AJAC Car of the Year 2025

Every year in Canada, AJAC issues an aware to the best car, SUV, electric car, and electric SUV based off of consumer reports, safety ratings, customer feedback, durability and reliability, and a whole host of other facts. Which is why as we enter spring of 2025, Cash For Cars BC felt it pertinent to announce the 2025 winners for AJAC car of the year, SUV of the year, electric car of the year, and electric SUV of the year.

Cash For Cars BC is a professional and licensed used vehicle buyer that has been buying cars, trucks, SUVs, vans, hybrids, and motorcycles throughout Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, and on Vancouver Island since 1998.

We take great pride in paying the MOST cash for cars in the Lower Mainland. We are also deeply passionate about any and all things car related. Which is why we wait patiently every year to see who AJAC lists as their winner in each category. And today’s blog post is all about those winners, why they won, and how to get the most cash for selling one of the winning models or an older one like it.

What Is AJAC in Canada?

AJAC is an organization that was created to ensure and uphold a certain level of integrity and standards in automobile journalism in Canada. The acronym “AJAC” stands for Automobile Journalists Association of Canada.

The annual AJAC awards are something that car manufacturers around the world aspire to get. Because the recognition that comes with an AJAC award spans further than simply in Canada.

When you’re ranked as #1 among a prestigious, knowledgeable, and accredited organization such as AJAC, big sales are sure to follow.

What Vehicles Won the AJAC Awards In Canada in 2025?

As the world continues to move towards fully electric automobiles, AJAC naturally follows suit with their categories when awarding car or SUV of the year. There are different categories for both passenger cars and SUVs, and EV versions of both. We’ve broken down the top 3 winners in each category for you below.

Canadian Car of the Year 2025

There are 3 top spots for Canadian Car of the Year in Canada. And all three of this year’s winners are well deserving of their placement, with two nearly being tied. If you’re looking for a new sedan this year in Metro Vancouver, perhaps consider one of the following winners.

3. Acura Integra Type S

Acura has always had a name for style, comfort, and reliability, just like it’s sister brand name Honda. So, it should come as no surprise that both an Acura and a Honda have made it into the top 3 spots for Canadian Car of the Year in 2025.

The Acura Integra Type S offers some of the best performance for its class this year, with a spacious cabin, stylish interior, and exceptional fuel economy. Combined with its remarkable resale value and reliability, and it’s no wonder why it made it into the top 3 spots of Canadian Car of the Year.

The Intergra Type S is essentially the luxury version of the Honda Civic Type R. And along with it, it brings the luxury price tag. However, the investment is more than worth it as its depreciation rate is one of the lowest on the market today. It received an AJAC score of 778.

2. Toyota Camry

Toyota has always been a top contender for Canadian Car of the Year. Because anyone who has ever owned a Toyota vehicle (or Lexus) knows that these cars can truly stand the test of time like no other.

Taking second place only by a 4-point difference (784), the Toyota Camry offers the latest technology in its stock infotainment system, while also providing a comfortable ride in a stylish package. The latest Camry got a redesign of its cabin, an upgrade of its engine, and brings with it excellent fuel-economy with the hybrid model.

If you’re thinking about trading in your older Toyota to get into the newest Camry, DON’T. Sell your car to Cash For Cars BC. No other used vehicle buyers can offer as much cash for Toyota vehicles as we can. Give us a call and see for yourself why we are the #1 Toyota buyer in the Lower Mainland.

1. Honda Civic

In true Honda fashion, the Honda Civic ranks #1 as the AJAC Canadian Car of the Year for 2025. And although the third-place runner up ranked higher in handling, transmission, and styling, the Honda Civic is overall all better well-rounded and had a score of 788. Which is what earned it the top spot.

The Honda Civic is notorious for being a fan favourite in Canada, year after year. Moreover, it’s one of the best-selling vehicles of all time world-wide. This is due to its longevity, easy handling, interior design, and user-friendly infotainment systems. Combined that with an ability to withstand any market fluctuations in terms of its resale value (even through the pandemic), and you’ve got one heck of a contender.

Honda vehicles have always had a high resale value. Known for their incredible reliability, exceptional safety rating, and cutting-edge technology and innovation, Honda’s are always on our radar here at Cash For Cars BC. In fact, we pay the MOST cash for Honda and Acura vehicles of any model, year, and in virtually any condition.

Canadian SUV of the Year Canada 2025

SUVs are a mainstay in Canada because no matter where you live, a sport utility vehicle offers the practicality and gas mileage of a full-sized sedan, with the off-road capabilities of a Jeep. Which is why we are always looking to buy SUVs and crossovers of any make, model, and year, here at Cash For Cars BC. Below are the 3 winners of Canadian SUV of the Year for 2025.

