ICOTY 2026 winners have officially been announced, recognising the most outstanding new vehicles launched in the Indian market over the past year. The prestigious Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY) awards are considered the benchmark for automotive excellence in the country, judged by a panel of experienced automotive journalists based on innovation, performance, safety, value for money, and relevance to Indian consumers.
At the ICOTY 2026 ceremony, Maruti Suzuki Victoris emerged as the overall Indian Car of the Year, while Mahindra XEV 9E was crowned Green Car of the Year, and the Volkswagen Golf GTI secured the Premium Car of the Year award. Together, these winners highlight how the Indian automotive landscape is rapidly evolving across mass-market, electric, and performance segments.
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ICOTY 2026 Winners Overview
| Award Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Indian Car of the Year | Maruti Suzuki Victoris |
| Green Car of the Year | Mahindra XEV 9E |
| Premium Car of the Year | Volkswagen Golf GTI |
Maruti Suzuki Victoris Wins Indian Car of the Year at ICOTY 2026
The biggest honour at ICOTY 2026 went to the Maruti Suzuki Victoris, which impressed jurors with its strong all-round appeal, competitive pricing, efficient powertrains, and feature-rich package.
The Victoris plays in the highly competitive mid-size SUV segment but manages to stand out due to Maruti Suzuki’s proven strengths — reliability, extensive service network, and cost-effective ownership. Judges noted that the Victoris delivers a balanced combination of practicality, modern design, comfort, and safety, making it a compelling choice for Indian families.
Why Victoris Won ICOTY 2026
- Strong value for money proposition
- Multiple powertrain options including hybrid
- Spacious and comfortable cabin
- Competitive safety equipment
- High relevance to Indian buyers
Winning Indian Car of the Year at ICOTY 2026 reinforces Maruti Suzuki’s dominance in understanding mass-market needs while keeping pace with changing consumer expectations.
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Mahindra XEV 9E Named Green Car of the Year at ICOTY 2026
The shift towards sustainable mobility was recognised with the Mahindra XEV 9E winning the Green Car of the Year award.
Mahindra’s all-electric SUV impressed the jury with its real-world usability, long driving range, modern design, and competitive pricing within the EV segment. The XEV 9E represents Mahindra’s growing commitment to electric mobility and local EV manufacturing.
Key Strengths of Mahindra XEV 9E
- Practical long-range electric powertrain
- Spacious 7-seater layout
- Advanced connected features
- Strong performance credentials
- Focus on Indian road conditions
The Green Car of the Year award highlights how EVs are no longer niche products but viable mainstream options for Indian buyers.
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Volkswagen Golf GTI Bags Premium Car of the Year at ICOTY 2026
In the premium segment, the Volkswagen Golf GTI emerged as the standout performer, winning the Premium Car of the Year award at ICOTY 2026.
The Golf GTI is globally recognised for blending everyday usability with thrilling performance, and its India-spec version continues that legacy. The jury praised the GTI’s refined turbo-petrol engine, excellent handling, build quality, and driver-focused dynamics.
What Made Golf GTI a Winner
- Powerful and refined turbo-petrol engine
- Excellent driving dynamics
- Premium interior quality
- Strong brand heritage
- Enthusiast-focused appeal
The Golf GTI’s win at ICOTY 2026 underscores the growing acceptance of performance-oriented premium cars in the Indian market.
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ICOTY 2026 Reflects Changing Indian Car Buyer Trends
The ICOTY 2026 winners clearly reflect the changing priorities of Indian car buyers:
- Mass-market buyers are demanding better safety, features, and efficiency
- Electric mobility is becoming mainstream rather than experimental
- Premium buyers are seeking performance and driving pleasure
By recognising vehicles from three very different segments, ICOTY 2026 showcases the diversity of the Indian automotive ecosystem.
The ICOTY 2026 awards celebrate the rapid evolution of India’s automotive market. With Maruti Suzuki Victoris, Mahindra XEV 9E, and Volkswagen Golf GTI taking top honours, this year’s winners represent innovation across affordability, sustainability, and performance.
As manufacturers continue to push boundaries, ICOTY 2026 reinforces the importance of delivering vehicles that are not only technologically advanced but also deeply aligned with Indian driving needs.