The competition for “Car of the Year in Denmark 2026” has reached an exciting stage. After two days of tests on and around the Jyllandsringen near Silkeborg, a panel of 21 journalists from the Danish Car Journalists Association (MKD) selected eight vehicles out of a field of 27 new models for the final. All eight finalists happen to be electric cars, and two of them are Chinese: the Zeekr 7X and the Nio Firefly.
A Broad Field Across Price and Vehicle Types
The eight finalists span a wide range of vehicle types and price points, from entry-level models around DKK 190,000 (≈ €25,500) to luxury models priced over DKK 400,000 (≈ €53,500). The finalists include compact hatchbacks, sedans and crossovers, showing how electric vehicles now cover the full spectrum of the market.
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Among the finalists are small EVs like the Nissan Micra and Renault 5 E-Tech, which are technically identical cars entered as a single model. Both vehicles occupy the lower end of the price scale and point to how accessible electric mobility has become.
In the mid-range, models such as the Kia EV4 have made the cut. The EV4 follows last year’s winner, the EV3, and brings improvements in driving dynamics and interior quality. On the high end, the sedan from Mercedes-Benz (the new CLA) and the crossover Zeekr 7X are also finalists. The Zeekr 7X, despite being from a new brand, earned its place thanks to strong equipment, performance and technology, and with a starting price slightly over DKK 399,900 (≈ €53,400).
First Ever Finalists All Electric
Notably, for the first time in the history of this Danish award, all eight finalists are fully electric vehicles. The only non-electric model originally listed was the Dacia Bigster, a petrol-powered SUV, but it did not make the final cut. This underlines how much the market has shifted toward electrification in Denmark.
| Model | Battery Capacity | Range (WLTP) |
|---|---|---|
| Firefly | 42 kWh | 320 km |
| Kia EV4 | 58.3/81.4 kWh | 410/630 km |
| Mercedes-Benz CLA EV | 85 kWh | 792 km |
| Nissan Micra | 40/52 kWh | 310/408 km |
| Renault 5 E-Tech | 40/52 kWh | 312/410 km |
| Renault 4 E-Tech | 40/52 kWh | 308/409 km |
| Toyota C-HR+ EV | 57.7/77 kWh | Not yet homologated |
| Zeekr 7X | 75/100 kWh | 345–675 km |
Chinese EVs Gain Momentum in Europe
The inclusion of Zeekr 7X and Firefly underscores China’s growing influence in the European EV scene. The 7X, a midsize electric SUV, combines a premium cabin with up to 615 km WLTP range and advanced driver assistance features. Meanwhile, the Firefly, a compact urban EV designed for efficiency and affordability, brings stylish practicality to the segment, appealing to city drivers seeking sustainable mobility without premium pricing.
What Happens Next
The eight finalists will now proceed to the final evaluation, and the winner for “Car of the Year in Denmark 2026” will be announced on 25 November. The jury will consider factors including innovation, driving experience, value for money and overall suitability for the Danish market.
FAQ
What is the “Car of the Year in Denmark” award?
The “Car of the Year in Denmark” award is organized by the Motor Journalists’ Club Denmark (MKD) and highlights the most outstanding new car models launched within the year. It’s considered the most prestigious automotive recognition in the Danish market.
How are the finalists selected?
A panel of 21 automotive journalists tests and evaluates all eligible new models at the Jyllandsringen circuit near Silkeborg. Based on criteria such as performance, practicality, innovation, design, and value for money, they vote to determine the finalists.
Are all finalists electric vehicles this year?
Yes. For the first time ever, all eight finalists are fully electric cars, reflecting how rapidly EV adoption has accelerated in Denmark.
Which brands made it to the final round?
The 2026 finalists include models from Renault, Nissan, Kia, Mercedes-Benz, Zeekr, and several others. The field spans everything from compact city cars to larger premium EVs.
When will the winner be announced?
The official winner of Car of the Year in Denmark 2026 will be announced on 25 November 2025 after the jury’s final round of testing and voting.
Why is this year significant for the award?
This edition marks a turning point: it’s the first time that no petrol, diesel, or hybrid vehicles are represented among the finalists. It clearly signals that Denmark’s automotive market has entered a new, fully electric era.
Source: Bilbasen Blog (in Danish)
