The finalists for the 2025 World Car Awards have been revealed, setting the stage for an epic showdown before the winners are announced at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS) next month. With a jury of 96 automotive journalists from 30 countries, the competition is fierce across six categories—so let’s break it down!
World Car of the Year: Can BMW Take the Title?
Last year, the Kia EV9 claimed the top prize, but for 2025, the latest BMW X3 is in the running. Standing in its way? Two compact electric SUVs—the Hyundai Inster (aka Casper Electric) and the Kia EV3. Will BMW’s premium edge be enough to outshine these EV contenders? We’ll find out soon!
Pic Credit: Paultan Pic Credit: Paultan Pic Credit: Paultan
World Electric Vehicle: Who’s Leading the EV Charge?
It’s a three-way EV battle with the Hyundai Inster and Kia EV3 also competing for the World Electric Vehicle award. But they’ll have to go up against the Porsche Macan Electric, which brings a serious mix of performance and luxury to the table. Can Kia make it two years in a row after the EV9’s win in 2024?
World Luxury Car: Porsche vs. Volvo
Luxury lovers, this one’s for you! Last year’s champ, the BMW 5 Series, is out, and it’s Porsche leading the charge with not one but two finalists—the Macan and the Panamera. Joining the fight? The all-electric Volvo EX90, which is already open for bookings in Malaysia. A high-stakes battle of elegance and innovation awaits!
Pic Credit: Paultan Pic Credit: Paultan
World Performance Car: German Power Showdown
This category is pure adrenaline. Porsche once again flexes its muscles with the 911 Carrera GTS and the Taycan Turbo GT, but BMW’s M5 is in it to win it. After Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N took the title last year, will the Germans reclaim dominance?
Pic Credit: Paultan Pic Credit: Paultan Pic Credit: Paultan
World Urban Car: Small but Mighty!
Compact, efficient, and built for the city—this year’s World Urban Car finalists include the BYD Seagull (Dolphin Mini in some markets), the Hyundai Inster/Casper Electric, and the MINI Cooper Electric. With Hyundai’s Inster competing in three categories, could this be its golden moment?
Pic Credit: Paultan Pic Credit: Paultan
World Car Design: Who’s the Best-Looking?
Beauty is subjective, but the judges will have to decide between the Kia EV3, the rugged Toyota Land Cruiser 250 (aka Land Cruiser Prado in some markets), and the quirky-cool Volkswagen ID. Buzz. Which design has the most wow factor? We’ll soon find out!
Pic Credit: Paultan Pic Credit: Paultan
No American Brands? And the German Domination Continues!
One thing stands out—not a single American brand made the cut in any category. Meanwhile, German automakers are running the show, dominating categories from performance to luxury.
So, what do you think? Which cars will drive away with the win?
(Source: PaulTan)
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