NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY juror Doug DeMuro (Doug DeMuro ) takes an in-depth look at the new 2026 Mercedes-AMG GT 63 Pro for a detailed review.

In his review, Doug explores the AMG GT 63 Pro's price tag, aggressive PRO exterior styling, track-focused engine performance, ...Read moreinterior layout, tech features, cargo space, infotainment system, digital gauge cluster, and how it compares to the standard AMG GT 63.

Here is the full video review: https://youtu.be/2T7CdKvkxfA

(The opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

Doug DeMuro Mercedes-Benz
#NACTOYJuror #NACTOY #Mercedes #AMGGT63

NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY juror Lauren Fix (Lauren Fix ) gives a detailed test drive and review of the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 to determine if it is the best family electric SUV on the market.

In her review, Lauren takes a closer look at the top-tier Calligraphy trim, ...Read morehighlighting its sophisticated design, performance, high-end comfort, interior layout, standard NACS charging capability, smart storage solutions, and spacious cabin—pointing out the key features that set it apart from the competition.

Check out the full video review here: https://youtu.be/PS8tI92HcY4

(The opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

Lauren Fix Hyundai
#NACTOYJuror #NACTOY #Hyundai #Ioniq9

NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY juror Jodi Lai (AutoTrader.ca ) recently reviewed the 2026 RAM 1500 and interviewed the owner of a base 2018 model to see if the newer truck is worth the upgrade.

In her review, Jodi takes a deep dive into the RAM 1500's latest updates, driving ...Read moredynamics, fuel economy, pricing, new 3.0L Hurricane Twin-Turbo Inline-6 engine, and covers all the pros and cons…all while comparing how it feels to drive alongside the 2018 model.

Watch the full video review here: https://youtu.be/pDuWq_3NnRY

(The opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

AutoTrader.ca Ram Trucks
#NACTOYjuror#NACTOY #RAM #RAM1500

Meet the first recipients of the SAE International-NACTOY Automotive Journalism, Design and Engineering Innovation Scholarships! 🎓🚗

Congratulations to Shila Alizadehghobadi of Worcester Polytechnic Institute, recipient of the Automotive Journalism Scholarship, and Andrés González ...Read moreof Harvard University, recipient of the Automotive Engineering & Design Scholarship.

The scholarship program grew from NACTOY’s $100,000 gift to the SAE Foundation and was created to invest in the next generation of automotive storytellers, engineers and innovators.
Shila hopes to help make increasingly complex automotive technologies understandable to a broader audience, while Andrés is interested in developing mobility solutions that combine innovation with accessibility.

We’re proud to support these two talented students as they begin helping shape the future of the automotive industry.

🔗 Read their stories: https://northamericancaroftheyear.org/nactoy-and-sae-international-announce-scholarship-recipients/

#NACTOY #SAEInternational #Automotive #AutomotiveEngineering #AutomotiveJournalism #STEM #Scholarships

⏰ Just one week left!

Submissions for NACTOY’s new North American Automotive Technology of the Year™ Award close September 30.

We’re looking for innovative automotive technology—software or hardware—that delivers real benefits for drivers and vehicle owners. ...Read moreSubmissions are open to both automakers and suppliers.

Think your technology belongs in the running? Don’t miss the deadline!

🔗 https://northamericancaroftheyear.org/north-american-automotive-tech-of-the-year/

#NACTOY #AutoTech #AutomotiveTechnology #AutomotiveInnovation

NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY juror Tom Voelk (Driven Car Reviews with Tom Voelk. ) recently took the 2026 Lexus NX 350h F Sport for a test drive and review.

In his review, Tom focuses on the F Sport trim, taking an in-depth look at the NX 350h's hybrid powertrain, fuel ...Read moreeconomy, interior refinements, rear-seat space, infotainment system, controls, acceleration, cargo capacity, and overall performance. He also highlights key updates for the new generation, including refreshed front and rear fascias and the decision to drop the gas-only model in favor of an all-hybrid lineup.

Watch the full video review here: https://youtu.be/e75pJz4ixoE

(The opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

Driven Car Reviews with Tom Voelk. Lexus
#NACTOYJuror #NACTOY #Lexus #LexusNX350h

The Best of 2027 has been revealed.

