NACTOY: Every winner of the North American Car, Truck and Utility awards

Dodge Charger crowned as 2025 NACTOY champion

The latest winners of the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year (NACTOY) Awards have been announced, at the opening of the 2026 Detroit Auto Show.

Taking the prestigious prize as the top car for 2026 is the Dodge Charger, making this the first time the American brand has won in the car class.

This year marks the 32nd anniversary of the NACTOY Awards, with 76 vehicles now having claimed one of the coveted trophies.

From 1994 until 2016, prizes for both Car of the Year and Truck of the Year were awarded. From 2017 onwards, an extra category to recognize the best Sports Utility Vehicles was added as well.

Join us for a look at all the cars, SUVs and trucks that have previously basked in NACTOY glory over the years.

1994 Car of the Year: Mercedes-Benz C-Class

At the inaugural NACTOY Awards in 1994, it was the first-generation Mercedes-Benz C-Class sedan that took the Car of the Year trophy.

Replacing the Mercedes-Benz 190E, the C-Class offered a modern design and a range of new engines. This was enough to see it beat the Chevrolet Camaro and Toyota Supra to the top spot.

1994 Truck of the Year: Dodge Ram

Giant grilles might be common on pickup trucks today, but the second-generation Dodge Ram looked bold back in 1994. Adding the Magnum V-10 engine to the Ram range certainly enhanced its appeal, and saw it win Truck of the Year.

Beating the Chevrolet S-10 / GMC Sonoma and the Land Rover Defender 90, the Ram went on to be a sales success.

1995 Car of the Year: Chrysler Cirrus

The Chrysler Cirrus was one of the three ‘Cloud Cars’ launched for the 1995 model year, along with the Plymouth Breeze and Dodge Stratus. Chrysler pitched the Cirrus, which featured the company’s car-forward design language, as the most upmarket of the trio.

Proving popular with buyers, the Cirrus also found favor with the NACTOY judges. It claimed the 1995 Car of the Year prize, ahead of the Ford Contour and Oldsmobile Aurora.

1995 Truck of the Year: Chevrolet Blazer

Replacing the original Chevrolet S-10 Blazer produced between 1982 and 1994, this new second-generation model marked a comprehensive overhaul. Although the platform beneath the new Blazer stayed the same, it gained the updated Vortec 4.3-liter V-6 engine.

When it came to the 1995 Truck of the Year title, the Chevy Blazer had to fend off competition from two Fords. Both the Explorer SUV and Windstar minivan were in contention, but the Blazer emerged victorious.

1996 Car of the Year: Chrysler Minivans

The following year saw a minivan take success in the Car of the Year category. Claiming top honors for 1996 was the third-generation Chrysler Minivan trio of the Chrysler Town & Country, Dodge Caravan and Plymouth Voyager.

New features included two sliding rear passenger doors, along with ‘Easy-Out Roller Seats’ that could be quickly removed and repositioned. Smoother styling and improved interior space helped the Chrysler Minivans succeed against the Ford Taurus and Mercedes-Benz E-Class.

1996 Truck of the Year: Ford F-150

The 10th-generation of the Ford F-150 marked the first wholesale redesign of this iconic pickup truck since 1980. With an all-new chassis topped by modern bodywork, the F-150 was released in January 1996 as a 1997 model-year truck.

Ford was initially unsure how pickup purists would react to the new looks, but the F-150 proved popular with a younger audience. It also took home the Truck of the Year prize for 1996, beating the Chevrolet Tahoe and Range Rover.

1997 Car of the Year: Mercedes-Benz SLK

Mercedes-Benz took its second Car of the Year victory in 1997, with the two-seater SLK roadster emerging on top. The SLK garnered attention for its use of a folding metal hardtop roof, which set a trend for years to come.

Notably, 1997 saw the SLK win against an all-European final three. It fought off the Jaguar XK8 and BMW E39 5 Series.

1997 Truck of the Year: Ford Expedition

With two-door SUVs rapidly falling out of favor, Ford ditched the Bronco in 1996 and replaced it with the all-new four-door Expedition for 1997. With the potential to carry seven passengers across three rows of seats, the Expedition sold more than 250,000 examples in its first two years of production.

Being the Truck of the Year likely helped generate interest. Ford beat the Dodge Dakota and Toyota RAV4 in 1997.

1998 Car of the Year: Chevrolet C5 Corvette

The Chevrolet Corvette has been a regular winner of the North American Car of the Year award, starting with this C5 version. Powered by the LS V-8 engine and offering advanced technology such as a head-up display, the fifth-generation Corvette proved to be a hit.

