The BMW iX3 has been named the 2026 World Car of the Year at the New York International Automobile Show. The all-electric model came out on top from an initial list of 58 contenders submitted from various global markets. The winners in six categories were announced during a live presentation yesterday.
Mike Reichelt, head of BMW’s Neue Klasse development, said the iX3 represents a shift for the brand in terms of design, driving range, charging performance, driver assistance systems, and the new Panoramic iDrive interface. “Above all, the iX3 stands for the next generation of sheer driving pleasure,” Reichelt said.
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A jury of 98 automotive journalists from 33 countries (including South Africa) selected the winners through a secret ballot process, based on their professional evaluations of eligible vehicles.
Mark Schienberg, president of the New York Auto Show, described the World Car Awards as a global reference point for recognising vehicles and technologies that push the industry forward. “We’re proud to host these honours at the New York Auto Show, where each spring the global automotive community gathers,” he said.
The iX3 also won the World Electric Vehicle category. For South African buyers, local deliveries are expected to start in the third quarter of 2026, pending confirmation from the local importer.
The winners at a glance
- World Car of the Year: BMW iX3
- World Electric Vehicle: BMW iX3
- World Performance Car: Hyundai Ioniq 6 N
- World Luxury Car: Lucid Gravity
- World Urban Car: Firefly (NIO’s new brand)
- World Car Design of the Year: Mazda 6e / EZ-6
The 98 jury members test-drove and scored eligible models across several rounds. The results were tallied and released by the awards body.
The iX3 is expected to reach local shores around Q3 2026. Final specs and pricing will be confirmed by BMW SA and the importer. The iX3’s double win suggests the jury placed value on electric SUVs with balanced range, charging ability, and perceived value.
The iX3 beat the Hyundai Palisade and Nissan Leaf for the overall title. Other category winners may reach South Africa at different times and with different specs.
The World Car Awards offer a journalist-led global assessment of new vehicles. The 2026 results show continued interest in electrified models across different segments. Local buyers should see these awards as one factor in their decision and wait for local pricing and specs before committing.
Colin Windell for Colin-on-Cars in association with
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