Hyundai continues to dominate the automotive spotlight as the All-new SANTA FE takes the coveted Car of the Year title at the 2025 Carwow Awards. Adding to its accolades, the cutting-edge SUV also clinched the Family Values award, further cementing its reputation as the ultimate family vehicle. Meanwhile, Hyundai’s trailblazing electric performance car, the IONIQ 5 N, secured the Tech Trailblazer award, and the brand itself was celebrated as Carwow’s Brand of the Year.
A Winning Formula: SANTA FE’s Stellar Performance
The All-new SANTA FE, Hyundai’s bold and versatile SUV, has been turning heads since its launch just months ago. Recognized as Car of the Year by Carwow’s editorial team, the SANTA FE impressed with its balance of style, practicality, and value. Mat Watson, Carwow’s Chief Content Officer, lauded the SUV, stating, “The Hyundai SANTA FE is a fantastic all-rounder, being great to drive, comfortable, and obscenely practical. It combines premium quality with family-friendly affordability like no other.”
The SANTA FE’s striking boxy silhouette, class-leading interior space, and comprehensive suite of Hyundai Smart Sense Advanced Driver Assistance Systems make it an ideal choice for families. Available in three trims—Premium, Ultimate, and Calligraphy—the SANTA FE offers Hybrid and Plug-in Hybrid powertrains, with pricing starting at £46,775.
Notably, this isn’t the first award for the SANTA FE. It has already earned the Best Hybrid Seven-seater title from WhatCar? and Large ICE Car of the Year from the Association of Scottish Motoring Writers, solidifying its status as a leader in its class.
IONIQ 5 N: Redefining Electric Performance
Hyundai’s high-performance IONIQ 5 N continues to break barriers, winning Carwow’s Tech Trailblazer award. Built on the advanced Electrified-Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the IONIQ 5 N merges cutting-edge electric technology with the adrenaline-inducing thrills of motorsport. With up to 650 PS delivered by dual electric motors, a 0-62mph sprint in just 3.4 seconds, and a top speed of 161mph, the IONIQ 5 N is a true game-changer in the EV market.
Mat Watson highlighted its appeal: “The IONIQ 5 N proves electric cars can be an absolute riot to drive. The engineering is incredibly complex, but it’s executed seamlessly to deliver a driving experience that puts a massive smile on your face.”
Its innovative features, such as N e-shift and N Active Sound+, evoke the sensations of traditional internal combustion engine performance while showcasing the capabilities of modern EVs. With prices starting at £65,000, the IONIQ 5 N has earned accolades worldwide, including the prestigious 2024 World Performance Car award.
Hyundai: Carwow’s Brand of the Year
The crowning achievement of the night was Hyundai’s recognition as Carwow’s Brand of the Year. This accolade reflects the brand’s commitment to delivering a diverse lineup of high-quality, innovative vehicles that cater to a wide range of customer needs. From the family-focused SANTA FE to the exhilarating IONIQ 5 N, Hyundai’s ability to blend practicality, performance, and cutting-edge technology sets it apart in the automotive industry.
Mat Watson summed it up: “Hyundai is building genuinely stylish and desirable cars that are packed full of technology and great value for money. No other car maker shows such a breadth of abilities as Hyundai right now.”
Looking Ahead
As Hyundai celebrates these impressive wins, the brand’s momentum shows no signs of slowing. Ashley Andrew, President of Hyundai & Genesis UK, shared his excitement: “Carwow’s recognition of two very different Hyundais, the All-new SANTA FE and the IONIQ 5 N, plus the brand itself, underlines again just what a competitive product offering we have right across the board. And the great news is that more exciting new models are on the way.”
With a strong lineup of award-winning vehicles and ambitious plans for the future, Hyundai is poised to continue its leadership in the automotive market. Whether you’re seeking family-friendly practicality or cutting-edge electric performance, Hyundai delivers vehicles that resonate with modern drivers.