Compared to its other finalists, the Audi A6 and Lexus GS, the Corvette was certainly the most exciting contender. NACTOY judges were convinced, awarding the sports car the top prize.

1998 Truck of the Year: Mercedes-Benz M-Class

It may have a German badge on the hood, but the Mercedes-Benz M-Class could easily claim North American roots. It was the first Mercedes model produced in Vance, Alabama, and also the first SUV sold by the brand.

Although owners encountered reliability problems with early M-Class models, it beat the Dodge Durango and Subaru Forester to win Truck of the Year. Mercedes-Benz soon tasted further success, with the M-Class receiving the World Car Award at the 1999 Geneva Motor Show.

1999 Car of the Year: Chrysler 300M

Marking a return to the Chrysler ‘letter series’, the 300M was the upmarket relative of the Dodge Intrepid sedan. Reportedly benchmarked against European executive cars, the 300M was the only front-wheel-drive version of the Chrysler 300.

Competition for the 1999 Car of the Year Award was strong, with the 300M facing off against the Volkswagen New Beetle and second-generation Honda Odyssey. However, DaimlerChrysler left with the trophy.

1999 Truck of the Year: Jeep Grand Cherokee

DaimlerChrysler had a particularly successful start to 1999, with the Jeep Grand Cherokee taking home the Truck of the Year Award. Compared to its predecessor, the second-generation Grand Cherokee was virtually all-new. This included a PowerTech 4.7-liter V-8 engine, plus Quadra-Drive automatic four-wheel drive.

Challenging the Jeep Grand Cherokee for the 1999 trophy were the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra. However, it was the Jeep that most impressed the NACTOY judges.

2000 Car of the Year: Ford Focus

What better way to kick-start the new millennium than the dramatically styled Ford Focus compact hatchback? Featuring Ford’s ‘New Edge’ styling, and a dynamic chassis delivering plenty of fun, it would quickly become a North American best seller.

The 2000 Car of the Year Award was a hard-fought contest, with the Ford Focus pitched against the Audi TT and Lincoln LS. Still, not even the cool looks of the Audi could stop the Focus from being crowned the winner.

2000 Truck of the Year: Nissan Xterra

Designed as an affordable rugged compact SUV, the Xterra was the first Nissan model designed and manufactured in the United States. Clever features included a standard roof rack, a first aid kit housed in the tailgate, and stadium-style seating.

Nissan’s no-nonsense approach to the Xterra helped it find favor with the judging panel. This placed it ahead of the Dodge Dakota Quad Cab, along with the first-generation Toyota Tundra pickup truck.

2001 Car of the Year: Chrysler PT Cruiser

Hindsight is a wonderful thing when it comes to previous award winners. Not only did the Chrysler PT Cruiser win the 2001 Car of the Year award, it also collected a host of other trophies when new. Despite this, and selling more than 1.3 million examples, the PT Cruiser enjoys a questionable reputation today.

Back in 2001, the PT Cruiser had to defeat both the Honda Insight and Toyota Prius to become Car of the Year. Even against two revolutionary hybrids, the judges opted for the Chrysler.

2001 Truck of the Year: Acura MDX

Acura’s first crossover SUV was based on the Honda Pilot platform, replacing the traditional SLX 4×4. Part of the MDX’s appeal was its three rows of seating, making this one of the first seven-seat luxury SUVs.

Combining a 3.5-liter V-6 with an automatic four-wheel-drive system, the MDX was surprisingly effective off-road. A refined interior also helped the Acura secure the Truck of the Year prize, ahead of the Toyota Sequoia and Ford Escape.

2002 Car of the Year: Nissan Altima

Despite the hundreds of thousands of cars sold across six iterations, the Nissan Altima has only won the North American Car of the Year Award once. The third-generation Altima, launched in 2002, was the model that collected the top prize.

Journalists were impressed by the 2002 Altima’s keen handling, strong performance and spacious interior. This all led to a Car of the Year victory over the Ford Thunderbird and Cadillac CTS.

2002 Truck of the Year: Chevrolet Trailblazer

Compared to the model it replaced, the 2002 Chevrolet Trailblazer proved to be a revelation. An all-new six-cylinder engine was an improvement over the old Vortec V-6, with a strengthened chassis and upgraded suspension adding to its appeal. Up to seven people could be seated inside, with luxurious trim levels also offered.

The Trailblazer’s competition for 2002 was the Chevrolet Avalanche pickup truck and the Jeep Liberty. However, it was the Chevy that attracted the most votes from the NACTOY judges.

