Car of the Year, other top honours up for grabs as NAJA Awards race begins

Nigeria’s leading automobile brands and industry players are gearing up for a keen contest for the coveted Car of the Year title and other top honours as nominations open for the 19th Nigeria Auto Journalists Association Awards, scheduled for December 3, 2026, in Lagos.

With the Civic Centre, Victoria Island, set to host the ceremony for the first time, the competition is expected to spotlight outstanding vehicles, automotive companies, assemblers, after-sales service providers and industry personalities whose products, innovations and contributions are shaping Nigeria’s evolving automotive market.

The Car of the Year category is expected to be a major highlight as nominations begin, with competing brands seeking to outshine one another in a market increasingly influenced by vehicle technology, affordability, performance, customer experience and the growing adoption of alternative-energy mobility solutions.

The commencement of nominations marks a significant step towards the December 3, 2026 grand finale, where outstanding automobile brands, manufacturers, distributors, service providers and industry personalities will be recognised for their performance and contributions to the sector.

The Car of the Year award has become a major talking point at the annual event, providing an opportunity for competing vehicle brands to demonstrate their strengths in an increasingly competitive Nigerian automotive market.

Other categories will spotlight excellence across different segments of the industry, such as vehicle manufacturing and assembly, commercial vehicles, alternative-energy mobility, after-sales services, automotive distribution and individual contributions to sector development.

The awards are expected to attract leading automobile manufacturers, distributors, dealers, financial institutions, policymakers and other stakeholders, as the industry navigates changing consumer preferences, technological advancements, alternative-energy vehicles and renewed efforts to promote local assembly.

Chairman of the 2026 NAJA Awards Planning Committee, Frank Kintum, said the committee was determined to deliver a ceremony worthy of the growing importance of Nigeria’s automotive industry.

Kintum described the awards as an important platform for recognising individuals, brands and organisations whose activities have contributed significantly to the development of the sector.

He said the 19th edition was being planned to be bigger and more glamorous than previous editions, while upholding the credibility and professional standards associated with the awards.

According to the organisers, products, brands and personalities will be assessed across relevant categories, with the final outcomes determined in line with the association’s approved award modalities.

NAJA Chairman, Theodore Opara, said the awards were not merely about celebrating the biggest players in the market but also recognising organisations and individuals that had demonstrated measurable excellence and made meaningful contributions to the automotive ecosystem.

He noted that the credibility of the evaluation process had helped strengthen the awards’ relevance as a reference point for industry stakeholders.

As nominations progress, competition is expected to reflect the growing diversity of Nigeria’s automotive market, where established manufacturers and distributors are facing increasing competition from emerging brands, new vehicle models and alternative-energy mobility solutions.

The outcome of the 2025 edition provides an indication of the competition that could unfold in this year’s contest.

At the 18th NAJA International Auto Awards, held on December 16, 2025, at the Oriental Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, the Jetour Dashing emerged as Nigeria’s Car of the Year after beating the Changan CS55 and Chery Tiggo to the top prize.

The award placed the compact crossover SUV in the spotlight, reflecting the growing competition among vehicle brands seeking to attract Nigerian buyers through design, technology, performance and value.

Mikano Motors also recorded a major success, winning Auto Company of the Year, while its Changan CS55 was named Midsize SUV of the Year.

Toyota Nigeria’s Isolo facility won Workshop of the Year, while the Toyota Hilux and Toyota Hiace emerged Pick-Up of the Year and Minibus of the Year, respectively.

Other notable winners included Dangote Sinotruk as Heavy-Duty Truck Brand of the Year, Iron Products Industries Limited as Truck Assembler/Body Builder of the Year, Lanre Shittu Motors as Truck Plant of the Year and Innoson Vehicle Manufacturing as Passenger Car Assembly Plant of the Year.

In the alternative-energy segment, SAGLEV won EV Brand of the Year, while Jet Automobiles was recognised as CNG Vehicle Assembler of the Year. NORD Automobiles emerged Fastest Growing Auto Brand of the Year.

Carloha Nigeria secured the Auto Aftersales Company of the Year and Pre-owned Company of the Year awards, while Winpart by CFAO won Auto Aftersales Service Provider of the Year for parts and workshop services.

The awards also recognised individual contributions, with NORD Automobiles Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Oluwatobi Ajayi, named Auto Personality of the Year in the private-sector category, while National Automotive Design and Development Council Director-General, Joseph Osanipin, received the public-sector honour.

The range of winners illustrated the breadth of the awards, which extend beyond passenger vehicles to recognise achievements in commercial transportation, local assembly, workshop services, electric mobility and automotive business development.

Industry expectations rise

The 2026 awards come at a time when the automotive industry is undergoing significant changes, with vehicle electrification, compressed natural gas adoption, local manufacturing, after-sales support and evolving government policies shaping its direction.

Against this background, the awards provide an opportunity to highlight businesses and individuals responding to these changes while delivering products and services to Nigerian consumers.

For vehicle manufacturers and distributors, winning a major category could strengthen brand visibility and market positioning, while recognition for assembly plants, service providers and transport operators would underscore the importance of the wider automotive value chain.

