The Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year (WWCOTY) organization has released its latest candidate vehicles vying for this year’s WWCOTY Awards. It underscores the rapid evolution of the global automotive landscape as electrification, diversity of design, and everyday practicality take center stage.
WWCOTY’s selection criteria focus on real-world driving qualities that matter to consumers worldwide. As such, vehicles are assessed on safety, build quality, value, ease of driving, design, environmental impact, and overall utility.
This year’s WWCOTY saw 55 eligible candidates. All participating cars went through strict evaluation by WWCOTY’s global pool of judges, consisting of 84 female motoring journalists from 54 countries. According to WWCOTY organizers, the aim is to identify and give due recognition to models that deliver notable performance, comfort, and practicality.
Following months of evaluation, the jury has finally announced the 6 category winners. All shortlisted models were considered newly launched in at least 2 continents or in 40 countries between January and December 2025, ensuring they represent broad global availability.
And here they are.
- Nissan Leaf – Best Compact Car: A fully electric vehicle noted for its efficient and practical design, and ease of use in everyday driving.
- Škoda Elroq – Best Compact SUV: An electric SUV offering commendable driving range and an occupant-focused interior.
- Mercedes-Benz CLA – Best Large Car: A large luxury sedan with advanced digital features and a refined driving experience.
- Hyundai Ioniq 9 – Best Large SUV: A spacious electric SUV designed for family use, offering notable comfort, especially in long-distance drives.
- Toyota 4Runner – Best 4×4: A brawny off-road vehicle capable of all-terrain driving, backed up by Toyota’s globally renowned reliability.
- Lamborghini Temerario – Best Exclusive Car: A high-performance supercar that combines cutting-edge technology with dramatic design.
In addition to the vehicle categories, WWCOTY has given 2 special awards. The first of which was the Best Tech Award, which went to Renault for its innovative electric platforms. Next was the Sandy Myhre Award which was given to Ford in recognition of the brand’s sustained commitment to gender equality in its corporate structure.
Executive President Marta García commented that the selection process emphasized vehicles that stand out not only for technical specifications, but for how they effectively meet real-world needs through considerations such as safety, comfort, functionality and value.
The six category winners will now advance to the final round of judging, where the overall Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year 2026 title will be announced during the week of International Women’s Day on March 8, 2026.
