The Japan Car of the Year Executive Committee held its final selection and awards ceremony at 3:00 PM on December 4, 2025, where the Subaru Forester was crowned the 2025-2026 Japan Car of the Year. Voting by a selection committee made up of automotive critics and journalists, the Forester received the highest score, earning it the prestigious title of Car of the Year.
Breaking News: Subaru Forester wins Car of the Year! Details of final voting results
At the final selection meeting, hosted by Hideyuki Nakajima and Mika Masuda (tvk announcer), 60 judges voted and the results were announced. A total of 35 vehicles were nominated, and the final selection was made from the top 10 cars, making it an extremely tough competition for the award winner.
The Subaru Forester was awarded this award in recognition of the technological capabilities that Subaru has cultivated over many years, as well as its practicality as an SUV and high safety performance.
Introduction: What is Japan Car of the Year?
The final selection and award ceremony for the Japan Car of the Year (JCOTY), one of the most prestigious awards in the Japanese automotive industry, was held on December 4, 2025. This article provides details about this award, which has a history of over 40 years, and the winning vehicles for 2025-2026.
The Japan Car of the Year is a prestigious automobile award that selects the best new passenger car sold in Japan. After rigorous screening by a 60-member selection committee, the award is evaluated from multiple perspectives, including design, performance, safety, environmental friendliness, and cost performance.
Award-winning vehicle: Subaru Forester detailed explanation
Why Forester was chosen
FORESTER SPORT EX Black Selection
The Subaru Forester was selected as the Car of the Year due to the following factors:
Subaru’s unique technologies, the crystallization of Subaru’s traditional technology
, the horizontally opposed engine (boxer engine) and Symmetrical AWD (all-wheel drive), achieve a low center of gravity and stable driving performance. This gives the vehicle excellent off-road capability, allowing you to drive safely even in bad weather or on rough roads.
Equipped with the latest version of Subaru’s advanced
driver assistance system, EyeSight. The wide-angle stereo camera recognizes a wider range than before, enabling more advanced preventive safety features. The car has been praised for its comprehensive safety features, including collision avoidance assist, lane keeping assist, and cruise control with all-speed range tracking.
High Practicality: With
its excellent loading capacity as an SUV, spacious interior, and user-friendly luggage space, it is highly practical and can be used for a wide range of purposes, from everyday use to outdoor activities. It has the depth to meet the needs of a wide range of users, from families to outdoor enthusiasts.
The latest powertrain improves fuel economy while still delivering the powerful driving performance you expect from Subaru. This combination of environmental friendliness and driving enjoyment was highly praised .
Subaru
vehicles are known for their high durability and ability to maintain high performance over a long period of time. Their high resale value is also a major attraction for users.
Forester’s main specifications and features
The exterior design
combines strength and sophistication, making it a statement in both urban and outdoor settings. LED headlights and a dynamic grille design create a striking front face.
The interior, made with high- quality
materials, exudes a high level of quality. Equipped with a large infotainment system, it also easily connects to smartphones. The cockpit is designed to combine comfort and functionality.
The powertrain
utilizes the characteristics of the horizontally opposed engine to deliver smooth acceleration and powerful torque from low rpm. It also boasts improved fuel economy, making it highly economical.
The Symmetrical AWD system
distributes torque optimally to all four wheels at all times, ensuring stable driving on any road surface, even on snowy or wet roads.
2025-2026 Top 10 Cars
The 10 best cars that advanced to the final selection were announced on October 30, 2025, and were selected by a 60-member selection committee from 35 nominated vehicles. Below, we will introduce the cars in the order of nomination.
1. Suzuki eVitara
Suzuki’s long-awaited electric vehicle (EV), the eVitara , is a compact SUV in the segment that offers a size optimized for Japan’s road conditions and a practical driving range. It has attracted attention as a vehicle that continues Suzuki’s signature economy and ease of use in the electrified era.
The highly efficient design philosophy cultivated in light vehicles has been applied to EVs, resulting in a vehicle with an excellent balance of price and performance. With charging infrastructure now being established, the EV is highly regarded as the ideal EV for everyday use.
2. Subaru Forester [Car of the Year Award Winner]
forester
The new Forester, Subaru’s flagship model, has been awarded the 2025-2026 Japan Car of the Year . While retaining the excellent driving performance of its horizontally opposed engine and symmetrical all- wheel drive , it also features an evolved version of the latest safety and driver assistance system, EyeSight. This authentic SUV is popular with a wide range of customers, from outdoor enthusiasts to families.
The selection committee provided comments such as “a well-balanced and high level of completion,” “combining practicality with driving performance,” and “the culmination of technology cultivated over many years.”
