The German automotive award "Golden Steering Wheel" from Auto Bild has announced the winners of its anniversary, 50th year. BMW and Škoda each took two awards, while in the compact class the Kia estate won. This is reported by Auto Express.
Winners of the 2026 "Golden Steering Wheel" in five categories
Out of 79 models, readers chose three finalists in each of the nine main categories, and the winners were determined by a jury of 23 people after testing at the Lausitzring circuit against 19 criteria.
1. Škoda Epiq — best small crossover
The compact electric crossover received 4.5 out of 5 points from Auto Express following a test drive. The publication noted its handling, design and value-for-equipment ratio.
2. Kia K4 Sportswagon — winner of the compact class
The award went to a petrol estate built on the basis of the Kia K4 hatchback. In its review, Auto Express noted its practicality and price.
3. BMW i3 — best mid-size car
BMW has brought back the i3 name for an electric sedan on the Neue Klasse platform, which is also used by the BMW iX3. The range reaches approximately 911 km. In the Auto Express test, the model received 5 out of 5 points.
4. BMW M2 CS — best sports car
BMW's second award was brought by the compact M2 CS coupe with a six-cylinder engine. It won in the sports car category.
5. Škoda Peaq — best family car
The Peaq is Škoda's largest model. The electric crossover with a spacious interior brought the Czech brand its second award after the Epiq.
