In a significant triumph for Canadian automotive manufacturing, the Windsor-made Dodge Charger has been crowned the 2026 North American Car of the Year (NACTOY). The prestigious award was announced at a ceremony in Detroit on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, marking a proud moment for the assembly plant and its workforce in Windsor, Ontario.
A Major Win for Windsor's Auto Sector
The victory underscores the continued excellence and competitiveness of Windsor's automotive industry on a continental stage. Dodge brand CEO Matt McAlear was present to accept the award, a testament to the collaborative effort between design, engineering, and the skilled labor force at the Windsor assembly facility.
This accolade is not just a win for the Dodge brand but a powerful endorsement of the quality and innovation emanating from Canadian auto plants. The North American Car of the Year award is judged by a panel of respected automotive journalists from the United States and Canada, making the Charger's selection a credible and impactful achievement.
What This Means for Canadian Manufacturing
The recognition serves as a robust vote of confidence in Windsor's manufacturing capabilities at a time when the global auto industry is undergoing rapid transformation. It highlights the plant's ability to produce a vehicle that excels in key areas such as design, performance, technology, and value, competing directly with models assembled across North America.
For the local economy and workforce, the award provides a substantial morale boost and reinforces Windsor's identity as a critical hub for automotive production. It also shines a spotlight on the advanced manufacturing processes and skilled tradespeople that are essential to Canada's industrial base.
Looking Ahead: The Road Forward
The 2026 NACTOY award for the Dodge Charger sets a high bar for future models produced in Windsor. It demonstrates that investment in Canadian manufacturing and workforce development can yield world-class results. This win is likely to be celebrated not only by Stellantis, Dodge's parent company, but also by civic leaders and residents who take pride in the city's industrial heritage and future.
As the automotive industry continues to evolve towards electrification and new technologies, this award proves that Windsor's facilities are more than capable of leading the charge and producing award-winning vehicles for the North American market.