From an initial field of 56 eligible vehicles, NACTOY’s 46 independent automotive journalists have selected 25 vehicles to advance in the competition for the 2027 North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year™ Awards:

🚗 5 ...Read moreCars
🛻 4 Trucks
🚙 16 Utility Vehicles

This year’s contenders include established nameplates and all-new entries, with gasoline, hybrid and electric powertrains represented across the three categories.

The next stage comes October 20–23 at NACTOY’s annual Ride & Drive in Michigan, where jurors will evaluate the Best of 2027 vehicles back-to-back before voting to determine the finalists.

See the complete Best of 2027 list: https://northamericancaroftheyear.org/nactoy-reveals-2027-award-contenders/

#NACTOY #NACTOY2027 #BestOf2027 #AutomotiveIndustry #CarOfTheYear #TruckOfTheYear #UtilityVehicleOfTheYear

The road to the 2027 North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year™ Awards is about to narrow.

Which vehicles will advance to the Best of 2027?

Find out tomorrow!

#NACTOY #NACTOY2027 #BestOf2027 #Automotive

2 days to go!
This Tuesday, @NACTOY reveals the vehicles advancing to the Best of 2027!

Which ones will make the cut?

#NACTOY #NACTOY2027 #BestOf2027 #Automotive

NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY juror Carlos Sandoval (Hablamos Autos ) recently took the 2026 Mitsubishi Outlander Sport for a test drive and review.

In his review, Carlos takes a deep-dive at the Outlander Sport's engine performance, transmission, fuel economy, price range, ...Read moresafety features, updated design, seating, infotainment system, drive modes, and overall ride comfort. He also highlights why Mitsubishi prioritizes interior space and features over raw performance in the competitive subcompact crossover segment.

Have a look at the video here: https://youtu.be/KSJ1Kd2pTkk

(The opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

Hablamos Autos Mitsubishi Motors
#NACTOYJuror #NACTOY #Mitsubishi #MitsubishiOutlanderSport

NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY juror Bengt Halvorson (Bengt Halvorson ) recently reviewed the 2027 Subaru Getaway EV.

In his review, Bengt shares his insights on Subaru's first US-built EV, highlighting the Getaway’s off-road capabilities, increased horsepower, roof-rack ...Read moreload capacity, luxury features, tech and infotainment systems, heated leather seating, panoramic sunroof, and how it measures up against rival three-row electric crossovers.

Read the full review here: https://www.wardsauto.com/news/2027-subaru-getaway-ev-primed-for-family-fun/816279/

(The opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

Bengt Halvorson Subaru of America, Inc.
#NACTOYJuror #NACTOY #Subaru #SubaruGetaway

NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY juror Matthew Guy (Dude Drives Cars ) recently reviewed the 2026 Subaru Trailseeker Premier AWD.

In his review, Matthew shares his perspective on the Trailseeker Premier’s distinctive long-roof profile, overall height, sleek design, cargo capacity, ...Read moreprice tag, charging performance, driving dynamics, interior layout, and tech features, comparing it directly to the Subaru Outback and Toyota RAV4 Woodland.

Read the full review here: https://driving.ca/reviews/2026-subaru-trailseeker-premier-awd-ev-review

(The opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

Dude Drives Cars Subaru of America, Inc.
#NACTOYJuror #NACTOY #Subaru #SubaruTrailseeker

NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY juror Sofyan Bey (Redline Reviews ) recently published a detailed review of the new 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid.

In his review, Sofyan takes an in-depth look at the Palisade's fuel economy, exterior design, updated folding third-row seating, ...Read moreinterior refinements, infotainment system, sunroof, handling, and safety camera technology—all while sharing his overall driving impressions from behind the wheel.

Watch his full video review: https://youtu.be/NUr1jqM84VM

(The opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

Redline ReviewsRedline Reviews Hyundai
#NACTOYJuror #NACTOY #Hyundai #HyundaiPalisade

NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY juror Jodi Lai (AutoTrader.ca) takes a closer look at the redesigned 2026 Hyundai Venue.

In her review, Jodi highlights the Hyundai Venue's affordability, fuel efficiency, upgraded features, safety, practicality, and design while examining how it...Read more stacks up against the competition in today's market.

