The Ultimate Yuletide Garage: A 2025 Automotive Showdown for the Ages
The scent of pine needles and gingerbread typically ushers in the season of goodwill. Yet, here at Autocar, another, more spirited tradition marks the true commencement of our festive period: the annual Road Testers’ Yuletide Garage Gathering. For years, we’ve indulged in the lighthearted chaos of a Secret Santa, a ritual often met with a mixed bag of gratitude – I still recall the less-than-enthusiastic reception of a particular shade of brown Volvo estate a few Christmases back. This year, however, we’ve opted for a refreshingly direct approach. Forget anonymous gifts; the mandate is simple: arrive armed with a vehicle from the past twelve months that you wholeheartedly champion. This is your chance to advocate for a car that has personally captivated you, or one you firmly believe stands as the most exceptional automobile of the year, for any compelling reason. The ultimate arbiter of our vehicular virtues? None other than our esteemed Staff Writer, Sam Phillips.
This, dear reader, is the very essence of automotive dreams made tangible. Imagine the power to summon virtually any car from a manufacturer, to showcase it to your colleagues amidst the convivial atmosphere of a festive luncheon, all while navigating the joyous landscape of work expenses. One might argue that a certain automotive magic permeates Autocar Towers daily. And while we wouldn’t dispute that sentiment, this particular gathering undeniably represents one of the pinnacles of our professional year. With a twelve-month panorama of automotive brilliance and technological innovation to draw from, where better to commence our deliberations than with the reintroduced icon of efficiency: the Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid.
The Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid: A Pragmatic Masterpiece for the Modern Age
As the Toyota Prius emerges from the ethereal, mist-shrouded embrace of Beachy Head, gliding with an almost preternatural aerodynamic grace, my initial thought is that a particularly discerning taxi service has arrived. “Honestly,” remarks Contributor James Disdale, his voice tinged with a self-deprecating nod to his embrace of yuletide eco-consciousness, “if you’d told me twenty years ago I’d be championing a Toyota Prius for this, I’d have laughed.”
He elaborates, “But then, cast your mind back twenty-five years to the Prius’s debut. It was lauded for delivering groundbreaking powertrain technology in a remarkably accessible package. And you know what? That fundamental principle remains. It’s become synonymous with the taxi trade, and there’s a profound reason for that ubiquity: the Prius is extraordinarily efficient, exceptionally reliable, and, quite simply, a brilliant car. In these somewhat uncertain economic times, why wouldn’t one champion a genuine everyday workhorse? As fuel efficiency, resource conservation, and the responsible use of rare materials become increasingly critical, this hybrid powertrain is not just relevant; it’s arguably more vital than ever. And before you unleash the predictable Uber jokes, I assure you, it’s genuinely rewarding to drive!”
Disdale has, I must concede, hit upon a salient point. A brief excursion along the serpentine coastal road, winding towards the iconic Beachy Head lighthouse, reveals a curiously satisfying driving experience. The Prius, with its near-silent electric propulsion punctuated by the subtle engagement of its internal combustion engine, offers a uniquely serene, yet surprisingly engaging, demeanor. “There are echoes of the best of Saab in its character,” Disdale observes, “or perhaps even a hint of contemporary DS design philosophy. It’s a remarkably clever automobile.”
The Ford Mustang Dark Horse: Unleashing the Primal Roar of American Muscle
In stark contrast to the Prius’s measured pragmatism, Road Tester Illya Verpraet appears to have blissfully sidestepped any concerns about the prevailing cost-of-living crisis. The Ford Mustang Dark Horse he presents is a magnificently brooding entity amidst our cheerful, festive assembly. Simply its presence evokes a childlike sense of uncontainable excitement, a palpable thrill that a V8-powered muscle car invariably ignites. I find myself instinctively wanting to applaud its arrival. And to emphasize the point, it’s equipped with a manual gearbox!
“I felt the Mustang was somewhat unfairly judged at ‘Handling Day’ last year,” Verpraet explains, referring to a previous comparison test. “It was an automatic then, and that configuration wasn’t its strongest suit. However, after experiencing the manual transmission, I found myself utterly captivated. It embodies a refreshingly anti-modern ethos. It may not possess the stratospheric levels of technological sophistication found elsewhere, but its sheer unadulterated fun factor is immense. I adore it, even if it does occasionally induce a touch of self-consciousness due to its commanding presence.”
