Key takeaways
- Judging for the UK Car of the Year 2026 is taking place today at our Electric Forecourt® in Stevenage, with the overall winner to be announced on 26 February 2026.
- Eight category winners have already been named from 59 eligible cars and SUVs, with five of the overall contenders being fully electric vehicles.
- Headline category winners include the Renault 5 E-Tech (Small Car), Kia EV4 (Family Car), Citroen C3 / e-C3 Aircross (Small Crossover), Skoda Elroq (Medium Crossover), Hyundai Ioniq 9 (Large Crossover), Audi A6 Saloon (Executive Car), Audi A6 Avant (Estate Car), and Alpine A290 (Performance Car).
- The shortlist heavily features electric vehicles, underscoring the UK’s seismic shift to electric mobility and the importance of GRIDSERVE’s work in the overall transition to net-zero.
UK Car of the Year 2026: What’s happening today at Stevenage?
Today marks a pivotal moment in the UK automotive calendar. The judging of the prestigious UK Car of the Year 2026 awards is being hosted at our GRIDSERVE Stevenage Electric Forecourt®, where the country’s leading motoring journalists are gathered to determine which car deserves the top spot.
It’s important to clarify what’s happening today: this is the main judging day, not the announcement of the overall winner. Today the panel will evaluate each contender, but the results won’t be revealed until 26 February 2026. Until then, we all sit with bated breath to see which contender will emerge victorious…
This year, the awards are sponsored by Start Rescue, with voting conducted by a judging panel of 33 leading UK motoring journalists. This expert panel has already selected category winners from a long list of 59 eligible cars and SUVs presented for consideration. Those eight champions now compete for the overall prize.
What makes this year particularly significant is the dominance of electric vehicles among the contenders. Nearly two-thirds of the shortlist are fully electric, reflecting a seismic shift in the market. This electric-heavy line-up aligns directly with our mission to accelerate the transition to net-zero transport by providing the UK with world-class charging infrastructure.
The 2026 category winners and overall contenders
The eight category champions form the shortlist for the overall UK Car of the Year 2026 title. Each has won its own category and now faces the ultimate test against rivals from entirely different segments.
Here are the category winners competing for the crown:
- Small Car: Renault 5 E-Tech
- Family Car: Kia EV4
- Small Crossover: Citroen C3 / e-C3 Aircross
- Medium Crossover: Skoda Elroq
- Large Crossover: Hyundai Ioniq 9
- Executive Car: Audi A6 Saloon
- Estate Car: Audi A6 Avant
- Performance Car: Alpine A290
Of these winners, six are fully electric: the Renault 5 E-Tech, Kia EV4, Citroen e-C3 Aircross, Skoda Elroq, Hyundai Ioniq 9, and Alpine A290.
This electric-heavy shortlist sends a clear signal about the direction of the UK car market. As more drivers make the switch to EVs, dependable ultra-fast charging infrastructure becomes essential. In the following sections, we’ll explore each category winner in detail, including how easily they can be charged across GRIDSERVE’s Electric Highway network.
Small car: Renault 5 E-Tech
The Renault 5 E-Tech has claimed the Small Car category and stands as a genuine favourite for the overall prize. This fully electric hatchback combines retro-inspired design with modern tech, creating something that feels both nostalgic and forward-thinking.
Key specifications that make it a compelling case:
- Up to 249–260 miles of WLTP range depending on battery configuration
- More than 100,000 units already produced since launch
- Winner of the 2025 European Car of the Year award
- Compact footprint ideal for city driving
- Advanced driver assistance systems as standard
The judges were passionate about what the Renault 5 represents: accessible electric motoring with genuine character. Its fun-to-drive nature, combined with competitive pricing, makes it a benchmark for what a small car should deliver in 2026.
For charging, the Renault 5 E-Tech supports DC fast-charging at 100kW+, enabling 10–80% charges in around 30 minutes at compatible public chargers, just like the ones on GRIDSERVE’s Electric Highway.
Family car: Kia EV4
The Kia EV4 takes the 2026 Family Car category, marking the first time this all-electric model has won the prize. Available as both a hatchback and sleek fastback-style saloon, it targets families seeking practicality without compromising on electric range.
