Announcing the winners of the 2025 Wards 10 Best Interiors and User Experience awards, as discussed on the WardsAuto Podcast.
Hyundai Takes the Spotlight in 2025 with Multiple EV Awards
In a comprehensive analysis of this year's winning vehicles, editors at Car and Driver have highlighted the unique qualities of a diverse range of electric vehicles (EVs). Notably, South Korean automaker Hyundai has made a strong comeback, with its Ioniq 5 model line winning EV of the Year for the second consecutive time, first in 2022 and then again in 2024 with the sportier Ioniq 5 N version.
Hyundai's success can be attributed to a versatile and appealing product lineup, advanced platforms and technology, a balance of performance and practicality, and value for money. The company offers a broad range of EVs that cater to various buyer segments, from affordable models like the Kona Electric (priced under $35,000 USD equivalent) to performance-focused models like the Ioniq 5 N.
The Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 6 utilise Hyundai’s electric-global modular platform (E-GMP), praised for its engineering capabilities such as fast charging, long range (up to 361 miles EPA for the Ioniq 6), and dynamic driving characteristics. The Ioniq 5 N, in particular, brings "genuine sporting passion" to the EV market, combining sports car-like acceleration (3.0-second 0-60 mph sprint) with subcompact SUV practicality. Its driving engagement features and reliable underpinnings set it apart in a market often focused solely on range and efficiency.
Moreover, having two BEV models priced below $35,000 (such as the Kona Electric and the lower-trim Ioniq 5 base models) helps Hyundai reach mass-market consumers, a critical factor in establishing widespread adoption.
This year's winning crop of vehicles includes more mass-market battery-electric vehicles than last year, with more models priced below $35,000. The discussion, led by Senior Editor David Kiley and Lead Editor Christie Schweinberg, focuses on the reasons why these vehicles were chosen and provides insights into the selection process.
In addition to Hyundai, this year's winning crop of vehicles includes repeat brands from 2024, demonstrating the consistency and quality of these brands. However, this year's crop features fewer luxury vehicles compared to last year, reflecting a growing emphasis on mass-market EVs.
The editors offer their professional opinions on the winning vehicles in the discussion, providing valuable insights into the factors that contributed to their selection. The discussion offers a detailed analysis of the winning vehicles and their features, making it an informative resource for anyone interested in the latest developments in the EV market.
In summary, Hyundai is the repeat automaker with multiple award-winning BEVs in 2025, leveraging diversified EV offerings, innovative electric platforms, engaging driving experiences, and competitive pricing under $35,000 to succeed strongly in the mass-market battery-electric category. This year's winning crop of vehicles reflects a growing trend towards mass-market EVs, with more affordable options becoming increasingly popular.
- The electric vehicle (EV) industry experienced a significant shift in 2025, with Hyundai receiving multiple awards for its EVs, showcasing its dominance in the market.
- Hyundai's success in the EV market can be attributed to its extensive range of models, advanced technology, and pricing that appeals to various buyer segments.
- Hyundai's Ioniq 5 N, in particular, stood out with its sports car-like acceleration and dynamic driving characteristics, offering a unique and engaging driving experience in the EV market.
- This year's winning EV crop featured more mass-market vehicles than last year, signifying a growing trend towards affordable EV options, and Hyundai played a significant role in this trend with its competitively priced models.