2003 Car of the Year: Mini Cooper

Perhaps the smallest car to ever win the Car of the Year Award, the victor for 2003 was the Mini hatchback. North American buyers were only offered the Cooper and Cooper S performance models, which combined sharp handling with strong performance.

This was enough to convince the NACTOY judging panel, even in the face of strong competition from the Nissan 350Z and Infiniti G35.

2003 Truck of the Year: Volvo XC90

Volvo’s first SUV proved a winner from the start, with almost 40,000 examples sold in North America during its first full year of production. An upmarket interior, powerful engines and Volvo’s proven safety record contributed to the XC90’s success.

Challenging the XC90 for the 2003 Truck of the Year Award were the Hummer H2, Honda Element and Nissan Murano. It would be Volvo’s Swedish charm that ultimately won out.

2004 Car of the Year: Toyota Prius

Although the first-generation Prius may have lost out to the Chrysler PT Cruiser, the hybrid Toyota came good for 2004. The second-generation model was transformed into a more practical liftback, benefiting both aerodynamics and interior space.

The Prius went on to win a string of awards for Toyota, and sell close to 1.2 million examples. In 2004, the Cadillac XLR and the Mazda RX-8 were the two finalists it defeated.

2004 Truck of the Year: Ford F-150

The Ford F-150 impressed the judges to take the Truck of the Year Award for 2004. Boasting a new chassis and redesigned bodywork, the 11th-generation F-150 offered a better ride quality than its predecessors.

To claim the title, the F-150 had to beat the Nissan Titan pickup truck, along with the Cadillac SRX crossover SUV.

2005 Car of the Year: Chrysler 300

The current Chrysler 300 still shares much with the model that won the Car of the Year Award for 2005. It demonstrates the longevity of the Chrysler LX platform, and the Mercedes-Benz parts used in its construction. It all made for a convincing luxury saloon, and one the NACTOY judges were impressed by.

The Chrysler 300’s win came in the face of particularly strong competition for 2005. Both the retro-styled fifth-generation Ford Mustang and the all-new C6 Chevrolet Corvette were also in the running.

2005 Truck of the Year: Ford Escape Hybrid

Unlike most winners of the NACTOY Awards, the vehicle underpinning the Ford Escape Hybrid was already several years old by the time it became a winner. Ford had launched the first-generation Escape for the 2001 model year, but the hybrid didn’t appear until 2005.

However, being the first hybrid SUV produced by a North American manufacturer underlined the importance of the Escape. For the 2005 prize, it outscored the Ford Freestyle and Land Rover Discovery LR3.

2006 Car of the Year: Honda Civic

Honda has enjoyed considerable success in the NACTOY Awards, and 2006 was a particularly successful year for the Japanese brand. Offered as both a four-door sedan and coupe for the North American market, a hybrid version added to the Civic’s appeal. It also had a longer wheelbase for more interior space.

For the 2006 prize, the NACTOY judges chose the Honda Civic over the first-generation Ford Taurus and the Pontiac Solstice sports car.

2006 Truck of the Year: Honda Ridgeline

Awarding Honda a double success for 2006 was the first-generation Ridgeline pickup, which took home the Truck of the Year title. With futuristic looks, all-wheel drive and independent suspension, the Ridgeline had plenty to shout about. Ultimately, slow sales would see Honda’s first pickup discontinued, but it still impressed the judges.

Choosing the Ridgeline certainly made for a more interesting option than the fourth-generation Ford Explorer or second-generation Nissan Xterra.

2007 Car of the Year: Saturn Aura

One of the last new Saturn models to be launched, the Aura was based on the GM Epsilon platform. This made it a relative of vehicles such as the Saab 9-3, Pontiac G6 and Cadillac BLS.

Praised for its styling, performance and interior quality, the Aura proved popular with both journalists and owners alike. But the untimely demise of the Saturn brand meant production ended prematurely.

2007 Truck of the Year: Chevrolet Silverado

General Motors had plenty to celebrate at the 2007 NACTOY Awards. Following the Aura’s win in the Car category, the Chevrolet Silverado brought home the silverware in the Truck class.

The second-generation Silverado enjoyed a redesigned exterior, upgraded interior and more powerful engine options. This all led to success, with the Silverado beating the Mazda CX-7 crossover SUV and the Ford Edge.

2008 Car of the Year: Chevrolet Malibu

There was more good fortune for General Motors with the 2008 Car of the Year Award. It made for two years in a row that the GM Epsilon platform had claimed the crown. The NACTOY judges were impressed by the Malibu’s improved interior quality, along with its balanced ride and handling.

