Nissan Leaf Named Car of the Year at The Sun Motor Awards 2025

The Sun has unveiled the winners of the 2025 Motor Awards, with the Nissan Leaf taking home the prestigious title of Car of the Year. This recognition highlights the Leaf’s significant improvements, including enhanced range and advanced technology, making it a standout choice for families seeking an electric vehicle.

The award ceremony took place in London, where several manufacturers showcased their latest innovations. Among the notable winners, the 1965 Mk1 Ford Transit received the Legend Award, celebrating its enduring legacy and impact as a reliable workhorse in Britain for the past sixty years.

The Nissan Leaf, built at the company’s Sunderland plant, is now available from approximately £29,000. Featured upgrades include a longer driving range of up to 380 miles on a single charge and a user-friendly Google-powered touchscreen. This new model has been designed to accommodate families with improved interior space, including room for a rear-facing child seat.

Kia also emerged as a major winner, capturing two awards. The Kia EV4 claimed the title of Electric Car of the Year, noted for its impressive five-door hatchback design, while the Kia PV5 Cargo was recognized as the Best Van. Both vehicles emphasize Kia’s commitment to producing affordable and efficient electric options.

Renault’s new model, the Renault 4, was awarded Best Small SUV/Crossover, further establishing the brand’s reputation for blending retro aesthetics with practical features at a competitive price point. Renault also secured the title of Best Manufacturer for its successful electric vehicle lineup, which includes the popular R5 and the upcoming Twingo.

In a surprising twist, Dacia did not secure the Best Value award for the fourth consecutive year. Instead, the Vauxhall Frontera Electric, priced at around £22,000, took the title for its affordability and low running costs. Nonetheless, Dacia’s Bigster was honored as the Best Family Car, praised for its spaciousness and all-wheel-drive capability.

Other notable winners include the Aston Martin Vantage Roadster, awarded the Dream Car title, and the Toyota GR Yaris recognized as the Hot Hatchback of the year. The Jeep Wrangler also received accolades as the Road Trip Car of the Year, with one lucky reader winning a seven-day adventure in Texas.

The event concluded with a celebration of the automotive industry’s contributions and innovations, as participants raised a toast to the Nissan Leaf and other exceptional vehicles recognized at the awards. As the automotive landscape continues to evolve, these awards highlight the importance of sustainability and innovation in meeting consumer needs.