3. Daihatsu Move
New Move
The Daihatsu Move , a long-time favorite in the minicar market, returns to the top 10. As a model that symbolizes Japan’s minicar culture, it offers a good balance of all the elements required of a minicar, including fuel efficiency, spaciousness, and advanced safety technology.
Equipped with the latest collision avoidance support system “Smart Assist,” this minicar offers uncompromising safety. Despite its compact body, it offers surprisingly spacious interior space, making it the perfect vehicle for Japan’s road conditions.
4. Toyota Crown (Estate)
crown estate
This is an estate model of Toyota’s premium brand, the Crown. It completely renews the image of the traditional sedan and features an innovative design that combines a crossover SUV and a station wagon. It has been praised as a new-generation Crown that combines luxury and practicality.
The hybrid system provides excellent fuel economy, while the Crown’s signature quietness and high-quality ride are realized. As a new type of premium car, it has succeeded in attracting new customers in addition to existing Crown users.
5. Nissan Leaf
This is the latest model of the Nissan Leaf, which has led the electric vehicle market in Japan . Over 10 years after its release, the Leaf has continued to evolve, significantly improving its driving range, adapting to expanding charging infrastructure, and incorporating the latest connected technology, firmly establishing itself as a pioneer in EVs.
The unique driving sensation of e-Pedal (one-pedal driving) is addictive once you experience it. The evolution of ProPilot (an autonomous driving assistance system) makes long-distance driving on the highway a breeze.
6. Honda Prelude
The Prelude is a modern-day rebirth of Honda’s legendary sports coupe . The revival of this classic car, which was produced from the 1980s to the early 2000s, has delighted many car enthusiasts. Its sporty design and driving performance, reinterpreted with a modern interpretation, have been highly praised.
Despite adopting a hybrid system, it strikes an exquisite balance that does not impair the driving pleasure of a sports car. The fusion of advanced hybrid technology and sports performance shows what a sports car should be like in the new era.
7. BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe
The 2 Series Gran Coupe is a compact sedan from the prestigious German automaker BMW . Its compact body embodies the driving pleasure you expect from BMW, and it is equipped with the latest driver assistance features and a sophisticated interior. This car sets a new standard in the premium compact segment.
Although it is based on FF (front-wheel drive), it achieves the excellent handling and driving performance that you expect from BMW. It combines easy maneuverability in urban areas with stable driving on the highway.
8. Hyundai Instar
The Instar is an electric commercial vehicle introduced to the Japanese market by South Korean manufacturer Hyundai . While maintaining the practicality of a commercial van, it achieves the quietness and environmental performance unique to an EV. It has been praised as a vehicle that can contribute to achieving carbon neutrality as a last-mile delivery vehicle or corporate business vehicle.
As a pioneer in electrification in the commercial vehicle market, this vehicle has attracted much attention from the logistics industry. It has excellent loading capacity and sufficient driving range for a commercial vehicle.
9. Peugeot 3008
The 3008 is a mid-size SUV from French car manufacturer Peugeot . It features a driving environment based on the unique design philosophy “i-Cockpit” and a refined ride typical of European cars. It is a unique SUV that is making its presence felt in the Japanese market as well.
The unique layout of the car, with its small diameter steering wheel and high-positioned meter panel, makes it very easy to drive once you get used to it, reducing fatigue. Another attractive feature is the high-quality ride comfort typical of French cars.
10. Volkswagen ID.Buzz
The ID.Buzz is an electric version of Volkswagen’s iconic bus . Its fusion of retro-modern design and cutting-edge EV technology has attracted attention around the world. With a spacious interior that can accommodate many passengers, it is an innovative vehicle that embodies sustainable mobility.
The two-tone body is a homage to the classic Volkswagen bus, and the latest EV platform combines spacious interior space with excellent driving performance.
Japan Car of the Year Selection Criteria
The Japan Car of the Year selection is based on a variety of criteria, including:
Design
The awards are based on visual and sensory appeal, including the originality of the exterior design, the texture of the interior, and the pursuit of functional beauty. Design is also valued from a global perspective, not just the Japanese market.
Driving performance
The basic performance of a car is rigorously evaluated, including acceleration, handling, ride comfort, and quietness. Rather than mere catalog specifications, the actual driving feel is given importance.
The Forester’s award can be seen as a result of renewed recognition of its high level of basic performance.
Safety performance
The evaluation focuses on technologies that protect the safety of passengers and pedestrians, including preventive safety technology, collision safety performance, and the level of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).
The Forester’s EyeSight system is highly regarded as a representative example of Japanese safety technology.
Environmental performance
Emphasis is placed on environmental considerations such as fuel efficiency, CO2 emissions, and adoption of electrification technology. Efforts to achieve a carbon-neutral society are also evaluated.
Cost performance
The overall economical value is evaluated, including the level of equipment provided relative to the price, maintenance costs, and resale value.