This saw the Malibu picked as the winner, ahead of the Cadillac CTS and Honda Accord.

2008 Truck of the Year: Mazda CX-9

Mazda had launched the original CX-9 crossover SUV in 2006, powered by a 3.5-liter V-6 engine. However, in 2008, this was replaced with a more powerful 3.7-liter V-6.

Such extra power clearly helped sway the NACTOY judges, who made it Truck of the Year, ahead of the Chevrolet Tahoe Hybrid and Buick Enclave.

2009 Car of the Year: Hyundai Genesis

The route to Hyundai’s standalone Genesis luxury brand began with this sedan. Intended to offer BMW-like performance and luxury, the original Hyundai Genesis opted for rear-wheel drive in a world where many manufacturers had long since switched to front-wheel drive.

An extensive list of standard equipment, plus the option of a V-8 engine, all helped secure the Car of the Year Award. For 2009, the Hyundai Genesis faced off against the Ford Flex and Volkswagen Jetta TDI in the final.

2009 Truck of the Year: Ford F-150

Another new Ford F-150 resulted in, somewhat predictably, another Truck of the Year trophy. While the styling changes were evolutionary, the twelfth-generation F-150 brought big improvements to the Ford pickup truck.

Along with the later introduction of the high-performance SVT Raptor model, the 12th-generation F-150 also gained a turbocharged EcoBoost engine.

2010 Car of the Year: Ford Fusion Hybrid

Against the backdrop of a global financial crisis, Ford emerged as the only one of the ‘Big Three’ automakers not to rely on direct government loans. Originally announced in 2008, the Ford Fusion Hybrid went on sale for the 2010 model year. Combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor, it was capable of impressive fuel economy.

For 2010, the Fusion Hybrid was named the winner ahead of the Volkswagen Golf and Buick LaCrosse.

2010 Truck of the Year: Ford Transit Connect

Ford became another manufacturer to do the NACTOY double, with the Ford Transit Connect collecting the 2010 Truck of the Year trophy. It had been sold in Europe since 2002, but was only brought to North America for 2010.

Marketed directly to small business owners, the compact dimensions of the Transit Connect appealed to urban users. It impressed the judges enough to defeat the Chevrolet Equinox and Subaru Outback.

2011 Car of the Year: Chevrolet Volt

Taking the Car of the Year Award for 2011 was the truly revolutionary Chevrolet Volt. The NACTOY judges were impressed by the attention to detail of its design, all intended to maximize efficiency from a hybrid powertrain. When fully charged, the Volt could cover up to 50 miles on battery power alone.

For 2011, the Chevrolet Volt took on the Nissan Leaf and Hyundai Sonata.

2011 Truck of the Year: Ford Explorer

By contrast, the winner of the 2011 Truck of the Year Award was more conventional, although the fifth-generation Ford Explorer gave the Blue Oval its third Truck title in a row. A switch to monocoque construction was a big change for the Explorer, as was the replacement of V-8 engines with a range of turbocharged EcoBoost options.

To win the award, the Ford Explorer managed to fend off the third-generation Dodge Durango, along with the fourth-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee.

2012 Car of the Year: Hyundai Elantra

The fifth-generation Hyundai Elantra was unlikely to win many awards for visual excitement. However, a combination of good value, strong equipment levels and efficient engines all helped it claim the 2012 Car of the Year Award. Being produced at Hyundai’s factory in Montgomery, Alabama may have also added to the Elantra’s appeal.

The Elantra was pitched against the Volkswagen Passat and the latest Ford Focus in the final. Both of its rivals were also built in the United States, but the Hyundai took top honors.

2012 Truck of the Year: Range Rover Evoque

Designed as an entry-level version of the Range Rover SUV, the Evoque caused a stir when first launched. Aimed at highway cruising, the Evoque still boasted impressive off-road credentials, and allowed buyers to pick from three- or five-door body styles. A convertible version would be added later.

The Evoque collected a slew of awards when new, including the 2012 Truck of the Year prize. Such was the buzz surrounding the baby Range Rover, the BMW X3 and Honda CR-V seemingly stood little chance in the contest.

2013 Car of the Year: Cadillac ATS

Much like the Range Rover Evoque, the ATS was created to offer a more affordable path into Cadillac ownership. Benchmarked against premium German rivals like the BMW 3 Series, it matched powerful engines with a rear-wheel drive chassis.

All of this impressed the NACTOY judges, delivering it the 2013 Car of the Year Award. It certainly made for a more luxurious winner than the Ford Fusion and Honda Accord it faced in the final.

