The Ultimate Automotive Yuletide Showcase: 2025’s Elite Vehicles Crowned in Festive Feud
The aroma of pine, the crackle of a fire, and the shared joy of loved ones – these are the cornerstones of a truly memorable Christmas. Yet, for those of us immersed in the dynamic world of automotive engineering and performance, another cherished tradition marks the true dawn of the festive season: the annual Autocar team’s Christmas lunch. For years, this gathering has been punctuated by the whimsical exchange of pre-selected vehicles, often leading to a delightful (and sometimes exasperated) appreciation of our colleagues’ tastes. While past years saw us wrestling with the gratitude (or lack thereof) for a surprise automotive gift – I recall Matt Saunders’ particular reaction to a decidedly earth-toned Volvo estate – this year, we’ve opted for a refreshingly direct approach. The mandate was simple: arrive with a vehicle launched within the past twelve months that we passionately champion. This could be a personal favourite, or more importantly, a machine we genuinely believe represents the pinnacle of automotive achievement for 2025. Stepping into the role of discerning arbiter is our Staff Writer, Sam Phillips, tasked with crowning our ultimate victor.
This is, quite frankly, a professional dream scenario. The ability to petition any automotive manufacturer and request a vehicle to showcase to your peers over a celebratory meal, often under the guise of “research,” is a perk that few outside this industry can truly comprehend. While we often quip that Christmas arrives daily at Autocar Towers, this particular event stands out as a highlight of the year. With an entire year’s worth of automotive innovation, engineering marvels, and sheer driving pleasure to draw from, the contenders are as diverse as the holiday season itself. So, let us commence our exploration of 2025’s most compelling vehicles, beginning with a surprising yet profoundly relevant entrant: the Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid.
The Toyota Prius Plug-in Hybrid: A Masterclass in Evolution
As the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid gracefully slices through the ethereal morning mist clinging to the dramatic cliffs of Beachy Head, there’s an initial, almost reflexive, thought: “Is that a high-end taxi arriving?” This sentiment, though fleeting, was echoed by Contributor James Disdale, who, with a twinkle in his eye, articulated a sentiment many of us shared: “Honestly, if you’d told me twenty years ago that I’d be nominating a Toyota Prius for a ‘best of’ award, I’d have laughed.” Yet, he continued, his argument gaining significant traction, “But then, if you cast your mind back to its debut 25 years ago, the Prius was revolutionary for bringing groundbreaking powertrain technology to an accessible package. And you know what? It’s still doing that, perhaps even better.”
Disdale’s point is astute. The Prius has, undeniably, become synonymous with taxi fleets, a testament to its unflappable reliability and exceptional fuel efficiency. However, to dismiss it on this basis is to overlook its profound evolution. “In these economically fluid times, championing a vehicle that remains a steadfast everyday workhorse makes immense sense,” he asserted. “As concerns about fuel consumption, efficiency, and the responsible use of rare earth metals intensify, this hybrid powertrain isn’t just relevant; it’s becoming increasingly indispensable.” He preemptively dismissed any snarky remarks about ride-sharing services, adding, “And beyond its practicality, it’s genuinely rewarding to drive.”
Upon sampling the Prius myself on the ribbon-like roads that hug the Sussex coast, I found myself unexpectedly charmed. There’s a peculiar satisfaction in its quiet, almost seamless, operation. “The Prius, at its best, evokes a sense of the elegant simplicity found in classic Saabs, perhaps even with a whisper of modern French flair like a DS,” Disdale observed. “It’s a remarkably intelligent piece of engineering.” This sentiment speaks volumes about the best hybrid cars of 2025, a category where the Prius continues to set a formidable benchmark.
The Ford Mustang Dark Horse: Unleashing the Roaring V8 Spirit
In stark contrast to the Prius’s pragmatic efficiency, Road Tester Illya Verpraet has clearly sidestepped any practical considerations stemming from the prevailing cost of living challenges. The Ford Mustang Dark Horse he has presented cuts a deliciously brooding figure amidst our festive assembly. Its mere presence evokes a childlike exuberance, a palpable excitement that only a V8-powered muscle car can conjure. The very notion of it arriving, especially equipped with a manual gearbox, is cause for applause.
