Top Gear's coveted Car of the Year 2026 award has been unveiled - and it's an electric SUV. Each year, every motoring publication assembles its top journalists to determine their car of the year.
So far this year, Carwow has crowned a Chinese car as its favourite, while AutoExpress delved into the used car market to name their top second-hand motor of the year.
However, the iconic BBC show has now delivered their verdict - and it's not one that's been mentioned so far. The winner is none other than the BMW iX3, an electric SUV that forms part of BMW's Neue Klasse range.
The Neue Klasse was originally a series of models BMW launched in the 1960s as it sought to turn its fortunes around. Fast forward to the 2020s and the company has revived the name with a new series of SUVs and saloons, reports the Express.
On why they selected the iX3 as their car of the year, Top Gear stated it was a blend of style, technology, and the way the car drove. They elaborated: "This iX3 is wholly new. Above and beneath. Bumper to bumper. Ground to cloud.
"From now on pretty well all of the electric BMWs, Minis and Rolls-Royces will use this technology. The iX3, and indeed the concept car for the related i3 saloon, get off on the right foot.
"After years of mucking about, BMW's stylists have now got it right. The furniture is beautifully tranquil. It drives like a BMW ought to. Not like a bulky EV crossover, or soulless digital first zombiemobile."
When Top Gear reviewed a prototype of the iX3 earlier this year they concluded: "The new i3X manages to expunge many or all of the annoyances of new-age EVs....The Neue Klasse isn't like that. It's not trying to be different or shocking. It's like a BMW; just a fabulously good one. "
Following their triumph, David George, CEO of BMW Group UK and Ireland, expressed his delight: "The launch of the new BMW iX3 represents more than just the debut of an exceptional new model - it signals the start of an exciting and transformative chapter for our brand.
"We are thrilled to receive the prestigious Car of the Year award for this milestone moment and would like to thank the entire Top Gear team for this special recognition."
The BMW iX3 is a significant vehicle for both BMW and consumers, boasting a claimed maximum WLTP range of up to 500 miles and cutting-edge interior technology.
The first customer deliveries of the iX3 will commence in March 2026, with the Ix3 50 xDrive version of the car available from £58,755.
