Japan has named the best cars of the year: hybrids and electric cars retained the lead

In Japan, the winners of the annual “Car of the Year 2025–2026” award were announced, and the results once again confirmed the growing popularity of electric vehicles and hybrids. Most of the models among the winners are equipped with electrified powertrains.

The big winner was the completely redesigned Subaru Forester, which scored 1,149 points—enough to comfortably outpace its closest competitors: the Honda Prelude sports coupe, the Toyota Crown Estate station wagon, and the new-generation Nissan Leaf.

Japan has named the best cars of the year: hybrids and electric cars retained the lead
The judges noted the Forester’s balanced handling, high level of safety, and the efficiency of its hybrid system—it was precisely these qualities that propelled the crossover to first place.

Top 10 Cars of the Year in Japan:

Subaru Forester
Honda Prelude
Toyota Crown Estate
Nissan Leaf
Volkswagen ID.Buzz
Hyundai Inster
BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe
Peugeot 3008
Suzuki e-Vitara
Daihatsu Move

Foreign models received individual awards. The Volkswagen ID.Buzz electric minivan was named Best Imported Car, and the same model also won the “Design of the Year” award.

Japan has named the best cars of the year: hybrids and electric cars retained the lead
In the “Most Technologically Advanced Car” category, the winner was the Porsche 911 Carrera GTS hybrid sports car, which stood out for its cutting-edge engineering solutions.

Porsche 911 Carrera GTS: Everything You Need To Know | Exotic Car Trader
The “Car of the Year” award has been presented in Japan since 1980. Winners are traditionally selected by a jury of 60 automotive journalists. The previous year, the title went to the Honda Freed compact minivan.