3. Toyota Land Cruiser

Rarely is there a list of best cars in the automotive industry that Toyota doesn’t grace. And this year’s Canadian SUV of the Year is no different. The Toyota Land Cruiser came in with an impeccable design, both inside and out, and screams “classic Toyota”.

Receiving a score of 751 from AJAC, the Land Cruiser comes jam-packed with its famous 4-wheel drive capabilities, reasonable gas mileage despite its size, and classic look that Land Cruiser fans were hoping for. Made to contend with the latest Ford Bronco and Jeep Wrangler, this year’s Land Cruiser is definitely a force to be reckoned with.

Instead of the typical V-8 engine that the Land Cruiser is known for, this year’s model comes stock with a dual-motor 2.4 L hybrid engine that allows for a quieter ride, and a cheaper one at the pump.

2. Mazda CX-70

Mazda has become increasingly popular over the past few years in the sport utility world in Metro Vancouver. Perhaps it’s because it looks like a luxury SUV, drives like a luxury SUV, but is not a luxury SUV. Which means you get to circumvent the expensive price tag and big fuel bill that typically comes with owning a high-end SUV or crossover.

When you live in an area as big and bustling as Metro Vancouver, having an SUV is crucial. Because driving one offers you the freedom to climb the mountains on weekends, while still traversing rush hour traffic downtown. It also makes parallel parking on Robson Street considerably easier, while still having plenty of leg room for 5 people.

Although the CX-70 received an AJAC score of 754, we at Cash For Cars BC think it should have received more. We are always on the hunt for great Mazda vehicles in Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, and on Vancouver Island. So, if you’re considering selling a Mazda, sell it to Cash For Cars BC. NOBODY Pays More!

1. Hyundai Santa Fe

Hyundai has been making waves in the automotive industry over the past few years. And despite several known recalls and various engine problems, the Hyundai Santa Fe has become one of the best-selling SUVs on the market today.

It offers best-in-class fuel economy, a spacious interior with plenty of cargo room, an amazing optional 10-year, 100,000 km warranty, and all the creature comforts you know and love in a luxury SUV, without the inflated price tag.

And while the Santa Fe isn’t yet considered a “luxury” sport utility vehicle, it’s well on its way after a major redesign and optional trims available this year. Which could be why it received a total AJAC score of 770. Moreover, Hyundai vehicles are retaining their resale value better than ever, which is why Cash For Cars BC is always looking to purchase them.

Canadian Electric Car of the Year Canada 2025

We’ve covered the Canadian Car of the Year winners, but with the EV movement picking up pace at every turn, it’s only natural that the AJAC awards include Canadian Electric Car of the Year as well. And the winners are as follows.

3. Fiat 500e

With consumers combating rising fuel costs, it seems everyone is making the switch (or at least considering it) to an EV vehicle. Which is why many pre-electric model vehicles are being redesigned to be hybrid or fully electric. Such is the case with this year’s Fiat 500e.

It’s rare to see a Fiat vehicle at the top of any best vehicles list in Canada, but this year, it’s earned its placement. This year’s Fiat 500e received an AJAC score of 726. It excelled in styling, handling, and overall value for your dollar. They’ve also improved the transmission due to previous reports of premature transmission failure.

If you’re considering making the switch to a clean energy vehicle in Metro Vancouver, consider the Fiat 500e. You’ll be able to save on gas, as well as pay parking because you’ll easily fit into the smallest spot in Downtown Vancouver!

2. Lucid Air

The name “Lucid Air” doesn’t ring a lot of bells for the average consumer in Canada. However, people will surely know that name after this year, thanks its second place aware as Canadian Electric Car of the Year, and AJAC score of 766.

The Lucid Air is on the more expensive side as far as electric cars go, but the price tag is absolutely worth it. The range on the Lucid Air is an astonishing 812 kms on a single charge. And with its stylish and comfortable interior, road trips from Metro Vancouver to the Kootenays will feel like a holiday, instead of a grind.

Moreover, this full-sized sedan offers incredible leg room, a surprising amount of cargo space, and tons of driver assist features to help ensure an easy and safe ride. If you’re thinking about switching to a luxury sedan that’s also an EV, the Lucid Air is for you.

1. BMW i4

This year’s Canadian Electric Car of the Year is the BMW i4, receiving an AJAC score of 768. Last year, BMW was nowhere to be found when it came to AJAC’s Canadian Electric Car of the Year Award. However, this year, and after some small, but calculate redesign, the BMW i4 takes the top spot.

The biggest differences are with the exterior stylings of this luxury sedan. However, the roomy and stylish interior make it a great choice for those who crave a luxurious ride with all available options one desires in a high-end vehicle.

At Cash For Cars BC, we see a lot of BMW vehicles come through our doors. And while we’d like to think that it’s because we provide the best customer service in the car buying industry, we know that it’s mainly because we offer the MOST cash for cars made by BMW.

