The prestigious award Car of the Yearknown as one of the highest awards in the global automotive industry, is preparing for a new edition that promises to be full of surprises and excitement.
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With the 41 nominated models already announcedthe 2025 competition is shaping up to be one of the most diverse and competitive in the history of the event.
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These vehicles, coming from 29 different manufacturersinclude an impressive array of options ranging from SUVs and sedans to city cars and sports cars.
A diverse and electrified selection
Among this year’s nominees, electrification remains a dominant theme, with 25 electric models competing for the coveted title.
This strong focus on electric mobility reflects current market trends, where manufacturers are betting on more sustainable and environmentally friendly technologies.
In addition, the list of candidates also highlights the growing presence of Chinese brands in the European landscape, with names such as BYD, MG and Xpengwho have managed to make a place for themselves among the nominees.
These brands are challenging different markets, showing their ability to compete at the highest level.
Renaulta veteran in this competition, is presenting the largest number of nominated models, adding up to a total of five vehicles that include the new Rafale and the innovative Symbioz.
This reinforced presence underlines the French manufacturer’s commitment to innovation and its ability to adapt to new market demands.
The selection process and what is at stake
The competition for the title of Car of the Year is not simply a show of popularity, but a rigorous selection process where each vehicle is evaluated on multiple aspects.
The 59 jurors, from 22 European countriesplay a crucial role at this stage, thoroughly analyzing each model in terms of innovation, safety, performance, efficiency and overall value.
The first round of voting, which will take place on November 22will determine the seven finalists who will continue in the fight for the title.
Winning the Car of the Year title not only represents immense prestige for the manufacturer, but can also significantly influence sales and public perception.
Recognition provides a seal of quality and trust that can be decisive in a market as competitive as the European one.
A look into the past
The title of Car of the Year 2024 was awarded to the Renault Scenic E-Techa vehicle that marked a milestone in the industry due to its innovative approach to electric mobility and its future-oriented design.
The models that aspire to succeed it in 2025 face the challenge of living up to this legacy, in a context where sustainability and advanced technology are more crucial than ever.
The coming months will be crucial for the candidates, who will undergo exhaustive tests and evaluations by experts.
Anticipation is growing as the date of the final vote approaches, and Both the industry and consumers are eagerly awaiting to discover which model will be the next to win the prestigious Car of the Year award.
List of Car of the Year 2025 candidates
It is important to remember that the list is not final and that all vehicles may change status if they do not meet the requirements for candidate vehicles at the time of final evaluation.
- Alfa Romeo Junior
- Audi Q6 e-tron
- BMW X2/iX2
- BYD Seal U
- Citroën C3/e-C3
- Citroen C3 Aircross
- Cupra Tavascan
- Cupra Terramar
- Dacia Duster
- Fiat Grande Panda
- Ford Explorer
- Ford Tourneo Courier
- Hyundai Inster
- Hyundai Santa Fe
- KGM Torres
- Kia EV3
- Lexus LBX
- Maserati GranTurismo
- Maserati Grecale
- Mazda CX-80
- MG3
- MG Cyberster
- Mini Cooper SE
- Mini Countryman
- Opel Grandland
- Opel Frontera
- Polestar 3
- Polestar 4
- Porsche Macan
- Renault 5
- Renault Symbioz
- Renault Rafale
- Skoda Superb
- Skoda Kodiaq
- Smart #3
- Suzuki Swift
- Toyota Land Cruiser
- Volkswagen Passat
- Volkswagen Tiguan
- Volvo EX90
- Xpeng G6