The World Car of the Year (WCOTY) has announced the top three finalists in each of its six categories for 2025, from votes tabulated from 96 international motoring journalists from around the globe. For the design category, a panel consisting of five highly respected global design experts was asked to first review each candidate and establish a short-list for the jurors’ final vote.
The winners will be announced on April 16th, live at the 2025 New York International Auto Show during an awards ceremony that is part of the show’s opening media breakfast.
"We are honored to celebrate the finalists of the prestigious World Car of The Year Awards," said Daniele Schillaci, Chief Executive Officer of WCOTY title sponsor Brembo.
"These awards recognise the best cars in the world, setting new benchmarks in technology, performance and design. At Brembo, we are proud to support an accolade that honours such innovation, and we extend our best wishes to all participants as we eagerly anticipate the winner’s announcement."
The Top Three in the World finalists for each category are:
World Car of the Year (2024 winner: Kia EV9)
- BMW X3
- Hyundai Inster/Casper Electric
- Kia EV3
World Electric Vehicle (2024 winner: Kia EV9)
- Hyundai Inster/Casper Electric
- Kia EV3
- Porsche Macan Electric
World Luxury Car (2024 winner BMW 5 Series)
- Porsche Macan
- Porsche Panamera
- Volvo EX90
World Performance Car (2024 winner: Hyundai Ioniq 5 N)
- BMW M5
- Porsche 911 Carrera GTS
- Porsche Taycan Turbo GT
World Urban Car (2024 winner: Volvo EX30)
- BYD Seagull/Dolphin Mini
- Hyundai Inster/Casper Electric
- Mini Cooper Electric
World Car Design (2024 winner: Toyota Prius)
- Kia EV3
- Toyota Land Cruiser/Land Cruiser 250
- Volkswagen ID. Buzz