The 2025 Automotive Yuletide Tribunal: A Festive Showdown of Exceptional 2025 Vehicles
The holiday season is intrinsically linked to cherished traditions, those familiar touchstones that signal the winding down of the year and the embrace of comfort and cheer. For many, this might involve the scent of pine, the warmth of a crackling fire, and perhaps a carefully curated selection of classic films. However, within the hallowed halls of Autocar Towers, a distinct, and dare I say, more spirited tradition marks the true commencement of the Yuletide period: our annual Road Testers’ Christmas Lunch. For years, this esteemed gathering has been punctuated by the jovial, albeit occasionally fraught, tradition of exchanging vehicles – a practice that, as I recall with a lingering sense of mild trepidation, has not always been met with universal acclaim. I still bear the faint scars of a past transgression involving a rather unfortunate shade of brown Volvo estate bestowed upon our esteemed Road Test Editor, Matt Saunders.
This year, however, we’ve elected to simplify the proceedings, opting for a more direct and, perhaps, even more contentious approach. Instead of the veiled generosity of a Secret Santa, each participant is tasked with presenting a vehicle from the preceding twelve months that has personally resonated with them, or one they genuinely believe stands out as the most exceptional automotive achievement of the year. The ultimate arbiter of this vehicular contest? Our very own Staff Writer, Sam Phillips. This, my friends, is the kind of assignment that fuels the dreams of any automotive enthusiast. Imagine the sheer latitude: the ability to liaise with manufacturers across the globe, to solicit a vehicle that will serve as the centerpiece for a celebratory lunch amongst colleagues, all under the guise of professional obligation. While one could convincingly argue that every day at Autocar is, in essence, a Christmas for us, this particular event undoubtedly stands as one of the most anticipated “office” days of the year.
With a year’s worth of automotive brilliance and engineering ingenuity to draw from, where better to commence our deliberations than with the revitalized Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid?
The Resurgent Icon: Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid
As the mist, a soft, ethereal blanket clinging to the dramatic cliffs of Beachy Head, parted, revealing the aerodynamic silhouette of the Prius, my initial, fleeting thought was that a taxi was arriving. “Honestly,” mused contributor James Disdale, his voice tinged with a hint of playful incredulity, “if you’d told me twenty years ago I’d be nominating a Toyota Prius for this, I’d have laughed out loud.” He then elaborated, “But you have to consider the context. Twenty-five years ago, when the Prius first emerged, it was lauded for bringing sophisticated powertrain technology to an accessible package. And you know what? It’s still doing that. Yes, it’s become the quintessential choice for taxi fleets, and there’s a very good reason for that: the Prius is exceptionally efficient, remarkably reliable, and frankly, an outstanding car. In these uncertain economic times, championing a vehicle that represents true, everyday value makes perfect sense. As fuel efficiency, resource conservation, and the responsible use of precious metals become increasingly critical, this hybrid powertrain only grows in relevance. And before you launch into another tired Uber joke, let me assure you, it’s genuinely enjoyable to drive!”
Disdale’s argument, I must confess, carries significant weight. A brief sojourn behind the wheel, tracing the ribbon of road that winds along the Sussex coast towards the iconic Beachy Head lighthouse, revealed an almost meditative satisfaction in its hushed, electrically assisted progress. As Disdale aptly put it, “The Prius, in its best moments, evokes a sense of the masterful engineering found in classic Saabs, perhaps even a touch of the contemporary finesse of modern DS automobiles. It’s a car of considerable intelligence.” This sentiment, that of a thoughtful and well-executed design, seems to be a recurring theme when discussing the best new cars of 2025.
A Roaring Departure: Ford Mustang Dark Horse
In stark contrast to the measured pragmatism of the Prius, road tester Illya Verpraet has seemingly sidestepped any consideration of the prevailing cost-of-living crisis. The Ford Mustang Dark Horse he’s presented is a powerfully evocative presence amidst our otherwise festive ensemble. Its mere proximity evokes a childlike exhilaration, a visceral excitement that only a V8-powered muscle car can reliably conjure. The very sight of it arriving, complete with a manual gearbox no less, elicits an involuntary urge to applaud.
