The 14 Cars I Drove in 2025

This announcement is a bit later than usual, but I’m excited to reveal the 2025 Test Drive of the Year.

In 2025, I was fortunate to experience a diverse lineup of 14 cars, including the Porsche 992.2 GT3 and Carrera GTS, the 991.2 GT3RS, as well as the BMW E46 M3, Mazda Roadster, and Toyota 86GR. Excluding the four cars I personally purchased last year, this year’s Test Drive of the Year picks are selected from the vehicles kindly provided by readers like you.

• Porsche 992.2 911 GT3 (MT)
• Porsche 992.2 911 GT3 Touring (PDK)
• Porsche 992.2 911 Carrera GTS
• Porsche 991.2 911 GT3RS
• BMW E46 M3 (Modified)
• Porsche 991.1 911 Carrera Black Edition
• Porsche E3 Late Model Cayenne GTS Coupe
• Porsche 992.1 911 Turbo
• Land Rover Defender Octa Edition 1
• Porsche 992.2 911 Carrera T (MT)
• Porsche 992.2 911 Carrera (PDK)
• Porsche Macan Electric
• Toyota 86GR
• Mazda Roadster (ND Early Model)

The evaluation criteria remain unchanged.

I focus primarily on driving enjoyment, especially whether the car is equally fun for touring and daily use. Beyond acceleration and top speed specs, I emphasize how comfortable and manageable the car feels on public roads, and most importantly, whether it brings a smile to your face while driving.

Now, let’s reveal the 2025 Test Drive of the Year winners.

3rd Place: Porsche 992.1 911 Turbo – Perfect Balance Without Adding or Subtracting

Third place goes to the Porsche 992.1 911 Turbo—not the Turbo S, but the standard Turbo model.

If I had to sum up this car’s appeal in one phrase, it would be “nothing added, nothing taken away.” The balance is simply superb. While the Turbo S is highly refined with no obvious flaws, this standard Turbo focuses more on everyday usability. It’s a car that feels perfectly tuned for comfortable yet quick driving, arguably unmatched in this regard.

What stood out most was the smoothness of mid-range acceleration and the natural torque delivery.

It accelerates seamlessly, almost like a large-displacement naturally aspirated engine, with no noticeable turbo lag. Of course, switching to Sport or Sport Plus mode transforms the car’s character dramatically. However, those who prefer the raw, lightweight feel of a GT3 or similar hardcore sports car might find it a bit tame. Still, by my standards, this car is outstanding.

It’s the kind of car you want to cherish as a trusted companion and drive everywhere.

2nd Place: Mazda Roadster (ND Early Model) – Pure Driving Joy Under $20,000

Second place goes to the Mazda Roadster ND early model.

This was my first time driving a nearly stock Roadster, and I was truly impressed by how wonderful this car is. The engine isn’t powerful, nor is the acceleration particularly fast. But its light, nimble handling and power perfectly suited to Japan’s winding roads are its greatest strengths.

Sports car appeal varies by person. If you’re after raw power and acceleration, this car might not be for you. But for those who value driving pleasure and moments that make you smile behind the wheel, few cars match this one. If this were a pure fun-to-drive ranking, the Roadster might have taken first place in 2025. Just a couple of corners in, you realize how much fun it is, with easy control and the ability to rev the engine freely. The gear ratios are well matched to Japan’s mountain roads, delivering just the right power feel.

While it’s not ideal for high-speed highway cruising or grand touring, for Japan’s regular roads, quiet rural national routes, and mountain passes, it’s hard to beat.

And to think you can buy such an amazing car for under $20,000 is truly a blessing.

1st Place: Porsche 992.2 911 GT3 (MT) – The True Value of a Democratized GT3

The prestigious top spot goes to the Porsche 992.2 911 GT3 with a manual transmission.

The reason I chose this car as Test Drive of the Year is because it perfectly embodies the phrase “the democratized GT3.” Historically, the GT3 was a somewhat exclusive car, which was part of its charm. But for someone like me who drives extensively on public roads and tours, it could be a bit demanding. The 992.2 model, however, offers a milder ride, significantly reduced unwanted noise, and is much easier to drive.

The manual transmission is exceptionally well engineered, and compared to the manual in my previous 991 GT3 Touring, the drivability has improved dramatically. Most importantly, the lower gear ratios in the 992.2 allow you to enjoy the engine’s 9,000 rpm redline even on public roads. Previously, it was difficult to reach such high revs outside the track, but now you can keep the revs up in town, making driving incredibly fun.

Why choose the standard GT3 over the Touring model?

Because this one has a manual transmission. This gearbox is truly outstanding, featuring the GT3’s traditional ability to shift up while keeping the throttle open. The improved operability reaffirmed for me that the latest manual transmission is the best manual transmission. This 992.2 GT3 manual perfectly embodies that. Plus, the iconic rear wing adds to the GT3 character and charm.

Having driven various 992 models, I can confidently say the 992.2 GT3 is the most fun among the late 992 series. While the early 992 models like the Carrera T and Dakar were enjoyable, the GT3 stands head and shoulders above them all.

Looking Forward to More Automotive Encounters in 2025

The 2025 Test Drive of the Year results are: 3rd place Porsche 992.1 911 Turbo, 2nd place Mazda Roadster ND early model, and 1st place Porsche 992.2 911 GT3 manual.

Each car has its unique appeal, and rankings might differ depending on evaluation criteria. But based on my focus on driving enjoyment and touring usability, these three left the strongest impressions.

I look forward to test driving many more cars this year and sharing insights on the blog. I hope readers will continue to join me on this journey. Every encounter with a car brings new discoveries and excitement.

Here’s to many more thrilling automotive experiences in 2026!