The race to be crowned Irish Car of the Year 2027 is officially underway, with no fewer than 51 new models competing for one of the most prestigious accolades in the Irish motor industry. This year’s contenders represent an increasingly diverse selection of vehicles, with electric models featuring particularly strongly across the various categories. From affordable compact hatchbacks and practical family cars to premium SUVs and high-performance machinery, the competition reflects the considerable choice now available to Irish motorists, as manufacturers continue to introduce new technologies and expand their electrified offerings.
First established in 1979, when the original Volkswagen Golf claimed the inaugural title, the Irish Car of the Year Awards have become an important fixture in the country’s automotive calendar. Now approaching five decades of recognising excellence in the motor industry, the awards are decided by a panel of 30 motoring journalists representing some of Ireland’s leading automotive publications and media outlets. Each year, the judging process considers the latest models available to Irish buyers, with the aim of recognising vehicles that stand out in their respective segments while providing consumers with an independent assessment of the newest cars on the market.
Electric vehicles have enjoyed considerable success in recent years, with the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric securing the overall Irish Car of the Year title last year. Its victory further demonstrated the growing competitiveness of electric models, particularly as improvements in driving range, charging technology and affordability continue to make EV ownership an increasingly realistic option for Irish motorists. However, with 51 contenders in the running this year, competition is expected to be particularly strong across the various vehicle categories.
More than ten individual awards will be presented, recognising everything from small cars and family SUVs to premium and performance models. The winners, including the overall Irish Car of the Year 2027, will be revealed at a special awards ceremony in the Dublin Royal Convention Centre on Thursday, 12 November. With such a broad selection of new vehicles competing, this year’s event promises to be another closely contested occasion for the Irish motor industry.