The auditory experience alone, the sheer visceral bark of the Dark Horse’s V8, is, frankly, enough to elevate my Christmas spirits. Speaking of V8 symphonies, an unexpected, yet utterly delightful, contribution comes from our Editor-in-Chief, Steve Cropley, in the form of his Porsche Panamera Turbo S.
The Porsche Panamera Turbo S: Electrified Elegance Meets V8 Exhilaration
Long before its visual manifestation, the Porsche Panamera announces its arrival with a remarkably subdued yet potent low-frequency rumble. Where the Mustang exuberantly roars and thunders, the Panamera’s V8 emits a deliciously refined, almost menacing, sotto voce murmur.
“I felt this presented an ideal opportunity to showcase an ‘ethical V8’,” Cropley confides, as we all patiently await photographer Max’s perfect static shot, skillfully executed from a precarious perch atop a ladder. “I drove it here this morning, covering forty miles on electric power alone, and the trip computer indicated an impressive 45 miles per gallon over a 150-mile journey – a figure I consider highly commendable. But when you truly unleash its capabilities, the accompanying soundtrack is nothing short of sensational. The four-wheel steering system renders it remarkably agile, even on these more intricate country lanes. The build quality is exquisite, and the air suspension system is simply peerless in its effectiveness. I genuinely believe it represents the pinnacle of its luxury sedan segment. We often discuss plug-in hybrids as offering the best of both worlds; well, the Panamera achieves this by providing a significant electric range complemented by the visceral thrill of a V8 when the mood strikes. It’s a compelling proposition.”
I find myself in complete agreement. The Panamera Turbo S, even clad in the rather unconventional bronze hue of our test example, possesses the effortless brilliance of a Mercedes S-Class for everyday touring, yet harbors the soul of a sports car for those moments when the urge for spirited driving arises. It is, without question, a joyous machine. I, too, am particularly enamored with the air suspension, which subtly elevates the entire vehicle upon unlocking, akin to an eager puppy. And the massage seats? Quite possibly the finest I’ve ever encountered. One of those alone would constitute a magnificent Christmas present, let alone when paired with a potent V8 plug-in hybrid powertrain.
The Panamera presents a starkly different proposition to the Prius and the Mustang. However, perhaps even more disparate from our collective offerings is the other bronze marvel gracing our gathering: a Morgan Supersport.
The Morgan Supersport: A Timeless Ode to Lightweight Driving Purity
I had the distinct pleasure of piloting this very vehicle in Wales earlier this year, in a fascinating juxtaposition with a Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, as part of a deep dive into the extreme ends of performance car engineering. I genuinely considered bringing it to this assembly as the highlight of my automotive year.
I am utterly captivated by Morgan’s contemporary interpretation of its iconic styling, which imbues the Supersport with a unique, almost steampunk aesthetic. The allure of a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive machine, possessing precisely the right amount of power and an utterly tactilistic connection to the road, is simply irresistible. It is, in a word, a gem. And this, fundamentally, is why Editor-at-Large Matt Prior has selected it for our Yuletide congregation.
“I find myself drawn to it,” Prior states with a characteristic twinkle in his eye. “It’s an intriguingly unconventional car. I admire its aesthetic, its manufacturing philosophy, and I derive immense pleasure from driving it. It unequivocally brings a smile to my face. Does it possess a certain mechanical idiosyncrasy? Absolutely. But have I driven anything else this year that has ignited such a profound sense of automotive fascination? Unequivocally, no.”
The Renault 5: Reigniting the Flame of Affordable Electric Fun
And now, we arrive at my own personal choice, the car I’ve championed with unreserved enthusiasm: the Renault 5. I have been enthralled by this car since my initial encounter, driving it to the northernmost reaches of Denmark during my duties as a Car of the Year juror towards the close of 2024. It was during that journey that I began to contemplate a profound shift: could this be a pivotal moment for genuinely affordable electric vehicles?
As my time with the Renault has unfolded, through various excursions and daily commutes, it’s become apparent that its electrifying nature is only part of its compelling narrative. I firmly believe the Renault 5 is spearheading a renaissance in the world of fun, inexpensive small cars. Regardless of whether it’s powered by petrol or electricity, this car delivers sheer driving enjoyment, whether you’re navigating the mundane realities of a work commute or playfully exploring the undulating curves of Beachy Head. It possesses an aspirational quality, despite its accessible price point. It harks back to an era when small cars like the Saxo, the 106, the Corsa, and the Fiesta were objects of desperate desire for young people. Somehow, Renault has recaptured that elusive magic in the 5. BMW achieved something similar with its reimagined Mini, and Fiat, with its resurrected 500. Now, Renault has replicated that success with the 5.
