Auto Express names the best new cars of 2025 – see who came out on top
July 02, 2025 by Siobhan Doyle
Car changing is a big deal
From electric game-changers to family favourites, Auto Express reveals the standout cars of 2025. Here’s our verdict on the models that took the top honours.
The Skoda Elroq just took home the big prize at the 2025 Auto Express New Car Awards, landing the coveted Car of the Year title. It also snagged Mid-size SUV of the Year, making it one of the standouts this year.
This marks the fifth year running that an electric car has claimed the top spot – showing just how much EVs are taking over. Past winners include the Citroen e-C3 (2024), Hyundai Kona (2023), Nissan Ariya (2022), and Hyundai Ioniq 5 (2021). The last non-EV to win was the Skoda Octavia back in 2020 – and it still picked up an award this year.
Interested in any of the past winners? Remember, you can buy a brand new or used car right here on Carwow. And you can also sell your carto make way for an electric car, too. We’re here to help you through every step of your car-changing journey.
Auto Express editor, Paul Barker, says the Elroq stood out because it’s just an all-rounder that ticks all the boxes: “It’s got the space, comfort, and value people want, plus the smooth electric performance drivers expect these days.”
He also praised Skoda for making an electric car that feels natural and easy to drive every day. “It’s a car that doesn’t shout but simply gets everything right.”
Now that our stablemate Auto Express has announced its winners, we break down what the Carwow review team has to say about the models that took top honours:
Car of the Year – Skoda Elroq
It’s easy to see why the Elroq won this as it’s a great all-rounder. Sharp lines and a clean front end cleverly hide cameras and sensors, giving it a futuristic look.
Inside, the minimalist dash sits below a large infotainment screen, with denim-style fabric or leatherette trims on higher-spec models. Supportive seats, a clear driver display, and Skoda’s clever touches, such as removable cup holders and door umbrellas, boost comfort and practicality.
The 470-litre boot is family-friendly, with handy underfloor storage. On the road, soft suspension and chunky tyres provide a smooth, quiet ride, though bigger bumps cause some float. Light steering makes tight manoeuvres easy, but it feels vague in corners.
City Car of the Year – Kia Picanto
This little hatchback may not inspire confidence on longer trips, but there’s a reason it won in a city-focused category. Its quirky design and nippy performance help it stand out in urban settings, making it a more appealing choice than alternatives such as the Hyundai i10, Toyota Aygo X, and Suzuki Ignis.
It’s also surprisingly spacious for such a small car – four six-footers can comfortably fit on short journeys, and the 252-litre boot is as big as you’ll find in this class.
The Picanto’s charm lies in its light weight and compact size. It’s fun to throw around tight city streets and can even hold its own on a twisty back road. That said, the lack of power and ultra-light steering mean it’s no hot hatch, and doesn’t pretend to be.
Supermini of the Year – Fiat Grande Panda
The new Fiat Grande Panda takes inspiration from the boxy 1980s Panda 4×4 but adds a modern, funky twist.
It features an upright front end with a full-width black panel instead of a traditional grille, plus pixel-style LEDs reminiscent of Hyundai designs. Its overall shape is similar to the Citroen E-C3 – a theme that continues in its boxy profile. Still, the Panda adds unique touches like large stamped ‘Panda’ lettering and cool X-shaped 17-inch alloy wheels.
Fiat hasn’t revealed full specs yet but has confirmed both hybrid and electric versions. It shares its underpinnings with the E-C3 and Vauxhall Frontera, offering a front-mounted motor and up to 199 miles of electric range, ideal for city driving.
Expect a choice between a 1.2-litre petrol hybrid and a 156hp electric model, though full details are still to come.
Family Car of the Year – Skoda Octavia
One main thing families look for in a car is ample space. And for this, look no further than the Octavia. There’s a huge amount of it for adults no matter if they’re sat in the front or back, while the Skoda’s huge boot puts other family car efforts to shame. The estate is even bigger.
Inside, a large central touchscreen is standard, even on base models, with most physical controls grouped neatly on the dash. It looks modern, is easy to use, and includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and digital driver’s dials. Ideal for anyone in the front passenger seat looking to change the music during long road trips.
