The UK Car of the Year (UKCOTY) awards are a major highlight in the automotive industry, with a panel of 30 expert judges, including HonestJohn.co.uk editor David Ross, selecting the standout vehicles of the past year. The seven category winners for 2025 have been revealed, and each now stands in contention for the coveted overall UK Car of the Year title. Let’s take a closer look at the winners in each category:
Small Car - Suzuki Swift
The Suzuki Swift has long been the smart choice for drivers seeking an alternative to the usual supermini options. Now in its fourth generation, the Swift continues to impress with its engaging drive, smart new styling, and efficient mild-hybrid technology. It’s an affordable car that doesn’t feel like a compromise - offering low running costs, great handling, and a distinct identity that sets it apart from the mainstream options.
Family Car - Skoda Superb
The fourth-generation Skoda Superb remains true to its name. It’s practical, spacious, and delivers exceptional value, available in both hatch and estate variants. As one of the last all-new petrol and diesel models from Skoda, it blends traditional fuel options with cutting-edge plug-in hybrid technology. It’s a reminder of why the Superb has been a favourite among families and fleet buyers for years.
Small Crossover - Kia EV3
The all-new Kia EV3 is a game-changer in the small electric crossover market. With futuristic styling and a significant leap in technology from its predecessor, the Niro EV, the EV3 offers greater range, better value, and advanced features that put it ahead of rivals from Volkswagen, Smart, and Volvo. This is the compact EV that proves small electric cars can be both practical and exciting.
Medium Crossover - MINI Countryman
Hyundai has completely transformed the Santa Fe, giving it a striking new design and boosting its practicality. Whether it’s the spacious interior, versatile seating, or efficient hybrid powertrains, this large SUV is built for adventure. It even caters to South Korea’s growing trend of car camping—offering enough room to sleep in! It’s an SUV, a family wagon, and a bold design statement all in one.
Large Crossover - Hyundai Santa Fe
Now in its third generation, the MINI Countryman has been reimagined with a bold new look, a redesigned interior, and more practicality than ever before. It brings the MINI charm to the lower mid-sized SUV segment with both petrol and full-electric powertrains. It may look different from the classic '60s Countryman estate, but it remains a stylish and fun option for modern drivers.
Executive Car - Polestar 4
The Polestar 4 breaks the mould of conventional executive EVs. This sleek coupe-SUV ditches the rear window for a high-tech digital rear-view display and takes on premium rivals with distinctive design and innovation. Whether it will achieve mainstream success remains to be seen, but for those seeking exclusivity and cutting-edge electric performance, the Polestar 4 is a compelling choice.
Performance Car - Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
Hyundai’s Ioniq 5 N isn’t just another EV - it’s a head-turner with a performance edge. With bold styling and an exhilarating drive, this electric hot hatch challenges rivals like the Volkswagen ID.4 and Ford Mustang Mach-E while staying true to its daring design. If you want an EV that makes a statement, this is the one to watch.
