World Car of the Year finalists announced
Officially launched in 2004, the World Car of the Year (WCOTY) awards have always set the benchmark for excellence in the automotive fold. This prestigious event challenges brands to redefine the boundaries of design, technology, and performance year after year.
Now in its 21st year, the WCOTY competition’s 2025 edition is in full swing, and the buzz is palpable. These awards are decided by an esteemed panel of automotive experts from 30 countries worldwide, which includes Lerato Matebese, editor of TopGear Magazine SA.
That said, the top 10 finalists for the WCOTY title have been revealed, including the top five in the six individual categories. To qualify, a car must prove its global appealâ”sold in at least two main markets across at least two continents before March 30 of the award year.
Top 10 Finalists
Audi A5/S5
Hyundai Inster/Casper Electric
Kia EV3
Mini Cooper Electric
Suzuki Swift
Toyota Camry
Toyota Land Cruiser Prado
The individual categories include the World Electric Vehicle, World Luxury Car, World Performance Car, World Urban Car, and Car Design of the Year. These may also be contenders in the overall “World Car of the Year” category, depending on type and pricing.
World Electric Vehicle Finalists
Kia EV3
Volkswagen ID. Buzz
Hyundai Inster/Casper Electric
Car Design of the Year
Baojun Yunduo / Cloud / MG Windsor EV
Kia EV3
Mini Cooper
Volkswagen ID. Buzz
World Performance Car
Ford Mustang
World Urban Car
Byd Seagull/Dolphin Mini
Hyundai Inster/Casper Electric
Mini Cooper Electric
Mini Cooper
Suzuki Swift
Luxury Design of the Year
Lexus GX
Porsche Macan
Porsche Panamera
Volkswagen ID. Buzz
Volvo EX90
The top three finalists for the WCOTY awards will be announced on March 18. They will be followed by the winners of the overall WCOTY awards, which will be revealed on April 16 at the New York International Auto Show.
