The Ultimate Automotive Showdown: Industry Experts Crown 2025’s Best Cars
The crisp air of late December always brings a sense of anticipation, not just for the festive season, but for a cherished tradition here at Autocar Towers. While many households gather for the comforting rituals of holidays past, for us, the true commencement of Christmas cheer is marked by our annual road testers’ lunch. This year, eschewing the amiable chaos of Secret Santa, we’ve opted for a more direct approach: a spirited debate where each of us champions a vehicle from the past twelve months that we believe stands head and shoulders above the rest. The ultimate arbiter of this vehicular contest? Our esteemed Staff Writer, Sam Phillips. This is a remit that truly embodies the spirit of automotive enthusiasm – the chance to advocate for a standout machine, often with the manufacturer’s blessing, surrounded by colleagues who speak the same language of internal combustion and electric propulsion. It’s a day where the office transforms into a forum of passion, a true celebration of the past year’s finest automotive engineering.
The pool of contenders is vast, spanning a year filled with groundbreaking innovations and compelling designs. From the pragmatic efficiency of electrified powertrains to the raw, unadulterated thrill of V8s, 2025 has presented a diverse and exciting landscape for discerning drivers. As we convened, each of us arrived with our chosen champion, ready to articulate its merits and stake its claim as the year’s most outstanding car.
Our first contender, a vehicle that has evolved significantly from its humble beginnings, is the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid. As it glided through the morning mist towards our coastal rendezvous point, its aerodynamic silhouette drew immediate attention. Contributor James Disdale, a staunch advocate for sensible motoring, confessed, “Honestly, twenty years ago, if you’d told me I’d be nominating a Toyota Prius, I’d have likely scoffed. But look at its trajectory. Twenty-five years ago, the original Prius was lauded for its accessible, clever powertrain technology. And that legacy continues. It’s become the de facto choice for taxi fleets, and for good reason: unparalleled efficiency, legendary reliability, and frankly, it’s a brilliant car to drive. In these uncertain economic times, championing an everyday workhorse makes immense sense. As fuel costs and resource scarcity become ever more critical, this hybrid powertrain’s relevance only grows. And forget any lingering Uber jokes; it’s genuinely engaging behind the wheel.”
He has a point. A brief excursion along the winding Sussex coast road, with the iconic Beachy Head lighthouse in the distance, revealed a surprisingly satisfying driving experience. The quiet, almost ethereal whirring and gliding of the Prius offers a unique sense of calm, a stark contrast to the roaring engines of traditional performance cars. Disdale elaborated, “There are echoes of Saab’s best days in its composure, perhaps even a whisper of modern DS Automobiles’ sophisticated ride. It’s a remarkably clever piece of engineering.” This sentiment resonated, particularly when considering the best hybrid cars 2025 landscape, where the Prius continues to set a high bar for practicality and innovation.
Shifting gears dramatically, road tester Illya Verpraet arrived with a machine that seemed to scoff at the notion of a cost-of-living crisis: the Ford Mustang Dark Horse. Its presence was a delicious, brooding counterpoint to the more utilitarian choices. The sheer anticipation it generated was palpable, like a child on Christmas morning buzzing with excitement. And it was equipped with a manual gearbox – a detail that sent a shiver of delight through the gathered enthusiasts.
Verpraet explained his rationale: “The Mustang felt a bit short-changed at last year’s Handling Day, largely because the automatic transmission dulled its edge. But with the manual, it’s a different beast entirely. It’s refreshingly anti-modern; it’s not overtly sophisticated, but the sheer unadulterated fun it delivers is intoxicating. It does make you feel a bit conspicuous, I’ll admit, but that’s part of its charm.” The rumble of its V8 alone was enough to elicit grins, and it brought to mind another exceptional V8 presence at our gathering: editor-in-chief Steve Cropley’s Porsche Panamera Turbo S.
The Panamera’s approach was heralded by a remarkable, low-frequency burble. Where the Mustang roared, the Panamera’s V8 offered a refined, yet undeniably menacing, low-end growl. Cropley presented his case: “This felt like an opportunity to showcase an ‘ethical’ V8. I managed an impressive 40 miles of electric range this morning, and the journey clocked in at 45 miles per gallon over 150 miles. And when you decide to unleash its full potential, the soundtrack is simply sensational. The four-wheel steering makes it incredibly agile on these narrow country lanes, the build quality is impeccable, and the air suspension is a masterclass in comfort. I genuinely believe it’s the pinnacle of the luxury saloon segment. We often talk about PHEVs offering the best of both worlds; well, a usable EV range coupled with a potent V8 offers a compelling logic for many.”