“I felt the Mustang received a somewhat unfair assessment at last year’s ‘Handling Day’ due to its automatic transmission, which wasn’t its strongest suit,” Verpraet explained. “However, driving the manual variant was an entirely different experience. It’s refreshingly anachronistic in its approach – not overly sophisticated, perhaps, but utterly, unashamedly fun. Even if it does make me feel a tad conspicuous, I adore it.”
For me, the guttural growl emanating from the Mustang’s exhaust alone is sufficient to elevate the Christmas spirit. Speaking of V8 symphonies, an unexpected delight arrived in the form of Editor-in-Chief Steve Cropley’s Porsche Panamera Turbo S.
The Porsche Panamera Turbo S: Grand Touring Electrified
Long before it came into view, its distinctive auditory signature announced its arrival: a remarkably refined, low-frequency burble. Where the Mustang practically bellows its V8 credentials, the Panamera’s engine offers a delicious, sophisticated, yet undeniably menacing murmur.
“I saw this as a prime opportunity to showcase an ‘ethical’ V8,” Cropley remarked, as we patiently awaited photographer Max to capture the perfect initial shot of the stationary vehicles, all while precariously perched on his ladder. “I drove it here this morning, managed a solid 40 miles on electric power alone, and on a 150-mile journey, it still showed an impressive 45 miles per gallon. But when you unleash its full potential, the sound is absolutely sensational. The four-wheel steering makes it remarkably agile, even on these tight, winding roads. The build quality is exquisite, and the air suspension is simply brilliant in its execution. I genuinely believe it represents the zenith of the luxury saloon segment. We often discuss plug-in hybrids as offering the ‘best of both worlds’; here, a substantial EV range complemented by the visceral thrill of a V8 engine offers a compelling logic.”
I couldn’t agree more. The Panamera Turbo S, even in the somewhat unconventional bronze hue of this test car, possesses the effortless grace of a Mercedes S-Class for everyday touring, yet harbours the unadulterated soul of a sports car when the mood strikes. It is, quite simply, a joy. I, too, found myself particularly drawn to the air suspension, which, upon unlocking, caused the entire car to visibly rise, akin to an eager canine greeting its owner. Furthermore, its massage seats are arguably the finest I’ve ever encountered. One of those alone would be a remarkable Christmas gift, let alone paired with a potent V8 plug-in hybrid powertrain. The Panamera presents a starkly different proposition to both the Prius and the Mustang.
The Morgan Supersport: A Timeless British Icon Reimagined
However, perhaps the most dramatically divergent offering from the others, and indeed from our entire collection, is another bronze marvel: the Morgan Supersport. I had the distinct pleasure of driving this very machine in Wales earlier this year, directly comparing it with the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, a session that celebrated the extreme ends of performance car engineering. The Supersport was a strong contender for my personal pick today, and for good reason.
I am captivated by Morgan’s contemporary interpretation of its iconic styling, which imbues the Supersport with a peculiar, almost steampunk allure. The allure of a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive machine delivering precisely the right amount of power and tactile feedback is utterly irresistible. It is, without question, a gem. This intrinsic brilliance is precisely why Editor-at-Large Matt Prior has selected it for our festive congregation.
“I’m drawn to it. It’s an unconventional car,” Prior stated. “I appreciate its aesthetic, its construction methods, and most importantly, the sheer enjoyment derived from driving it. It brings a smile to my face. Does it make mechanical noises? Absolutely. But have I driven anything else this year that sparks the same level of interest? Unequivocally not.” His sentiment requires little further elaboration.
