The Hispanic Motor Press revealed the winners of the 16th annual Hispanic Motor Press Awards (HMPA) during AutoMobility LA at the Los Angeles Convention Center, marking the opening of the Los Angeles Auto Show. The awards recognized the best 2026 model year vehicles in five categories, with executives from each winning manufacturer receiving the honors.
“With so many brands and models to choose from, and manufacturer advancements in technology, safety features, infotainment, and cleaner mobility, we help guide Hispanic car buyers who represent 1 in 4 of new-vehicle purchases,” said Ricardo Rodriguez-Long, founder and president of the Hispanic Motor Press. “The United States is the second-largest Spanish-speaking country in the world, making it culturally vital to reach this consumer in their own language.”
The 2026 HMPA winners are: Best EV: Hyundai IONIQ 9; Best Family Car: Kia Carnival; Best SUV: Toyota RAV4; Best Pick-up Truck: RAM 1500; Best Luxury: Lincoln Navigator. These vehicles were selected by a 16-member jury panel after an eight-month testing period from January to September 2025. Evaluation criteria included safety, technology integration, ergonomics, overall content, and price.
“We are proud to help the consumer find the right car for their need,” said judge Gil Silva, who works at Mitchell reviewing repairs and longevity of car components. “Any of these five vehicles deliver excellent value overall,” added judge Camilo Alfaro, CEO of the Hispanic Consortium. “There is always a bit of tension choosing ‘THE’ winner of a class. Personally, I am confident that the top 3 of each category will reward the consumer,” said judge Carlos Hernandez, publisher of Latinos News.
All finalist vehicles are considered significant automobiles that meet the needs and desires of Hispanic consumers. The 16 auto manufacturers voluntarily submitted entries. The jury panel consisted of independent Hispanic automotive journalists, content creators, and industry influencers from across the country.
The Hispanic Motor Press Awards is the only independent Hispanic awards program in the country, aiming to help Hispanic families choose the best vehicle options. Hispanic consumers represent $1.9 trillion in buying power and account for 1 in 4 new vehicle purchases in the United States. The Hispanic Motor Press Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) focused on educating and helping Hispanic consumers move towards clean, affordable mobility that reduces greenhouse emissions.
For more information, visit Hispanic Motor Press.
