2025 World Car Top 3 Finalists Announced

The World Car Awards have returned, with nearly 100 international journalists forming the jury to select the top three finalists in each of the six categories from the earlier top 5 shortlisted in January 2025. The finalists, listed in alphabetical order, represent the jury’s top choices for 2025. The winners will be announced live on April 16 at the New York International Auto Show during the official awards ceremony.

2025 World Car Design of the Year Top Three in the World 

- Kia EV3

The Kia EV3 is among the top contenders, earning recognition across multiple categories. This comes as no surprise, as jurors have consistently praised Kia’s ‘Opposites United’ design language, which brings a bold yet sophisticated aesthetic, marking a new era for future electric vehicles.

- Toyota Land Cruiser / Land Cruiser 250

The new Land Cruiser is one of two retro-inspired finalists. It comes in two versions — the base 1958 model features round headlights, while other variants are equipped with sleek rectangular LED lights. The interior blends classic design elements with modern features, creating a balance of heritage and innovation.

- Volkswagen ID. Buzz

Continuing the retro theme is the VW ID. Buzz. Its design instantly evokes nostalgia, while the headlights and front fascia align with VW’s modern ID family aesthetic. Inside, clever features and a functional layout make it a remarkably desirable vehicle — a rare quality among minivans.

2025 World Electric Vehicle Top Three in the World 

- Hyundai Inster / Casper Electric

A first of many appearances for the Hyundai Inster or Casper Electric as it is known in some markets, Hyundai’s pint-sized electric dynamite impressed the jurors since the beginnings so it was a no-brainer that it held its position in this category against some heavyweights. To remind you: 42 or 49 kWh battery and driving range of 330 up to 370 km.

- Kia EV3

A second appearance for the EV3, this baby version of the larger flagship EV9 is comfortable and has amazing dynamics. The car gets 55 and 78 kWh battery pack options, and 435-604 km of driving range.

- Porsche Macan Electric

The world was disappointed when the Macan went all electric in its second generation but we are not as Siddharth loved driving it around last year in Europe. Four variants to choose from and all use the same 95 kWh battery but power output ranges from 335 to 630 bhp, while the range goes from 591-613 km.

2025 World Luxury Car Top Three in the World 

- Porsche Macan

This is the second time for the Macan Electric to appear as a finalist and we are not surprised. It has sporty performance, sharp handling, loads of tech & comfort. Launched in India last year, we saw the car in flesh at the 2025 Auto Expo and we can’t wait to get behind the wheel of this electric Porsche SUV.

- Porsche Panamera

The third-generation Panamera is sportier and a lot more luxurious. Plus, many more features and technical options. It also has new e-hybrid variants, and performance models in the mix.

- Volvo EX90

It’s a no-brainer to not have a Volvo in this category. The EX90, Volvo’s flagship born EV is everything you thought it would be. A 111 kWh battery that gives it loads of range, and there is a lot of comfort and tech in the cabin, with captain seats in the second row as an option.

2025 World Performance Car Top Three in the World 

- BMW M5

The 7th gen takes the legendary nameplate to a new space. Now exclusively available as a V8 plug-in hybrid, the M5 retains performance-enhancing features, like adaptive dampers, and a wide range of drive modes.

- Porsche 911 Carrera GTS

How can you not have a 911 variant in this category? Controversial for going hybrid, the new GTS lives up to its legendary nameplate and then goes even further. Precise handling, incredible performance, and excellent response remain the car’s USPs.

- Porsche Taycan Turbo GT

Over 1000 horses, extreme performance, and superb speed make the Taycan Turbo GT one of the fastest cars on the planet. It is also the fastest and most powerful Porsche ever built.

2025 World Urban Car Top Three in the World 

- BYD Seagull / Dolphin Mini

Sold as the Dolphin Mini in Latin America, the Seagull is BYD’s smallest model. 30 and 38.8 kWh battery options give the car a 305 to 405 km claimed range.

- Hyundai Inster / Casper Electric

Hyundai’s Casper is back on the list. The cute city car is now marketed outside Korea for the first time as the Inster EV. Yes, it sounds like a brother to the Exter, and which is why we will get some form of this car soon enough.

- MINI Cooper Electric

This is the first dedicated EV MINI model. The Cooper SE is fun to drive, and the larger 49.2 kWh battery gives it 400 km of range.

2025 World Car of the Year Top Three in the World 

- BMW X3

All-new design language, lots of engine variants including a plug-in hybrid and a 6-cylinder powerful variant. It’s a wide selection with the new 4th generation BMW X3 SUV. It also brings BMW’s latest tech interface and innovation to the X range.

- Hyundai Inster / Casper Electric

Known as the Casper Electric in Korea, the Hyundai Inster is a small city EV with cute looks and surprisingly capable performance. 42 or 49 kWh battery packs with a driving range from 330 to 370 km are perfect for use in the city. And yes we can expect a version of this car in India in 2026.

- Kia EV3

Great dynamics, a comfortable ride, and all the tech and frills you’d expect. All packed into a very attractive and compact design.