The Renault 5 E-Tech Electric: The Rebirth of the Affordable Fun Car
Now, let us turn to my personal choice for the day: the Renault 5 E-Tech Electric. This car has held my affection since I piloted it to the northernmost reaches of Denmark for my duties as a Car of the Year juror in late 2024. It was during that journey that I began to suspect this might represent a significant turning point for affordable electric vehicles. As my time with the Renault progressed, it became clear that its electric credentials were only part of its compelling story. I firmly believe this car is resurrecting the spirit of fun, affordable small cars.
Whether powered by petrol or electricity, the Renault 5 is a delight to drive, equally at home navigating urban commutes as it is tackling spirited twists and turns. It possesses an aspirational quality despite its accessible price point. It embodies what small cars used to represent during the era when models like the Saxo, 106, Corsa, and Fiesta were objects of intense desire for young drivers. Somehow, Renault has managed to recapture that elusive magic, much like BMW achieved with its resurrected Mini and Fiat with its reinvented 500. Now, Renault has delivered the same alchemy with the 5.
In essence, why would anyone necessitate a Toyota Prius to represent affordability and efficiency when the Renault 5 offers all that and a substantial dose of undeniable cool?
The Missing Voices: The Unseen Contenders
With that resounding declaration, it’s time to address a conspicuous absence, or rather, two of them. Road Test Editor Matt Saunders and his Deputy, Richard Lane, are notably absent from this festive reunion. This prompts us to conclude our Christmas lunch by speculating on the vehicles they would have presented had they not been understandably detained by childcare duties or pre-booked holidays.
A chorus of agreement arose: “Ricky would have brought a Porsche 911.” This sentiment wasn’t confined to our table; even patrons at another pub, who had no prior knowledge of Ricky or Autocar, concurred. The pub landlord, the parking attendant, and even a passing psychic all predicted a 911. The consensus was unanimous: Ricky would have brought a 911.
Indeed, upon arriving, James Disdale and I had a spirited exchange across the car park, both inquiring why a 911 was conspicuously absent. Frankly, its inclusion would have been entirely fitting, given its perennial excellence. The truth is, none of us brought one because we all assumed Ricky would be championing it. Regrettably, neither materialized on the day.
The more intricate question, then, becomes: which variant of the increasingly diverse 911 range would he have chosen? This is a tougher proposition. However, perhaps to his credit, the collective decision leaned towards the Carrera S, or potentially a GT3 RS. But the strong prevailing opinion was the Carrera S. And who can fault that choice? We missed both Ricky and the 911, but perhaps next year, the stars will align.
And what of Mr. Saunders? While I’m tempted to place him in another beige Volvo estate, the prevailing view is that our esteemed Road Test Editor would likely have presented the Defender Octa. A Land Rover Defender boasting a staggering 626 horsepower – who wouldn’t wish for that as a Christmas present?
The Judgement of Sam Phillips: Deciphering the Yuletide Champion
As we convene for the final pronouncements, Sam Phillips assumes the role of our esteemed judge. Matt Prior’s impassioned claims regarding the Morgan Supersport’s driving prowess were validated by my brief experience prior to lunch. However, I concur that its all-encompassing capabilities might fall short of serving as a primary secondary vehicle in a garage.
James’s advocacy for the Prius was compelling. His observations regarding its distinctive “spaceship” aesthetic, engaging dynamics, and inherent affordability were entirely valid. He then, rather surreptitiously, attempted to slide a ten-pound note my way, leaving me to ponder if his conviction in the Prius was perhaps not as resolute as initially presented.
Steve eloquently championed the Panamera, highlighting its sublime ride quality, impressive fuel economy figures, and exhilarating performance. It is, without doubt, a class leader and an ideal choice for many plug-in hybrid adopters. However, its considerable weight and premium price tag remain significant considerations.
Illya’s manual Ford Mustang Dark Horse certainly made an impression. In 2025, where regulations increasingly challenge the dominance of V8 muscle cars, it’s a bold and commendable selection. Yet, even Illya conceded to feeling a touch conspicuous while at its helm.
