Car of the Year 2027 in Greece: The 44 Contenders, and the Petrol and Hybrid Picks Worth Your Attention

Every autumn, the Greek car world starts talking about one title: Car of the Year. The 2027 race has officially begun. The list of contenders is out, and it's one of the biggest ever. 44 new models will compete for the title, and the winner will be announced at the end of the year.

How the title works

The contest covers every new model that has been imported and sold in Greece between November 2025 and October 2026. There's one important rule: every juror must have driven the car. A model that launches before the end of October but hasn't been driven by all jurors moves to next year's evaluation.

That makes the award a useful snapshot of what's actually new on the Greek market right now.

A crowded year

44 contenders is the second-highest number ever, behind only last year's 50. Just three years ago, in 2023, there were only 21. The market has more than doubled its new arrivals in three years.

Most of that growth comes from new brands, many of them Chinese, and from a long wave of electric models. For buyers, this means more choice than ever, and also more confusion.

The petrol and hybrid contenders to watch

Electric cars dominate most headlines. Many Greek drivers, though, still want a petrol or hybrid engine because of charging access, long trips, or price. The good news is that the 2027 list has strong options for them too.

Toyota RAV4. The new generation of one of the world's best-selling SUVs. Toyota's hybrid system remains a favourite for drivers who want low fuel consumption without charging worries.

Renault Clio. The new Clio brings a fresh design to one of Europe's most popular superminis. For many buyers it's the definition of a sensible first or city car.

Volkswagen T-Roc. The second generation of VW's best-selling compact SUV. It fits the size and price point that most Greek families look for.

Audi Q3. The premium compact SUV gets a full redesign, with more technology and a more upmarket cabin.

Citroën C5 Aircross. Citroën's family SUV grows up, with a strong focus on comfort and space.

Jeep Compass. A new generation of Jeep's compact SUV, aimed at buyers who want rugged looks with everyday practicality.

Renault Rafale and Mercedes-Benz CLA. Two sleeker choices for buyers who want something more stylish than a typical SUV.

Engine choices differ by model and by market, so always check which versions are actually sold in Greece before you fall for a car.

What an award means for you

A title is a good sign, but it's never the full answer. The jury judges cars on overall quality, innovation and value. You need to judge them on your own life: your budget, your daily kilometres, your parking, your family size and where you drive.

The best car of the year might be the wrong car for you. A less famous model might fit you perfectly.

See them in person

With AUTO ATHINA 2026 opening on October 3, you'll have a rare chance to see many new models in one place. Sit in them, check the boot, ask about delivery times, and book a test drive where you can.

Find your match in 2 minutes

Out of 44 new models, which ones really fit you? KAR AI helps you find your next car in 2 minutes. Answer a short multiple-choice questionnaire, and our AI combines your answers with real-time market data to suggest the cars that suit your budget and your life. Let the jury pick the Car of the Year. Let KAR AI help you pick yours.