Volkswagen Group has emerged as the standout winner at the 49th edition of the “Goldene Lenkrad” (Golden Steering Wheel), securing six of the 12 awards—half of all trophies presented. The achievement marks a historic milestone for the Group and cements its position as a leading force in global automotive innovation and design.
The Volkswagen brand was the star of this year’s ceremony. With four category victories, it claimed more Golden Steering Wheels in a single year than any brand before, underscoring the strength and momentum of its latest product offensive. CUPRA and Porsche completed the Group’s tally, each earning a win in their respective categories.
Oliver Blume, CEO of Volkswagen Group, celebrated the result:
“The Golden Steering Wheel is one of the most prestigious automotive awards in Europe and therefore extremely important to us – especially because of the unique combination of reader votes and jury decision. The result shows that our product offensive is working, our new models are very well received, with innovations and iconic design. The Volkswagen Group is delivering and is back! With new energy, a clear direction, and an explicit ambition: we want to be the global automotive tech driver.”
A Prestigious Benchmark in European Automotive Excellence
Since 1976, Germany’s AUTO BILD and BILD am SONNTAG have presented the Golden Steering Wheel—one of Europe’s most respected automotive honours. For 2025, readers across Europe cast votes across 72 eligible new models before a jury of experts, racing drivers, and well-known automotive enthusiasts evaluated the top three in each category at the Lausitzring circuit. Vehicles were assessed across 17 criteria, including design, driving dynamics, quality, safety, sustainability and overall value.
Six Category Wins: A Showcase of Group Strength
Compact Class – Volkswagen Golf GTI EDITION 501
Set to mark the 50th anniversary of the iconic GTI in 2026, the Golf GTI EDITION 501 combines heritage with the most powerful production GTI ever built. Delivering 239 kW (325 PS) and 420 Nm, the exclusive model blends sharp driving dynamics with distinctive styling cues that honour five decades of performance innovation.
Mid-Size Class – CUPRA Terramar VZ 1.5 e-Hybrid
CUPRA’s Terramar VZ redefines the emotional appeal of a modern SUV, fusing a bold, athletic design with the brand’s new generation plug-in hybrid drivetrain. With more than 100 kilometres of electric-only range, it delivers efficiency without sacrificing the sporting edge that defines CUPRA.
Upper Mid-Size Class – Volkswagen ID.7 GTX Tourer
As Volkswagen’s first fully electric estate, the ID.7 GTX Tourer has quickly become a standout in its segment. Its 250 kW (340 PS) dual-motor all-wheel-drive system, long-distance comfort and vast interior space position it as a dynamic yet practical EV for modern families and long-haul travellers.
Sports Car – Porsche 911 GT3
Few vehicles embody motorsport DNA as authentically as the 911 GT3. The latest evolution—with its 375 kW (510 PS) naturally aspirated 4.0-litre boxer engine, refined lightweight engineering and race-oriented precision—continues the nameplate’s legacy as a track-ready machine that remains perfectly useable on the road.
Family Car – Volkswagen Tayron
Slotting between the Tiguan and the Touareg, the new Tayron brings seven-seat versatility, advanced technology and impressive capability, including a 2.5-tonne towing capacity. Its spacious cabin and adaptable design position it as an ideal solution for modern, active families.
Editorial Award: Best Car Under €40,000 – Volkswagen T-Roc
The new-generation T-Roc impressed editors with its blend of innovation, quality and value. Enhanced with a more refined design, improved comfort, hybrid powertrains and class-leading assistance systems, it represents a significant leap forward in the compact SUV segment.
A Landmark Year for the Group
With half of all awards going to Volkswagen Group brands, the 2025 Golden Steering Wheel results underscore not only the strength of the Group’s current lineup, but also the effectiveness of its broader strategic direction. From pioneering electric mobility to extending its heritage of performance and utility vehicles, the Group’s product offensive is resonating with both consumers and industry experts.
As the brand continues accelerating its ambition to become the world’s leading automotive technology driver, this year’s results send a clear signal: Volkswagen Group is not just back—it’s setting the pace.
