The BMW iX3 has captured the prestigious 2026 World Car of the Year title at the New York International Auto Show.

The iX3 outperformed competitors across all powertrain categories

Selected from a field of 58 global contenders, the iX3 secured the top title, outperforming competitors across all powertrain categories.

In addition, the iX3 won the 2026 World Electric Vehicle accolade, marking a further major win for BMW’s first next-generation Neue Klasse model.

The first in a new family of ‘Neue Klasse’ models, the iX3 (see our road test here) previews advanced design features and technologies that will shape the next generation of BMW vehicles. These include the first-ever BMW Panoramic iDrive and a design language focused on the future of electric mobility.

“The BMW iX3 marks the beginning of a new era at BMW – in terms of design language, range, charging capacity as well as driver assistance – and BMW Panoramic iDrive,” said Mike Reichelt, head of Neue Klasse BMW.

The awards are determined by a panel of 98 automotive journalists representing 33 different countries.

2026 World Car Award Winners:

The iX3 shared the winner’s circle with several other high-performance and luxury innovators:

• World Car of the Year: BMW iX3
• World Electric Car: BMW iX3
• World Performance Car: Hyundai Ioniq 6 N
• World Luxury Car: Lucid Gravity
• World Urban Car: Firefly
• World Car Design of the Year: Mazda 6e / EZ-6

Mark Schienberg, president of the New York Auto Show, said: “The World Car Awards are a global benchmark for excellence by recognising the vehicles and technologies that are truly moving the industry forward. We’re proud to host these honours at the New York Auto Show, where each spring the global automotive community gathers, bringing together leaders in industry and media to exchange ideas and shape what’s next.”