The 2025 Automotive Yuletide: A Connoisseur’s Convocation of Cutting-Edge Cars
As the crisp air of December settles and the festive spirit permeates the nation, the automotive world, much like any other passionate community, finds its own unique traditions. For us seasoned professionals in the industry, the year-end often culminates not in the unwrapping of presents, but in the spirited dissection of the most compelling vehicles to emerge from the preceding twelve months. This year, instead of the usual exchange of well-intentioned, if sometimes misguided, gifts, we’ve convened our annual “Christmas Lunch Bunch”—a gathering of industry cognoscenti, each arriving in a vehicle they champion as a standout of 2025. This isn’t about speculation; it’s about lived experience, about the cars that have genuinely resonated, and will ultimately be judged by a discerning palate.
My own journey into this esteemed fraternity began a decade ago, a period marked by seismic shifts in automotive engineering, design, and consumer expectation. I’ve witnessed the rise of electrification, the refinement of hybrid powertrains, and the enduring allure of the internal combustion engine, all while navigating the intricate dance of market trends and technological advancement. This year’s convoy, assembling against the backdrop of a beautiful, windswept coastline, felt particularly significant. The air buzzed not just with anticipation for lunch, but with a genuine passion for the metal and machines that define our era. Each of us, armed with a personal automotive muse, arrived ready to defend our chosen chariot, transforming our festive meal into a sophisticated, yet spirited, automotive debate.
The primary objective is clear: to showcase a vehicle from the past year that we believe stands head and shoulders above the rest, either through personal affinity or demonstrable excellence. The esteemed Sam Phillips, a critic whose sharp intellect and unbiased perspective are as highly regarded as his palate for fine cuisine, is tasked with presiding over this automotive arbitration. It’s a rare privilege, you see, to not only have access to the industry’s latest offerings but to also engage in such a robust, in-depth discussion with peers who share this profound appreciation for automotive engineering. While some might consider this a perk of the job, for many of us, it’s the very essence of what fuels our dedication to the craft.
With twelve months of automotive innovation and sheer driving pleasure to draw from, the contenders began to roll in. Each arrival was met with a mixture of curiosity and respect. The spectrum of choices promised a fascinating dialogue, touching upon efficiency, raw performance, luxury, and sheer unadulterated driving joy.
Our first participant, arriving with an almost ethereal grace, was the Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid. As it glided through the morning mist, its silhouette undeniably aerodynamic, a colleague humorously quipped that it resembled a high-end taxi. This observation, however, belied the profound respect for what the Prius represents. James Disdale, a veteran automotive writer with a keen eye for technical innovation, eloquently articulated this sentiment.
“Twenty years ago, if you’d told me I’d be championing a Prius, I’d have laughed,” James confessed, a wry smile playing on his lips. “But then, you look back to its inception. The original Prius was revolutionary, delivering groundbreaking hybrid technology in an accessible package. And remarkably, it continues that legacy. While it’s become the benchmark for taxi fleets due to its unparalleled efficiency and reliability, that’s precisely why it deserves recognition. In these economically and environmentally sensitive times, championing the workhorse, the everyday breadwinner, makes immense sense. As fuel economy and resource management become increasingly critical, this hybrid powertrain is not just relevant; it’s foundational. And for those who dismiss it with ‘Uber’ jokes, I can assure you, it’s genuinely rewarding to drive.”
He wasn’t wrong. A brief excursion behind the wheel confirmed its inherent strengths. The way it hummed along the coastal roads, its quiet operation a stark contrast to the roaring engines of yesteryear, was strangely satisfying. There’s a quiet intelligence to its design, a subtle sophistication that evokes echoes of certain legendary marques. “The Prius possesses elements of Saab’s best days, perhaps even a whisper of modern DS automotive elegance,” James added. “It’s a car engineered with a deep understanding of real-world needs.”
Then, the mood shifted seismically with the arrival of the Ford Mustang Dark Horse. If the Prius represented thoughtful pragmatism, the Mustang was pure, unadulterated automotive theatre. Illya Verpraet, our road tester known for his appreciation of visceral driving experiences, arrived in this icon of American muscle.
Surrounding the Mustang, one couldn’t help but feel a child-like excitement. Its imposing presence, the promise of a thundering V8, and, crucially, a manual gearbox, ignited a collective sense of automotive romance. It was a palpable aura of defiance against the prevailing trends, a celebration of raw, mechanical prowess.
“I felt the previous iteration of the Mustang, particularly the automatic, didn’t quite showcase its true potential during our ‘Handling Day’ tests,” Illya explained. “But the manual? That’s a different story. It’s an antithesis to much of what we see today – not overly sophisticated, perhaps, but profoundly fun. It’s a car that demands your engagement, and in return, it delivers an exhilarating, almost primal, connection to the road. Yes, it makes you feel a tad conspicuous, but the sheer joy it evokes is undeniable.”