The Forester was also praised for its excellent balance of price and performance.
innovation
Another important evaluation point is innovation that paves the way for the future of the automotive industry, such as adopting new technologies, presenting new values, and having an impact on the market.
Highlights of the final selection
The final selection meeting was held on December 4, 2025 at 3:00 PM and was streamed live on the official Japan Car of the Year YouTube channel. After strict voting by 60 members of the selection committee, the Car of the Year for 2025-2026 was decided.
The selection committee was hosted by automotive journalist Hideyuki Nakajima and tvk announcer Mika Masuda, who reported on the tense selection process.
During the final selection process, all 10 best cars were open to the public at the venue’s Platz (all-weather plaza), allowing visitors to get a close look at the 10 honorable cars.
The significance of the Subaru Forester’s award
For the Subaru brand
This award for the Forester is significant for the Subaru brand, as it is a renewed recognition of our commitment to unique technology and thorough pursuit of safety performance.
Subaru is a relatively small automobile manufacturer, but it has gained a loyal fan base by sticking to its unique technology and brand identity. This award is proof that this corporate attitude has been justified.
Positioning in the SUV market
The Forester’s win signifies a re-evaluation of the value of authentic SUVs. While stylish urban SUVs have been gaining popularity in recent years, the award shows that there remains a strong demand for authentic SUVs that emphasize off-road capability and practicality.
Impact on Japan’s automobile industry
Winning the Japan Car of the Year award will also influence the development strategies of other manufacturers. The Forester’s win will likely bring renewed attention to values such as the pursuit of basic performance, improved safety, and an emphasis on practicality.
The history and significance of Japan Car of the Year
The Japan Car of the Year is Japan’s highest automotive award with a history of over 40 years . Since its inception in 1980, it has made a significant contribution to the development of Japan’s automotive culture.
Receiving this award is the highest honor an automaker can receive and is an important factor for consumers when making a purchase. It also serves to promote technological innovation and quality improvement throughout the automotive industry.
Automotive trends seen from past award-winning vehicles
Looking back at the history of the Japan Car of the Year, automotive trends of each era emerge.
- 1980s : Sports car boom (Toyota Soarer, Honda Prelude, etc.)
- 1990s : The rise of minivans (Toyota Estima, Honda Odyssey, etc.)
- 2000s : Popularization of hybrid vehicles (Toyota Prius, etc.)
- 2010s : The heyday of SUVs (Mazda CX-5, Toyota RAV4, etc.)
- 2020s : Accelerated electrification (increase in electric vehicles and plug-in hybrids)
The fact that the Subaru Forester was selected as the winner for 2025-2026 demonstrates that the value of conventional gasoline and hybrid vehicles is recognized even amid the wave of electrification.
Automotive market trends for 2025-2026
We will analyze the trends in the automotive market that can be read from this year’s 10 best cars.
Full-scale electrification
The fact that four of the top 10 cars are pure electric vehicles indicates the full-scale progress of electrification in the Japanese market. The development of charging infrastructure and the easing of range concerns are helping to drive the spread of EVs.
However, the fact that the gasoline-based Forester was named the Car of the Year shows that there is still a high demand for internal combustion engine vehicles.
Diversification of SUVs
Several vehicles in the SUV category were selected, including the Forester, Crown Estate, and 3008. However, SUVs are becoming more diverse in terms of their intended use, not just the traditional large SUVs, but also compact SUVs and crossover SUVs.
The Forester’s award represents renewed recognition of the value of a genuine SUV.
A fusion of tradition and innovation
The revival of the Honda Prelude and the bold redesign of the Toyota Crown are good examples of traditional car names with a modern interpretation. There is a growing movement to create new value while cherishing the history of the brand.
The evolution of minicars
The selection of the Daihatsu Move demonstrates that Japan’s unique kei car culture remains important. Despite its compact size, the car’s safety and comfort have been significantly improved, transcending the image of a “small, cheap car.”
Standardization of safety performance
All 10 best cars are equipped with advanced safety driver assistance systems, demonstrating that safety performance is no longer a differentiating factor but has become a must-have feature.
The Forester’s EyeSight system is rated as one of the best.
How consumers can use the Japan Car of the Year award
The results of the Japan Car of the Year awards are a very useful source of information for consumers considering purchasing a car.
Benefits of buying a Car of the Year award-winning car
High brand value:
A car selected as the Car of the Year is socially recognized as one of the most representative vehicles of the year, bringing increased joy and satisfaction to those who own it.
Expected resale value
: Cars that have been awarded with the Car of the Year award generally tend to have high resale values, which is advantageous when it comes time to replace your car in the future.
Guaranteed perfection:
Vehicles selected by the strict scrutiny of our selection committee are guaranteed to meet high standards in all aspects, including performance, safety, and quality.