2013 Truck of the Year: Ram 1500

Dodge made Ram into a separate brand from 2010, but the 1500 pickup truck continued to wear Dodge badges until 2013. However, the change to Ram branding was seemingly effective, with the 1500 collecting the 2013 Truck of the Year trophy. Other changes included a new base 4.7-liter V-8 engine, along with improved infotainment.

The Ram 1500 was the only truck in the final, facing the Mazda CX-5 crossover SUV and Ford C-Max Hybrid minivan.

2014 Car of the Year: Chevrolet C7 Corvette

General Motors had reason to celebrate in 2014, taking a double victory in the NACTOY Awards. This included the all-new C7 Chevrolet Corvette being crowned Car of the Year, helped by dramatic looks and a powerful 6.2-liter LT1 V-8 engine. Lightweight materials such as carbon fiber and Aerogel meant the new Corvette weighed the same as its predecessor.

The C7 Corvette emerged as the winner in a diverse final, taking on the Mazda 3 compact hatchback and Cadillac CTS sedan.

2014 Truck of the Year: Chevrolet Silverado

Chevrolet’s double success saw the Silverado pickup given the Truck of the Year Award. A new platform added strength and saved weight, while the interior boasted updated infotainment. A High Country trim level marked Chevrolet’s first attempt at offering an upmarket version of the truck.

Chevrolet was clearly on a roll in 2014, with the Silverado defeating the Jeep Cherokee and Acura MDX in the final.

2015 Car of the Year: Volkswagen Golf Mk7

Despite being one of the best-selling cars across the globe, it took the Volkswagen Golf until 2015 to claim the coveted Car of the Year Award. From base hatchbacks through to the powerful Golf R, the seventh-generation car offered a version to suit every taste. Improved safety equipment and extra space inside furthered its appeal.

Such was the breadth of the Volkswagen’s Golf abilities, it managed to beat the sixth-generation Ford Mustang in the final. The Hyundai Genesis completed the top three for 2015.

2015 Truck of the Year: Ford F-150

While the Mustang may not have won the Car of the Year prize, at least the Ford F-150 collected the Truck of the Year Award in 2015. The 13th-generation F-150 was radical for its use of aluminum bodywork, becoming Ford’s first aluminum-intensive production vehicle. New EcoBoost engines made the most of the lighter design, improving fuel-efficiency.

A new F-150 is always a strong contender to beat. This made the Chevrolet Colorado and Lincoln MKC worthy finalists, but ones unlikely to claim the top spot.

2016 Car of the Year: Honda Civic

Winning the Car of the Year Award for 2016 was the new Honda Civic. Although the new model was designed for a global market, North America formed the key focus for its development. Customers had a choice of coupe, hatchback and sedan body styles, with the latter boasting more interior space. This 10th-generation model was also notable for being the first to introduce North America to the high-performance Civic Type R.

When considering the Honda Civic, the NACTOY judges also had to assess the Mazda MX-5 Miata and Chevrolet Malibu.

2016 Truck of the Year: Volvo XC90

Just like the original Volvo XC90 had done in 2003, the second-generation XC90 secured the Truck of the Year Award for 2016. Built on Volvo’s own platform, the new SUV boasted a premium interior and the option of a powerful Bowers & Wilkins sound system. A plug-in hybrid option, plus a host of advanced safety equipment, resulted in a highly convincing SUV.

Taking on the Nissan Titan XD and Honda Pilot, the Volvo XC90 stood out as the top truck for 2016.

2017 Car of the Year: Chevrolet Bolt

The 2017 NACTOY Awards was the first time a fully electric vehicle took the Car of the Year prize. With a 200hp electric motor allowing a 0-60 mph time of less than seven seconds, the Bolt was launched with an official range of up to 238 miles. Later improvements saw this grow to nearly 260 miles.

It substantially outscored its rival finalists, with the Genesis G90 sedan in second place and the Volvo S90 in third.

2017 Utility of the Year: Chrysler Pacifica

The 2017 NACTOY Awards saw a major change, with a new Utility category introduced. Intended to better represent the growing crossover SUV market, it was somewhat ironic that a minivan took the inaugural prize, given that SUVs have mostly been responsible for these vehicles’ decline.

Nonetheless, the NACTOY judges were impressed by the Chrysler Pacifica and its innovative plug-in hybrid powertrain. They placed it ahead of the Mazda CX-9 and Jaguar F-Pace.

2017 Truck of the Year: Honda Ridgeline

Back for a second time, the Honda Ridgeline scored another Truck of the Year prize. Honda took a completely different approach with the second-generation Ridgeline, placing greater emphasis on towing capacity and off-road ability. While still diminutive compared to full-size trucks, the Ridgeline was far more versatile than before.