Here’s what makes it stand out:
- It claims to have a maximum range of up to 388 miles
- Boot capacity of 490 litres – perfect for family holidays and food shops
- 800V charging architecture
- Extensive leg room in the rear
The judging panel praised its versatility for school runs, holidays, and everything in between. The refined interior, intuitive infotainment system, and competitive fast-charging performance on 800V architecture make it a compelling choice for families ready to go electric.
This win marks a decisive shift. Last year’s winner in similar categories leaned towards conventional ICE vehicles, but 2026 demonstrates that electric family transport has well and truly arrived.
For a typical family road trip, consider stopping at one of our Electric Forecourts®. While the Kia EV4 charges at ultra-fast speeds, passengers can use on-site amenities including lounges, shops, and workspaces, transforming charging stops from an inconvenience into a genuine break.
Small crossover: Citroen C3 / e-C3 Aircross
The Small Crossover winner offers something unique: a dual offering. Buyers can choose between the petrol-powered Citroen C3 Aircross and the fully electric e-C3 Aircross, reflecting growing choice for those transitioning from ICE to EVs.
The value proposition centres on:
- Competitive pricing during an era of rising new-car costs
- Comfortable suspension specifically tuned for UK roads
- Family-friendly crossover packaging in a compact footprint
- Practical boot space for everyday errands
The electric e-C3 Aircross delivers a pragmatic range suitable for urban and suburban driving patterns. It’s designed for those who primarily drive locally but want the option for occasional longer trips, with efficient charging times making daily top-ups simple.
This model achieved strong European recognition, including a third-place finish in the previous year’s European Car of the Year awards. The Mercedes Benz CLA ultimately won that competition, but the C3 Aircross demonstrated its broader appeal beyond UK borders, a testament to Citroen’s engineering approach.
GRIDSERVE’s widespread Electric Highway chargers at retail parks, supermarkets, and destination hubs are great for helping small crossover owners integrate public charging seamlessly into daily routines. Whether you’re shopping or running errands, charging becomes part of the journey rather than a separate task.
Medium crossover: Skoda Elroq
The Skoda Elroq claims the Medium Crossover category and emerges as a potential frontrunner for the overall UK Car of the Year 2026 title. This mid-size fully electric SUV was unveiled at the 2024 Paris Motor Show to considerable acclaim.
Built on Volkswagen Group’s MEB platform (shared with models like the Cupra Born and the revived Ford Capri EV), the Elroq benefits from proven electric architecture. The range of variants is impressive:
- Multiple battery and motor options for different needs
- A vRS performance version producing around 340 hp
- 0–62 mph in approximately 5.4 seconds for the vRS
- Family-friendly interior space and boot capacity
Judges rated the Elroq highly for its blend of impressive range, comfort, interior quality, and digital technology. Skoda’s traditional focus on value and “Simply Clever” features, those practical touches that make daily life easier, contributed significantly to its class victory.
For charging, Elroq drivers can rely on GRIDSERVE Electric Super Hubs at motorway service areas. With rapid-charging speeds that minimise stopping time, long-distance EV travel across the UK becomes stress-free. The Elroq represents exactly the kind of car GRIDSERVE’s infrastructure was built to support.
Large crossover: Hyundai Ioniq 9
The Hyundai Ioniq 9 wins the Large Crossover category, offering a spacious, premium-feeling electric SUV aimed at families and fleets needing six- or seven-seat capability.
Core specifications include:
- A battery capacity of 110.3 kWh
- A claimed range of up to 385 miles
- Up to seven seats
- A range of trim options
This platform is shared with the Kia EV9, demonstrating how the Hyundai Motor Group is leveraging its electric architecture across multiple brands. The Ioniq 9 replaces or complements the petrol-powered Hyundai Santa Fe (last year’s winner in the Large Crossover category), showing how established nameplates are pivoting towards zero-emission alternatives.
Inside, flexible seating layouts, advanced driver assistance systems, high-quality materials, and quiet electric power delivery create a refined experience. For families accustomed to large SUVs, the transition to electric feels natural rather than a compromise.
Ioniq 9 owners can combine high-capacity battery packs with GRIDSERVE’s high-power DC chargers, including 350kW-capable sites (where vehicle-compatible), to minimise charging stops on long motorway journeys. Whether for family holidays or business fleet operations, the combination of range and infrastructure makes electric large SUVs genuinely practical.