It’s difficult to argue with Cropley’s assessment. The Panamera Turbo S, even in its rather unusual bronze hue on our test car, possesses the effortless grace of a Mercedes S-Class for daily cruising, yet transforms into a sporting machine when urged. The air suspension’s ability to raise the car upon unlocking, like an eager puppy, is a delightful touch. And the massage seats are, quite frankly, among the finest ever encountered – a Christmas gift in themselves, let alone paired with a V8 PHEV powertrain. The Panamera represents a strikingly different philosophy from the Prius and the Mustang, but perhaps even more distinct from our final two contenders.
Our next champion, another striking bronze metallic masterpiece, is the Morgan Supersport. Having driven this very car earlier in the year, back-to-back with the formidable Hyundai Ioniq 5 N for an exploration of performance car extremes, it was a strong contender for my personal highlight of the year. The modern interpretation of Morgan’s iconic styling imbues the Supersport with a unique, almost steampunk allure. The appeal of a lightweight, rear-wheel-drive car with just the right amount of power and tactile feedback is undeniable. It’s a true gem. Editor-at-large Matt Prior, its champion, elaborated: “I simply like it. It’s a quirky car, I admire its design, its manufacturing process, and I thoroughly enjoy driving it. It consistently brings a smile to my face. Does it have the mechanical precision of a sewing machine? Perhaps not. But is there anything else I’ve driven this year that’s as interesting? Absolutely not.” His succinct endorsement said it all.
Moving towards our final selection, and indeed my own personal choice for the year’s most significant automotive achievement, is the Renault 5. My affection for this car began at the tail end of 2024, during my duties as a Car of the Year juror. Driving it to the northernmost reaches of Denmark, I remember stepping back and pondering if this might herald a turning point for affordable electric vehicles. Subsequent experiences only reinforced this belief. The electric aspect, while crucial, is only part of its remarkable story. I firmly believe the Renault 5 is resurrecting the spirit of fun, affordable small cars. Regardless of powertrain, it delivers genuine enjoyment, whether dawdling through urban traffic or tackling challenging curves with spirited flair.
It manages to be aspirational despite its accessible price point. This is what small cars used to represent when vehicles like the Saxo, 106, Corsa, and Fiesta were the objects of intense desire for young drivers. Renault has somehow recaptured that magic, much like BMW did with the reinvented Mini and Fiat with the reborn 500. Who needs a Prius for attainable efficiency when you can have all that, plus an undeniable cool factor? This is a vehicle that sparks joy and connection, a sentiment echoed in discussions about the best affordable electric cars 2025.
With our chosen champions presented, a glaring omission from our festive gathering became apparent: road test editor Matt Saunders and his deputy, Richard Lane. Their absence, due to childcare and holiday commitments, left a void. This prompted a lively discussion about what they would have brought had they been present.
The Phantom Contenders:
The consensus was immediate and resounding: “Ricky would have brought a Porsche 911.” This prediction was so universal that even strangers at a nearby pub table, upon hearing the name Ricky, independently arrived at the same conclusion. The pub landlord, a passing parking attendant, and even a travelling psychic all chimed in, reinforcing the collective certainty. The absence of a 911 was so keenly felt that during our initial arrival, James Disdale and I even exchanged bewildered glances, questioning its whereabouts. Its perennial brilliance means it truly should have been a contender. The truth is, we all assumed Ricky would be championing it, and thus, no one else brought one.
But which variant of the ever-expanding 911 range would he have championed? This proved a more nuanced question. Ultimately, the group leaned towards the Porsche 911 Carrera S, or perhaps a GT3 RS, with the Carrera S being the more likely choice. We missed Ricky and the 911, but the hope remains that they’ll grace our gathering next year.
And what of Mr. Saunders? While the temptation to assign him another brown Volvo estate was strong, the prevailing opinion was that our esteemed road test editor would have arrived in the Land Rover Defender Octa. A 626bhp Defender – who wouldn’t wish for that for Christmas?
As our convivial lunch drew to a close, a collective wish was made for the return of our absent colleagues next year. In the meantime, before handing over to Sam for his final verdict, I extend to all our readers: Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. May your festive drives be filled with unparalleled joy and exceptional vehicles.
The Verdict: Sam Phillips’ Judgement
Matt Prior’s assertion that the Morgan Supersport is brilliant to drive was validated during my brief experience before lunch. However, its inherent specialization, while charming, makes it less of an all-rounder for the role of a secondary vehicle in a typical garage.
James Disdale made a compelling case for the Toyota Prius plug-in hybrid. His observations on its distinctive styling, pleasing dynamics, and affordability were certainly valid. Intriguingly, as he concluded his argument, he subtly offered me a £10 note, perhaps a subconscious indicator of his own wavering conviction.