The organisers have urged automobile brands and other industry stakeholders to participate actively in the nomination process as preparations gather momentum for the December ceremony.

With the 2025 winners setting a competitive benchmark, attention will now turn to the brands, companies and personalities that will emerge at the 19th edition of the NAJA awards on December 3.

Toyota Corolla Cross: The SUV That Blends Everyday Comfort With Practicality

With its elevated driving position, spacious cabin, advanced safety technologies and fuel-efficient hybrid options, the Toyota Corolla Cross offers motorists a compelling blend of SUV versatility and everyday convenience.

For motorists seeking a vehicle that combines the comfort of a family car with the versatility of a sport utility vehicle, the Toyota Corolla Cross presents an attractive option in the increasingly competitive crossover market.

Developed around the familiar Corolla nameplate, the Corolla Cross brings together the practicality associated with the Corolla range and the elevated stance, generous interior space and utility expected of an SUV.
Toyota describes the model as combining spacious interior accommodation and outstanding utility with responsive performance and fuel efficiency.

The result is a vehicle designed to appeal to families, professionals and urban motorists who want a versatile vehicle for daily commuting, business engagements, weekend outings and longer journeys.

SUV styling meets everyday functionality

The Corolla Cross adopts the raised body profile and commanding road presence of an SUV while retaining proportions intended to make it manageable for everyday driving.

Its design seeks to balance visual appeal with functionality, giving buyers an alternative to conventional saloon cars without requiring them to move into a larger SUV.

The elevated seating position can provide drivers with a more commanding view of the road, while the crossover format offers flexibility for passengers, shopping, luggage and other everyday transportation needs.

For Nigerian motorists navigating a combination of busy city streets, highways and varying road conditions, these characteristics make the model worth considering as an all-round family and business vehicle.

Comfort and space for modern motorists

Interior space is an important part of the Corolla Cross proposition. Its cabin is designed to accommodate passengers comfortably while providing practical storage and luggage-carrying capability for everyday activities.

The model’s SUV-inspired layout offers an alternative for customers who need more versatility than a conventional compact saloon but do not necessarily require a full-size SUV.

Depending on the grade, Nigerian buyers should confirm the availability of specific convenience and infotainment features, including touchscreen functions, smartphone connectivity, climate control and other equipment, with an authorised Toyota dealer.

Fuel efficiency and hybrid technology

Fuel economy remains a significant consideration for Nigerian vehicle buyers, particularly households and businesses seeking to manage running costs.

Toyota’s Corolla Cross range includes hybrid versions in selected markets, combining a petrol engine with an electric motor to improve efficiency. The official Toyota Corolla Cross product information highlights fuel-saving hybrid technology as one of the model’s major strengths.

Toyota also lists an E-Four electric four-wheel-drive system on applicable hybrid versions. Availability of this drivetrain and the associated features depends on the specific version.

Actual fuel consumption will vary according to the powertrain, driving conditions, traffic, vehicle load and driving style. Prospective Nigerian buyers should therefore confirm the engine, transmission and hybrid availability of the exact vehicle being offered locally rather than assume that every international specification is available in Nigeria.

Safety and driver assistance

Safety is another important element of the Corolla Cross package.

Toyota’s international product information highlights Toyota Safety Sense, a suite of active safety and driver-assistance technologies designed to support drivers in everyday traffic situations. Depending on the model grade and market, the package may include functions intended to help detect potential collisions and support safer driving.

The manufacturer’s information also identifies parking assistance and a back-guide monitor on applicable grades, helping drivers manoeuvre in confined spaces.

However, equipment can differ by market and specification. Buyers should request confirmation of the safety features fitted to the particular Corolla Cross being sold by Toyota (Nigeria) Limited or its accredited dealers.

Backed by Toyota’s Nigerian dealer network

Beyond the vehicle’s design and equipment, the availability of authorised sales, servicing and genuine spare parts is an important consideration for buyers.

Toyota (Nigeria) Limited, appointed distributor of Toyota Motor Corporation in Nigeria, operates through seven accredited dealers across the country. The company says its network supports vehicle sales, after-sales services and the supply of genuine parts.

Purchasing an eligible new vehicle through an accredited dealer also provides access to Toyota (Nigeria) Limited’s stated basic warranty of three years or 100,000 kilometres, whichever comes first, subject to the manufacturer’s terms and conditions.

The company says its Nigerian-market vehicles are configured with local operating conditions in mind, including a Severe User Package designed to help vehicles cope with challenging road and environmental conditions. Customers should confirm the precise specification applicable to the Corolla Cross they intend to purchase.

Where to enquire about the Toyota Corolla Cross

Customers can contact Toyota (Nigeria) Limited’s accredited dealers to confirm the Corolla Cross’s availability, current price, engine and transmission options, colour choices, warranty coverage and delivery arrangements.