Executive car: Audi A6 Saloon
The Audi A6 Saloon claims the Executive Car category, reinforcing its established position in the premium business-saloon segment. This latest generation launched alongside fully electric Audi models but continues to offer diesel and mild-hybrid powertrains, a reflection of a market still in transition.
The A6 Saloon competes directly with the BMW 5 Series and Mercedes Benz E-Class, as well as the popular electric options, BMW i4 and i5. Key details include:
- A 2.0-litre 204 hp TDI engine
- Focus on comfort, refinement, and technology
- Designed for high-mileage drivers and company car fleets
- Premium interior with the latest digital cockpit technology
While the executive car category this year went to a combustion-powered model, the direction of travel is clear. Fleets using A6 saloons today are increasingly planning for electrification, making dependable charging infrastructure like ours increasingly important.
The A6 win reminds us that while UK Car of the Year 2026 is heavily influenced by EVs, many drivers remain on a migration path. Efficient combustion today, full battery-electric tomorrow, all supported by net-zero charging networks being built now.
Estate car: Audi A6 Avant
The Audi A6 Avant secures the Estate Car category, giving Audi a double victory alongside the A6 Saloon. Estate cars have become increasingly rare in the UK market, with only three wagons on the shortlist this year, including rivals such as the Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo and BYD Seal 6 Touring.
Practical strengths define the A6 Avant:
- Approximately 503 litres of boot capacity
- Rear-seat space suitable for family life or business use
- Same refined driving experience as the saloon
- Diesel and mild-hybrid powertrain options
For many buyers, estates offer the ideal combination of load-carrying ability and driving dynamics. While electric estates are beginning to emerge from various manufacturers, some drivers still value long-range capability and the rapid refuelling that efficient ICE vehicles currently provide.
This category links back to our broader vision at GRIDSERVE. Charging infrastructure investment today is designed for tomorrow’s electric estates. As manufacturers launch more electric wagons, estate car drivers will find a comprehensive network ready to support their transition.
Performance car: Alpine A290
The Alpine A290 wins the Performance Car category, representing one of the most exciting fully electric hot hatches on sale today.
Core specs highlight its sporting intent:
- 220 hp electric motor
- 0–62 mph in around 6.4 seconds
- Chassis tuned for agility and driver engagement
- Focus on feel rather than outright top speed
The A290 is closely related to the Renault 5 E-Tech, effectively creating a high-performance EV twin. This connection boosts the Renault Group’s chances of overall victory, since both the small car and performance car categories feature vehicles from the same family.
GRIDSERVE’s high-power chargers enable performance EV drivers to enjoy spirited drives on favourite roads, then quickly recharge at one of our Electric Forecourts® or Super Hubs using clean, renewable energy.
Why hosting UK Car of the Year at GRIDSERVE matters
Hosting the UK Car of the Year 2026 judging panel at our Stevenage Electric Forecourt® speaks volumes about the changing automotive landscape. This isn’t just any location; it’s a purpose-built EV charging destination that represents the future of motoring infrastructure.
The Electric Forecourt® concept goes beyond simple charging points:
- Between 12 and 24 super fast EV charging bays per site (up to 350kW where compatible)
- Comfortable lounges, so you can recharge yourself as well as your car
- Workspaces with Wi-Fi for remote working
- Great food and retail for you to refuel as you recharge
- Accessibility for all drivers, regardless of EV brand
Hosting the UKCOTY judges and the country’s most advanced new cars at an Electric Forecourt® carries symbolic weight. Awards that once focused primarily on combustion engines are now evaluated against the backdrop of renewable-powered infrastructure. The history of these awards shows a clear evolution towards sustainability.
GRIDSERVE collaborates with fleets, businesses and local authorities to deploy high-power charging and sustainable energy solutions. This ensures that future contenders, especially EVs, have the infrastructure they need to succeed.
How GRIDSERVE supports owners of the 2026 contenders
Whether drivers choose a Renault 5 E-Tech, Kia EV4, Skoda Elroq, Hyundai Ioniq 9, Alpine A290, or future electric estate and executive models, GRIDSERVE is building the backbone of the UK’s public charging network.