If you’re getting ready to trade in your BMW car or SUV, speak with one of our car buying experts first. We’ll make you a great offer on your BMW vehicle, no matter what age or condition it’s in. NOBODY Pays More!

Canadian Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year Canada 2025

The AJAC awards for 2025 wouldn’t be complete without the Canadian Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year award. And this year, two familiar faces take the top spots. While a new and unexpected contender muscled its way into third place.

3. Mazda CX-70 Plug-In

Another Mazda SUV makes the cut as it slides into third place this year in the Canadian Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year Category with an AJAC score of 764. And just like its non-hybrid sister vehicle, it’s definitely turning heads.

The Mazda CX-70 Plug-In offers a 2.5 L engine with an electric motor, and 323 horsepower plug-in powertrain. You can expect an amazing ride with exceptional handling, a stock infotainment system, plenty of leg room for 5, and optional leather interior.

If you want the most bang for your buck in an EV SUV, the Mazda CX-70 Plug-In is the ride for you. It’s perfect for weekend getaways up a snowy mountain in Whistler, or staycations at home in Metro Vancouver.

2. Kia EV 9

Creeping up from its third-place spot last year, the Kia EV9 comes in second place this year with an AJAC score of 798. And it certainly deserves that score.

With its 3-row seating, vast cargo space, superior road handling, and reasonable range of 372 kms per charge, we expect the Kia EV 9 will be taking the top spot in the coming years in AJACs Canadian Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year.

Kia has moved forward leaps and bounds from previous years in the automotive world. Once regarded as highly unreliable, they are now one of the most popular car brands in Metro Vancouver (and all of North America).

And despite their depreciation rate, they are still worth quite a lot if you sell them to the right buyer. A buyer like Cash For Cars BC. We offer the MOST cash for Kia cars and SUVs in the Lower Mainland.

1. Hyundai Ioniq 5 N

What ranked as the 2 best Canadian Electric SUV of the Year last year has now made its way to #1. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N has overtaken the many fierce competitors in the automotive world this year with its newest and most innovative member of their EV line-up.

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 N received an AJAC score of 805 this year, putting it in first place. And Cash For Cars BC can honestly say, that we fully support this score. The Ioniq is one of the best EV’s on the market today. And it comes with the optional warranty that we all know and love from Hyundai.

Although the range per charge took a hit with the Ioniq 5N versus the Ioniq 5, it did so to improve acceleration speed, handling, and overall performance. Combine that with the sleek styling, increased cabin room, and reasonable price tag, and we feel the swap was well worth it.

If you want to sell your current vehicle to get into a Hyundai Ioniq 5 N, sell it to Cash For Cars BC. You’ll have plenty of cash to use as a down-payment when you sell your car to Cash For Cars BC. We handle all the paperwork, we come to you, and NOBODY Pays More!

Cash for Cars in Metro Vancouver

Cash For Cars BC has been Metro Vancouver’s #1 used car buying services since 1998. However, we buy vehicles in more places than just the GVRD. We also pay the MOST cash for cars in all areas of the Fraser Valley, as well as parts of Vancouver Island.

If you’ve been thinking about trading in your vehicle or selling it privately, think Cash For Cars BC instead. We offer a quick and easy way to sell any vehicle for the MOST cash, regardless of age or condition.

That means that even if your vehicle is in less-than-perfect shape, is a little bit older, or even has mechanical or electrical problems, you can still sell it for the MOST cash when you sell your car to Cash For Cars BC. NOBODY Pays More!

How Much Can Your Sell Your Car for in BC?

Every vehicle warrants a different value, because every vehicle is entirely different. Even if we purchase two of the exact same models and year of vehicle, they’ll each have their own unique value along with it, because they will both have different histories.

At Cash For Cars BC, we base our offers off of more than just the Canadian Black Book value. We factor in the make, model, year, mileage, and condition. But we also consider any after-market modifications, previous accident histories, and recent repairs (or any that are needed). We also look at how well the vehicle was maintained, and if records were kept for its maintenance and repairs.

It’s in gathering all of this information that we are able to provide our customers with a tailored offer based off of all that their vehicle brings to the table. This is how we are almost always able to offer the MOST cash for cars in Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, and Vancouver Island.

Call or Text Cash For Cars BC Today!

If you’re ready to sell any vehicle in Metro Vancouver, the Fraser Valley, or on Vancouver Island, give Cash For Cars BC a quick call. We’ll answer any questions you have about our car buying process, while providing you with valuable information about your vehicle.

Our car buyers work 7 days a week, from 8:00 AM-10:00 PM. We also operate on most statutory holidays to better serve our Lower Mainland customers. This is why we’ve become the #1 used vehicle buyer in British Columbia.

So, if you want to sell your car quickly, easily, and for the MOST cash, sell it to Cash For Cars BC. We handle all the paperwork, we come to you, and NOBODY Pays More!