The fourth edition of the ACKO Drive TOTMs (The One That Matters) automotive awards concluded recently in Chennai, celebrating the most outstanding vehicles, manufacturers, and industry leaders in the indian auto sector.

🏆 Major Winners

🚗 Car of the Year: hyundai Venue

The Hyundai Venue was honoured as the ACKO Drive car of the Year 2026 — a significant achievement for the compact SUV, which continues to be one of India’s most popular SUVs thanks to its modern design, rich features and strong performance across variants.

The Venue, refreshed with updated styling and a feature‑loaded interior, has been well‑received in its segment, competing strongly against rivals like the Kia Sonet and Tata Nexon.

🛵 Bike of the Year: TVS Ntorq 150

In the two‑wheeler category, the TVS Ntorq 150 scooped the Bike of the Year award.

The Ntorq 150 has been praised for its sporty design, advanced tech features (including a hi‑res TFT display and SmartXonnect connectivity), and engaging ride experience, making it one of India’s top‑performing scooters in its class.

🏅 Premium Category Honours

Premium car of the Year: BMW iX1 — recognised for its blend of luxury, performance, and electric‑capable engineering.

Premium bike of the Year: Ducati Panigale V4 — a standout performance machine in the superbike category.

👥 Viewers’ Choice & Special Honors

Viewers’ Choice Car: Mahindra BE 6 — voted by consumers in the car category.

Viewers’ Choice Bike: Royal Enfield Hunter 350 — top pick among bike enthusiasts.

Person of the Year 2026: Tarun Garg (MD & CEO Designate, hyundai Motor India) — recognised for leadership and vision.

🏭 Industry Legends and Hall of Fame

Several automotive stalwarts and companies were inducted into the TOTM Hall of Fame for their long‑term contribution to India’s automotive ecosystem — including Ashok Leyland, bmw Group India, hyundai Motor India, Rane Group, Royal Enfield, and TVS Motor Company. Automotive veteran Dr. V. Sumantran was also honoured for his pioneering influence on the industry.

📋 Evaluation and Jury Process

The TOTMs are judged through a research‑led evaluation process in partnership with Grant Thornton Bharat, with vehicles undergoing extensive testing — including on‑track sessions at the Buddh international Circuit — and assessment by automotive experts, journalists and industry professionals.

📍 Why These Wins Matter

The ACKO Drive TOTMs — now in their fourth year — have become one of India’s most credible and respected automotive honours, recognising both consumer favourites and technically excellent vehicles across segments. They reflect trends in performance, technology adoption, customer appeal and overall value in the evolving indian auto market.

Summary:

🚗 Hyundai Venue — car of the Year 2026

🛵 TVS Ntorq 150 — bike of the Year 2026

🏆 Premium honours: BMW iX1 (car) & Ducati Panigale V4 (bike)

🎖️ Viewers’ Choice winners and industry Hall of Fame inductees also recognised at the event.

 

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