“I felt the Mustang received a somewhat raw deal during last year’s ‘Handling Day’,” Verpraet explained. “It was equipped with an automatic transmission, which, frankly, didn’t do it justice. However, after experiencing the manual variant, I was utterly captivated. It’s such an anachronism in today’s automotive landscape – not overtly sophisticated, perhaps, but immeasurably fun. I absolutely adore it, even if it does occasionally make me feel a tad self-conscious.” For me, the guttural symphony emanating from the Dark Horse’s exhaust alone is enough to elevate the entire occasion. But speaking of resonant V8 soundtracks, an unexpected highlight has arrived in the form of editor-in-chief Steve Cropley’s Porsche Panamera Turbo S.
The Sophisticated Hybrid Grand Tourer: Porsche Panamera Turbo S
I heard the Panamera before I saw it – a subtle, low-frequency rumble that hinted at latent power. Where the Mustang commands attention with a bold declaration, the Panamera’s V8 offers a deliciously refined, yet unmistakably potent, murmur. “I felt this was an ideal opportunity to showcase a V8 with a conscience,” Cropley remarked, as we patiently awaited photographer Max’s precarious perch to secure the opening shot of the assembled vehicles.
“I drove it here this morning,” he continued, “achieving a remarkable 40 miles of electric range, and the journey of 150 miles yielded an impressive 45 miles per gallon. And when you truly unleash it, the sound is absolutely magnificent. The four-wheel steering makes it remarkably agile, even on these intricate country lanes. The craftsmanship is impeccable, and the air suspension is nothing short of brilliant. I genuinely believe it represents the pinnacle of its segment. We often discuss how PHEVs offer the best of both worlds; well, a substantial EV range coupled with the visceral thrill of a V8 on demand possesses a compelling logic.” I couldn’t agree more. The Panamera Turbo S, even in the rather audacious bronze hue of our test car, possesses the effortless elegance of a Mercedes S-Class for everyday cruising, yet reveals the unadulterated soul of a sports car when its capabilities are explored. It’s a true delight, and I, too, was particularly taken with the air suspension, which gracefully elevates the entire vehicle upon unlocking, much like an eager puppy. Furthermore, the massage seats are, without hyperbole, the finest I have ever experienced. Individually, they would represent a remarkable Christmas present; combined with a potent V8 PHEV powertrain, it’s simply extraordinary. The Panamera presents a dramatically different proposition from the Prius and the Mustang, yet perhaps it is outshone in its divergence by another bronze marvel: the Morgan Supersport.
The Timeless Charm: Morgan Supersport
I had the distinct pleasure of driving this very car in Wales earlier this year, in a side-by-side comparison with a Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, a fascinating juxtaposition of the extreme ends of performance car engineering. It was a strong contender for my personal highlight of the year, and thus, a compelling choice for this gathering. I have a deep admiration for Morgan’s contemporary reinterpretation of its iconic styling, imbuing the Supersport with a peculiar, almost steampunk allure. The inherent appeal of a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive machine, blessed with precisely the right amount of power and tactile feedback, is simply undeniable. It is, in a word, a gem. This sentiment is precisely what led our editor-at-large, Matt Prior, to select it for our festive rendezvous.
“I simply like it,” Prior stated. “It’s a wonderfully quirky car. I appreciate its aesthetic, its construction, the sheer joy of driving it; it consistently brings a smile to my face. Does it possess the mechanical cadence of a sewing machine? Yes. But is there anything else I’ve driven this year that has proven as captivating? Unequivocally, no.” Is there anything more to be said? Moving swiftly along, let us conclude with my own personal selection: the Renault 5.
