The first time AJAC (Automobile Journalists Association of Canada) introduced its Car of the Year program was in 1986. The winner that year was the Pontiac Bonneville.
A lot has changed since then, and the formula used to determine the winners will also evolve for 2027. The most significant change involves the award categories.
Here is what AJAC is proposing for February 2027.
The current four categories are:
They will be replaced by the following five categories:
AJAC will also eliminate the categories dedicated specifically to electric vehicles, which will instead be incorporated into their corresponding categories. The “luxury” classification will be determined by the manufacturer.
In addition, 25 semifinalists will be selected, with five in each of the five categories.
Finally, for the 2027 edition, “Canada’s 12 Best Vehicles” will become the “Top 10 Vehicles in Canada.” Two vehicles from each category will therefore be selected as finalists.
(Photo: Éric Descarries)

