I’m one of about a hundred automotive journalists from around the world who participate in the World Car of the Year awards, and one of three representing Canada. The title goes to the vehicle we deem the best, considering its availability in at least two major international markets.
For many years, this requirement excluded models like the Ford Mustang and Chevrolet Corvette. But globalization and mass production have opened borders to almost every vehicle. Notably, North America is one of the world’s seven large markets.
There are five categories in consideration, each with a selection of eligible vehicles. While I haven’t had the opportunity to drive many potential contenders, I want to explore my thoughts on each category. Cars such as the Hyundai Inster and the BYD Seagull remain unknown in Canada and the United States, though their engineering is closely examined worldwide by manufacturers keen to learn from their designs.
The extensive list of eligible vehicles, which includes any car that’s either new or has undergone significant changes for the 2025 model year, is narrowed down based on judges’ rankings. These selections are then assessed on their strengths and weaknesses across ten criteria, including driving dynamics, build quality, infotainment, and value. Initial voting concludes on March 7, with the winners announced at the New York International Auto Show in mid-April.
Having driven almost all the shortlisted vehicles, including some provided to judges in California last November, here’s how I’ll be casting my votes:
World Performance Car
Short-list: Bentley Continental GT Speed, BMW M5, Ford Mustang, Porsche 911 Carrera GTS, Porsche Taycan Turbo
My preference leans towards the Porsche 911 Carrera GTS. Though starting at around $200,000, with the base model now approximately $150,000 – a considerable increase from its starting price of $100,000 just five years ago.
I didn’t get to drive the hybrid Bentley, which impressed other judges at the World Car test drives in Pasadena, Calif., last November. However, at around $400,000, it’s more of a curiosity to me. To be considered, candidates must sell at least 1,000 units annually, making many supercars ineligible.
This car has everything a performance car should have without the excesses of the Turbos and GT3s. My vote goes to this vehicle over the electric Taycan due to the feel and sound of its 532-horsepower flat-six hybrid powertrain.
World Luxury Car
Short-list: Lexus GX, Porsche Macan, Porsche Panamera, Volkswagen ID.Buzz, Volvo EX90
It’s an interesting selection this year – where are the Mercedes, BMWs, and Audis? Candidates must sell at least 5,000 units annually, with value for money still a factor, therefore, many high-profit German cars are excluded.
My choice would be between the Lexus GX and the Volvo EX90, although I haven’t yet driven the GX to form an opinion. However, the all-electric, $114,000 EX90 represents the best and safest vehicle from Volvo, showcasing an airy Scandinavian interior that is comfortable and welcoming in any weather.
World Urban Car
Short-list: BYD Seagull, Hyundai Inster, Mini Cooper, Mini Cooper Electric, Suzuki Swift
An “urban” car is defined as a small car, no longer than 4.25 meters (167.3 inches) in length. Many candidates are considered to be too small to generate significant demand in the Canadian and American markets, even though their low prices make them popular in countries with lower average incomes.
I drove both the Hyundai and the Suzuki in Pasadena, Calif., last November, and can confirm the Suzuki Swift is the least desirable of the group — fortunately, it’s not sold in Canada. My test model came from Mexico, where it sells for $23,000, but it felt even cheaper, with shiny plastic and a gutless engine. You can spend an extra $7,000 there for the more indulgent Swift Sport, but the Swift I drove offered little satisfaction. Whilst I haven’t driven the Chinese-made BYD Seagull, I can’t imagine it’s any worse. The Hyundai Inster, which goes by the name Casper Electric in other markets, was a cute-as-a-button electric car that performed flawlessly and made me feel special.
If the Hyundai Inster were available in Canada, its estimated price would be around $30,000. It’s smaller than any current Hyundai available to Canadians; nonetheless, I wish it was sold here, and it’s my top pick.
World Electric Vehicle
Short-list: Hyundai Inster, Kia EV3, Porsche Macan Electric, Volkswagen ID.Buzz, Volvo EX90
My preference in this category is between the Hyundai and the Volvo, for the reasons I’ve previously mentioned. With some extra consideration, my choice is the much more affordable — and considerably smaller — Inster. It has an electric range of 370 kilometers (230 miles), which is on the lower end for a vehicle expected to travel Canada’s vast distances, but it’s adequate for most everyday driving. Furthermore, consider an all-electric car for $30,000, before any subsidies or rebates. Bring it over now!
World Car of the Year
Short-list: Audi A5, BMW X3, Ford Mustang, Hyundai Inster, Kia EV3, Mini Cooper Electric, Suzuki Swift, Toyota Camry, Toyota Land Cruiser, Volkswagen Tiguan
The main prize requires that at least 10,000 units of the car are sold in 2025, making this a truly mainstream award. I’d like to say my top choice would be the funky Hyundai Inster, but it’s ultimately a small vehicle that isn’t appropriate for many families. After that, the Toyota Land Cruiser, because it’s capable and comfortable, but ultimately too big. Therefore, my top pick is the new Volkswagen Tiguan, which performs very well and was a real pleasure to drive. It’s the right size for everywhere in the world and especially in Canada where we only have the long-wheelbase version. I only wish we got the plug-in hybrid version sold in Europe with its all-electric range of up to 100 kilometers (62 miles), but those are not planned for North America. At least, not unless enough people demand it…