A smooth ride and an innovative dual-hinged tailgate were other features endorsed by the judges. For 2017, the Ridgeline beat the Ford F-Series Super Duty and Nissan Titan.

2018 Car of the Year: Honda Accord

More Honda success followed in 2018, with the 10th-generation Accord voted the Car of the Year. Impressing the judges was the Accord’s sleek new styling, wrapped around an interior with more passenger space. A new 10-speed automatic transmission, plus a pair of powerful turbocharged engines, sealed the deal.

All of this resulted in the Honda Accord emerging as the winner, beating the Kia Stinger and Toyota Camry.

2018 Utility of the Year: Volvo XC60

Following the success of the larger XC90, Volvo’s smaller XC60 crossover SUV continued the winning trend. The NACTOY judges were impressed by its impressive ride quality, along with the considerable amount of standard equipment and relative value for money.

Volvo’s victory came at the expense of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio, the Italian brand’s first SUV, and also the Honda Odyssey minivan.

2018 Truck of the Year: Lincoln Navigator

In the Truck of the Year class, it was the comprehensively updated Lincoln Navigator that wowed the NACTOY judging panel. Riding on a new platform, and with styling inspired by the Lincoln Continental, the Navigator was pushed even further upmarket.

The related Ford Expedition was also included in the final three. However, the judges felt that the changes made to the Navigator were more dramatic, and thus more deserving of the win. The Chevrolet Colorado ZR2 completed the final trio.

2019 Car of the Year: Genesis G70

The pace of development by Hyundai’s standalone luxury brand has been rapid, demonstrated by the Genesis G70 claiming the 2019 Car of the Year Award. A relative of the Kia Stinger, the judges felt the G70 outperformed rivals such as the BMW 3 Series and Audi A4 for driver engagement and value.

This fine combination of performance, luxury and fair pricing helped the G70 win. The Volvo S60 and Honda Insight were the two contenders the Genesis had to defeat.

2019 Utility of the Year: Hyundai Kona and Kona EV

The year would be a strong one for Hyundai, with the Kona crossover SUV collecting the 2019 Utility of the Year trophy. Chosen from a shortlist of 20 other SUVs, the Kona (and electric Kona EV) won over the judges. In particular, the electric version was praised for offering an EV package without compromises.

To win the Utility of the Year Award, the Kona had to contend with the all-electric Jaguar I-Pace, plus the Acura RDX.

2019 Truck of the Year: Ram 1500

The Ram 1500 had plenty to do in the Truck of the Year category, facing a GM double-act of the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 and GMC Sierra 1500. However, it was the Ram that emerged on top, partly thanks to its impressive ride quality and interior.

The NACTOY jurors said these factors, in addition to Ram 1500’s towing and hauling ability, made it a winner.

2020 Car of the Year: Chevrolet C8 Corvette Stingray

The decision to make the Chevrolet Corvette mid-engined was a bold one, but it ultimately paid off for General Motors. While some purists were upset, it led to greater performance and cornering ability.

As the NACTOY jurors noted, the new Corvette offered all the speed and style of a European supercar, but for one-third of the price. The Hyundai Sonata and Toyota Supra perhaps stood little chance as finalists.

2020 Utility of the Year: Kia Telluride

Designed and built specifically for the North American market, the Telluride is the product of Kia’s factory in West Point, Georgia. Kia’s dedication to creating a full-size SUV for American customers was rewarded by the 2020 Utility of the Year Award.

The judges were convinced by the Telluride’s practical interior, premium feel and extensive technology. This placed it above the related Hyundai Palisade, along with the Lincoln Aviator.

2020 Truck of the Year: Jeep Gladiator

Based on hype alone, the Jeep Gladiator would surely have been the only option for the 2020 Truck of the Year Award. Although the judging panel noted that other pickups could tow and haul more, none of them could do so with a removable roof.

Clearly, not even NACTOY was immune to Gladiator fever, and it defeated the Ford Ranger and Ram Heavy Duty trucks.

2021 Car of the Year: Hyundai Elantra

Hyundai has been on a roll with the NACTOY Awards. The jurors noted that the compact car sector had declined in recent years, but the Elantra proved to be a winner, aided by efficient hybrid and high-performance N versions in the range.

The new Elantra found itself facing the Genesis G80 and Nissan Sentra in the final three.

2021 Utility of the Year: Ford Mustang Mach-E

Much like making the Chevrolet Corvette mid-engined, putting a Mustang badge on an electric SUV was sacrilege to some. Ford’s bravery was rewarded, though, with the NACTOY judges highly impressed by the Mustang Mach-E.

