In a glittering ceremony that spotlighted the pinnacle of Indian automotive innovation, JK Tyre successfully hosted the prestigious Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY) 2026 and Indian Motorcycle of the Year (IMOTY) 2026 awards. The event, a cornerstone of the country's auto industry calendar, brought together leading manufacturers, industry experts, and media to celebrate the finest vehicles launched in the market.
Celebrating the Champions of the Road
The jury, comprising India's most respected automotive journalists, put the contending vehicles through a rigorous evaluation process. After intense scrutiny based on parameters like performance, value, design, and innovation, the coveted titles were awarded. The Hyundai Creta N Line emerged victorious, clinching the prestigious Indian Car of the Year 2026 award. This performance-oriented variant impressed the jury with its dynamic appeal and enhanced driving experience.
In the two-wheeler segment, the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 triumphed, earning the title of Indian Motorcycle of the Year 2026. Its robust new platform, powerful engine, and proven adventure touring capabilities resonated strongly with the panel of experts, marking a significant win for the iconic brand.
Special Category Honours and Industry Recognition
The awards ceremony also acknowledged excellence in specific vehicle categories. The Mahindra XUV 3XO was declared the Premium Compact SUV of the Year, highlighting its successful revamp and feature-packed offering. Furthermore, the Maruti Suzuki Swift continued its legacy by winning the Viewers' Choice Car of the Year award, a testament to its enduring popularity among the Indian public.
Dr. Raghupati Singhania, Chairman and Managing Director of JK Tyre, lauded the winners and emphasized the awards' role in the industry. He stated that the ICOTY and IMOTY awards serve as a true benchmark for automotive excellence, pushing manufacturers to continuously raise the bar. He highlighted how these accolades guide consumers toward making informed choices in an increasingly competitive market.
A Legacy of Promoting Automotive Excellence
JK Tyre's stewardship of these awards for over two decades underscores its deep commitment to the Indian automotive ecosystem. By instituting and nurturing these independent and transparent awards, the tyre major has played a pivotal role in recognizing engineering marvels and design triumphs. The event not only honours the winning models but also reflects the vibrant growth, cutting-edge technology, and consumer-centric evolution of the Indian automobile sector.
The 2026 edition of the awards has once again successfully highlighted the vehicles that are setting new standards. The triumph of the Hyundai Creta N Line and the Royal Enfield Himalayan 450 signals clear consumer trends towards performance-oriented SUVs and capable adventure tourers. As the industry moves forward, the ICOTY and IMOTY awards will continue to be the most trusted indicators of quality and innovation for millions of Indian buyers.
