- Hyundai Santa Fe is ‘World’s Best Car of 2025’
- Wins overall Women's Worldwide Car of the Year award
- Chosen by panel of 82 women motoring journalists from 55 countries
- Coincides with International Women's Day, March 8
A team of international women journalists has announced its ‘World’s Best Car of the Year 2025’ - just in time for International Women’s Day.
The overall gong went to the recently revamped Hyundai Santa Fe, with the futuristic-looking SUV praised for its ‘bold and strategic evolution’ in the segment.
The honour was bestowed as part of the Women's Worldwide Car of the Year awards, which are chosen by a team of 82 women motoring journalists from 55 countries.
The other finalists, shortlisted in their categories, were the MINI Cooper (Urban Car), Kia EV3 (Compact SUV), Audi A6 e-tron (Large Car), Toyota Land Cruiser (4x4) and Porsche Panamera (Performance Car).
The Hyundai Santa Fe is available with a choice of five, six or seven seats and also enjoys frugal hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains,
Judge Ina Georgieva, of Bulgaria, said: “Despite the large size, it is easy to drive. I drove the car in real snowy conditions and it coped without compromise. Hybrid versions provide excellent fuel economy and the possibility of zero emissions in the city.
Tanya Gazdik, of United States, added: “The Santa Fe was dramatically restyled both inside and out to include many ‘wow’ features like a wider liftgate opening and spacious interior. The Santa Fe aims to expand everyday experiences by connecting urban customer activities with natural environments. One of my favorite things about the Santa Fe is a third row that folds perfectly flat, which is more unusual than you might think. It’s just one more thoughtful touch from the Hyundai designers.”
Women's Worldwide Car of the Year is the only car awards group in the world comprised exclusively of women motoring journalists. It was created by New Zealand motoring journalist Sandy Myhre in 2009.
The jurors do not select a ‘woman’s car’ because cars are not gender specific.
The winning car in 2024 was another seven-seat SUV - the Kia EV9.
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