The Electric Renaissance: Renault 5
This car holds a special place in my automotive affections. My admiration began at the close of 2024 when, during my duties as a juror for the Car of the Year awards, I drove it to the northernmost reaches of Denmark. Standing back, I mused whether this humble vehicle might represent a significant turning point for affordable electric cars. Subsequent journeys and extended periods spent with the Renault solidified a broader appreciation: that the electric powertrain is merely one facet of its broader appeal. I firmly believe the Renault 5 is actively resurrecting the spirit of enjoyable, affordable small cars. Regardless of propulsion, this vehicle is an absolute delight to drive, whether engaged in the mundane task of commuting or playfully navigating the challenging curves of Beachy Head. It exudes an aspirational quality, despite its accessible price point. It recaptures the essence of what small cars once were – vehicles that young people fervently desired, much like the Saxo, the 106, the Corsa, and the Fiesta of yesteryear. Incredibly, Renault has managed to bottle that magic in the 5, much as BMW achieved with its reinvented Mini and Fiat with the resurrected 500. Who, then, requires a Prius to symbolize affordability and efficiency when the Renault 5 offers all of that, coupled with an undeniable coolness factor?
With that resounding endorsement, I feel compelled to address a glaring omission, or rather, two. The esteemed Road Test Editor, Matt Saunders, and his deputy, Richard Lane, are conspicuously absent from this festive reunion. Consequently, we find ourselves compelled to conclude our Christmas lunch by speculating on what vehicles they would have brought, had they not been regrettably detained by childcare commitments or pre-arranged holidays.
The Absentee All-Stars: Speculating on Missed Entries
“Ricky would have brought a Porsche 911,” was the unanimous verdict echoed by virtually everyone present. Even patrons at a neighboring table, unfamiliar with Ricky or Autocar, concurred. The pub landlord, the parking attendant, even a passing psychic, all predicted a 911. The consensus was unwavering: Ricky would have brought a 911. In fact, upon our arrival, James Disdale and I exchanged bewildered glances, scanning the car park and questioning the absence of a 911. Its perennial brilliance dictates its inclusion. The truth is, none of us brought one, as we all implicitly assumed Ricky would champion it. Sadly, neither Ricky nor his chosen steed materialized today.
But which variant of the increasingly diverse 911 range would he have chosen? That’s a more intricate question. However, perhaps to his credit, the collective judgment leaned towards the Carrera S, or possibly the GT3 RS. But ultimately, the Carrera S was the most frequently cited. And who could blame him? We missed both Ricky and the 911, but perhaps next year, eh?
As for Mr. Saunders? While I am tempted to assign him another brown Volvo estate, the prevailing opinion suggests that our esteemed Road Test Editor would likely have presented the Defender Octa. A 626bhp Land Rover Defender – who wouldn’t desire that for Christmas?
And so, gentlemen, for next year, our only request is your presence. In the interim, before I hand over to Sam, I extend my warmest wishes for a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May your festive drives be filled with unparalleled joy and exhilaration.
The Verdict – Judged by Sam Phillips
Matt Prior’s impassioned assertions regarding the Supersport’s driving prowess were vindicated during my brief tenure behind the wheel prior to lunch. However, I concur that its inherent nature prevents it from fulfilling the versatile role of a secondary vehicle in a well-rounded garage.
James’s case for the Prius was robust, and his observations concerning the Toyota’s futuristic aesthetics, engaging dynamics, and inherent affordability were entirely valid. My estimable colleague then made a rather transparent attempt to surreptitiously slip me a £10 note, leading me to question the absolute conviction behind his advocacy for the Prius.
Steve, meanwhile, eloquently championed the Panamera, extolling its sublime ride quality, its impressive fuel economy, and its exhilarating performance. It is undoubtedly a segment leader, and will undoubtedly satisfy many PHEV users. However, its considerable bulk and premium price tag are challenging to overlook.
I was thoroughly captivated by Illya’s manual Mustang Dark Horse. In 2025, a year where regulations increasingly conspire against V8 muscle cars, its presence is all the more remarkable. It’s an inspired choice, yet even Illya conceded to feeling a modicum of self-consciousness while piloting it.
Vicky’s argument for the Renault 5 was meticulously constructed, acknowledging its evocative retro styling, respectable range, and accessible pricing. It transforms mundane short trips into enjoyable excursions and is equally rewarding when pushed spiritedly through corners – a characteristic not observed in a supermini since BMW’s reinvention of the Mini.
In many respects, the Renault 5 has injected a fresh perspective into the electric vehicle discourse, conclusively demonstrating that EVs can deliver both exhilarating driving experiences and exceptional value without compromising on perceived quality. There was considerable anticipation surrounding the 5’s launch, and the fact that it has not only met but arguably exceeded these expectations, while simultaneously capturing the cultural zeitgeist, makes it our undisputed winner.
