Nissan Leaf named 2026 Women’s Worldwide COTY winner
Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year has announced that the Nissan Leaf is the overall winner of its 2026 edition, following a final round of voting marked by remarkable parity among the top contenders.
After months of testing, analysis and debate, the 86 women motoring journalists from 55 countries across five continents cast their votes to determine the ultimate winner among the following category champions. Judges also included AutoMuse founder Liz Dobson.
The category winners were the following:
Compact Car. Nissan Leaf
Compact SUV. Škoda Elroq
Large Car. Mercedes-Benz CLA
Large SUV. Hyundai Ioniq 9
4x4. Toyota 4Runner
Performance Car. Lamborghini Temerario
According to Marta García, Executive President of Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year (WWCOTY), “there was significant parity in the voting. Several models received very similar levels of support, which reflects the exceptional quality and diversity of today’s automotive industry. In the end, however, the Nissan Leaf prevailed”.
The Leaf convinced the jury with its coherent and realistic approach to electric mobility. It is a 100% electric vehicle designed for realistic and accessible everyday use. It stands out for its practical approach, offering smooth, quiet driving and outstanding efficiency, particularly in urban and suburban environments. Its architecture prioritises interior space and ease of use over complex solutions, delivering one of the most intuitive electric driving experiences on the market.
The final decision reflects the broader transformation of the automotive sector, where electrification, sustainability and user-centred design have become fundamental pillars. The strong competition in this year’s awards demonstrates how manufacturers worldwide are raising standards across all segments.
With this announcement, WWCOTY reaffirms its mission to provide an independent and expert assessment of the automotive industry, offering clear guidance to drivers and consumers around the globe.
The award-winning Leaf is expected to arrive in New Zealand around the third quarter of 2026.
