Whom Will NACTOY Crown in 2024? A Sneak Peek at the Finalists and Their Unique Stories!

The North American Car, Truck, and Utility of the Year (NACTOY) jury recently dropped the Volvo EX30 from contention for the 2024 Utility of the Year award. The reason? The model won’t be hitting showrooms in 2023, leading to its disqualification. Despite making it to the final round, the EX30 had to step aside, making room for the 2024 Hyundai Kona/Kona Electric to seize the opportunity.

Car Category
In the car category, the spotlight shines on two formidable contenders – the Honda Accord and the Hyundai Ioniq 6. The Honda Accord, a mid-size sedan, boasts a refined driving experience and a choice between a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder or a 2.0-liter hybrid powertrain. With a spacious interior, standard safety features, and impressive fuel efficiency, the Accord promises a delightful driving journey, especially with the newly added Honda Sensing suite.

Conversely, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 emerges as a sleek electric sedan with an outstanding range of up to 361 miles on a single charge. Beyond its striking design, the Ioniq 6 offers a spacious interior laden with advanced technology. It is a compelling choice for eco-conscious drivers seeking innovation and style in an electric vehicle.

Truck Category
In the truck category, the Chevrolet Colorado and Ford Super Duty face off for supremacy. The 2024 Chevrolet Colorado, a midsize pickup, introduces a turbocharged 2.7-liter inline-four engine with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Boasting various trims, including the rugged ZR2 Bison, Colorado stands out with improved engine options, a composed ride, and off-road capabilities.

Meanwhile, the 2024 Ford Super Duty, a heavy-duty pickup available in multiple models, offers an array of engine choices, impressive towing capacity, and various trims to cater to diverse needs. With its reputation for handling heavy loads and commercial use, the Super Duty is a stalwart in the competitive heavy-duty truck segment.

Utility Category
In the utility category, the spotlight is on the luxurious Genesis Electrified GV70 and the sustainable Kia EV9. The 2024 Genesis Electrified GV70, an all-electric mid-size SUV, stands as a pinnacle of luxury and performance. With a stylish design, an athletic stance, and a potent all-electric dual-motor AWD system, the Electrified GV70 promises a premium driving experience. Its spacious interior and impressive 236-mile range add to its allure.

In contrast, the Kia EV9 emerges as a 7-seat, all-electric SUV emphasizing sustainability. Built on the E-GMP platform, it offers a remarkable 349-mile range on a single charge and advanced fast-charging capabilities. Beyond its impressive specs, the EV9 showcases Kia’s commitment to sustainability by incorporating recycled materials and vegan leather throughout its interior.

NACTOY Finalists:These finalists were meticulously chosen from a pool of 25, previously narrowed down from 52 eligible vehicles. Notable absences include several anticipated models like the Chevrolet Corvette E-Ray, Toyota GR Corolla, GMC Canyon, Ford Ranger, Chevrolet Blazer EV, Chevrolet Equinox EV, Mazda CX-90, and Toyota Grand Highlander. The exclusion of these models only intensifies the anticipation for the final results, promising an exciting revelation in the automotive landscape.

As we eagerly await the NACTOY results, the exclusion of the Volvo EX30 adds an unexpected twist to the competition. The diverse lineup of finalists showcases the industry’s commitment to innovation, ranging from eco-friendly electric vehicles to powerful trucks and refined sedans. The final announcement promises to shape perceptions and expectations, offering a glimpse into the future of automotive excellence. Buckle up; it’s going to be an exhilarating ride.