The 2025 North American Car, Truck, and Utility Vehicle of the Year (NACTOY) awards were announced Friday morning, highlighting the Detroit Auto Show’s media day. The prestigious honors went to the Honda Civic Hybrid, Ford Ranger, and Volkswagen ID. Buzz celebrates excellence in automotive innovation and design.
The winners were unveiled during an event hosted by the Automotive Press Association at Huntington Place, where the Detroit Auto Show will open to the public on Jan. 11 and run through Jan. 20. These annual awards, decided by an independent jury of 50 automotive journalists from the United States and Canada, recognize standout vehicles based on criteria like innovation, safety, technology, and value.
The NACTOY jury dedicated hundreds of hours to test-driving, researching, and evaluating vehicles before selecting the winners. The finalists in each category included:
- Car of the Year: Honda Civic Hybrid, Kia K4, Toyota Camry
- Truck of the Year: Ford Ranger, Ram 1500, Toyota Tacoma
- Utility Vehicle of the Year: Volkswagen ID. Buzz, Chevrolet Equinox EV, Hyundai Santa Fe
Envelopes containing the winners’ names were sealed until the announcement, adding excitement to the ceremony. The chosen vehicles represent a blend of performance, technology, and user experience that sets them apart in their respective categories.
The Civic Hybrid, celebrated for its sleek design and eco-friendly performance, took home the Car of the Year award. Honda’s commitment to electrification played a significant role in the vehicle’s success. “Civic Hybrid is a key part of our flexible approach to electrification, and we’re thrilled at the response we’ve received from the media, dealers, and customers,” said Josh Beckner, zone manager for Honda.
In the truck category, the Ford Ranger stood out for its rugged capabilities and advanced features. Designed to meet the needs of both adventurers and professionals, the mid-size truck secured the Truck of the Year award. “Our team wakes up every day to serve our customers with passion and energy to deliver amazing products,” said Jim Baumbick, Ford’s Vice President of Advanced Product Development.
Volkswagen’s ID. Buzz captured the Utility Vehicle of the Year award, offering a modern electric take on the iconic Microbus. With its spacious design and innovative technology, the ID. Buzz has become a symbol of nostalgia and progress. “The ID. Buzz is such a true icon for us and the automotive world. It’s living up to its promise,” said Petar Danilovic, Senior Vice President for Product Marketing and Strategy at Volkswagen.
The NACTOY awards highlight the evolving landscape of the automotive industry, emphasizing electrification and innovation. Each winning vehicle showcases the industry’s response to consumer demands for sustainability, performance, and cutting-edge technology.
The Detroit Auto Show offers attendees a chance to see these award-winning vehicles up close. With interactive displays, concept cars, and discussions about the future of mobility, the show provides a platform for automakers to inspire and inform.
The 2025 NACTOY winners reflect the industry’s focus on pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional products. As the Detroit Auto Show continues, these vehicles stand as a testament to the creativity and determination driving the next generation of automotive excellence.
The public will have the opportunity to experience these innovations firsthand starting Jan. 11, ensuring the excitement of the NACTOY awards carries through the entire duration of the show.
