DETROIT, Mich. — Every auto reviewer approaches vehicles differently, finding various pros and cons that form their opinions. Each year, 50 of the top automotive journalists from across the U.S. and Canada come together (including me, the Vehicle Testing Editor here at U.S. News & World Report) to vote for those exceptional vehicles in the car, truck and utility segments of the new car market.
The North American Car, Truck and Utility Vehicle of the Year Awards (NACTOY – the abbreviation predates SUVs) are coveted by automakers from around the globe. They honor those demonstrating innovation that moves the industry forward, along with all the attributes that vehicle buyers want to see: value, design, safety, driving dynamics and user-friendly systems. Jurors are given points they can give to one vehicle or allot amongst the three finalists.
This year’s winners are the 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid as North American Car of the Year, the Ford Ranger as North American Truck of the Year and the all-new Volkswagen I.D. Buzz as the North American Utility Vehicle of the Year.
North American Car of the Year: 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid
The Civic faced off with the updated, hybrid-only Toyota Camry and the all-new Kia K4 as finalists in the car category. While it has a higher starting price than some rivals, the Civic offers a smooth hybrid powertrain that delivers phenomenal gas mileage. It earns a spot near the top of the U.S. News Best Cars hybrid car rankings.
“The 2025 Honda Civic Hybrid is a much-needed affordable high-mileage family car. In addition to sharp styling, a nicely crafted interior and a comfortable ride, the Civic Hybrid delivers exceptional fuel economy,” said Matt DeLorenzo, the editor-in-chief of Tightwad Garage and a U.S. News contributor.
The Kia K4 received the majority of points in my voting. To me, it offers an unmatched value proposition and an option between compact and midsize cars. Its unsurpassed 10-year/100,000-mile warranty means it’s not only cheap to buy but will also remain inexpensive to operate for years to come.
North American Truck of the Year: 2025 Ford Ranger
Winning the North American Truck of the Year title this year is the Ford Ranger. It topped the Toyota Tacoma and Ram 1500 in the voting. The Ranger offers the features that shoppers in the segment consider essential, including confident powertrains and a ride that won’t beat you up. When it comes to towing, the Ranger offers not only good capacity but also technology to make it easy. In the U.S. News compact pickup truck rankings, however, it earns a spot in the lower half of the segment.
“Ford’s expertise in building trucks is evident in the 2025 Ranger that offers plenty of utility plus an added dose of comfort and convenience,” said Jack Nerad, a U.S. News Best Cars contributor and host of America on the Road Radio.
