The BMW iX3 has been named the 2026 World Car of the Year, while also securing the 2026 World Electric Vehicle of the Year award, achieving a rare double victory decided by a panel of 98 automotive journalists.
The results were announced at the New York International Auto Show, one of the industry’s most prominent global stages, where leading new vehicles from around the world were evaluated across multiple categories.
The BMW iX3 stood out from a competitive field of 57 contenders to claim the overall title. In the electric vehicle category, it surpassed rivals including the Nissan Leaf and Mercedes-Benz CLA, reinforcing its strong position in the rapidly evolving EV segment.
Judges praised the model for its balance of performance, advanced technology, and forward-thinking design. Central to its appeal is BMW’s Neue Klasse platform, which underpins the company’s next generation of electric mobility.
The iX3 introduces a driving range of up to 800 kilometers and supports ultra-fast charging speeds of up to 400 kW. It also features the Panoramic iDrive display system and the “Heart of Joy” control architecture, which enhances driving dynamics and responsiveness.
Since its debut in March, the electric SUV has already attracted more than 50,000 orders, reflecting strong early market demand. With this achievement, BMW now holds nine total honors at the World Car Awards since the program’s inception 22 years ago, further strengthening its global reputation in the automotive industry.