Look at her full video review here: https://youtu.be/MkdMJwsS0LI

(The opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

AutoTrader.ca a Hyundai
#NACTOYJuror #NACTOY #Hyundai #HyundaiVenue

NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY juror Jill Ciminillo (Jill Ciminillo ) recently took the Range Rover on a road trip for a hands-on, real-world review.
In her review, Jill takes an in-depth look at the Range Rover's cargo capacity, rear-seat comfort, infotainment system, new tech ...Read morefeatures, fuel economy, drive modes, handling, engine performance, overall ride comfort, and whether it delivers enough value to justify its price tag against the competition.

Check out her full video review here: https://youtu.be/h-lrH-vkp4I

(The opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

Jill Ciminillo Range Rover
#NACTOYJuror #NACTOY #RangeRover #LandRover

Is your automotive technology the next big innovation?

https://northamericancaroftheyear.org/north-american-automotive-tech-of-the-year/

There’s still time to nominate your technology for the North American Automotive Technology of the Year™ Award — but nominations close ...Read moreSeptember 30.

The award is open to OEMs and suppliers, and both hardware and software are eligible.

The NACTOY jury evaluates submissions across nine criteria:

• Newness — All-new or a significant improvement
• User Experience — Intuitive and reduces distraction
• Innovation — Novel and original
• Reliability — Consistent across environments
• Accessibility — Usable for diverse drivers
• Integration — Seamless with vehicle systems
• Value — Benefit relative to cost
• Privacy — Data protection and cyber resilience
• Long-Term Value — Useful throughout the life of the vehicle

What are you building that’s changing automotive technology?

Submit your nomination by September 30.

#automotive #autotech #nactoy #automotivetechnology Rebecca Lindland Jill Ciminillo Jeff Gilbert Mark Phelan John Vincent #alisonworldwide

NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY juror Doug DeMuro (Cars & Bids ) recently reviewed the new 2026 Toyota bZ Woodland, an all-electric midsize SUV.

In his review, Doug explores the bZ Woodland's pricing, performance, interior and exterior features, driving experience, ...Read moretechnology, electric range, off-road enhancements, cargo space, and overall impressions. He also shares his perspective on what makes the bZ Woodland stand out in the competitive midsize SUV segment.

Watch the full review here: https://youtu.be/N0ikHlOYpzo

(The opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

Cars & Bids Toyota USA
#NACTOYJuror #NACTOY #Toyota #ToyotabZWoodland

The North American Automotive Technology of the Year™ Award is open to both OEMs and suppliers!

If your technology is in a production vehicle on sale in 2026, the jury wants to see it — whether it came from an automaker, a supplier, or a collaboration between both.

Software is...Read more explicitly eligible — whether that's an advanced driver assistance system, over-the-air update capability, in-cabin AI, connectivity features, or anything else that meaningfully improves the ownership experience.

The criteria are simple: does it enhance driver experience, convenience, or safety? Is it in a production vehicle on sale in 2026?

If it's a joint effort, both parties win the award together.

The innovations that reshape driving often come from the supply chain first. Make sure yours is in the room!

Deadline: September 30.
#AutomotiveSuppliers #AutoTech #NACTOY #Tier1 #VehicleTechnology #automotivetechnology #automotive

https://northamericancaroftheyear.org/north-american-automotive-tech-of-the-year/

NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY juror Karl Brauer (karlbrauer ) recently took the luxurious 2027 Mercedes-Maybach for a test drive and review.

In his review, Karl focuses on the V12 model, taking an in-depth look at its luxury features, design updates, technology, seating options, ...Read moreinfotainment system, pricing, horsepower, and safety features. He also highlights the elements that set the Maybach apart in the ultra-luxury segment.

Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/aHXk7vmgfSU

(The opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

karlbrauer @Mercedes
#NACTOYJuror #NACTOY #Mercedes #MercedesMayBach

NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY juror Tom Voelk (Driven Car Reviews with Tom Voelk.) takes an in-depth look at the new 2026 Ford Expedition Tremor.

In his review, Tom explores the Expedition Tremor's engine performance, design updates, fuel efficiency, interior, cargo space, ...Read moredriving dynamics, technology, comfort, and what buyers should consider before purchasing one.

