2025 Driveway Podcast Superlative Awards: Best Cars Driven This Year

The Definitive 2025 Car Awards From Industry Experts

What makes a car truly award-worthy in 2025? After testing dozens of press vehicles, the Driveway Podcast team brings you their annual Superlative Awards – honoring exceptional vehicles based on first-hand driving experience. Our methodology goes beyond spec sheets to evaluate how these cars perform in real-world scenarios, from daily commutes to special events.

Each award winner was personally tested by our automotive experts who bring combined decades of industry experience. These aren't hypothetical picks – they're thoroughly vetted recommendations from professionals who live and breathe cars every day.

Best Car for Attending Rolling Events: Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally

The Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally earned top honors for museum driving tours and group rallies. This isn't your standard electric SUV. With its rally-inspired suspension tuning, the Mach-E Rally solves the base model's stiffness issues while delivering thrilling performance. Key features include:

480 horsepower and 700 lb-ft of instant electric torque
Unique rally-style wheels with functional sidewall protection
Magnaride damping system for improved rough-road compliance
10.7 inches of ground clearance for unexpected terrain

During testing at Dirtfish Rally School, the Mach-E Rally demonstrated impressive wet-weather capability and controlled slides that would benefit any driving tour. While EV range remains a consideration for remote routes, the growing charging infrastructure makes this increasingly viable. At approximately $58,000, it offers exceptional performance value.

Neighbor-Annoying Performance Award: Mustang GT California Special

The Mustang GT California Special convertible delivers V8 thunder that's impossible to ignore. Its 5.0L Coyote engine produces 486 horsepower and 418 lb-ft of torque, creating a symphony that turns heads – and occasionally draws frowns from nearby residents.

Active exhaust system lets drivers modulate volume (neighbors appreciate quiet mode)
$5,600 Performance Package adds Brembo brakes and retuned chassis
Classic convertible experience with modern tech integration
Surprisingly comfortable for daily driving when not wound out

Testing revealed this car's uncanny ability to feel thrilling at legal speeds, creating that special muscle car experience. The California Special trim adds unique styling elements that make it stand out at cars and coffee events.

Most Improved Transformation: Volkswagen Tiguan and Subaru Solterra

Two vehicles earned recognition for dramatic generational improvements:

Volkswagen Tiguan (2025 redesign)

Elevated from mid-pack to top contender in compact SUV segment
Premium interior materials rival luxury brands at accessible pricing
268 horsepower turbo engine provides confident acceleration
European-inspired ride refinement sets new class benchmark

Subaru Solterra (Midcycle Refresh)

Significant range improvement over previous generation
Added Tesla NACS charging port for convenient charging
Porsche-inspired front-end styling and modern interior
Dual wireless charging pads demonstrate thoughtful packaging

Both models represent exceptional value transformations in their respective categories, with the Tiguan particularly impressing with its upscale cabin experience.

Most Overengineered: Honda Passport TrailSport Elite

The Honda Passport TrailSport Elite demonstrates engineering excellence beyond practical needs. Designed for off-road capability most owners will never use, it features:

Class-leading 10.7 inches of ground clearance
IVTM-4 all-wheel drive system sending 70% power rearward
Special scratch-resistant composite above rear quarter windows
Structural rigidity enhancements for extreme terrain
18-inch wheels with off-road capable tires

During an exclusive press event, the Passport demonstrated genuine beach-driving capability (footage remains confidential to protect turtle habitats). The satisfying "thunk" of doors closing reinforces its premium build quality, though the $45,000+ price reflects its extensive engineering.

Best Cars and Coffee Contender: Dodge Charger Daytona EV

The Charger Daytona EV generates polarizing reactions and guaranteed conversation at automotive events. Its bold styling pays homage to muscle car heritage while embracing electrification.

Striking long-door coupe profile (four-door also available)
Standout presence that draws crowds and questions
Performance-oriented driving dynamics
$70,000 price positions it as a statement vehicle

While debate continues about electric muscle cars, the Daytona's rarity ensures it'll stand out in any Cars and Coffee gathering. Its unconventional nature makes it perfect for enthusiasts who enjoy discussing automotive evolution.

The Ultimate EV Endurance Award: GMC Sierra EV AT4

The Sierra EV AT4 redefines electric vehicle range with its massive 205 kWh Ultium battery pack delivering an EPA-estimated 440 miles. This electric pickup combines extreme capability with unprecedented EV range.

AT4 off-road package with 10+ inches of ground clearance
754 horsepower for effortless towing and acceleration
Unique extractor mode that lowers air resistance
Legitimate off-road credentials beyond pavement use

Tested in winter conditions, the Sierra EV demonstrated remarkable stability in snow while maintaining predictable range. Though priced near $100,000, it represents a technological showcase for what's possible in electric trucks.

2025 Hosts' Personal Favorites

Beyond the awards, each host revealed their personal favorite drive of the year:

Natalie: "The McLaren Artura Spider delivered supercar thrills with surprising usability. Its dihedral doors and hybrid powertrain created an unforgettable driving experience, proving exotic cars can be livable dailies."

Elliot: "The Lincoln Navigator redefined luxury SUV expectations. That massive curved display became surprisingly intuitive, and its effortless powertrain made even long drives relaxing."

Dave: "Hyundai's Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 9 represented the perfect blend of EV innovation and practicality. Their thoughtful packaging and rapid charging solutions addressed real-world needs."

Matt: "The Porsche 911 Carrera GTS Hybrid delivered transcendent performance that redefined expectations. Its hybrid powertrain provides astonishing torque from any RPM while maintaining daily usability."

Actionable Insights for Your Next Car Purchase

Based on our testing, here's how to apply these awards to your shopping:

EV Performance Seekers: Test drive the Mustang Mach-E Rally and Hyundai Ioniq 5N for thrilling electric experiences
Muscle Car Enthusiasts: Experience both the Mustang GT and Charger Daytona to compare traditional vs electric approaches
Family Haulers: Prioritize the Honda Passport for overbuilt durability or Ioniq 9 for electric efficiency
Luxury Buyers: Consider the Lincoln Navigator for its tech integration and comfort

Which award-winning vehicle aligns with your driving priorities? Share your thoughts in the comments – we read every response and incorporate reader feedback into our testing methodology. For detailed reviews of these winners, visit Cargurus.com where we maintain comprehensive test data on every vehicle we evaluate.