The JCOTY organizers praised the hybrid model for its integration of handling, practicality, comfort, and off-road capabilities while maintaining Subaru's high safety standards.
This is the first time in five years that Subaru has won the JCOTY main award. Subaru last received this title in 2020 for the Levorg wagon.
The compact sports car Honda Prelude took second place, followed by the Toyota Crown Estate.
This is already the 46th JCOTY award. The selection committee voted for cars that were introduced or sold in Japan between November 1, 2024, and October 31, 2025.
The winner of the Japan Car of the Year (JCOTY) 2024-2025 award was the compact minivan Honda Freed, surpassing the Mazda CX-80 and the Mini Cooper.
Source: JCOTY