Our Dream Christmas Drives
Vicky Parrott: My ideal Christmas Day drive would involve traversing the scenic Cranborne Chase in Dorset, perhaps even venturing along Zig Zag Hill. Having grown up in the vicinity, this area is steeped in cherished memories, including navigating its roads in my very first car: a 1984 Renault 5, which I acquired in 2002 for a mere £50. I adored that car, and always will. The evolution of automotive technology over the past couple of decades is truly astonishing.
Matt Prior: An early start, heading towards the west coast, at a leisurely pace, with a picnic basket securely stowed in the boot. The Supersport is a quintessentially romantic grand touring automobile, not a dedicated sports car. A relaxed lunch by the sea, turning homeward in the mid-afternoon, bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun filtering through that expansive rear window.
Steve Cropley: For years, I’ve harbored a desire for an in-depth exploration of the Malvern Hills, having been captivated by its inspirational vistas and intriguing roadways during brief, albeit memorable, visits to Morgan. I would leverage the substantial capabilities of the Porsche to leisurely investigate promising locales over an extended period.
Illya Verpraet: I’ve never had the opportunity to properly explore the United States, and contrary to popular stereotypes, it boasts some truly spectacular winding roads. Now that modern vehicles are capable of confidently navigating such terrain, I’m eager to experience the legendary canyon roads of California. And, with 453 horsepower on tap, the Dark Horse should provide ample motivation to evade any… unforeseen enforcement encounters, should they arise.
James Disdale: For a festive excursion, I would wholeheartedly embrace the vibrant, Santa-sleigh red finish of our Prius test car, utilizing it to deliver presents to friends and family scattered across the country. Given the Prius’s genuinely engaging driving dynamics, I would seize the opportunity presented by the quiet holiday roads to seek out the most circuitous and enjoyable routes.
Our New Year’s Resolutions
Vicky Parrott: I possess a 1992 Mercedes SL, which, regrettably, has seen insufficient use in the past year. A wise individual once imparted the profound wisdom that having a destination for your vehicle is paramount. This coming year, I am planning a road trip with a friend who has also recently acquired an SL, and I am keen to take my nine-year-old daughter to the Goodwood Revival. Ultimately, my resolution is to create enduring memories.
Matt Prior: I intend to transform my Land Rover Defender into a soft-top variant, shifting its role from a utilitarian workhorse (a task now admirably handled by my Audi A2) to a more enjoyable weekend recreational vehicle. I will likely use it less frequently, but with significantly more enjoyment.
Steve Cropley: In the new year, I am committed to driving as extensively as ever, but I will commence my journeys earlier in the day. Driving is particularly pleasurable when traffic is sparse – a benefit that often extends well into the day. Generally speaking, the most reliable method to guarantee this is to initiate journeys before the majority of other drivers have commenced their day.
Illya Verpraet: I find myself needing to utilize my own vehicles more frequently, and I am overdue for a substantial continental road trip, a feat I was unable to accomplish this year. My recently acquired BMW E30 is currently undergoing winter servicing and will be instrumental in achieving these objectives, and hopefully, many more.
James Disdale: I make this declaration every year, but for 2026, I am genuinely resolute. After allowing it to languish under a protective cover for an entire decade, I am finally going to embark on the resurrection of my Mk2 Volkswagen Golf GTI, which has officially been under my ownership since 2003. However, I fully anticipate repeating this same pronouncement this time next year…
As the embers of our festive feast begin to cool, and the echoes of our passionate automotive debates subside, the question remains: which of these exceptional 2025 vehicles truly embodies the spirit of driving excellence? We’ve presented our cases, championed our choices, and subjected them to the discerning eye of our chosen judge. Now, the path forward is yours. Explore these models, delve into their specifications, and perhaps, just perhaps, find the perfect automotive companion to elevate your own journeys. Should you require expert guidance to navigate the complex landscape of new car sales in 2025 or seek the most advantageous car finance options, our dedicated team is ready to assist you in making your next automotive dream a reality.