The seven dealers listed on Toyota (Nigeria) Limited’s official website are:
Elizade Nigeria Limited, R.T. Briscoe (Nigeria), Omoregie Motors, Germaine Auto Centre, Mandilas Enterprises Limited,
Kojo Motors Limited and Metropolitan Motors Limited.
Dealer contacts and locations can be checked on Toyota (Nigeria) Limited’s official website at www.toyotanigeria.com/dealers/.

A versatile choice for the modern driver

The Toyota Corolla Cross brings together the elevated stance of an SUV, the everyday practicality of the Corolla nameplate and the availability of fuel-efficient hybrid technology in selected versions.

For Nigerian buyers weighing comfort, utility, safety and long-term ownership support, the model deserves consideration as a versatile vehicle for both personal and family use.

Hyundai Unveils Mufasa, Grand Creta SUVs to Strengthen Nigeria Line-up (Updated)

Hyundai Motors Nigeria has expanded its sport utility vehicle (SUV) range with the introduction of the all-new Mufasa and Grand Creta, offering Nigerian motorists more choices in styling, performance, technology and passenger comfort.

The two models, unveiled in Lagos on Wednesday, are targeted at different customer segments, with the Mufasa designed for motorists seeking a stylish, five-seater SUV, while the Grand Creta offers a three-row, seven-seater configuration suited to larger families and customers requiring additional passenger space.

The launch underscores Hyundai’s efforts to strengthen its presence in Nigeria’s competitive automotive market, where demand for versatile vehicles that combine comfort, safety, performance and practicality continues to shape consumer preferences.

Speaking at the launch, Hyundai Motors Nigeria’s General Manager, Sales and Marketing, Mr Gaurav Vashisht, said the new models reflected the company’s commitment to providing vehicles that meet the changing needs of Nigerian customers.

“The SUV segment continues to attract strong interest in Nigeria, as customers increasingly prioritise comfort, safety, technology and versatility,” Vashisht said.

He also gave a rundown of the two new vehicles’ features even as he stated that the Mufasa and Grand Creta were designed to meet different lifestyle requirements while maintaining Hyundai’s global standards of quality and innovation.

Mufasa targets style-conscious motorists

The Hyundai Mufasa combines bold exterior styling with a spacious cabin and features designed for everyday driving. Its distinctive front grille, signature LED lighting and muscular bodywork give it a commanding road presence.

Power comes from a 2.0-litre Smartstream multipoint fuel injection (MPi) petrol engine paired with a six-speed automatic transmission. Depending on the market specification, the engine produces approximately 150–160 horsepower and 193Nm of torque.

The five-seater SUV measures about 4,475mm in length, with a 2,680mm wheelbase, providing room for passengers and luggage while retaining a practical footprint for urban driving and longer journeys.

Its cabin features a modern dashboard, digital displays and storage spaces, while available equipment, depending on the variant, includes touchscreen infotainment, smartphone connectivity, automatic climate control, wireless charging and selectable driving modes.

Safety and driver-support features include anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, airbags and parking assistance, subject to the vehicle specification.

The Mufasa is positioned as an option for professionals, younger motorists and families seeking a combination of contemporary design, technology and everyday usability.

Grand Creta offers seven-seat flexibility

The Grand Creta complements the Mufasa with a larger cabin and seating for up to seven occupants, making it suitable for families and motorists who prioritise passenger capacity and interior flexibility.

The SUV is powered by an available 2.0-litre Smartstream petrol engine producing approximately 159 horsepower and 191Nm of torque. A six-speed automatic transmission is offered on automatic variant.

Its 2,760mm wheelbase supports a spacious three-row layout, while the flexible seating arrangement allows occupants to adjust the cabin to accommodate passengers or luggage.

Depending on the trim, convenience features include an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone connectivity, rear air-conditioning vents, keyless entry, push-button start and a digital instrument cluster.

Higher-specification versions may also feature leather-appointed seats, ventilated front seats, automatic climate control, wireless charging and a panoramic sunroof.

Safety equipment offered across the range includes six airbags, anti-lock braking, electronic stability control, hill-start assist, rear parking sensors, a rear-view camera and ISOFIX child-seat mounting points.

The model is aimed particularly at larger families seeking additional space and comfort without sacrificing the styling and versatility associated with SUVs.

After-sales support in focus

Beyond the new models, Hyundai Motors Nigeria says it is focused on delivering a comprehensive ownership experience through its authorised dealership network, after-sales services and access to genuine spare parts.

Vashisht said the Mufasa would appeal to customers seeking bold styling, modern technology and dynamic performance, while the Grand Creta would cater to those requiring greater passenger capacity, comfort and versatility.

“Our objective is not simply to introduce new vehicles but to deliver a complete ownership experience,” he said, reaffirming the company’s commitment to building long-term customer confidence in the Hyundai brand.

The two additions expand Hyundai’s existing SUV portfolio, which includes the Creta, Tucson, Santa Fe and Palisade.

Their introduction comes as automakers compete to attract Nigerian buyers with vehicles offering a balance of comfort, safety, technology, performance and long-term ownership value.

With the Mufasa and Grand Creta, Hyundai is seeking to broaden its appeal across different customer categories while strengthening its position in Nigeria’s increasingly competitive SUV market.