The 2025 World Car Awards were announced today at the New York International Auto Show (NYIAS), celebrating the most innovative and impactful vehicles of the year across six major categories. This year’s jury once again reflected the diversity of the automotive world, with representation from 30 countries. Notably, Siddharth Vinayak Patankar, Editor-in-Chief of Acko Drive, serves as the chairperson of the 2025 World Car Awards.
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2025 World Car of the Year- Kia EV3
The biggest accolade of the day, World Car of the Year, went to the Kia EV3, marking a significant win for the South Korean automaker. The compact electric SUV impressed jurors with its combination of design, affordability, and technology, reinforcing Kia’s growing presence in the EV sector.
2025 World Electric Vehicle- Hyundai Inster/ Casper Electric
In the World Electric Vehicle category, the Hyundai Inster also known as the Hyundai Casper Electric in some markets, emerged victorious. This win adds to Hyundai Motor Company’s strong record at the World Car Awards — the brand has now won at least one category for four consecutive years, highlighting its consistency in EV innovation and mass-market appeal.
2025 World Performance Car- Porsche 911 Carrera GTS
The Porsche 911 Carrera GTS clinched the World Performance Car title for 2025, besting competition from the BMW M5 and the Porsche Taycan Turbo GT. The GTS variant was recognised for refining the iconic 911 formula while maintaining dynamic performance credentials. It succeeds last year’s winner, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N.
2025 World Luxury Car- Volvo EX90
Volvo’s all-electric EX90 secured the World Luxury Car award, thanks to its premium cabin, advanced safety features, and Scandinavian design language. The seven-seat SUV reflects Volvo’s electrification push while retaining the brand’s signature comfort and aesthetic values.
2025 World Urban Car Award- BYD Seagull/Dolphin Mini
Chinese automaker BYD continued its international rise with the Seagull/Dolphin Mini, which won the World Urban Car award. The compact EV topped finalists including the Hyundai Inster/Casper Electric and the new Mini Cooper, showing the growing competitiveness of Chinese automakers in urban mobility segments.
2025 World Car Design of the Year- Volkswagen ID. Buzz
The Volkswagen ID. Buzz, a retro-futuristic tribute to the iconic Microbus, was awarded World Car Design of the Year. It triumphed over finalists including the Toyota Land Cruiser and the Kia EV3.
The design shortlist was curated by an expert panel featuring leading global automotive designers, including Gert Hildebrand and Shiro Nakamura.
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