It’s been a busy year of EV reveals, first drives, reviews and comparisons. There are more EV models on sale now than ever, and despite the political turmoil, automakers didn’t stop launching new EVs.
That left plenty to choose from when it came time to pick our favorite new cars of the year. But the 2026 InsideEVs Breakthrough Awards are here, and so we had to. The Cadillac Optiq, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Lucid Gravity and Tesla Model Y were good enough to earn Editor’s Choice distinctions. But there’s only one EV of the year: The 2026 Nissan Leaf.
It’s a car that won us over not just on its value proposition and its refinement, but also its genuine charm. Read below to see why the Leaf won out.
—Mack Hogan, Deputy Editor
Photo: Ralph Hermens
The 2026 Nissan Leaf Is An Affordable Joy. That's Why It's Our Breakthrough EV Of The Year
In a world of bloated, expensive, angry EVs, the charming and affordable Leaf stands out.
Photo: Ralph Hermens
The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 Keeps Getting Everything Right
The competition is getting tougher, but the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is too. It's always a top Editor's Choice at InsideEVs. Here's why.
Photo: Ralph Hermens
The Tesla Model Y Is Still Hard To Beat. But Is It Really 2025's Best EV?
The Model Y is the best-selling EV on the planet for a reason. But is it a breakthrough?
Photo: Ralph Hermens
The Lucid Gravity Might Be The Best All-Around Electric SUV Yet
The Gravity's amazing driving dynamics, EV tech and packaging made it an Editor's Choice. But its high price and bugs were a turn off.