10 Best Car Use Tips
The vehicles selected as candidates
for the 10 best cars are guaranteed to be of high standards in all aspects, including performance, safety, and cost performance. They are a strong candidate when you are unsure which car to choose.
Prioritizing test drives
It is difficult to test drive every car, but by prioritizing test drives of vehicles selected as the 10 best cars, you can efficiently proceed with your car selection.
The latest technology benchmark
, the Top 10 Best Cars, summarizes the latest technology of the year and is a very useful reference for understanding trends in automotive technology.
What it means for automakers
Winning the Japan Car of the Year award is of immeasurable value to an automaker.
The impact of the award on Subaru
Winning the Car of the Year award will significantly improve Subaru’s brand
image. It will further strengthen the image of “Subaru of Technology” and “Subaru of Safety.”
Sales Promotion Effects
After the award announcement, direct sales promotion effects can be expected, such as increased visitor numbers to Forester showrooms, increased test drive reservations, and increased actual sales.
Legitimacy of technological development
Our commitment to unique technology has been recognized, giving us the legitimacy to continue pursuing our own unique path.
Receiving
the award is proof that the development team’s efforts have been rewarded, and it contributes greatly to improving employee motivation and fostering a strong corporate culture.
Impact on other manufacturers
Even manufacturers that were not selected as one of the Top 10 cars can analyze the characteristics of the winning cars and use them in future development. The Japan Car of the Year award contributes to improving quality throughout the automotive industry.
Advice for those considering buying a Forester
Recommended grade
The Forester is available in multiple grades. Choose one that suits your needs and budget.
Basic grade : For those who want to keep the price down with just the necessary equipment.
Middle grade : For those who prioritize cost performance with a balanced set of equipment.
High grade : For those who want to make full use of the latest comfort and safety equipment.
Checkpoints when test driving
Experience the stable driving performance that is characteristic of Subaru. Check out the stability when cornering and the driving performance on rough roads in particular.
Good visibility:
Because SUVs have a high ground clearance, good visibility is important. Check to see if there are few blind spots and how easy it is to drive.
Interior space and ease of use:
It’s important to actually sit in the back seat and check how easy it is to use the luggage space.
If you have the opportunity
, try out each of EyeSight’s functions. The full-speed tracking function in particular will greatly contribute to reducing fatigue during long-distance driving.
Comparison with competing models
Consider the following models as competitors to the Forester:
- Toyota RAV4
- Nissan X-Trail
- Mazda CX-5
- Honda CR-V
Compare the features of each and choose the one that best suits your needs.
Outlook: The future of Japan’s automotive industry
The results of the 2025-2026 Japan Car of the Year selection show that Japan’s automotive industry is at a major turning point.
The path to carbon neutrality
The increase in electric vehicles is an important step towards achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. Electrification is expected to accelerate even further in the future.
On the other hand, the fact that a vehicle with a conventional powertrain like the Forester won the award suggests that we will continue to live in an era where diverse options coexist.
Evolution of autonomous driving technology
The enhancement of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) will pave the way for the realization of fully autonomous driving. Achieving both safety and convenience will be a future challenge.
Advanced systems like the Forester’s EyeSight will become the foundation of future autonomous driving technology.
The spread of connected cars
We are entering an era where cars will be constantly connected to the Internet, and the day is not far off when cars will become like smartphones.
Diversification of mobility services
Car ownership and usage patterns are diversifying, with car sharing, subscriptions, and MaaS (Mobility as a Service).
Strengths of Japanese manufacturers
Six of the top 10 cars this year were made by Japanese manufacturers, demonstrating once again the high level of technical expertise and quality of Japanese automakers.
The Subaru Forester’s award proves that the Japanese manufacturing spirit, which focuses on unique technology, is still viable in the face of global competition.
summary
The Subaru Forester , winner of the 2025-2026 Japan Car of the Year award , is a vehicle that perfectly balances all the elements required of an SUV: high basic performance, excellent safety features, and high practicality.
At a time when the automotive industry is seeing trends such as electrification, diversification, and innovation, the fact that the Forester, equipped with a conventional powertrain, won this award demonstrates that the pursuit of basic performance and commitment to unique technology continues to be highly regarded.
The vehicles selected as the Top 10 Cars each have their own unique appeal and advanced features, demonstrating the high level of technological prowess of the Japanese automobile industry to the world. For consumers, the Japan Car of the Year awards serve as an important guide for choosing a car, and for manufacturers, a compass pointing out the direction of technological development.
With a history of over 40 years, this award will continue to contribute to the development of Japan’s automotive culture.
If you’re considering buying a car, we encourage you to test drive and compare the 10 best cars, including the Forester, which we’ve named Car of the Year. You’re sure to find the one that best suits your lifestyle.
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