Who, then, needs a pragmatic Prius to represent affordability and efficiency when the Renault 5 offers all that and, dare I say, a substantial dose of undeniable cool?
The Specter of Absence: What Could Have Been
With that resounding declaration, I feel compelled to draw attention to a conspicuous, indeed, a pair of glaring omissions from our gathering. The first, Road Test Editor Matt Saunders, and the second, his capable deputy, Richard Lane. Both, shockingly, are absent from this festive reunion.
Consequently, we resolve to conclude our Christmas luncheon by speculating on the vehicles they would have brought had they not been regrettably detained by the demands of childcare or pre-booked holidays.
“Ricky would have brought a Porsche 911,” was the unanimous verdict echoed by virtually every person present. Even individuals at a neighboring table in the pub, complete strangers to Ricky and entirely unfamiliar with Autocar, confidently asserted he would have arrived in a 911. The pub landlord concurred, the parking attendant chimed in, and a traveling psychic even predicted his arrival in one next year. The consensus was absolute: Ricky would have brought a 911.
Indeed, during our initial arrival and subsequent excited banter across the car park, James Disdale and I couldn’t help but collectively inquire, “Where on earth is the 911?” Such is its perennial brilliance, its presence felt almost mandatory. The truth is, its absence stems from a collective assumption: we all presumed Ricky would be championing it. Tragically, neither the car nor its driver materialized on the day.
But which specific iteration of the ever-expanding 911 range would he have chosen? That, admittedly, is a more intricate question. Yet, perhaps to his credit, the communal consensus leans towards the Carrera S. Or, for the more track-focused enthusiast, a GT3 RS… but predominantly, the Carrera S. And who could possibly fault such a choice? We missed both Ricky and the 911, but perhaps next year will see their triumphant return.
As for Mr. Saunders? While my own inclination might be to consign him to another earth-toned Volvo estate, the prevailing sentiment suggests our esteemed Road Test Editor would likely have presented the Defender Octa. A Land Rover Defender packing a colossal 626 horsepower? Who, at Christmas, wouldn’t relish such an automotive gift?
Ultimately, for next year, gentlemen, our sole request is your presence. In the interim, before I pass the baton to Sam for his final pronouncements, I extend my warmest wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May your festive drives be filled with unparalleled cheer.
The Verdict: A Judgement from Sam Phillips
Matt Prior’s assertions regarding the Morgan Supersport’s exceptional driving dynamics proved entirely accurate during my brief tenure behind the wheel prior to lunch. However, I concur that its inherent character, while thrilling, renders it less of an all-rounder suitable for the crucial role of a secondary vehicle in one’s garage.
James Disdale’s advocacy for the Prius was compelling. His observations concerning the Toyota’s futuristic design, pleasing driving characteristics, and remarkable affordability were entirely valid. However, I must confess to a slight unease when my estimable colleague attempted to subtly press a ten-pound note into my hand, leading me to question the absolute conviction behind his enthusiastic endorsement of the Prius.
Steve Cropley championed the Panamera with considerable vigor, highlighting its extraordinary ride quality, impressive fuel economy figures, and exhilarating performance. It is, without doubt, a segment leader and will undoubtedly satisfy the requirements of numerous plug-in hybrid adopters. Nevertheless, its considerable mass and associated price point are significant considerations that are difficult to overlook.
I was, I admit, genuinely captivated by Illya Verpraet’s manual Ford Mustang Dark Horse. And who wouldn’t be in 2025, a year where prevailing regulations and societal expectations seem to conspire against the very existence of V8 muscle cars? It’s an exceptional choice, but even Illya himself conceded to feeling a touch self-conscious while piloting its considerable bulk.
Vicky Parrott’s case for the Renault 5 was meticulously constructed, acknowledging its charming retro aesthetic, respectable range, and accessible pricing. It transforms mundane short trips into enjoyable excursions and proves equally rewarding when driven with spirited abandon, a characteristic we haven’t witnessed from a supermini since BMW’s reinvention of the Mini.
In many respects, the Renault 5 has introduced a paradigm shift to the electric vehicle discourse, unequivocally demonstrating that EVs can be both exhilarating to drive and remarkably affordable, all without compromising on perceived quality.