The guttural rumble emanating from the Mustang’s exhaust was a symphony in itself, a sound that, for many of us, would have been reason enough for it to be considered. However, the automotive soundscape of the day was further elevated by the arrival of Steve Cropley, our esteemed editor-in-chief, in the Porsche Panamera Turbo S.
The Panamera’s arrival was announced not by a roar, but by a deep, resonant burble – a sound that spoke of controlled power and refined engineering. Where the Mustang bellowed, the Panamera’s V8 whispered a sophisticated threat.
“This presented a unique opportunity to experience a V8 with a conscience,” Steve remarked, as we gathered for photographs. “This morning, I achieved an impressive 40 miles of pure electric range, and after a 150-mile journey, the trip computer indicated 45 miles per gallon. That’s remarkable. And when you decide to unleash its capabilities, the soundtrack is simply phenomenal. The four-wheel steering makes navigating these winding coastal roads remarkably agile, the build quality is exceptional, and the air suspension provides a ride quality that is nothing short of brilliant. I genuinely believe this is the pinnacle of its luxury sedan class. We often discuss the ‘best of both worlds’ with plug-in hybrids; here, you have the undeniable logic of significant EV range complemented by the visceral thrill of a V8 when the mood strikes.”
It’s difficult to argue with Steve’s assessment. The Panamera Turbo S, even in its somewhat unconventional bronze hue, embodies a certain nonchalant brilliance, akin to a Mercedes S-Class in its everyday touring comfort, yet possessing the soul of a sports car when provoked. The air suspension’s ability to subtly lift the car upon unlocking felt like an eager greeting, and the massage seats were, quite frankly, a revelation. A Christmas present in their own right, let alone part of a potent PHEV.
The Panamera, a paragon of sophisticated engineering, stood in striking contrast to the Prius and the Mustang. Yet, arguably, the most divergent personality in our convoy was another bronze marvel: the Morgan Supersport.
I had the distinct pleasure of driving this very car earlier in the year, a thrilling comparison against the ferociously potent Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. The Supersport was a strong contender for my personal highlight of the year, and its inclusion here is a testament to its unique appeal. The modern interpretation of Morgan’s iconic styling imbues the Supersport with a captivating, almost steampunk aesthetic. The allure of a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive machine, perfectly balanced with just the right amount of power and tactile feedback, is profoundly compelling. It’s a rare gem.
Matt Prior, our editor-at-large and a custodian of automotive history and innovation, has championed the Supersport. “It’s a quirky car, undoubtedly,” Matt stated. “I appreciate its distinctive appearance, its traditional yet refined construction, and the sheer unadulterated enjoyment it provides. Does it have a certain mechanical character? Absolutely. But is there anything else I’ve driven this year that has resonated with me on such a visceral level? Not a chance.” His endorsement speaks volumes.
And now, to conclude the introductions, my own personal champion: the Renault 5. This is a car I’ve fallen deeply in love with. My initial encounter, driving it to the northernmost reaches of Denmark for Car of the Year judging in late 2024, sparked a conviction that this might well represent a pivotal moment for affordable electric mobility. Subsequent experiences reinforced this belief, extending beyond its electric credentials. The Renault 5, I contend, is resurrecting the joy of small, affordable cars. Whether powered by petrol or electricity, its driving dynamics are a constant source of pleasure, equally at home navigating urban landscapes as it is tackling spirited drives on challenging roads.
It possesses an aspirational quality, despite its accessible price point. It harks back to an era when the Saxo, 106, Corsa, and Fiesta were the objects of fervent desire for younger drivers. Renault has, with the R5, captured that elusive magic. It’s akin to BMW’s reinvention of the Mini or Fiat’s resurrection of the 500. This R5, however, feels like a more modern, more relevant iteration. Who needs a Prius to represent affordability and efficiency when you can have all that, coupled with undeniable style and charm?
As we wrapped up our individual presentations, a noticeable void became apparent. Two integral members of our team, road test editor Matt Saunders and his deputy Richard Lane, were conspicuously absent. Their absence, due to childcare commitments and pre-planned holidays respectively, cast a brief shadow over our otherwise jovial assembly. This led to a spirited, albeit hypothetical, discussion about the cars they would have undoubtedly brought to the party had they been present.
The consensus was immediate and unanimous: Richard Lane would have arrived in a Porsche 911. The discussion was so fervent that even patrons at a nearby table, strangers to our automotive discourse, chimed in with their conviction that Ricky would have brought a 911. The pub landlord, the parking attendant, and even a traveling psychic were united in this prediction. It became a running joke, a testament to the 911’s enduring appeal and Richard’s well-known preference. In fact, James Disdale and I had a brief moment of confusion upon arrival, scanning the car park for the expected 911, before remembering Richard’s absence.
The question then evolved: which specific variant of the ever-expanding 911 range would have graced our gathering? This proved a more complex deliberation, but the collective verdict leaned towards the Carrera S or perhaps even a GT3 RS. Ultimately, the Carrera S was the more probable choice, a blend of accessible performance and everyday usability that aligns with Ricky’s pragmatic yet performance-oriented approach. We missed both Ricky and the 911, a poignant reminder of their valuable contributions.
