Madrid, 18 February 2025 – The Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year (WWCOTY) has once again shone a spotlight on the most outstanding vehicles of the year, honouring automakers that have excelled in design, safety, efficiency, and innovation. The prestigious event, held in Madrid, brought together industry leaders, journalists, and automotive professionals to celebrate excellence in a landscape shaped by technological advancement and evolving consumer expectations.
WWCOTY, an international organisation comprising 82 female automotive journalists from 55 countries, plays a pivotal role in evaluating and recognising the most impressive vehicles launched in recent months. With a global audience exceeding 500 million, the awards not only highlight engineering and performance but also reflect the evolving role of women in the automotive world.
The Winning Models
This year’s winners spanned multiple categories, showcasing the diversity and ingenuity of today’s automotive industry. The coveted awards were presented to the following models:
- Best Urban Car: The Mini Cooper, recognised for its compact design and urban agility, with Carlos Martínez Gil, Director of Mini Ibérica, accepting the award.
- Best Compact SUV: The Kia EV3, lauded for its advanced electric powertrain and practicality, with Eduardo Divar, General Manager of Kia Spain, receiving the honour.
- Best Sedan: The Audi A6 e-tron, praised for its blend of luxury, performance, and cutting-edge technology, with Ignacio González, Director of Communications and External Relations of Audi Spain, accepting the accolade.
- Best Large SUV: The Hyundai Santa Fe, commended for its spacious interior and refined capabilities, with Hyundai Motor Spain’s President, Leopoldo Satrústegui, collecting the award.
- Best 4×4: The Toyota Land Cruiser, a legendary off-roader maintaining its reputation for durability and power, received its distinction with Rebeca Guillén, General Manager of Communications and Marketing of Toyota Spain, accepting on behalf of the brand.
- Best Sports Car: The Porsche Panamera, which continues to push the boundaries of luxury and performance, earned top marks, with Beatriz Cobo, Public Relations and Communications at Porsche Ibérica, accepting the award.
- Best Technology: The Blade batteries and BYD DM system, recognised for their revolutionary impact on electrification and efficiency, with Alberto de Aza, CEO of BYD Spain and Portugal, collecting the award.
- Sandy Myhre Award for Commitment to Women: Volvo, honoured for its progressive stance on gender diversity and inclusion, with CEO of Volvo Car Spain, José María Galofré, receiving the accolade.
Recognising the Role of Women in the Industry
During the ceremony, WWCOTY President Marta García underscored the rigorous evaluation process behind the awards, noting that each jury member tests vehicles extensively before making their decisions. “The challenge of developing this award and the effort of the journalists who are part of the jury is immense. Every one of them drives thousands of kilometres before casting their vote,” she remarked.
The event also underscored the automotive industry’s ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion. Several award recipients acknowledged the invaluable contributions of women in shaping the industry’s future, reinforcing the need for continued progress in gender equality.
A Testament to Innovation and Progress
The 2025 WWCOTY Awards serve as a testament to the dynamic and rapidly evolving nature of the automotive sector. In an era of uncertainty and transformation, these awards not only celebrate technical excellence but also advocate for a more inclusive and progressive industry. With the participation of FACONAUTO, Spain’s association of official dealers, the event reinforced the collaboration necessary for continued innovation and success in the sector.
As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, the Women’s Worldwide Car of the Year remains a vital platform for recognising the best in the industry—driven by expertise, insight, and a passion for excellence.