Engine options include petrol, diesel, and plug-in hybrid. The 1.5-litre petrol suits city driving, while the 150hp 2.0-litre diesel is ideal for regular motorway use – so there’s a version to suit every family.
Estate Car of the Year – Skoda Superb Estate
The Skoda Superb more than lives up to its name – we even named it Carwow’s 2025 ‘Comfortable Cruiser’, so it’s no surprise Auto Express gave it an award too.
Practicality is a major strength. Despite its length, the Superb Estate offers vast interior space, with ample legroom in the back and a 690-litre boot that rivals small vans.
It’s great to drive, especially on motorways, where the efficient diesel engines shine with impressive range. It’s not as sporty as a BMW 3 Series Touring, but it’s built for long-distance comfort.
Its size makes city driving and parking trickier, and the suspension can feel firm at low speeds. Still, the Superb is a car that’s hard to fault.
Small Company Car of the Year – Kia EV3
As small electric SUVs go, the Kia EV3 is a standout. Entry-level versions offer up to 270 miles of range, while models with the larger battery can reach around 375 miles – ideal for company car use.
It comfortably fits four tall adults, though the rear middle seat is a bit tight. GT-Line trims get a sliding centre tray, while the base Air model makes do with an extra cubby and fewer soft-touch materials. Light-grey cloth is standard on lower trims.
With a 460-litre boot and 25-litre frunk, the EV3 is practical too. Comfort is excellent, especially with the Air’s 17-inch wheels. It’s not sporty, but its soft suspension smooths out rough roads impressively.
Mid-size Company Car of the Year – Tesla Model 3
If you need long range for a company car, the Tesla Model 3 delivers. The Long Range Rear-Wheel Drive version offers up to 436 miles on a single charge, making it one of the longest-range EVs in the UK.
Inside, it has a minimalist cabin centred around a 15.4-inch touchscreen that handles everything from navigation to climate control. It takes some getting used to, but the system is slick and responsive.
Build quality is solid, though not quite up to German standards, and the sparse design can feel a bit plain. However, the full-length glass roof adds a sense of space and keeps the interior bright.
With 590 litres of boot space plus a roomy frunk, practicality is a strong point. The Model 3 is also smooth and quiet on the road, making it a comfortable long-distance cruiser.
Large Company Car of the Year – Audi A6 e-tron
If you want a stylish electric estate with serious range, the Audi A6 Avant e-tron fits the bill. It’s sleek, comfortable, and ideal for long journeys, with a decent 502-litre boot – though not the biggest in class.
Inside, it feels solid and well-built, with quality materials and comfortable front seats. Rear space is more limited, but still usable.
Charging is a standout feature: with 270kW peak speeds, it can go from 10-80% in just 21 minutes. And with a long range, charging stops are rare, and short when they happen.
Quiet, refined, and smooth on the motorway, the A6 Avant e-tron is built for covering distance in comfort.
Small SUV of the Year – Renault 4
The new Renault 4 offers more than retro looks – it blends classic charm with modern tech and practicality.
Its styling nods to the original Renault 4, with round headlights, boxy lines, and eye-catching details like chunky arches, 18-inch alloys, an illuminated grille, and an optional folding roof.
With 420 litres of boot space, it’s one of the roomiest in its class, featuring clever touches like a cable compartment and split-level floor. The rear bench fits three adults for short trips, though thigh support is limited, and small rear windows hamper visibility, though the boxy shape makes parking easy.
A 52kWh battery delivers up to 251 miles (realistically around 220), and 100kW rapid charging gets you from 10-80% in about 30 minutes.
Mid-size SUV of the Year – Skoda Elroq
Skoda knows how to build a solid mid-size SUV, and the Elroq continues that trend.
Its soft suspension and chunky tyres deliver a smooth, cushioned ride, especially in town or on broken roads. Bigger bumps can cause some float, but light steering makes parking and tight manoeuvres easy.
It’s comfortable on motorways too, though dips can unsettle it slightly. On twisty roads, the Elroq feels light and vague, with limited grip – best to take country lanes at a relaxed pace.
