph time of around 3.3 seconds, it delivers serious performance while maintaining a quiet, refined cabin.

Despite its size, the Lyriq-V feels planted and well-controlled. The suspension handles rough roads with ease but also supports spirited driving. It’s equally suited for daily commutes, long road trips, and dynamic driving.

Truck of the Year: Rivian R1T Quad Motor

Shortlist:

• Ford Maverick Lobo

• GMC Sierra EV

• Rivian R1T Quad Motor

The quad-motor Rivian R1T is one of the most distinctive and technologically advanced pickups on the market. With a dedicated motor at each wheel, the truck offers exceptional control over traction and vehicle dynamics.

Total output exceeds 1,000 horsepower, but the real story is how it performs. The R1T is highly capable off-road, impressively quick on pavement, and packed with software-driven settings that allow drivers to tailor the truck to virtually any situation.

Supercar of the Year: Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

Shortlist:

• Ford Mustang GTD

• Chevrolet Corvette ZR1

The Chevrolet Corvette ZR1 is the purest expression of the American supercar philosophy. Power comes from a 5.5-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 1,064 horsepower. Advanced aerodynamics, extensive carbon-fiber components, and track-ready brakes complete the package.

In direct comparison with the Mustang GTD, the Corvette proved to be the more balanced and predictable car on the track. At the same time, it remains far more affordable than most European supercars with similar performance.

Automaker of the Year: Cadillac

Cadillac earned Automaker of the Year honors for its confident and consistent brand transformation. In recent years, the company has refreshed its lineup, leaned heavily into electrification, and still maintained performance-focused models and a distinctive design language.

Today’s Cadillacs combine strong build quality, modern styling, and advanced technology—helping the brand regain attention from both buyers and car enthusiasts.

TG Tech Award: Porsche Wireless Charging

The Technology of the Year award goes to Porsche’s wireless charging system, developed for the upcoming Cayenne Electric. Using cameras and visual guidance, the system helps drivers position the vehicle precisely over the charging pad.

Once the car is aligned correctly, charging begins automatically—no cables required. It’s a clear example of technology that genuinely improves convenience rather than existing purely for show.