Each year, car enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the SEMA Show to discover the best vehicles for customization. Ahead of the show, exhibitors are asked to choose the models they believe present the greatest opportunities for aftermarket accessorization in the upcoming year. With winners announced on October 31st, let’s take a closer look at the top customizable vehicles that were displayed at the 2022 SEMA Show.
The SEMA Award Winners
The SEMA Awards recognize the hottest new vehicles that offer exceptional possibilities for customization. This year, winners were selected from six distinct categories. The winners for each category are as follows:
- SEMA Car of the Year: Dodge Challenger
- SEMA Fullsize Truck of the Year: RAM
- SEMA 4×4/SUV of the Year: Jeep Wrangler
- SEMA Midsize Truck of the Year: Jeep Gladiator
- SEMA Sport Compact of the Year: Toyota GR86
- SEMA EV of the Year: Volkswagen ID.4
Car of The Year: Dodge Challenger
On its farewell tour, the “Last Call” Dodge Challenger made a memorable appearance at the 2022 SEMA Show in ScatPack “Swinger” trim. This limited-edition model features unique grille badging, a painted Shaker intake, retro Swinger rear fender graphics, and a stunning Sublime Green exterior paint. With its 20×11 Gold School wheels, black six-piston Brembo brakes, and Mod Grain interior, the Challenger pays homage to the muscle car’s glory days.
Fullsize Truck of The Year: Ram
The RAM brand made multiple appearances at the 2022 SEMA Show, showcasing models like the TRX Gold Shot concept. This Mopar-built, 700hp TRX is designed for backcountry adventure and features custom-etched skid plates, Mopar rock rails, and a retractable bed step to enhance functionality. With its 37-inch BFGoodrich tires and black beadlocked rims, the RAM TRX Gold Shot concept is ready to tackle any off-road terrain.
Midsize Truck of The Year: Jeep Gladiator
The Midsize Truck of the Year, the Jeep Gladiator, has become a favorite in the overlanding community. This Rubicon model displayed in the Overland Experience exhibit boasts an Armadillo 23Zero aluminum hard-shell tent and ARB bumpers. Equipped with a Warn Zeon 10S winch and Nitto tires on black beadlocked rims, this Gladiator is ready for off-road adventures.
Sport Utility of The Year: Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler JL has been a crowd-pleaser since its introduction in 2017, and at the 2022 SEMA Show, the Wrangler Magneto 2.0 concept provided a glimpse into the brand’s possible future. This all-electric Wrangler uses an 800-volt battery pack to power a custom axial flux electric motor producing 625 hp and 850 lb.-ft. of torque. With its Dynatrac axles, 40-inch tires, and 3-inch lift kit, the Wrangler Magneto 2.0 is built to tackle both on and off-road adventures.
Sport Compact of The Year: Toyota GR86
The SEMA award-winning Toyota GR86 has gained popularity in multiple racing circuits. Built by SEMA 2022 Influencer of the Year Larry Chen, this “Daily Drifter” features an HKS GT2 Supercharger Pro ZD8 kit and a MagnaFlow NEO Series cat-back performance exhaust, producing around 300 hp. With its OS Giken Super Lock 1.5-way differential, StopTech Big Brake kit, and ST XTA Plus 3 coilover suspension, the GR86 is a formidable performance car.
EV of The Year: Volkswagen ID.4
As SEMA’s first-ever EV of the Year, the Volkswagen ID.4 made its debut at the SEMA Show last year. Despite its playful external appearance, the ID.4 showcased its capability for serious off-roading. The vehicle completed the challenging 2021 Rebelle Rally, covering 1,400 off-pavement miles across the California and Nevada deserts. Equipped with a 107hp front motor and a 201hp permanent magnet rear motor, this ID.4 delivers a combined 339 lb.-ft. of torque and impressive performance.
Additional Highlights from the SEMA Show
While these vehicles received top honors, there were other notable models showcased at the 2022 SEMA Show. The Toyota Tacoma, Wrangler/Gladiator Hybrid, Toyota Tundra, and Nissan Z were among the vehicles that stood out, demonstrating their customization potential and capturing the attention of car enthusiasts.
FAQs
What is the SEMA Show?
The SEMA Show is an annual event that showcases the latest aftermarket products and automotive trends. It serves as a gathering place for industry professionals and car enthusiasts to celebrate customization and innovation.
How are the SEMA Award winners chosen?
Exhibitors at the SEMA Show are polled to determine the top customizable vehicles in various categories. These winners represent the models that exhibitors believe offer the greatest opportunities for aftermarket customization.
Can I customize these award-winning vehicles?
Yes, all SEMA Award-winning vehicles are chosen for their customization potential. From performance upgrades to exterior modifications and interior enhancements, these vehicles provide a solid foundation for car enthusiasts to make their own unique creations.
Conclusion
The SEMA Show continues to be a premier event for car enthusiasts, offering a glimpse into the future of customization. The winners of the SEMA Awards for 2022 showcased the best vehicles for aftermarket accessorization. From the celebrated Dodge Challenger to the versatile Jeep Wrangler and the groundbreaking Volkswagen ID.4, these models represent the pinnacle of customization possibilities. Whether you’re a car enthusiast or a professional in the automotive industry, the SEMA Show is an event you don’t want to miss.
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