A considerable level of performance ensured the Mach-E had the ability to deserve the Mustang badge. An upmarket interior added to its appeal, putting the Ford ahead of the Genesis GV80 and Land Rover Defender.

2021 Truck of the Year: Ford F-150

As the top-selling vehicle in the United States for more than four decades, improving the Ford F-150 must feel like an impossible challenge. Yet, even into its 14th-generation, the new F-150 managed to convince the NACTOY jurors. More comfort, more capability and the addition of hybrid power moved the yardstick.

In the face of an updated F-150, the Jeep Gladiator Mojave and Ram 1500 TRX had a tough challenge in the final three.

2022 Car of the Year: Honda Civic

The finalists for the 2022 Car of the Year Award were diverse. Alongside the luxurious all-electric Lucid Air and high-performance Volkswagen Golf GTI/R was the humble Honda Civic. Yet it would be the 11th-generation Civic that emerged as victor.

The NACTOY judges could not find fault with the new Civic; it ticked virtually every box. From affordability to fuel economy, comfort and fun, the Civic delivered across all categories.

2022 Utility of the Year: Ford Bronco

The weight of expectation on the reborn Ford Bronco was huge, but the return of the iconic SUV also saw it claim the 2022 Utility of the Year Award. With retro-inspired styling and impressive off-road ability, the new Bronco proved to be far more than just a nostalgic reboot.

The Bronco came out top in a diverse final three, competing with the electric Hyundai Ioniq 5 and the upmarket Genesis GV70.

2022 Truck of the Year: Ford Maverick

Ford completed a double victory for 2022, thanks to the new Maverick compact pickup. A fresh design, the Maverick was aimed at those who previously did not think they needed, or could afford, a truck. Low prices, efficient engines and a high degree of practicality made it a winner.

The Maverick’s success came at the expense of the Hyundai Santa Cruz, another compact truck. Completing the trio of finalists was the radical electric Rivian R1T.

2023 Car of the Year: Acura Integra

Honda’s premium brand had something of an advantage when it came to the 2023 NACTOY Awards. The all-new Integra was based upon the latest Honda Civic, which had taken top honors the year before.

However, the Integra impressed the judges on its own merit, thanks to a fun driving experience, good looks and the option of a six-speed manual transmission. With a strong reputation to live up to, the Integra more than delivered for the NACTOY jurors.

Acura took the top prize, with the Genesis G80 EV sedan and Nissan Z coupe completing the final three.

2023 Utility of the Year: Kia EV6

The 2023 Utility of the Year category was notable for all three finalists being electric models. It marked the first time it has been an all-EV showdown, with the Kia EV6 named as the winner.

Ensuring the EV6 emerged as the top Utility model were its handsome styling, rapid performance and ease of charging. The Kia’s generous level of standard equipment and strong value for money added to its appeal.

All this helped push the Kia ahead of the Cadillac Lyriq and Genesis GV60

2023 Truck of the Year: Ford F-150 Lightning

For the second year in a row, Ford achieved success in the Truck of the Year award. Following on from the compact Maverick, 2023 saw the all-electric F-150 Lightning judged the best pickup.

The jurors were almost unanimous in making the F-150 Lightning the winner, thanks to its tremendous practicality and considerable battery range. Electric power is more than just a novelty for the Lightning, with the judges believing it enhances an already winning product.

Against such a convincing winner, the Chevrolet Silverado ZR2 and Lordstown Endurance seemingly stood little chance in the final.

2024 Car of the Year: Toyota Prius and Prius Prime

Twenty years after the Toyota Prius last claimed the Car of the Year Award, the latest, fifth-generation model took the top prize for 2024.

Efficient hybrid powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid option, have become a staple of the Prius range. However, the addition of genuinely stunning styling convinced the NACTOY jurors that the Toyota deserved a trophy.

Also making the final for 2024 were the latest Honda Accord, along with the radical all-electric Hyundai Ioniq 6 sedan.

2024 Utility of the Year: Kia EV9

For the second year in a row, the Utility class was dominated by electric vehicles. It also proved to be another year when a South Korean brand emerged victorious. In fact, all three finalists came from South Korea, guaranteeing the country a winner.

The new three-row Kia EV9 took a comprehensive win, thanks to its combination of practicality, performance and affordability. Kia’s plans to build the EV9 in the United States added to its appeal for the judges, too.

The EV9 saw off competition from the Genesis GV70 and Hyundai Kona/Kona EV. Volvo’s electric EX30 was due to be a finalist, but production delays saw it removed from the contest.

