Honda Civic Secures Back-to-Back AJAC Canadian Car of the Year Titles

The 2026 Honda Civic has claimed the AJAC Canadian Car of the Year title for the second consecutive year, marking its third victory in the past five years. This prestigious recognition from the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada reinforces the Civic's position as Canada's best-selling car for 26 of the past 28 years. The award encompasses the entire Civic lineup, including the sedan, hatchback, and the highly successful hybrid models that now represent over 60% of Canadian Civic sales.

Built proudly at Honda of Canada Manufacturing in Alliston, Ontario, the 2026 Civic sedan continues to deliver the combination of value, performance, and reliability that Canadian drivers have trusted for decades. The Civic's repeat victory comes alongside additional 2026 accolades, including the Car and Driver Editors' Choice Award and The Drive Best Value for 2026 Award, providing expert validation for drivers in Ontario considering their next vehicle purchase.

Award-Winning Recognition

The 2026 AJAC Canadian Car of the Year award offers the automotive journalism community's recognition of the Civic's continued excellence across multiple criteria. AJAC jurors evaluate vehicles based on value, design, performance, safety, technology, and environmental impact, making this back-to-back victory particularly significant.

The Civic's award season extends beyond Canadian borders. The Civic Hybrid earned the 2025 North American Car of the Year award, making it the fourth NACOTY honour for the Civic nameplate - more than any other vehicle in the award's 30-year history. These consecutive international and national recognitions demonstrate the Civic's broad appeal and engineering excellence.

At a Glance: 2026 Honda Civic Lineup

Hybrid Excellence Leading Sales

The 2026 Civic Hybrid models sit at the top of the Civic lineup, combining the fun-to-drive character that defines the Civic with Honda's fourth-generation two-motor hybrid-electric power unit. This all-new hybrid system delivers 200 hp and 232 lb-ft of torque through two large and powerful electric motors working in concert with the 2.0-litre inline 4-cylinder engine.

The hybrid system's appeal is evident in the numbers. Hybrid models now account for over 60% of Civic sales in Canada, reflecting driver preference for the combination of performance and efficiency. The Sport Hybrid and Sport Touring Hybrid trims are available in both sedan and hatchback configurations, providing flexibility for different lifestyle needs.

The hybrid powertrain features:

• Fourth-generation two-motor hybrid-electric system
• 200 hp combined system output
• 232 lb-ft of torque available from 0-2000 rpm
• 16-Valve DOHC with Dual Variable Timing Control
• Direct injection fuel delivery
• Eco Assist system with multiple drive modes

Built in Canada for Canadian Drivers

Every Civic sedan - whether hybrid or gasoline-powered - is built at Honda of Canada Manufacturing in Alliston, Ontario, where skilled associates have produced more than six million Civics since 1988. This Canadian manufacturing heritage contributes to the Civic's reputation for quality and reliability while supporting local employment and the Canadian economy.

The Alliston facility celebrates its 40th anniversary of building Honda and Acura models this year. The plant's commitment to quality manufacturing has made the Civic sedan a symbol of Canadian automotive excellence, with vehicles shipped to markets across North America.

Trim Levels and Configurations

The 2026 Civic lineup offers four distinct trim levels to match different driver priorities:

LX (Sedan Only): The entry point features the 2.0-litre engine producing 150 hp and 133 lb-ft of torque. Standard equipment includes the Eco Assist system and ECON/Normal drive modes. The LX provides the core Civic experience with front-wheel drive and proven reliability.

Sport: Available in sedan and hatchback body styles, the Sport trim maintains the 150 hp engine while adding Sport drive mode alongside ECON and Normal settings. The Sport trim enhances the Civic's engaging driving dynamics with styling updates and performance-oriented features.

Sport Hybrid: The hybrid-powered Sport trim delivers 200 hp through the two-motor system, offering immediate torque response and improved efficiency. Available in sedan and hatchback configurations, the Sport Hybrid includes ECON, Normal, and Sport drive modes with the Eco Assist system.

Sport Touring Hybrid: Positioned at the top of the lineup, the Sport Touring Hybrid adds Individual drive mode to the ECON/Normal/Sport selection, allowing drivers to customise vehicle responses. The Sport Touring Hybrid offers the full expression of Civic capability, combining maximum power with premium features.

Comparing Civic Powertrains

Technology and Engineering

All 2026 Civic models feature Honda's refined engineering approach. The 2.0-litre inline 4-cylinder engine uses direct injection and 16-Valve DOHC architecture with Dual Variable Timing Control. This combination optimizes performance across the rev range while maintaining efficiency.

The Eco Assist system comes standard across all trims, helping drivers maximise fuel economy through real-time feedback and coaching. Drive mode selection allows drivers to tailor vehicle response to match driving conditions and preferences, from efficiency-focused ECON mode to the more responsive Sport setting.

The hybrid models benefit from the fourth-generation two-motor system, which offers a significant advancement in Honda's electrification technology. The system smoothly transitions between electric-only operation, hybrid driving, and engine-direct drive modes depending on driving conditions and power demands.

Value and Recognition

The 2026 Car and Driver Editors' Choice Award and The Drive Best Value for 2026 Award complement the AJAC recognition, highlighting the Civic's position as a smart purchase decision. These awards evaluate vehicles based on price, features, performance, and ownership costs, confirming that the Civic delivers strong value in the compact car segment.

The Civic's 26-year run as Canada's best-selling car demonstrates sustained customer satisfaction and trust. This sales leadership reflects the vehicle's ability to meet Canadian driver needs across diverse climates, driving conditions, and usage patterns.

Experience the Award-Winning Civic

The 2026 Honda Civic's repeat AJAC Canadian Car of the Year victory confirms what Canadian drivers have known for decades: the Civic delivers reliable performance, practical design, and engaging driving dynamics. Whether choosing the efficient hybrid models that now dominate sales or the proven gasoline powertrains, drivers gain access to a vehicle built in Canada and recognized by automotive experts across North America.