Richard – Page 9 – Canadian Car of the Year

AJAC 12 Best Vehicles in Canada for 2025

The list of 12 Best Vehicles in Canada is created from detailed ballots completed by AJAC’s expert journalists. More than 600 ballots were submitted during the creation of the 12 Best list by 48 jurors based right across Canada, from Vancouver to Halifax. CCOTY is Canada’s ONLY vehicle awards scheme in which the jurors drive every vehicle they vote on. Vehicles are tested on the same roads and in the same conditions faced by Canadian drivers from coast to coast every day. The list of 12 Best Vehicles in Canada for 2025 includes both newcomers and longstanding favourites among Canadian …

Jeff Wilson | AutoGuide: 2025 Subaru Forester

Jeff Wilson had this to say about the Subaru Forester on AutoGuide: “Subaru could have dramatically overhauled the Forester with a radical look, taking it in an entirely new direction the way some of the competitors try to reinvent their models with every new generation. Instead, as one of the company’s volume sellers, the new Forester receives measured change to a format that has worked for the brand throughout the previous five generations. The previous model’s bright, spacious interior, useful cargo hold, and engaging performance continue to define the Forester, while also benefitting from improved comfort, driveability, and arguably appearance. …

Cadillac Lyriq – 2025 Semi-Finalist

The Cadillac Lyriq is the iconic brand’s take on all-electric luxury, packing a unique design and an interior packed with luxury materials. With a range of 505 kilometers, the Lyriq is more than competitive with how far it will go and also with how much power it offers, up to 500 hp and 450 lb-ft of torque when all-wheel drive is equipped. Juror’s Opinion – Stephanie Wallcraft had this to say at Driving.ca: “The Lyriq looks genuinely impressive on walk-up, although my teenager did comment on the door handles opening the “wrong way.” From their flush position, they extend out …

Hyundai Kona Electric – 2025 Semi-Finalist

The Hyundai Kona Electric offers buyers a small crossover with unique style that just underwent significant changes. Now with more space, a new interior and better driving performance, the Kona Electric also stands out thanks to its unique styling. Power comes in at 201 hp and 188 lb-ft of torque, resulting in a range of 420 kilometers on a full charge. Juror’s Opinion – Jil McIntosh had this to say on AutoTrader.ca: “On rain-dampened roads around Victoria, B.C., the Kona Electric proved that the decrease in torque shouldn’t be an issue for most drivers. It has excellent road manners in …

Volvo EX30 – 2025 Semi-Finalist

The EX30 is the smallest SUV that Volvo has ever produced, but it says it is the biggest and most important step towards full electrification as it has the smallest Co2 footprint of any Volvo ever built. A full charge will take you 442 kilometers in the EX30, while the motors and battery provide 268 horsepower and 253 lb-ft of torque. The EX30 adds another small electric vehicle market, offering the benefits on an EV without a big physical footprint. Juror’s Opinion – Andrew McCredie had this to say on Driving.ca: “So, it’s great that Volvo is bringing a compact …

Hyundai Ioniq 6 – 2025 Semi-Finalist

The Hyundai Ioniq 6 shares its platform with the Ioniq 5 hatchback but it brings its own sedan styling and presence to the market that its sibling doesn’t offer. A 77.4 kWh battery pack offers up 581 kilometers of range and is able to be replenished at a rate of up to 350 kW. That’s capable of bringing the battery from 10 to 80 percent in 20 minutes. For those that still want a four-door sedan over a crossover, the Ioniq 6 offers a compelling all-electric package. Juror’s Opinion – Matthew Guy had this to say at TheStar.com: “Hyundai’s new …

Toyota Prius Plug-In Hybrid – 2025 Semi-Finalist

Back to defend its win as the 2024 Canadian Electric Car of the Year, the Prius has now dropped the “Prime” from its name, simply going by the Prius Plug-In Hybrid now. The car remains the same though, offering miserly fuel economy in a new sleek package. On a full charge, you can make it 72 kilometers before the gas engine kicks in to provide power. Total system output measures in at 220 horsepower, offering drivers more punch than any previous Prius. Juror’s Opinion – Elle Alder had this to say at Driving.ca: “Through all of this, the new Prius …

Chevrolet Trax – 2025 Semi-Finalist

The newly re-introduced Chevrolet Trax shares basically only its name with the model it replaces, as it’s wider, lower and longer than the old version. Power comes from a turbocharged 1.2L three-cylinder engine that makes 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque, sent only through the front wheels. With fuel economy set at 7.9L/100KM combined, the new Trax offers economical transportation for a family. Juror’s Opinion – Jil McIntosh had this to say on Driving.ca: “No vehicle is perfect, but overall, the Trax is very impressive. For the way it looks and drives, its roomy and handsome interior, and its …

Nissan Kicks – 2025 Semi-Finalist

For 2025 the Kicks has received new style, a fresh interior and larger proportions that allow it to haul more cargo and offer more comfort to passengers. Power comes from a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that makes 141 horsepower and 140 lb-ft of torque sent through a continuously variable transmission. The new looks and playful drive of the updated Kicks helps it to stand out in its segment. Juror’s Opinion – Mike Schlee had this to say at AutoGuide.com: “The biggest improvement to the Kicks comes in the form of driveability. The new platform is stronger and allows for less body …

Subaru Forester – 2025 Semi-Finalist

The fully redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester adds more safety features, fresh styling and new interior appointments to what was an already compelling package. A 2.5-liter boxer four-cylinder engine still makes 180 horsepower, though the torque has been boosted up to 178 lb-ft. Subaru’s classic symmetrical all-wheel drive system is still here offering a sure footed driving experience for all who are interested. Juror’s Opinion – Andrew McCredie had this to say at Driving.ca: “After spending a dusty day behind the wheel of the all-new Forester, it didn’t surprise me to learn that one in four Subarus sold in Canada in …