Large SUV of the Year – Skoda Kodiaq
Skoda were certainly spoiled at this year’s Auto Express New Car Awards, and this car also earned a Highly Commended award in the Family Values category of the 2025 Carwow Car of the Year Awards.
The Kodiaq is more of a 5+2 seater, with the third row best for kids or occasional use. It’s stylish, practical, and offers loads of space in the second row, enough for three adults, though the middle seat is a bit tight.
It comes with five engines: two petrol, two diesel, and a plug-in hybrid. All have automatic gearboxes, with outputs from 150hp to 204hp. The plug-in hybrid is ideal for company car drivers, offering over 60 miles of electric range and fast-charging capability – great for those not ready to go fully electric.
Whichever version you choose, the Kodiaq delivers a smooth, comfortable, and easy drive – perfect for transporting people in relaxed comfort, even if it’s not the most thrilling behind the wheel.
Small Premium SUV of the Year – Volvo EX30
The electric Volvo EX30 looks like it’s rolled off a Star Wars set, and its futuristic design is backed by real substance.
The minimalist interior feels premium thanks to the infotainment screen, metal door handles, and sleek design, though some cheaper plastics are within reach. Front space is generous, with clever storage and a versatile centre console. Rear seats are low, so knee room is tight, but headroom and visibility are good.
The boot is smaller than alternatives but usefully shaped, with no loading lip and a powered tailgate for convenience.
Three motor options are available: from the 214-mile Single Motor to the rapid Twin Motor Performance with AWD, 279 miles of range, and supercar-like speed.
Mid-size Premium SUV of the Year – BMW X3
The BMW X3 is a stylish, premium SUV featuring a modern interior and a new plug-in hybrid option. Inside, a large twin-screen infotainment system pairs with a unique knitted dashboard texture. BMW keeps its user-friendly rotary controller, making infotainment easy to use on the move.
UK buyers can choose from four engines: 2.0L petrol, 2.0L diesel, and the standout 30e plug-in hybrid with up to 56 miles of electric range – offering lower taxes and fuel savings. All models deliver a comfortable, refined driving experience.
Large Premium SUV of the Year – BMW iX
BMW impressed Auto Express in the large premium SUV category with the iX, a striking electric SUV. Its size rivals the X5 outside and offers X7-level interior space – though it seats five, not seven.
The cabin features two large, seamless screens (12.3-inch instrument panel and 14.9-inch infotainment), plus wireless charging, USB-C ports, and connected services. Build quality is excellent, and it’s spacious and practical, though the 500-litre boot is smaller than the Polestar 4’s.
Luxury Car of the Year – Bentley Flying Spur
The Bentley Flying Spur is one of the most luxurious, and high-tech, saloon cars on sale. It’s no wonder Auto Express picked this as a winner.
The Flying Spur’’ interior is bold and luxurious, with vibrant colors, quilted leather, and knurled metals. Front seats offer extensive electric adjustments, including an electric steering wheel, but the rear truly excels – spacious enough for tall passengers and packed with luxury features like a fridge, rear TVs, a pop-out tablet, top-tier sound system, and massaging seats.
Under the hood, a powerful 6.0L W12 delivers 0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds, blending speed with smooth, quiet cruising.
Hot Hatch of the Year – Honda Civic Type R
The Honda Civic Type R is a standout on both roads and tracks, with smooth yet muscular styling and a purposeful rear wing for downforce. Inside, it retains the base Civic’s design but adds red faux suede bucket seats, a six-speed manual with a teardrop aluminium gear knob, and a digital dash.
It’s a four-seater with two rear seats and cupholders in place of the middle seat, offering similar rear space to the standard Civic. Boot space remains generous at 410 litres, beating most alternatives except the Skoda Octavia vRS.
Under the hood, a 2.0L turbocharged engine produces 329hp and 420Nm, paired with a smooth, precise six-speed manual.
Coupé of the Year – BMW 2 Series
This car looks fantastic from the front, with bulging bodywork and sharp headlights that scream sporty. Inside, it’s more conventional. Some may find it plain, but the quality is undeniable, with a posh feel and excellent infotainment.
