See the NACTOY 2026 finalists revealed at the LA Auto Show, with Ram 1500 HEMI eTorque and Ram 2500 on the Truck shortlist, plus car and utility picks.
2025-11-21T02:21:35+03:00
2025-11-21T02:21:35+03:00
2025-11-21T02:21:35+03:00
The North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year organization has named the finalists for 2026—one of the industry’s most respected honors. At the opening of the Los Angeles Auto Show, the judges revealed three contenders in each category. Competing for Car of the Year are the Dodge Charger, Honda Prelude, and Nissan Sentra. The pickup finalists are the Ford Maverick Lobo, Ram 1500 HEMI, and Ram 2500. In the utility field, the shortlist includes the Hyundai Palisade, the electric Lucid Gravity, and the new Nissan Leaf.Ram Trucks continues its strong run in the heavy-duty arena, earning a place among the finalists of a highly regarded award. The Ram 1500 HEMI V8 eTorque and Ram 2500 Heavy Duty were recognized as two of the top three in the 2026 North American Truck of the Year (NACTOY). Notably, it’s the first time in the award’s 32-year history that a single brand has secured two finalist spots in the same category.NACTOY is judged by an independent panel of 50 seasoned automotive experts from the United States and Canada. This year’s shortlist underscores a mix of performance, everyday usability, and buyer-focused packaging. These vehicles offer breadth and solid value, making them compelling choices for enthusiasts who want more than just a spec sheet.Looking at Ram’s showing across these major accolades, it’s clear the brand is steering toward a blend of strength and refinement—an approach that tends to resonate with both experienced drivers and those just stepping into the segment.
NACTOY 2026 finalists, LA Auto Show, Ram 1500 HEMI eTorque, Ram 2500 Heavy Duty, Truck of the Year, Dodge Charger, Honda Prelude, Nissan Sentra, Hyundai Palisade, Lucid Gravity, Nissan Leaf
2025
Michael Powers
news
NACTOY 2026 finalists at the LA Auto Show: Ram earns two truck spots
See the NACTOY 2026 finalists revealed at the LA Auto Show, with Ram 1500 HEMI eTorque and Ram 2500 on the Truck shortlist, plus car and utility picks.
Michael Powers, Editor
The North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year organization has named the finalists for 2026—one of the industry’s most respected honors. At the opening of the Los Angeles Auto Show, the judges revealed three contenders in each category. Competing for Car of the Year are the Dodge Charger, Honda Prelude, and Nissan Sentra. The pickup finalists are the Ford Maverick Lobo, Ram 1500 HEMI, and Ram 2500. In the utility field, the shortlist includes the Hyundai Palisade, the electric Lucid Gravity, and the new Nissan Leaf.
Ram Trucks continues its strong run in the heavy-duty arena, earning a place among the finalists of a highly regarded award. The Ram 1500 HEMI V8 eTorque and Ram 2500 Heavy Duty were recognized as two of the top three in the 2026 North American Truck of the Year (NACTOY). Notably, it’s the first time in the award’s 32-year history that a single brand has secured two finalist spots in the same category.
NACTOY is judged by an independent panel of 50 seasoned automotive experts from the United States and Canada. This year’s shortlist underscores a mix of performance, everyday usability, and buyer-focused packaging. These vehicles offer breadth and solid value, making them compelling choices for enthusiasts who want more than just a spec sheet.
Looking at Ram’s showing across these major accolades, it’s clear the brand is steering toward a blend of strength and refinement—an approach that tends to resonate with both experienced drivers and those just stepping into the segment.