Steve Cropley championed the Porsche Panamera Turbo S, highlighting its phenomenal ride quality, impressive fuel economy, and blistering performance. It is, without question, a class leader and an excellent choice for many plug-in hybrid users. However, its considerable weight and substantial price tag are undeniable factors.
Illya Verpraet’s manual Ford Mustang Dark Horse was undeniably captivating. In 2025, a year where regulations often seem to conspire against traditional V8 muscle cars, it stands out as a bold and thrilling choice. Yet, even Illya conceded that driving it could elicit a sense of self-consciousness.
Vicky Parrott’s argument for the Renault 5 was meticulously constructed. She acknowledged its retro aesthetics, respectable range, and accessible pricing. It transforms mundane short trips into enjoyable excursions and proves equally rewarding when pushed to its limits, a characteristic rarely seen in a supermini since the original BMW Mini revival.
In many respects, the Renault 5 has rewritten the narrative surrounding electric cars. It demonstrates convincingly that EVs can be both engaging and fun to drive, all while remaining affordable without feeling cheap. The pressure on the R5 prior to its launch was immense, and the fact that it has not only met but exceeded expectations, arguably even capturing the cultural zeitgeist, makes it my definitive winner for 2025.
Our Dream Christmas Drives:
Vicky Parrott: My Christmas Day drive would be an exploration of the scenic Cranborne Chase in Dorset, perhaps even tracing the iconic Zig Zag Hill. This area holds many cherished childhood memories, including driving it in my first car – a 1984 Renault 5 I purchased for a mere £50 in 2002. That car remains a fond memory, but the advancements in the new R5 are simply astounding.
Matt Prior: An early start, heading west towards the coast for a leisurely drive, with a picnic packed and ready. The Supersport embodies the spirit of a romantic grand tourer, not a hardcore sports car. A relaxed lunch by the sea, turning for home in the mid-afternoon, with the setting sun casting a warm glow through the expansive rear window.
Steve Cropley: For years, I’ve intended to undertake a comprehensive tour of the Malvern Hills, captivated by their inspirational scenery and engaging roads, often glimpsed during brief visits to Morgan. The Panamera’s capabilities would allow me to leisurely explore promising regions over several days.
Illya Verpraet: I’ve yet to explore the United States, and contrary to popular perception, it boasts some truly spectacular winding roads. With modern cars capable of confidently navigating such terrain, I’d love to experience California’s famous canyon roads. The Mustang Dark Horse’s 453bhp should provide ample motivation to outrun any unforeseen obstacles, should they arise.
James Disdale: For a festive run, I’d embrace the vibrant, Santa-red finish of our Prius test car and use it to deliver presents to friends and family across the country. Given the Prius’s genuinely engaging driving dynamics, I’d leverage the quiet Yuletide roads to seek out the most exhilarating routes.
Our New Year’s Resolutions:
Vicky Parrott: My 1992 Mercedes SL hasn’t seen enough use this past year. A wise friend once told me that having a purpose for your car is paramount. This coming year, I plan a road trip with a fellow SL owner and aim to take my nine-year-old daughter to the Goodwood Revival. Essentially, my resolution is to create more cherished memories.
Matt Prior: I intend to convert my Land Rover Defender into a soft-top. It will transition from a utilitarian workhorse (a role now filled by my Audi A2) to a more relaxed, fun weekend vehicle. I’ll likely use it less, but enjoy it considerably more.
Steve Cropley: My driving habits will remain largely unchanged in the new year. However, I will make a conscious effort to commence journeys earlier. Driving is infinitely more enjoyable when traffic is light, a benefit that often extends well into the day. The most reliable way to achieve this is by starting my journeys before the majority of drivers have even left home.
Illya Verpraet: I need to dedicate more time to my personal vehicles. A significant continental road trip, which I regrettably missed this year, is long overdue. My recently acquired BMW E30 is currently undergoing winter servicing and will be the ideal companion for such an adventure.
James Disdale: I make this declaration every year, but for 2026, I am genuinely committed. After a decade of neglect, my Mk2 Volkswagen Golf GTI, which has been in my name since 2003, will finally undergo a full resurrection. However, I wouldn’t be surprised if I’m saying precisely the same thing this time next year.
As the year draws to a close and we reflect on the automotive landscape of 2025, the diversity of opinion and passion on display highlights the vibrant and dynamic nature of the automotive industry. Whether you are drawn to cutting-edge electrification, classic V8 power, or the pure joy of a well-engineered, affordable car, there is truly something for everyone.
Ready to find your own automotive champion for 2026? Explore our comprehensive reviews and guides, and let us help you navigate the exciting world of new vehicles. Your next dream drive awaits!
