This Hyundai EV just won 2026's top performance car award
What's the story
Hyundai's Ioniq 6 N has been crowned the 2026 World Performance Car at the New York International Auto Show. The award is a major recognition of its outstanding performance, engineering excellence, and everyday usability. The vehicle beat out stiff competition from global contenders including BMW M2 CS and Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray to secure this prestigious title.
Accolade
Second victory in World Performance Car category
The Ioniq 6 N's win marks Hyundai's second victory in the World Performance Car category, after the Ioniq 5 N won it in 2024. With this latest achievement, Hyundai Motor Company has now bagged nine World Car Awards in the history of the program. The award recognizes vehicles that deliver an outstanding performance-focused character while combining engineering excellence with advanced technology and everyday usability.
Eligibility criteria
Award belongs to customers, says Hyundai Motor Company's CEO
To be eligible for the award, a vehicle must be produced in volumes exceeding 1,000 units annually and be available across at least two major global markets on different continents. Responding to the win, Hyundai Motor Company's President and CEO Jos Munoz said it reflects the collective effort behind the vehicle. He emphasized that this award belongs not only to Hyundai's engineering and design teams but also customers worldwide whose expectations continue to inspire innovation in performance technology and design.
Selection process
Jury comprised of 98 international automotive journalists from 33 countries
The winners were chosen by a jury of 98 international automotive journalists from 33 countries. They evaluated each eligible vehicle as part of their ongoing professional work. The voting was conducted by secret ballot with results independently tabulated by KPMG.