Overview
- The finalists are the Citroën C5 Aircross, Dacia Bigster, Fiat Grande Panda, Kia EV4, Mercedes‑Benz CLA, Renault 4 (E‑Tech Electric) and Škoda Elroq.
- They were chosen from an initial field of 35 models by a pan‑European jury, with reports differing on the jury’s size and makeup, citing either 60 or 62 journalists from 22–24 countries.
- The shortlist reflects varied powertrains, with three pure EVs, three multi‑energy offerings and one model limited to combustion engines with a bi‑fuel GPL option.
- Following early checks in Denmark, the next phase features in‑depth testing culminating in a joint session at Parc Motor Castellolí near Barcelona, marking the first time the final tests are held in Spain.
- Jurors are expected to allocate up to 25 points each with a maximum of 10 per model and votes spread across at least five cars, with the winner to be announced at the Brussels Motor Show on January 9, 2026.