Online calculator to help you decide on a house or car within your budget
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- The 2026 North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year winners will be announced at the Detroit Auto Show.
- A jury of 50 automotive journalists from the United States and Canada will select the winner from the nine finalists.
- The finalists for Car of the Year are the Dodge Charger, Honda Prelude, and Nissan Sentra.
The 2026 North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year will be awarded on Wednesday, January 14th.
A jury of 50 professional automotive journalists from the United States and Canada will select the three nominees in each category. Winners will be announced at the Detroit Auto Show on Wednesday, January 14th. The USA TODAY Cars team reviewed the nominated cars in each category and compiled information for consumers about each model.
The candidates are:
2026 North American Car of the Year Finalist
Manufacturer and model: Dodge Charger
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $49,995
What does Dodge say about the Charger?: In a press release announcing the launch of the 2026 Charger, Stellantis said it is a “powerhouse designed to continue the evolution of modern muscle with uncompromising performance, relentless power and unmistakable Dodge attitude.”
Manufacturer and model:Honda Prelude
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $42,000
What does Honda say about the Prelude? Honda said in a press release that the 2026 Prelude “offers precise steering, responsive handling and fun to drive, delivering an engaging grand touring experience while remaining comfortable for everyday driving.”
Manufacturer and model: Nissan Sentra
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $22,600
What does Nissan say about the Sentra?Nissan said in a press release that the 2026 Sentra is attracting attention for its “luxury new design and technology that simplifies the driving experience.”
2026 North American Truck of the Year Finalist
Manufacturer and model:Ford Maverick Robo
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $35,930
What does Ford say about the Maverick Robo? Ford said in a press release that the Maverick “continues to exceed expectations, offering customers an unparalleled combination of affordability and best-in-class fuel economy.”
Manufacturer and model: ram 1500 hemi
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $40,275
What does Stellantis say about the Ram 1500 Hemi? “The 5.7-liter HEMI V8 engine delivers 395 horsepower and 555 Nm of torque in a smooth, broad powerband, enhanced with fuel-saving technologies such as variable camshaft timing and cylinder deactivation,” Stellantis said in a press release about the 1500 Hemi.
Manufacturer and model: Ram 2500
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $62,185
What does Stellantis say about the Ram 2500 Hemi?In a post on its website, Stellantis says the Ram 2500 features a “sleek, aggressive exterior design, advanced interior sound system, and premium cabin amenities that make Ram heavy-duty trucks not only fun to drive but also fun to operate.”
2026 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year Finalist
Manufacturer and model: Hyundai Palisade
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $38,935
What does Hyundai say about the Palisade?: Hyundai said in a press release that the 2026 Palisade is “bigger, better and more advanced than its acclaimed predecessor and competitive SUVs.”
Manufacturer and model: clear gravity
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $94,900
What does Lucid say about Gravity?: Lucid said in a press release that the 2026 Gravity “has the versatility of a sophisticated, full-size three-row SUV, with space for adults and families to ride in comfort with all their gear, and the performance of a luxury sports car.”
Manufacturer and model: nissan leaf
Manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $29,990
What does Nissan say about the Leaf?Nissan said in a press release that the 2026 Leaf “offers a sleek, streamlined design, effortless charging experience, improved battery life and even better value for money.”