Vicky’s argument for the Renault 5 was meticulously constructed, acknowledging its nostalgic appeal, respectable range, and accessible pricing. It transforms mundane urban errands into enjoyable excursions and is equally capable of providing thrills when pushed through corners – a feat rarely achieved by a supermini since the rebirth of the Mini. In many respects, the Renault 5 has fundamentally reshaped the discourse surrounding electric vehicles, proving that EVs can be both exhilarating and affordable without compromising on perceived quality. The considerable expectations surrounding the 5’s launch were substantial, and its success in meeting all these criteria, while arguably capturing the cultural zeitgeist, cements its status as our winner.
Our Dream Christmas Drives & New Year’s Aspirations
Vicky Parrott: My Christmas Day drive would involve traversing the scenic routes of Cranborne Chase in Dorset, perhaps even venturing onto Zig Zag Hill. Growing up nearby, I hold many cherished memories of this area, including navigating its roads in my first car – a 1984 Renault 5, purchased in 2002 for a mere £50. I adored that car and always will, but the advancements in automotive technology over the past two decades are simply staggering.
Matt Prior: An early start towards the west coast, a leisurely pace, with a picnic basket securely stowed. The Supersport embodies the spirit of a romantic grand tourer rather than a raw sports car. A seaside lunch, followed by a relaxed return journey in the mid-afternoon, bathed in the warm glow of the setting sun streaming through that expansive rear window.
Steve Cropley: For years, I’ve harboured a desire for an extensive exploration of the Malvern Hills, having been captivated by its inspiring vistas and engaging roads during brief visits to the Morgan factory. I’d leverage the formidable Porsche to dedicate ample time to discovering promising regions over several days.
Illya Verpraet: I’ve never truly experienced the United States, and contrary to popular stereotypes, it boasts an array of spectacular winding roads. Now that manufacturers are producing cars capable of navigating such terrain with aplomb, I’d relish the opportunity to explore the famed canyon roads of California. And with the Dark Horse’s 453 horsepower, escaping any hypothetical rogue immigration enforcement squads should prove relatively straightforward.
James Disdale: For a festive excursion, I’d embrace the vibrant, Santa-red finish of our Prius test car and utilize it for delivering presents to friends and family across the country. Given the Prius’s genuinely engaging driving dynamics, I’d seize the opportunity of quiet roads to seek out the most exhilarating routes.
Vicky Parrott’s New Year’s Resolution: I own a 1992 Mercedes SL that hasn’t seen nearly enough use in the past year. A wise gentleman named Steve Cropley once imparted the wisdom that having a destination for your car is paramount. This coming year, I’m planning a road trip with a friend who has also recently acquired an SL, and I intend to take my nine-year-old daughter to the Goodwood Revival. My resolution is simple: create lasting memories.
Matt Prior’s New Year’s Resolution: I plan to convert my Land Rover Defender into a soft-top, transforming it from a utilitarian workhorse into a more playful weekend companion, especially now that an Audi A2 handles the heavy lifting. Likely, I’ll use it less, but I will undoubtedly enjoy it more.
Steve Cropley’s New Year’s Resolution: In the coming year, I aim to drive as much as ever, but I will commence my journeys by rising earlier. Driving is particularly enjoyable when traffic is sparse, a benefit that often extends well into the day. The most reliable way to guarantee this is by departing before the majority of drivers have even left their homes.
Illya Verpraet’s New Year’s Resolution: I need to dedicate more time to my personal vehicles, and I’m overdue for a significant continental road trip, which I regrettably didn’t undertake this year. My recently acquired BMW E30 is currently undergoing winter fettling and will be instrumental in achieving this objective, and hopefully many other driving desires.
James Disdale’s New Year’s Resolution: I declare this every year, but for 2026, I genuinely intend to follow through. After a decade of neglect under a cover, I am finally committed to resurrecting my Mk2 Volkswagen Golf GTI, which has been registered in my name since 2003. However, I fully anticipate making the exact same declaration this time next year.
May your festive drives be filled with exhilaration and joy. Now, as I hand over to Sam for the final verdict, a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year to all!