As for Matt Saunders, while I harbored a mischievous desire to see him arrive in another brown Volvo estate, the prevailing opinion was that our esteemed road test editor would have undoubtedly chosen the Defender Octa. A 626bhp Land Rover Defender – a Christmas wish list item for many, and a vehicle that embodies sheer capability and audacious performance.
With the cars introduced and the debates preliminarily settled, the focus shifted to Sam Phillips, our adjudicator for the day. His role was to synthesize our arguments, assess the vehicles’ merits, and ultimately declare a winner.
Sam began his deliberations with a candid assessment. “Matt Prior’s assertion of the Morgan Supersport’s driving brilliance was certainly validated during my brief drive. However, while it’s an exquisite machine, it doesn’t quite fulfill the broader requirements for a truly versatile second car.”
He then turned his attention to the Toyota Prius. “James Disdale presented a compelling case for the Prius. His observations regarding its futuristic aesthetics, engaging dynamics, and affordability were all valid. I must admit, his subtle attempt to slide a ten-pound note across the table during his presentation did raise an eyebrow, suggesting perhaps a sliver of doubt beneath his confident advocacy.”
The Porsche Panamera Turbo S came next. “Steve Cropley championed the Panamera, highlighting its exceptional ride quality, impressive fuel economy, and blistering performance. It is, without question, a class leader and an ideal choice for many plug-in hybrid aspirants. However, its considerable weight and substantial price tag are factors that cannot be easily overlooked.”
The Ford Mustang Dark Horse received its due. “Illya Verpraet’s enthusiasm for the manual Mustang Dark Horse was infectious. In 2025, a year where regulations increasingly challenge the V8 muscle car, it represents a bold and commendable choice. Yet, even Illya conceded a certain feeling of self-consciousness while piloting its formidable presence.”
Finally, Sam addressed my own submission, the Renault 5. “Vicky Parrott’s argument for the Renault 5 was meticulously constructed, acknowledging its charming retro styling, respectable range, and accessible price point. It transforms mundane short trips into enjoyable excursions and, remarkably, remains engaging when pushed to its limits, a characteristic rarely found in a supermini since the reimagined Mini.”
Sam paused, allowing his words to sink in. “In many respects, the Renault 5 has redefined the narrative surrounding electric vehicles. It demonstrably proves that EVs can be both exhilarating to drive and remarkably affordable without compromising on quality. The R5 faced significant expectations prior to its launch, and its ability to not only meet but exceed these, while arguably capturing the cultural zeitgeist, makes it our undisputed winner.”
The declaration was met with a mixture of applause and thoughtful nods. The Renault 5, a car that champions accessibility, fun, and a touch of retro charm, had triumphed. It was a powerful statement, signifying that true automotive excellence in 2025 isn’t solely about raw power or cutting-edge technology, but also about intelligent design, emotional connection, and democratic appeal.
As we prepared to disperse, the conversation naturally turned to future aspirations, to New Year’s resolutions for the discerning automotive enthusiast.
Vicky Parrott: “My resolution is simple: more driving. I have a cherished 1992 Mercedes SL that hasn’t seen enough of the road. As Steve Cropley wisely advised, having a destination is paramount. This year, I plan a road trip with a fellow SL owner and, crucially, a pilgrimage to the Goodwood Revival with my daughter. It’s about creating lasting memories.”
Matt Prior: “I intend to transform my Land Rover Defender from a utilitarian workhorse into a more relaxed, weekend-focused vehicle. With an Audi A2 now fulfilling my daily commuting needs, the Defender can embrace a less demanding, more enjoyable role. Less usage, more appreciation.”
Steve Cropley: “My primary aim is to continue driving extensively, but with a renewed emphasis on embracing the early morning. Journeys undertaken when traffic is sparse offer a significantly enhanced driving experience. The key is to initiate travel before the majority of drivers have commenced their day.”
Illya Verpraet: “I’ve neglected my personal stable this year. A significant continental road trip is long overdue. My recently acquired BMW E30 is currently undergoing winter fettling, and I intend to use it to fulfill this objective, and undoubtedly many other driving pleasures along the way.”
James Disdale: “This is a resolution I make with genuine conviction for 2026. After a decade of neglect, I am finally going to embark on the resurrection of my Mk2 Volkswagen Golf GTI, a project I’ve owned since 2003. I fully expect to be making the same declaration this time next year.”
This year’s automotive Yuletide celebration underscored a vital truth: the pursuit of driving pleasure is multifaceted. Whether you seek the refined efficiency of a plug-in hybrid, the raw emotion of a V8, the timeless charm of a classic-inspired machine, or the accessible joy of a compact hatchback, there’s a vehicle in 2025 that speaks to your soul.
As the festive season draws to a close, and we reflect on the remarkable machines that have defined the year, the call to action is clear. Don’t just admire these vehicles from afar. Engage with them. Experience them. Seek out a test drive, explore local dealerships, and discover the automotive passion that resonates with you. Your next unforgettable driving adventure awaits.
