Car of the Year 2025: Our verdict on the top seven finalists

A shortlist of seven finalists is chosen from an initial selection of 42 cars by 60 jurors representing 23 European countries. These jurors then vote to determine the winner from the shortlisted cars. Cars need to have been launched as new models in the previous year and be on sale in a number of European countries before they are eligible.

on January 10.

And then on a test track in Belgium (thank you DFDS for the ferry crossing), which is here's what I think, in traditional reverse order:

Cupra Terramar

Volkswagen-owned Seat's high-performance offshoot aims to provide a dynamic driving experience combined with refined handling and flair, augmented by copper-inspired accents and distinctive design cues.

Please exercise caution when selecting a brochure, as the firm's Ateca, Formentor, and Tavascan EV models appear to be near identical to one another. However, the Terramar model boasts an engine and is available in a 1.5-litre mild hybrid front-wheel drive, a 2.0-litre all-wheel drive, and also a 1.5-litre plug-in hybrid model (PHEV) with a environmentally advantageous 70 miles of electric-only range.

Starting at £37,605, it's certainly no cheap option, but it doesn't particularly set a new standard.

Read Andrew English's appraisal of the Terramar

Alfa Romeo Junior

Starting from £33,895, the Junior boasts a respectable appearance, with a notable option being the hybrid petrol engine, while the top model, an all-electric Veloce, comes at a higher price of £42,295.

On the road, the top model's torque-sensing differential ensures exceptional grip and handling, but the elevated body necessitates stiffer suspension, resulting in a less comfortable ride experience.

There's also the issue that when you're using the full capacity of the 54kWh battery, it depletes more quickly than it would if you quickly mentioned the name 'Alfa Romeo'.

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Kia EV3

“groundbreaking investigative journalism” hasn't exactly been in abundance about Kia's new battery-powered SUV. Kia's very enthusiastic about its latest battery-powered people carrier, but the rest of the world seems rather unimpressed, as its November launch slipped by largely unnoticed.

It seems I'm getting out of my budget range with batteries costing upwards of £33,000; I think I'll go and take a rest now.

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Hyundai Inster

If you appreciate houndstooth-patterned upholstery, this compact electric vehicle will be a complete joy - thanks also to its quirky yet endearing design and prioritisation of passengers over luggage. There's sufficient headroom to enable Captain Flint, Long John Silver's parrot, to perch on your shoulder while you drive.

A new driver will often find themselves tinkerering with the dashboard controls for around 15 minutes after arriving at the car park.

Prices begin at £23,495 for the smaller battery, but you'll probably want to opt for the £26,745 larger battery, with a 229-mile range and a front bench seat that lets you enter the driving seat from the passenger side. It's still a likeable option, but this car will likely be a unique choice.

Citroën C3

The 13ft-long C3 is aimed squarely at those seeking practicality without compromise. It remains spacious enough to accommodate four passengers plus luggage, with a joyful driving experience and appreciable ride quality to boot.

With a 44kWh LFP battery, it boasts a 322 kilometre range and 100kW DC fast charging capabilities.

It's a pleasant little car, which, while not as enjoyable to drive as the Renault 5, is slightly more affordable.

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Renault 5

One of our assumptions is that it fits the likes of this. A five-door hatchback approximately 3.9 metres long, it’s bigger than the original in all aspects and heavier, due to the necessity of accommodating a battery that provides an adequate range.

I found the ride and handling of the vehicle to be beguiling, and rather surprisingly similar to the original despite the increased weight. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and the upgraded Alpine versions were also to my taste, although they were decidedly pricey (£39,000 for the 290 one in particular).

There are a couple of trim levels and battery sizes to choose from, with prices ranging from £22,995 to £26,995 for the larger 52kWh battery and 148bhp motor, which offers a 255-mile range and a mid-range specification. Finances options over 48 months start at £249 per month.

Read Andrew English's review of the new Renault 5
(Renault has not yet confirmed whether the new 5 will come to the UK, but England has hinted it will consider importing it)

Dacia Duster

This new generation of the Duster has evolved from being a budget-friendly choice to a credible and reliable value for money. Like its predecessors, the SUV is built on an ageing Renault Clio platform, with much of the unnecessary technology stripped away, resulting in a weight reduction of more than 100kg (15.75st) compared to its competitors.

(In and across the Channel, France included), Peugeot Duster buyers are praised for their shrewd spending. The choices span from a petrol/LPG base, a petrol turbo mild-hybrid manual with two-wheel drive and four-wheel drive, and a petrol full-hybrid front-wheel drive. Prices vary from £18,850 to £25,025.

Many people tend to go for the top-of-the-range model with all the extras, but I think it would be more sensible to opt for the £23,550 TCe 130 4x4, where you can still get to most places comfortably, appreciate the stylish plastic trim and practical rubber floor mats, and enjoy the smooth ride – all while poking fun at owners of higher-end Range Rovers.

That's the reason why the Dacia Duster is my Car of the Year.

Check out Andrew English's take on the Dacia Duster.

Thanks to DFDS for the ferry crossing from Dover to Dunkirk for allowing me to attend this year's Coty final drive event in Belgium. dfds.com For further information on its services from Dover to Dunkirk and Calais,

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