For a two-door coupe, the 2 Series is fairly practical. Front passenger space is decent, but rear seats are tight. The 390-litre boot beats the Audi TT and only trails the Ford Mustang.
This car isn’t about practicality – it’s about fun. The 220i and 230i petrol engines (184hp and 245hp) deliver strong acceleration and great cornering grip, making the 230i a real joy to drive.
Convertible of the Year – Mazda MX-5
One of the few affordable two-seat sports cars left, the MX-5 sets the benchmark for fun without Porsche or Ferrari prices.
Despite added safety and performance, it’s 100kg lighter than its predecessor, allowing softer suspension that handles bumpy UK roads almost perfectly.
The 132hp 1.5-litre engine might feel a bit underpowered for some, while the 184hp 2.0-litre adds weight and bigger wheels that can affect balance. Cabin space and storage are minimal, the boot makes a Mini look huge, so pack light.
But the MX-5 wasn’t made for practicality; it’s all about pure driving pleasure on twisty roads. Not the most refined on long trips, but totally worth it for the fun.
Performance Car of the Year – McLaren Artura
The McLaren Artura mixes V6 turbo and plug-in hybrid power to great effect – it’s properly fast, and brilliant to drive in Sport mode, although the hybrid setup can be infuriating at times.
For a performance car, it’s all about speed. Hidden under the fixed rear deck – no popping the bonnet to admire your engine here – there’s a 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6 engine. The pair combine to produce a massive 680hp, which results in a 0-60mph sprint of just 3.0 seconds; keep your right foot planted and the car won’t stop accelerating until it hits 205mph.
This is one of the most exciting hybrids money can buy – the way it catapults you out of corners is exhilarating.
Affordable Electric Car of the Year – Renault 5
The Renault 5 is an all-electric reinvention of an iconic hatchback, offering up to 252 miles of range. It’s stylish, fun to drive, and good value under £23,000.
Front space is decent but can feel tight for taller drivers, and rear seats are a bit cramped. However, the 326-litre boot outshines alternatives such as the Mini Electric and Citroen e-C3.
Inside, the cabin feels quality with clever design and no cheap plastics, making it punch above its price.
Premium Electric Car of the Year – BMW iX
This car offers an impressive 427-mile battery range. Combined with BMW’s renowned build quality, it’s easy to see why it’s a winner.
You can choose from three power outputs, whether you want a quick drive or need to warp the fabric of space and time. All models feature an electric motor on each axle for all-wheel drive and a battery pack positioned low under the floor.
The entry-level 326hp xDrive40 has an official range of up to 264 miles, while the 523hp xDrive50 boasts a bigger battery with up to 383 miles per charge. If speed is your priority, the iX M60 delivers 619hp, a 0-60mph time under four seconds, and a range of up to 349 miles.
Affordable Hybrid Car of the Year – MG3
The MG3 ranks among the best small cars for performance, efficiency, and features. It’s a self-charging hybrid that targets buyers seeking a more efficient alternative to the Renault Clio E-Tech or Toyota Yaris, rather than the cheapest models such as the Dacia Sandero. And talking about affordability, you can get one for under £18,000 through Carwow.
Its 191hp hybrid system outperforms the Clio’s 140hp and Yaris’s 130hp, making it quick off the line and confident on overtakes and motorways. It also has fun, sharp handling, making it one of the most enjoyable small cars to drive.
Premium Hybrid Car of the Year – BMW 530e
The BMW 5 Series plug-in hybrids have great interiors, decent electric range, and a sporty feel on the road.
The 530e packs a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine plus a 109hp electric motor, and you can get it with rear-wheel drive or all-wheel-drive. Inside, it feels really premium and thoughtfully designed.
On the road, these cars are a blast – comfy when you want to relax (especially with adaptive suspension), but still fun to drive when you fancy some excitement.
Pick-up of the Year – Ford Ranger
The Ford Ranger is a practical pickup that drives better than most, especially the powerful Raptor model. It’s great for tough jobs, earning top honors in its category.