2024 Truck of the Year: Ford Super Duty

Making it a ‘three-peat’, Ford triumphed again in the Truck of the Year category for 2024. This also cemented Ford as the most successful manufacturer in NACTOY history, this being its 16th trophy at the time.

The latest heavy duty version of Ford’s pickup truck was 2024’s winning vehicle. The Ford Super Duty impressed the judges with its considerable towing and payload capabilities, but also by being notably easy to drive.

Its success came despite strong competition from the Chevrolet Colorado and Chevrolet Silverado EV.

2025 Car of the Year: Honda Civic Hybrid

Just three years after the gasoline-powered Honda Civic scooped the Car of the Year trophy, the new hybrid version did the same in 2025.

It marked the fourth time a Honda Civic collected the prestigious NACTOY Award.

Acting as a replacement for the hybrid-powered Insight, the new Honda Civic Hybrid comes in both hatchback and sedan forms. The 212 hp gasoline-hybrid powertrain is assembled in the United States, as is the Civic itself. Honda expects the Hybrid model to account for 40 percent of sales in North America.

The fight for the NACTOY Award in 2025 was a tough one, with the Civic Hybrid having to defeat the Kia K4 and Toyota Camry.

2025 Utility of the Year: Volkswagen ID.Buzz

How much importance can you place on retro charm? Quite a lot, it seems, with the electric Volkswagen ID.Buzz taking victory as the North American Utility Vehicle of the Year for 2025.

Offered in Europe from 2022, the ID.Buzz took a little longer to cross the Atlantic, but the wait for this electric minivan was worth it. The North American market launch coincided with the arrival of a long-wheelbase model, its extra seating making for a more practical vehicle.

The ID.Buzz represented the first Volkswagen at the NACTOY Awards since 2015, with its last victory before that way back in 1999.

For 2025, the ID.Buzz beat competition from the Chevrolet Equinox EV and Hyundai Santa Fe.

2025 Truck of the Year: Ford Ranger

If one thing is consistent at the NACTOY Awards, it is that a Blue Oval-badged truck will be in strong contention to take home an award.

The new Ranger made it five wins in five years for a Ford truck in 2025, which is a major achievement for any automotive manufacturer.

Designed with the North American market in mind, the Ford Ranger comes with the 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine as standard. Or you can upgrade to the powerful Raptor model, with a 405 hp 3.0-liter V-6.

The NACTOY finalists beaten by the Ranger were the 2025 Ram 1500 and the revised 2025 Toyota Tacoma.

2026 Car of the Year: Dodge Charger

Despite being one of the oldest marques in American automotive history, Dodge has never claimed victory in the car category of the NACTOY Awards. Until now, that is.

For 2026, the Dodge Charger emerged as the winner, ahead of the revised Nissan Sentra and the stylish Honda Prelude. However, the judging panel were impressed by the reborn Charger’s breadth of powertrain options and body styles, leading it to claim the trophy.

Originally launched with all-electric power in Daytona EV form, the gasoline-powered Sixpack hit the market in late 2025. The latter features the 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged “Hurricane” straight-six engine, with power outputs of up to 550 horsepower.

An all-wheel drive layout adds to the all-round ability of the new Charger, along with the choice between two- and four-door layouts.

2026 Utility of the Year: Hyundai Palisade

The utility class of the 2026 NACTOY was a diverse one, seeing the compact Nissan Leaf EV up against the luxurious Lucid Gravity, and the all-new three-row Hyundai Palisade in the final.

However, the more conventional Hyundai Palisade emerged as the winner, just like the related Kia Telluride did back in 2020.

The Palisade’s bold looks will undoubtedly have helped with the NACTOY judges, as will the practical interior options, offering space for up to nine.

Powertrain options for the Palisade include a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder, 3.5-liter V-6, and a hybrid version with up to 329 horsepower.

2026 Truck of the Year: Ford Maverick Lobo

Would it really be a NACTOY Awards ceremony without a Ford pickup truck claiming one of the trophies?

The Blue Oval continued to trend to make it six awards in six years, with the street-truck inspired Maverick Lobo collecting the truck prize for 2026.

Developed from the base Maverick pickup, which won the same award back in 2022, the Lobo brings a performance-tuned take on the compact truck. Lowered suspension, 19-inch alloy wheels, and bespoke exterior styling are intended to give the Lobo a tough street look.

A special “Lobo Mode” engages torque vectoring for the all-wheel drive system, with the 2.0-liter turbocharged engine offering 250 horsepower.