Retro-futuristic electric car crowned Auto Express Used Car of the Year
Car changing is a big deal
Auto Express has crowned the Hyundai Ioniq 5 its Used Car of the Year 2026, with the head-turning electric car taking home the top prize. Here are all the winners from this year’s awards.
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has been crowned Auto Express Used Car of the Year for 2026, becoming the first electric car to win the award.
Each car is assessed on a range of criteria, including practicality, value for money, technology and driving experience. But which other models claimed a trophy? Here’s the full list of winners from the 2026 Auto Express Used Car of the Year Awards.
Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can sell your car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.
The winner is… the Hyundai Ioniq 5
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 has taken the Used Car of the Year crown. The judges were impressed by its futuristic styling, tech-filled cabin and generous battery range of up to 354 miles.
On why it was their winner, the team at Auto Express said: “The futuristic styling is a big draw, but that beauty is more than skin deep. The tech-filled cabin is packed with equipment, and the long wheelbase ensures there’s plenty of room for the entire family.
“Sure, used values have been bolstered by rising fuel costs, but there are still bargains to be had. Many Ioniq 5s will have part of their original, five-year manufacturer warranty still intact, too.”
The Ioniq 5 is a family SUV-sized hatchback that usually starts from £40,695 when you buy one new. However, you can pick up a used example from Carwow from £15,000.
We’ve tested the Ioniq 5 too, and we were also impressed by its retro-futuristic styling and super spacious interior. It’s a deserving winner.
What other cars took home a prize?
The Auto Express team chose their favourite used cars across 13 categories covering body/fuel types such as hatchbacks, SUVs, and premium electric cars.
From there, five category winners then went head-to-head for the ultimate prize, with the judges ranking the finalists to crown the overall best used car to buy.
Here’s how the final five ranked:
Second place – Renault Clio
The Renault Clio won the ‘Best Used Small Car’ title and came second overall in Auto Express’s rankings. It has a smart, upmarket-feeling interior and a spacious boot, making it a great option for everyday use. However, some alternatives offer a more comfortable experience behind the wheel.
The Auto Express team said: “One of the most accomplished small cars on sale, and a winner in the supermini class of our New Car Awards several years on the trot, the Renault Clio combines dinky dimensions with big-car tech.”
Third place – Volvo XC90
Finishing third overall, the Volvo XC90 also won the ‘Best Used Large SUV’ category. This stylish SUV has a smart, tech-filled cabin and plenty of room for up to seven people. However, some alternatives are more enjoyable to drive.
There are still some great used bargains to be found, with prices for the XC90 starting from £10,000 through Carwow.
“The XC90 was the first in a line of talented Volvos, and set the tone for every car the firm launched in the past decade,” the Auto Express team said. “The fact it’s still being built with only minor tweaks is testament to its longevity.”
Fourth place – Polestar 2
The Polestar 2 won the ‘Best Used Premium Electric Car’ category, thanks to its stylish looks, premium-feeling cabin and range of up to 409 miles. The suspension can feel firm and rear visibility is limited, but early models are now available at tempting prices and still feel modern.
The Auto Express team said: “Think outside the box and the sleek Swede is an attractive choice. It’s dripping with style both inside and out, and despite a shortage of physical buttons in the cabin, the tech works really well.”
Fifth place – Dacia Jogger
Rounding out the top five is the Dacia Jogger, which won both the ‘Best Used Family Car’ and ‘Best Used Hybrid Car’ categories. It’s an affordable family car that offers plenty of space, a practical design and the durability to handle everyday family life.
“With space and practicality in abundance, the versatile Jogger doubles as a van when you fold down the second and third rows of seats,” the Auto Express team explained. “Yet it does the normal stuff brilliantly, too; whether you go for the petrol or fuel-sipping hybrid, you’ll be surprised at how adept it is in everyday use.”
| Category | 2026 winner |
|---|---|
| Used Car of the Year | Hyundai Ioniq 5 |
| Best Used Small Car | Renault Clio |
| Best Used Hatchback | Skoda Octavia |
| Best Used Family Car | Dacia Jogger |
| Best Used Small SUV | Renault Captur |
| Best Used Mid-Size SUV | Hyundai Tucson |
| Best Used Large SUV | Volvo XC90 |
| Best Used Premium Car | Audi A8 |
| Best Used Convertible | Mazda MX-5 |
| Best Used Hot Hatchback | Honda Civic Type R |
| Best Used Sports Car | Alpine A110 |
| Best Used Hybrid Car | Dacia Jogger |
| Best Used Electric Car | Hyundai Ioniq 5 |
| Best Used Premium Electric Car | Polestar 2 |
Car change? Carwow!
Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.
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