Jury Names Seven Finalists for 2027 Car of the Year Award

A panel of 64 automotive journalists has selected the seven vehicles competing for the 2027 Car of the Year title. The finalists represent a diverse mix of manufacturers focusing on electric mobility.

The shortlisted models are the BMW iX3, Cupra Raval, Hyundai Ioniq 3, Kia EV2, Renault Twingo, Volkswagen ID.Polo, and Volvo EX60. This selection marks the next stage of the annual competition, which evaluates new vehicles based on design, technology, safety, and environmental impact.

Selection Process and Contenders

The selection process involves a rigorous review by international experts who test the vehicles across various criteria. The current list highlights a significant industry shift toward smaller and mid-sized electric platforms. Many of the manufacturers represented have made these specific models central to their electrification strategies for the coming years.

• BMW iX3: A key entry in the premium electric SUV segment.
• Cupra Raval: Represents the brand’s expansion into compact urban electric vehicles.
• Hyundai Ioniq 3: Part of Hyundai’s dedicated battery-electric lineup.
• Kia EV2: A strategic addition to Kia’s growing electric portfolio.
• Renault Twingo: A revival of a classic nameplate, reimagined as an electric city car.
• Volkswagen ID.Polo: Aimed at the accessible electric hatchback market.
• Volvo EX60: A continuation of Volvo’s transition to a fully electric manufacturer.

Industry Outlook

The Car of the Year award is one of the most prestigious honors in the automotive industry. It serves as a bellwether for consumer trends and engineering advancements. The jury, comprised of 64 members, will now subject these seven finalists to final testing before casting their votes to determine the winner.

Why it matters: The 2027 finalists demonstrate a clear industry trend toward mass-market, compact electric vehicles. For global markets, including those in the Middle East and Egypt, the availability of these models signals a broader shift in automotive infrastructure and consumer accessibility to electric mobility solutions as manufacturers phase out internal combustion engines.