2025 Donut Awards Recap: Car Winners and Shocking Upsets

The Unmissable 2025 Automotive Honors

If you missed Donut Media's star-studded Donut Awards, you’re in the right place. Hosts Nolan Sykes and Justin Freeman dissected 2025’s automotive landscape with categories ranging from "Ugliest Car" to "Car of the Year"—delivering surprises that left enthusiasts buzzing. After analyzing the broadcast, we’re breaking down every winner, controversial choice, and industry insight. You’ll get the complete recap with expert context on why these selections matter for car culture.

Standout Winners and Controversial Picks

Ugliest Car: Tesla Cybertruck’s Dubious Honor

The Cybertruck claimed "Ugliest Car" against the BMW i7, Ferrari F80, and Hyundai Santa Fe. Justin Freeman’s off-road test drove the verdict: "Hate that thing"—a sentiment echoing its polarizing stainless-steel design. While Hyundai’s boxy Santa Fe refresh drew Previa comparisons, judges noted the Cybertruck’s divisiveness overshadowed functional debate.

Most American Car: Kia EV6’s Unlikely Triumph

Kia’s EV6 stunned favorites like the Corvette ZR1X and Ford Mustang GTD by winning "Most American." Judges highlighted 80% North American parts sourcing—a data-driven upset. The Ram 1500’s V8 comeback and Mustang GTD’s Nürburgring ambitions couldn’t counter the EV6’s local manufacturing footprint.

Best Affordable Enthusiast Car: Toyota GR86’s Pricey Victory

Jimmy Hilton presented the GR86’s win over the Miata and Civic Si, despite its $40K price tag reflecting market inflation. Judges praised its pure driving engagement but acknowledged affordability erosion. Analysis suggests this category may soon need a sub-$30K cap to retain relevance.

Car of the Year: 1997 Honda Civic DX’s Shocker

In an epic mix-up, the Civic DX snatched "Car of the Year" from the Corvette ZR1X. This cult classic’s 30-year reliability legacy trumped modern horsepower wars. The Corvette’s 1,000HP achievement couldn’t outweigh the Civic’s enduring accessibility—proving value isn’t defined by newness.

Behind the Judging Criteria and Omissions

Biggest Whiff: Dodge Charger Daytona EV’s Missed Mark

Dodge’s electric Charger won "Biggest Whiff" for its $85K launch model—ignoring affordable trims. Judges criticized prioritizing profit over practicality, contrasting Honda Prelude markups and Subaru Outback’s wagon-to-SUV shift. Industry data shows EV adoption hinges on sub-$50K pricing, a lesson Dodge overlooked.

Best Used Bargain: BMW E92’s Enduring Appeal

Doug DeMuro crowned the E92 3 Series/M3 "Best Used Bargain" against the C5 Corvette and RX-8. Mechanical accessibility and tuner potential secured its win, though DeMuro warned: "Check window regulators immediately." The RX-8’s rising value signals rotary resurgence, but parts scarcity hurt its case.

What These Awards Reveal About 2025’s Automotive Landscape

Global Gems America Missed Out On

The Renault 5 Turbo 3E won "Best Non-US Car," beating Suzuki Jimny and Toyota Hilux Champ. Its sold-out preorders and retro-futurism highlighted market gaps—affordable EVs (BYD Dolphin) and rugged compacts remain underserved stateside. Expect import demand to surge as enthusiasts seek alternatives.

YouTube Builds Pushing Innovation Boundaries

Vinatra awarded Grind Hard Plumbing Co.’s terrifying trike "Most Innovative YouTube Build." Unlike Throttle’s 4GT or WhistlinDiesel’s 17-turbo truck, its unconventional engineering embodied risk-taking. This signals a shift toward garage-built creativity over corporate R&D.

Your Action Plan After the Awards

Immediate Car Enthusiast Checklist

Research E92 listings—focus on service histories to avoid regulator issues.
Track Renault 5 Turbo 3E imports via European dealers if US availability lags.
Test drive a GR86 to experience its dynamics before prices climb further.

Recommended Resources for Deeper Insights

Hagerty’s Used Car Market Report: Explains E92 values (ideal for BMW newcomers).
Rare Finds Auto Imports: Specializes in JDM/Euro models like the Jimny Nomad.
Engineering Explained YouTube: Breaks down EV6’s US manufacturing advantages.

The Takeaway: Legacy Outshines Horsepower in 2025

The Civic DX’s victory proves that long-term value resonates more than horsepower wars. Whether you’re hunting used bargains or debating EV adoption, this awards show underscores that authenticity wins. Which category result surprised you most? Share your take below—we’ll feature top insights in our follow-up!