Overview of ICOTY 2025
The Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY) 2025 awards stand as a hallmark of excellence in the automotive sector, recognized as the most prestigious accolade in India's automotive landscape.
Each year, a panel comprising 20 esteemed judges from leading automotive publications meticulously evaluates numerous contenders based on stringent criteria. These criteria encompass performance, practicality, frugality, and safety, ensuring that the awarded vehicles exemplify the highest standards in the industry.
For the 2025 edition, eight contenders were nominated, reflecting the dynamic and competitive nature of the market.
The awards not only celebrate innovation and engineering prowess but also serve as a benchmark for consumers seeking reliable and cutting-edge vehicles in an ever-evolving automotive environment.
Nominees for the Award
A diverse lineup of vehicles competed for the prestigious Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY) 2025 award, showcasing innovation and performance across various segments.
The nominees included the BYD eMax7, known for its electric efficiency; the Citroen Basalt, offering a blend of style and comfort; and the rugged Mahindra Thar Roxx, which appeals to adventure seekers.
Maruti Suzuki presented two strong contenders: the Swift and the Dzire, both renowned for their fuel efficiency and practicality.
Additionally, the MG Windsor and Tata's Curvv/Curvv EV contributed to the competition, emphasizing modern design and technology.
Lastly, the Tata Punch EV rounded out the lineup, known for its compact size and urban suitability, reflecting the evolving preferences of Indian consumers in the automotive market.
Details of the Winning Car
With an impressive score of 139 points, Mahindra Thar Roxx has emerged as the standout winner of the Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY) 2025 award.
This rugged SUV features a robust 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine, offering two power outputs of 162PS/330Nm and 177PS/380Nm, catering to diverse performance preferences.
The Thar Roxx is equipped with a 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, enhancing connectivity and user experience.
Additional features include a wireless charger and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS), ensuring safety without compromising on comfort.
Priced competitively starting at Rs 9.8 Lakhs (Ex-Delhi), the Mahindra Thar Roxx successfully combines practicality with modern technology, securing its position as a remarkable choice in the Indian automotive landscape.
Runner-Up Performances
Securing notable positions in the Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY) 2025, the Maruti Suzuki Dzire and Swift demonstrated exceptional performance and practicality.
The Dzire clinched the first runner-up spot with 137 points, showcasing its strong fuel efficiency and user-friendly features that cater to the needs of urban drivers.
Similarly, the Swift secured the second runner-up position, reinforcing its reputation as a reliable and stylish hatchback.
Both models are emblematic of Maruti Suzuki's commitment to delivering value and convenience, contributing significantly to the brand's robust market presence.
Their commendable performances in the competition highlight the importance of innovative design and functionality in today's automotive landscape, appealing to a diverse range of consumers across India.
Specifications of Key Contenders
Evaluating the specifications of the key contenders for the Indian Car of the Year (ICOTY) 2025 reveals a diverse range of options catering to various consumer needs.
The Mahindra Thar Roxx, priced from Rs 9.8 Lakhs, features a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with power outputs of 162PS and 177PS.
In the more compact segment, the Maruti Suzuki Dzire starts at Rs 6.09 Lakhs and boasts a 1.2-litre engine delivering 77PS, achieving a mileage of 24.12 Kmpl.
The Maruti Suzuki Swift offers a similar engine configuration at a lower price, starting from Rs 5.73 Lakhs, yielding 89.73PS and 23.76 Kmpl.
The Tata Punch, priced at Rs 5.49 Lakhs, rounds out the contenders with an 86PS output from its 1.2-litre engine.