The global race for automotive excellence officially shifted into high gear on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, following the announcement of the 2026 World Car Awards finalists, revealed in a statement released by the World Car Awards from Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
According to the statement, the launch of the World Car Finals powered by Brembo marks the announcement of the Top 10 and Top 5 finalists across six vehicle categories, setting the stage for one of the most prestigious recognitions in the global automotive industry.
“The World Car Finals Powered by Brembo begin today with the announcement of the top 10 and top 5 finalists in six World Car Awards vehicle categories,” the World Car Awards said in the statement.
The statement further confirmed that the final phase of judging will culminate on Wednesday, April 1, 2026, when winners in all categories will be officially announced during a live World Car Awards ceremony at the 2026 New York International Auto Show (NYIAS). The voting results announced this week were independently tabulated by KPMG, reinforcing the credibility and transparency of the process.
For readers in Eswatini and the wider region, the awards carry continental relevance through three South Africans who are part of the international jury.
The statement notes that a jury of 98 automotive journalists from 33 countries selected the finalists by secret ballot, based on real-world professional vehicle evaluations.
The World Car Awards also acknowledged the role of its long-standing partner, Brembo, in supporting the initiative.
Brembo Chief Executive Officer Daniele Schillaci, quoted in the statement, described the awards as a global benchmark.
“The World Car Awards are a benchmark for excellence and innovation in the automotive industry – values that define Brembo,” Schillaci said.
“We are proud to support this prestigious initiative and congratulate all the finalists on their outstanding achievements.”
He added that the finalists’ commitment to advancing mobility aligns with Brembo’s own vision of shaping ‘a zero-accident future.’
Looking ahead, the World Car Awards confirmed that the Top 3 finalists in the World Car of the Year category will be announced virtually via World Car TV on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
The final winners across all six categories will then be revealed on April 1, 2026, during the live ceremony at NYIAS. This year marks the 21st year of partnership between the World Car Awards and the NYIAS.
NYIAS President Mark Schienberg, quoted in the statement, said the collaboration continues to highlight the future of mobility on a global stage.
“The World Car Awards shine a spotlight on the innovation, performance and design that are shaping the future of mobility,” Schienberg said, adding that the awards will once again culminate in New York this April.
The World Car Awards also noted that the journey to the final results is documented through World Car TV, where international jurors share test-drive experiences, reviews and commentary, offering audiences worldwide an inside look at the vehicles competing for top honours.
Leave a comment