Top 12 Best Cars 2026 đźš— Compare Models & Insurance Costs
The AJAC Rankings and Your Insurance Costs
Each year, the awards from the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) serve as a benchmark for car buyers. For the 2026 edition, AJAC selected 12 finalist vehicles, along with 4 models recognized as the “Best Cars of 2026” that stand out for their quality, technology, and efficiency.
In this article, we present these 12 standout models, considered among the best cars of 2026, while adding a key factor for your budget: the average monthly auto insurance premium associated with each model in Quebec.
How does AJAC make its selection?
The selection is based on votes from more than 50 expert journalists who completed over 1,400 evaluation ballots following real-world test drives. This rigorous process assesses safety, innovation, comfort, and overall value.
Category: Canadian Car of the Year
1) Honda Civic (OFFICIAL WINNER) The Civic retains its crown. It remains the benchmark for its perfect balance of comfort, reliability, and driving enjoyment.
- Why it stands out: Proven value, excellent resale value.
- Average insurance premium: $207
2) Hyundai Elantra (Finalist) A modern compact that focuses on bold design and outstanding value for money.
- Why it stands out: Generous features for the price.
- Average insurance premium: $211
3) Porsche 911 Carrera (Finalist) An absolute icon. Its presence in the top 12 proves that pure performance remains a key benchmark of excellence.
- Why it stands out: Precision engineering, legendary driving experience.
- Average insurance premium: $245
Category: Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year
4) Hyundai Palisade (OFFICIAL WINNER) The SUV champion of the year. It delivers a level of luxury and space that rivals much more expensive brands.
- Why it stands out: Exceptional comfort for 7 or 8 passengers.
- Average insurance premium: $255
5) Ford Maverick (Finalist) This compact urban truck is the perfect solution for those who want versatility without the bulk of a full-size pickup.
- Why it stands out: Practical size, fuel efficiency.
- Average insurance premium: $107
6) Toyota RAV4 (Finalist) Although it did not win the top honour this year, it remains a favourite among Quebec drivers thanks to its legendary reliability.
- Why it stands out: Versatility and rock-solid reputation.
- Average insurance premium: $194
Category: Canadian Electric Car of the Year
7) Porsche Taycan (OFFICIAL WINNER) The queen of electric vehicles. It proves you can move away from gasoline without sacrificing performance or prestige.
- Why it stands out: Ultra-fast charging and outstanding handling.
- Average insurance premium: $304
8) Lucid Air (Finalist) It redefines electric range with figures that surpass almost anything currently on the road.
- Why it stands out: Cutting-edge battery technology.
- Average insurance premium: $285
9) Toyota Prius (Finalist) The practical choice. As a plug-in hybrid, it offers the best of both worlds for daily driving without range anxiety.
- Why it stands out: Record efficiency, smooth transition to electric driving.
- Average insurance premium: $184
Category: Canadian Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year
10) Kia EV9 (OFFICIAL WINNER) The category winner. One of the few fully electric SUVs offering three true rows of seating with a bold, futuristic design.
- Why it stands out: Spacious family interior, fast charging capability.
- Average insurance premium: $224
11) Hyundai Ioniq 9 (Finalist) The EV9’s close relative. It focuses more on comfort and a seamless, high-tech user experience.
- Why it stands out: Lounge-like interior, large cargo capacity.
- Average insurance premium: $217
12) Lucid Gravity (Finalist) A new entrant in the luxury segment. It combines sports car performance with premium SUV capability.
- Why it stands out: Exclusivity and high-performance electric power.
- Average insurance premium: $456
Key Takeaways for Your Next Purchase
The right choice depends on your needs, but more importantly on the total cost of ownership. The price on the dealership sticker is only the beginning.
- Technology impact: Models like the Lucid Air or EV9 are packed with sensors. In the event of a collision, replacing these components can significantly increase your premium.
- Availability of parts: Popular models like the Civic or RAV4 are often easier (and less expensive) to insure than niche vehicles.
- Driver profile: Your location (such as Montreal) and driving record influence your premium just as much as the vehicle itself. Many factors affect your auto insurance rate.
Compare and Save with ClicAssure
Even among the “best cars,” insurance prices can vary widely from one provider to another. Before signing a lease or purchase agreement for one of these 2026 models, use our comparison tool to find the best rate in just a few minutes.
Reference: Data based on the official results of the AJAC (Canadian Car of the Year 2026).
Â
