Windsor-made Dodge Charger wins North American car of the year award

The Windsor-made Dodge Charger has been named the North American Car of the Year. CTV Windsor’s Michelle Maluske has the details.

The Windsor, Ont.-made Dodge Charger won a 2026 North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year (NACTOY) award.

In Pictures: Detroit Auto Show 2026

NACTOY officials revealed the results at the Detroit Auto Show on Wednesday, following a year-long jury process designed to identify the best-in-class vehicles for the upcoming model year.

“Winning North American Car of the Year is a testament to Dodge’s continued willingness to break pattern and redefine segments,” said Matt McAlear, Dodge CEO. “The Charger lineup delivers the power of choice, including the SIXPACK-powered Scat Pack’s 550 horsepower and the Daytona’s 670 horsepower, in both two-door and four-door configurations. This recognition validates our vision for the future of muscle.”

The winners are:

• North American Car of the Year: Dodge Charger
• North American Truck of the Year: Ford Maverick Lobo
• North American Utility Vehicle of the Year: Hyundai Palisade

NACTOY jurors have spent the last year test driving, researching and evaluating vehicles on criteria including automotive innovation, design, safety, performance, technology, driver satisfaction, user experience and value.

Dodge Chargers first started production in Windsor with an EV version in September 2024.

The gas-powered version rolled off the line just this past December.

“Windsor is a terrific partner, with Unifor. The last generation charger was built in Brampton. We have a long standing tradition with Unifor and we’re looking forward to their help and building a quality car,” said McAlear.

The organization announced its “Best of 2026” semifinalists in September at CAR MBS in the conference’s first year at Michigan Central Station, and unveiled nine finalists at the Los Angeles Auto Show in November.