Renault has taken the overall title at the UK Car of the Year Awards for the first time after the all-electric Renault 5 secured a commanding victory in the final round of judging.
Twenty of the 33-strong panel, which includes FleetandLeasing.com’s Tristan Young, selected the small EV as their outright winner, following its success in the Small Car category earlier this year.
In a notable result for electrification, the top four positions were all occupied by battery electric models.
Kia’s EV4 finished as runner-up after winning the Family Car category, while joint third place went to the Škoda Elroq and Alpine A290 – the latter sharing its underpinnings with the Renault 5 and having taken the Performance Car title.
Judges praised the Renault 5 E-Tech for successfully combining retro-inspired design with affordability and strong driving dynamics.
John Challen, co-chairman of the awards, said the model’s nostalgic appeal – allied to its entertaining drive and accessible pricing – helped it secure a “resounding victory”.
Adam Wood, managing director of Renault UK, said the award reflected strong early interest from both retail and fleet customers.
Full list of UK Car of the Year Awards 2026 category winners:
- Small Car – Renault 5
- Family Car – Kia EV4
- Small Crossover – Citroën C3/ë-C3 Aircross
- Medium Crossover – Skoda Elroq
- Large Crossover – Hyundai IONIQ 9
- Executive Car – Audi A6
- Estate Car – Audi A6 Avant
- Performance Car – Alpine A290
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