Volkswagen Makes History with Four Golden Steering Wheel Awards

Volkswagen has achieved a landmark victory at this year’s Golden Steering Wheel (Goldene Lenkrad) awards, becoming the first manufacturer ever to win four category titles in the same year. Presented annually by AUTO BILD and BILD am SONNTAG, the Golden Steering Wheel is one of Europe’s most respected automotive honours — and 2025 marks a record-breaking moment for the brand.

Four Wins Across Four Key Segments

This year’s standout Volkswagen winners include:

• Golf GTI EDITION 50 – Winner, Compact Class
• ID.7 GTX Tourer – Winner, Upper Mid-Size Class
• Tayron – Winner, Best Family Car
• T-Roc – Editorial Award, Best Car Under 40,000€

Each model triumphed against strong competition, showcasing Volkswagen’s commitment to performance, innovation and everyday practicality.

“A Clear Sign We’re on the Right Track”

Thomas Schäfer, CEO of Volkswagen Passenger Cars, celebrated the achievement:

“Four Golden Steering Wheels at once – we are the first brand to achieve this. I am incredibly proud of the entire Volkswagen team. These awards show that our BOOST 2030 strategy is delivering the right results. Next year, we’ll be launching six new models – each with strong design, top quality and premium technologies. 100% Volkswagen.”

A Prestigious Award with Decades of History

First presented in 1976, the Golden Steering Wheel is awarded following a rigorous multi-stage process:

• 72 new models were eligible in 2025
• Readers across Europe selected their favourites in a preliminary vote
• The top three in each category underwent detailed testing at the Lausitzring circuit
• The jury included automotive journalists, racing drivers and well-known car enthusiasts
• Ratings covered design, quality, performance, safety, sustainability and value

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Meet the Award-Winning Models

Golf GTI EDITION 50

Celebrating 50 years of the GTI legacy, this special edition is the most powerful production GTI ever built — with 239 kW (325 PS), 420 Nm of torque, and standout design features marking the anniversary.

ID.7 GTX Tourer

Volkswagen’s first fully electric estate car offers impressive space, exceptional comfort and a 250 kW (340 PS) dual-motor all-wheel drive system — perfect for long-distance travel with zero local emissions.

Tayron

Positioned between the Tiguan and Touareg, the new Tayron is a versatile SUV with optional seven-seat configuration, modern technology, and up to 2.5 tonnes towing capacity.

T-Roc

The latest T-Roc brings a sportier design, increased space, and advanced hybrid technology. Enhanced safety and driver-assistance systems elevate it beyond its predecessor, earning recognition as the Best Car Under 40,000€.