As 2025 draws to a close, I've had the immense privilege of spending the year behind the wheel of a remarkably diverse array of vehicles. From hefty pick-up trucks and vans to nimble sports cars and the latest electric vehicles, it's been a year of contrasts and revelations.
The Full Ranking: From Disappointment to Delight
In total, I've driven 25 distinct cars this year, excluding mere variations within model ranges. The list spans Chinese EVs, German luxury saloons, iconic Japanese workhorses, and even a few surprises from heritage fleets. So, which models soared and which ones left me cold?
Starting at the bottom, the Chery Tiggo 8, despite being crowned Carwow's car of the year, proved disappointing. A plasticky smell after just a short drive and a general lack of driver engagement left it in last place. The electric Alfa Romeo Junior Elettrica suffered in comparison to its petrol sibling and was hampered by minor electrical glitches, landing it in 24th.
Britain's best-selling car, the Ford Puma, perplexed me with its odd steering and tendency to roll, earning 23rd place. Other EVs like the MG S5 and BYD Seal were competent but unremarkable or lacking in communicative feel, placing 22nd and 21st respectively.
Surprises and Standouts in the Middle Order
The rankings took a positive turn with the Ford Explorer, a hefty SUV that provided genuine laughter and charm. The capable BMW 1 Series hatchback and the charmingly retro Hyundai Inster city car showed their strengths. A week with celebrity chef James Martin's vehicle of choice, the Toyota Hilux, was a fascinating insight into pick-up truck life.
Memorable moments included the MINI Aceman playing piano music on acceleration and the Honda HR-V HEV surprising with its adjustable regenerative braking. The efficient BMW i4 and potent Audi S5 Saloon demonstrated German engineering prowess, though the Ford Mustang Mach-E Rallye left me curious for an off-road test it was designed for.
The Top Ten: Where Passion Trumps Practicality
The final stretch of the list is where the drivers' cars truly emerged. The spacious Mercedes AMG GT was easy to handle despite its price tag. The throaty, agile Alfa Romeo Junior Ibrida was a delight, and the possibly final petrol Honda Civic Type R felt like reuniting with an old friend.
A highlight was the Rocketeers MX5 restomod, a vintage car with a Jaguar V6 engine that was an absolute blast to drive. The Skoda Felicia from the heritage fleet left me, like every other journalist, grinning from ear to ear.
In fifth place sits my personal new car, a 2017 MINI Clubman Cooper S, a turbo-charged, four-wheel-drive machine that took over a year to find. The glorious, lightweight Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio in fourth is a roaring testament to why petrol power should remain on our roads.
The Podium Finishers and an Unforgettable Journey
The bronze medal goes to the Audi S6 Avant e-tron Quattro. This practical, powerful, and efficient estate was a winter vehicle par excellence, and one I was genuinely sad to return. Audi understands that drivers seek a connection, and this car delivered feedback in spades.
In second place, the Isuzu D-Max V-Cross was the surprise family favourite. This colossal Japanese pick-up was gentle yet highly capable, smoothing out urban imperfections like they weren't there. It was practical, friendly, and toweringly impressive.
And the winner? The Alpine A110R. On a track, it would be the fastest here, but it claims the crown for its hardcore, engaging nature. Strapped into its four-point harness, connected to one of the world's best handling chassis, this is not a car you just jump into. You must warm its tyres and brakes, learn its ways, and then you can fly. It was the first car this year that genuinely restored my driving confidence.
A special mention must go to a van I drove to Ukraine in February for aid deliveries. The memory of a sunrise over Ukraine on a clear February morning, and the poignant solace found in the drive itself, will stay with me forever. I hope that van is still running and that Ukraine receives all the support it needs.
