2026 Dodge Charger Named North American Car of the Year™

There is a new crown jewel in the world of American performance, and you can find it right here in Avon Park. We are thrilled to announce that the all-new 2026 Dodge Charger has officially been named the 2026 North American Car of the Year™!  Announced at the Detroit Auto Show, this prestigious award is the “Oscar” of the automotive world. It isn’t decided by a single magazine or website; instead, it is voted on by a diverse panel of independent automotive journalists from across the U.S. and Canada.

Why the 2026 Charger Took the Top Spot

The North American Car of the Year™ (NACTOY)  jurors praised the Charger for its “retro-futuristic” design and its ability to modernize an American icon without losing its soul. Here are just a few reasons why the 2026 model swept the competition:

• Multi-Energy Muscle: For the first time ever, the Charger offers “the power of choice.” Whether you want the soul-stirring roar of the Twin-Turbo 3.0L SIXPACK Hurricane engine (delivering up to 550 hp) or the lightning-fast acceleration of the all-electric Daytona Scat Pack (670 hp and 0-60 in 3.3 seconds), Dodge has built a muscle car for every driver.
• Standard All-Wheel Drive: Every 2026 Charger comes standard with all-wheel drive, providing the grip and confidence needed to handle Florida’s afternoon rain showers while still delivering that classic rear-wheel-drive feel when you want to shred the track.
• Modern Practicality: Jurors specifically noted the Charger’s new hatchback design, which offers unexpected utility and cargo space. It’s a performance car you can actually live with every day.
• Heritage-Inspired Tech: From the “Fratzonic” Chambered Exhaust on the electric models to the driver-centric cockpit, the Charger blends 1960s magic with 21st-century tech.

Experience the Winner at Huston Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram 

We’re thrilled at Huston Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram in Avon Park to see the iconic Charger take home this top honor. The all-new 2026 Dodge Charger represents a bold evolution of American muscle, blending legendary performance heritage with modern versatility and cutting-edge options.

The Charger’s win reflects Dodge’s commitment to reimagining what a performance car can be in 2026 — balancing traditional muscle car DNA with modern performance and technology that today’s drivers demand.

Want to see what North American Car of the Year looks like in your driveway?
Browse our New 2026 Dodge Charger Inventory or stop by and see us today for a test drive!