The key elements of our Electric Highway include:
- Electric Super Hubs: Multiple high-power chargers at strategic locations
- Electric Forecourts®: Purpose-built destinations in Braintree, Norwich, Stevenage and London Gatwick, with a new location at Markham Vale opening in 2026
- Destination Charging: Retail parks, supermarkets, and commercial sites for everyday top-ups
- Fleet and eHGV Charging: Dedicated solutions for business operations
High-power chargers (up to 350kW where compatible) dramatically shorten charging stops for modern EVs with large batteries. This directly benefits long-range models like the Kia EV4 and Hyundai Ioniq 9, reducing what might have been a half hour charge to a quick coffee break.
For businesses, we offer fleet charging solutions and have even partnered with Carwow Leasey for EV leasing options. This positions the company as a long-term partner for organisations adopting electric vehicles similar to this year’s UK Car of the Year contenders. Whether you’re a director making fleet decisions or a family choosing your next car, your charging expectations are being met.
Looking ahead to the UK Car of the Year 2026 announcement
Today’s judging at Stevenage Electric Forecourt® represents a milestone, but the story isn’t complete. The overall UK Car of the Year 2026 winner will be announced on 26 February 2026, giving the judging panel time for final deliberations.
Any of the eight category winners could take the crown. The five fully electric models (Renault 5 E-Tech, Kia EV4, Citroen e-C3 Aircross, Skoda Elroq, Hyundai Ioniq 9, and Alpine A290) have strong chances given the industry’s trajectory. But the Audi A6 twins shouldn’t be discounted; they represent excellence in their respective segments.
No matter which car wins, the 2026 awards underline a clear trend: electric vehicles are now central to the UK market. Robust charging networks like GRIDSERVE’s Electric Highway are essential for their success. This isn’t about EVs being a niche experiment; they’re the mainstream choice for millions of motorists.
Having Start Rescue onboard as a sponsor reflects the broader automotive ecosystem’s support for these awards. The results, when announced in February, will shape buying decisions and fleet policies across the world.
FAQ
When will the UK Car of the Year 2026 overall winner be announced?
Although judging takes place today at our Stevenage Electric Forecourt®, the overall UK Car of the Year 2026 winner will be officially announced on 26 February 2026. Until that date, the eight category winners form the shortlist and are being evaluated by the panel of 33 motoring journalists.
Which of the 2026 contenders are fully electric vehicles?
The fully electric contenders are: Renault 5 E-Tech (Small Car), Kia EV4 (Family Car), Citroen e-C3 Aircross (Small Crossover), Skoda Elroq (Medium Crossover), Hyundai Ioniq 9 (Large Crossover), and Alpine A290 (Performance Car). The Audi A6 Saloon and A6 Avant currently focus on efficient combustion and mild-hybrid powertrains, while the petrol C3 Aircross is available alongside the electric e-C3 Aircross. The dominance of EVs in this shortlist demonstrates how quickly the UK new car market is electrifying.
Can I charge these shortlisted EVs at GRIDSERVE sites today?
Absolutely. All of the fully electric contenders use CCS rapid-charging standards fully compatible with GRIDSERVE’s Electric Highway chargers. Drivers can use Electric Forecourts®, Electric Super Hubs, and destination chargers across the UK, paying via contactless methods or our app. Customers can even sign up to GRIDSERVE Plus, paying £7.99 a month to receive 25% off charging*.
What makes our Electric Forecourts® different from a standard charging site?
Electric Forecourts® are purpose-built EV charging destinations offering multiple ultra-fast chargers alongside comfortable lounges, Wi-Fi and food and drink options. Drivers of cars like the Renault 5 E-Tech, Kia EV4, or Alpine A290 can arrive low on charge, plug into a high-power charger, and comfortably work, relax, or shop while their vehicle rapidly recharges. The Stevenage Electric Forecourt®, hosting today’s UKCOTY judging, showcases this model in practice.
How is GRIDSERVE helping fleets prepare for the shift highlighted by UKCOTY 2026?
GRIDSERVE supports fleet electrification through charging infrastructure, competitive pricing options and EV leasing solutions where relevant, helping businesses cut emissions and running costs while meeting efficiency targets.
*Limits and T&Cs apply