Watch the full video here: https://youtu.be/80roZmdMvo0

(The opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

Driven Car Reviews with Tom Voelk. Ford Motor Company

#NACTOYJuror #NACTOY #Ford #FordExpedition

NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY Juror Lauren Fix (Lauren Fix ) takes a closer look at the redesigned 2027 KIA Seltos.

In her review, Lauren highlights its bold new styling, upgraded technology, accessible pricing, fuel economy, comfort, safety features, and impressive value in the ...Read morecompetitive subcompact SUV segment.

Have a look at her video review: https://tinyurl.com/4jwprrx5

(Opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

Lauren Fix Kia America

#NACTOYJuror #NACTOY #KIA #kiaSeltos

NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY juror John Davis (MotorWeek ) recently reviewed the new 2026 Dodge Charger.

In his review, John takes an in-depth look at the Dodge Charger’s powertrain, interior space, aerodynamic design, technology, drive modes, infotainment system, handling, and...Read more braking performance, while examining how it compares to others in its segment.

Watch the entire review here: https://youtu.be/qr74GUzf1oI

(Opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

MotorWeek Dodge
#NACTOYJuror #NACTOY #Dodgecharger

NACTOY would like to extend its sincere gratitude to board member Nicole Wakelin as she retires from the jury.

Nicole has worked tirelessly on behalf of the organization, first as NACTOY Secretary and most recently as Vice President. Her dedication and leadership have been instrumental in ...Read morehelping NACTOY continue to grow and maintain its standing within the automotive industry. She will be greatly missed!

We are pleased to share that Jill Ciminillo has agreed to assume the duties of NACTOY Vice President and will also serve as Secretary.

Please join us in thanking Nicole for her many years of service and in congratulating Jill as she steps into this important leadership role. We are grateful to both women for their commitment to NACTOY and the important work of our jury.

#NACTOY #NACTOYJuror

NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY juror Jodi Lai (AutoTrader.ca ) recently reviewed the Toyota RAV4.

In her review, Jodi shares her perspective on the Toyota RAV4’S comfort, safety, features, design, user-friendliness, driving dynamics, and fuel economy, while highlighting what ...Read morestands out in everyday driving.

Watch the full review here: https://youtu.be/9BfLf86Xt4Y

(Opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

AutoTrader.ca Toyota Canada

#NACTOYJuror #NACTOY #ToyotaRAV4

We are deeply saddened by the passing of longtime NACTOY juror Mark Takahashi.

Mark’s passion for the automotive industry, thoughtful journalism, and unwavering commitment to the North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year program left a lasting impact on our organization ...Read moreand on all who had the privilege of working alongside him.

He brought curiosity, integrity, and a genuine love of automobiles to every evaluation. His thoughtful perspective and collegial spirit will be deeply missed by his fellow jurors and the entire NACTOY community.

We extend our heartfelt condolences to Mark’s family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones during this difficult time.

NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY juror Carlos Sandoval ( Hablamos Autos ) recently reviewed the new 2027 BMW X5.

In his review, Carlos takes an in-depth look at the BMW X5’s redesigned styling, size, technology, performance, fuel efficiency, comfort, and comparison with other SUVs...Read more in its category.

Check out the full review: https://youtu.be/y9qE-RF_694

(Opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

Hablamos Autos BMW

#NACTOYJuror #NACTOY #BMWX5

Nuevo BMW X5 2027 | ¿El mejor SUV?

Te presentamos a detalle el nuevo @BMWTVMexico X5 2027 de quinta g...

youtu.be

NACTOY Juror Spotlight

NACTOY juror Jill Ciminilo (Jill Ciminillo ) recently reviewed the 2026 Kia K4 Hatchback.

In her latest review, Jill explores the K4 Hatchback's design, technology, performance, interior, pricing, and overall value, while sharing what she likes ...Read moremost—and where she thinks there's room for improvement.

Check out the full review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nV92-HGft64

(Opinions expressed are those of the individual NACTOY juror and do not necessarily reflect the views of NACTOY.)

Jill Ciminillo @kiausa

#NACTOYJuror #NACTOY #KiaK4

2026 Kia K4 Hatchback First Look Review

Jill Ciminillo takes a quick first look at the 2026 Kia K4 Hatchbac...

www.youtube.com