There were considerable expectations placed upon the Renault 5 prior to its launch. The fact that it has not only met but arguably surpassed these expectations, while simultaneously capturing a significant portion of the cultural zeitgeist, firmly establishes it as our outright winner. The best cars of 2025 offer diverse appeals, but the Renault 5 has redefined accessible electric motoring.
Our Dream Christmas Drives
Vicky Parrott: My envisioned Christmas Day drive would involve navigating the scenic expanse of Cranborne Chase in Dorset, perhaps even taking on the iconic Zig Zag Hill. Having grown up nearby, this area holds a wealth of cherished memories, including my formative driving experiences in my first car: a 1984 Renault 5, acquired in 2002 for a mere £50. I adored that car, and always will, but the advancements made over the past two decades are simply astonishing.
Matt Prior: An early departure towards the captivating west coast, a leisurely pace, and a meticulously prepared picnic stowed securely in the boot. The Morgan Supersport is a truly romantic grand touring machine, not merely a sports car. A relaxed lunch by the shore, commencing the return journey in the mid-afternoon, with the descending sun casting its golden rays through the expansive rear window, warming our backs.
Steve Cropley: For years, I’ve harbored a desire for an in-depth exploration of the Malvern Hills, having previously been captivated by its inspiring vistas and intriguing roadways during brief, albeit memorable, visits to Morgan’s facilities. I would utilize the formidable Porsche to dedicate ample time to discovering promising regions over several days.
Illya Verpraet: I have, embarrassingly, never truly experienced the United States firsthand. Contrary to prevalent stereotypes, the US boasts an array of truly spectacular, twisty roads. Now that contemporary automobiles are engineered to conquer such challenging terrains with aplomb, I am eager to explore the legendary “canyon” roads of California. Furthermore, the Mustang Dark Horse’s 453 horsepower should prove more than sufficient to make a hasty, if necessary, exit from any unexpected encounters with rogue immigration enforcement squads.
James Disdale: For a festive excursion, I would embrace the vibrant, Santa’s sleigh-esque red finish of our Prius test car and utilize it to deliver presents to friends and family across the country. Given the Prius’s genuinely engaging driving dynamics, I would undoubtedly leverage the quietude of the holiday roads to seek out the most exhilarating, winding routes.
Our New Year’s Automotive Resolutions
Vicky Parrott: I possess a 1992 Mercedes SL which, regrettably, has not been utilized nearly enough in the past year. As the wise Steve Cropley once wisely imparted, having a destination for your vehicle is paramount. This coming year, I intend to embark on a road trip with a companion who has also recently acquired an SL, and I am eager to take my nine-year-old daughter to the Goodwood Revival. Ultimately, my resolution is to create lasting memories.
Matt Prior: I plan to transform my Land Rover Defender into a soft-top variant. It will transition from a utilitarian workhorse – a role now adeptly filled by my Audi A2 – into a more dedicated, enjoyable weekend leisure vehicle. I anticipate using it less frequently, but undoubtedly enjoying it exponentially more.
Steve Cropley: In the forthcoming year, my intention is to drive as extensively as ever. However, I shall commence my journeys significantly earlier. Driving is particularly pleasurable when traffic is sparse (a benefit that generally extends well into the day), and the most reliable method to ensure this is, in most circumstances, to depart before the majority of other drivers have even begun their day.
Illya Verpraet: I recognize a pressing need to utilize my own vehicles more frequently. I am also overdue for a substantial continental road trip, an endeavor I regrettably failed to undertake this year. My recently acquired BMW E30 is currently undergoing essential winter fettling and will serve as the ideal steed to accomplish these objectives – and hopefully, address several other pressing automotive needs.
James Disdale: I find myself uttering this declaration annually, but for 2026, I genuinely intend to follow through. After years of languishing beneath a protective cover for nearly a decade, I am finally committing to resurrecting the Mk2 Volkswagen Golf GTI that has borne my name on its V5 registration document since 2003. However, I fully anticipate repeating this exact sentiment this time next year…
This year’s festive automotive gathering has provided a fascinating snapshot of what truly resonates with automotive enthusiasts and industry professionals alike in 2025. From the hyper-efficient to the outrageously powerful, the best new cars offer a spectrum of experiences. Whether you’re considering a new hybrid car, a cutting-edge electric vehicle for sale, or a classic-inspired performance car purchase, the market is rich with innovation and excitement. As you plan your own automotive future, remember the joy of driving and the importance of choosing a vehicle that truly speaks to you. Contact your local dealership today to explore these incredible machines and find the perfect vehicle to make your own motoring dreams a reality.
