Wait a second, critics just picked a winner that nobody wants to buy. The 2026 North American Car, Truck, and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards have been announced. I agree with the winning truck and SUV, but the car that won is baffling. 

The 2026 North American Car of the Year isn’t selling very well 

Congratulations to the 2026 North American Car, Truck, and Utility Vehicle of the Year Award (NACTOY) winners. Even if I don’t agree with the car that critics picked, it still gets to flex for being number one. 

However, they voted on the Dodge Charger EV, and I don’t agree that it’s the best-in-class model. This is because dealerships are desperate to get them off the lot. Drivers just aren’t buying this vehicle and have been vocal about wanting gas powertrain options to return. 

In fact, the electric Charger has a 446 market-day supply. It did manage to sell 7,421 cars during 2025. Due to low sales, the gas-powered SIXPACK was returned by the end of the year. 

I don’t have an issue with electric cars. For example, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is great. But the Charger isn’t popular among buyers. The Tesla Model Y sold 357,528 units in 2025. Also, the two-door Charger EV starts at $59,995 while the Tesla Model Y has an MSRP of $39,990.

The Charger has a range of up to 241 miles, while the Model Y has a range of about 357 miles. But critics shared that it’s the Swiss Army Knife of muscle cars. It’s practical and fun that breaks limitations of performance EVs. 

The Ford Maverick Lobo won truck of the year, and the Hyundai Palisade won SUV of the year. After driving both, I fully agree. They set out with specific missions to stand out in crowded segments.