The overall UK Car of the Year is set to be revealed on 6 March. However, panellists have named the winner of the Family Car category, the Executive Car category, the Large Crossover category, the Small Crossover category, and the Small Car category.
The Škoda Superb won the Family Car category. Top Gear’s Ollie Marriage commented: “The world may be changing fast, but there’s still so much to be said of a car that knows precisely what it’s for.”
The Polestar 4 topped the Executive Car category. John Challen, Editor and MD of UK Car of the Year, said: “Daring to be different has really paid off with the Polestar 4. Its combination of innovative design, impressive performance and quality materials throughout make it a very sought-after – and popular – EV.”
The new Hyundai SANTA FE was named Large Crossover of the Year. The Hyundai SANTA FE and the IONIQ 5 N will move forward with the 5 other class winners for consideration as the overall UK Car of the Year 2025.
Natisha Chatten, UK Car of the Year Awards judge, said: “A bold and exciting vehicle with striking design. Its impressive equipment and spacious interior make the new Hyundai SANTA FE an incredibly practical choice for families, seamlessly blending style with functionality.”
The Kia EV3 won the Small Crossover category. UKCOTY panellist Alex Grant said: “The EV3 takes all of the best bits of the EV9 and distils them into a product targeting one of the UK’s biggest-volume segments.
“It’s futuristic to look at but intuitive to use, rides and handles UK roads brilliantly and offers a usefully long range of almost 400 miles. A very easy way for families to go electric.”
Commenting on the Small Car of the Year, the Suzuki Swift, Chatten said: “An unbeatable combination of reliability and efficiency, thanks to its straightforward powertrain.
“In a market filled with complex vehicles, the Swift offers a refreshing simplicity, all while maintaining an affordable price tag that makes it accessible for a wide range of drivers.”