With a twin-turbo 3.0L V6 petrol or 205hp diesel, it delivers punchy performance and a smoother, more road-friendly ride. However, the Raptor can’t carry as much as other Rangers, making it less suited for heavy-duty work, but it sure looks cool on the school run.
Driver Power car – Mercedes-Benz GLE
Chosen not by us but by you, the Mercedes GLE has been rated the best car to own in this year’s Driver Power customer satisfaction survey. It topped half of the 10 main categories and reached the podium places in several others, while it was the elegant interior and exterior design that impressed owners the most.
Indeed, this luxurious SUV prioritises comfort over sportiness, with a handsome design inside and out. The cabin features plenty of leather and wood (all eco-friendly faux), feeling classy throughout.
It’s also practical, offering spacious front and rear seats, clever cubby holes, and heated/cooled cupholders. The 630-litre boot is smaller than most rivals but ample for most needs, with a flat load area when the third row is folded.
Here’s the full list of all the winners and the models highly commended:
| Category | Winner | Highly Commended | Highly Commended |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Car of the Year | Kia Picanto | Hyundai i10 | Leapmotor T03 |
| Supermini of the Year | Fiat Grande Panda | Renault 5 | Citroen C3 |
| Family Car of the Year | Skoda Octavia | Citroen C4 | Dacia Jogger |
| Estate Car of the Year | Skoda Superb | Toyota Corolla Touring Sports | VW Passat |
| Small Company Car of the Year | Kia EV3 | Hyundai Kona | MG4 |
| Mid-size Company Car of the Year | Tesla Model 3 | BMW i4 | Mercedes C300 e |
| Large Company Car of the Year | Audi A6 e-tron | BMW i5 | Volkswagen ID.7 |
| Small SUV of the Year | Renault 4 | Alfa Junior | Dacia Duster |
| Mid-size SUV of the Year | Skoda Elroq | Tesla Model Y | Dacia Bigster |
| Large SUV of the Year | Skoda Kodiaq | VW Tayron | Hyundai Santa Fe |
| Small Premium SUV of the Year | Volvo EX30 | BMW X1 | Mini Countryman |
| Mid-size Premium SUV of the Year | BMW X3 | Lexus NX | Porsche Macan Electric |
| Large Premium SUV of the Year | BMW iX | Porsche Cayenne | RR Sport |
| Luxury Car of the Year | Bentley Flying Spur | Range Rover | BMW 7 Series |
| Hot Hatch of the Year | Honda Civic Type R | Audi RS 3 | Alpine A290 |
| Coupé of the Year | BMW 2 Series | Ford Mustang | Maserati GranTurismo |
| Convertible of the Year | Mazda MX-5 | Morgan Supersport | Mini Convertible |
| Performance Car of the Year | McLaren Artura | Porsche 911 | Hyundai Ioniq 5 N |
| Affordable Electric Car of the Year | Renault 5 | Renault 4 | Fiat Grande Panda |
| Premium Electric Car of the Year | BMW iX | Lotus Emeya | Porsche Taycan |
| Affordable Hybrid Car of the Year | MG3 Hybrid+ | Toyota Yaris | Dacia Duster |
| Premium Hybrid Car of the Year | BMW 530e | Audi A3 TFSIe | Mercedes C300 e |
| Pick-up of the Year | Ford Ranger | VW Amarok | Toyota Hilux |
| Electric Van of the Year | Renault Master E-Tech | Ford E-Transit Custom | Ford E-Transit Courier |
| Small Van of the Year (shared between identical Stellantis products) | Citroen Berlingo | Ford Transit Courier | Renault Kangoo |
| Small Van of the Year | Vauxhall Combo Cargo | – | – |
| Small Van of the Year | Peugeot Partner | – | – |
| Small Van of the Year | Fiat Doblo | – | – |
| Mid-size Van of the Year | Ford Transit Custom | Volkswagen Transporter | Stellantis Medium |
| Large Van of the Year | Renault Master | Stellantis Large | Ford Transit |
| Driver Power car | Mercedes-Benz GLE | – | – |
| Driver Power manufacturer | Subaru | – | – |
| Car of the Year | Skoda Elroq | – | – |
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