Drive Car of the Year winners revealed

The Drive Car of the Year awards winners for 2025 have been revealed, with Hyundai leading the charge in several categories.

The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid took out the prestigious Car of the Year award, a testament to its innovative design, impressive fuel efficiency, and enhanced safety features.

Drive Content Director James Ward highlighted the standout attributes of the model.

“The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid emerged as a standout this year with its fuel-efficient hybrid lineup, enhanced safety and technology, and bold design. It makes a worthy winner of the top award,” he said.

This accolade signifies not only the Santa Fe’s superiority in the hybrid segment but also its pivotal role in the transitioning automotive market where practicality meets sustainability.

Sante Fe sweep

In a remarkable achievement, Hyundai made history at this year’s awards by clinching victories in all three SUV categories: Best Small SUV Under $50K, Best Medium SUV Under $50K, and Best Large SUV Under $80K.

“We are elated to receive the prestigious 2025 Drive Car of the Year award for the rugged, spacious and efficient SANTA FE model range,” Hyundai Motor Company Australia Chief Executive Officer Ted Lee said.

“It is also a wonderful acknowledgement of the quality and appeal of the whole Hyundai SUV range that SANTA FE, TUCSON and KONA have won a clean sweep of awards in the important Small, Medium and Large SUV categories.”

Reflecting the shift towards sustainability, all Hyundai category winners are hybrid models, echoing Drive’s research indicating that nearly 50 percent of Australians are contemplating a hybrid for their next car. This transition aligns with the broader sentiment among consumers seeking value and efficiency amidst rising cost-of-living pressures.

SEE MORE: Car news

Drive CEO Simon Halfhide emphasised the program’s enduring commitment to comprehensive vehicle assessment.

“When Drive Car of the Year launched in 2006, the awards were designed to be the most comprehensive assessment of the new car market,” he said.