Fourteen journalists from diverse publications and perspectives recently converged in Petaluma, California, for the third edition of “Best of the Bay.” Hosted by the Western Automotive Journalists (WAJ), the event was a two-day competition of 14 new vehicles from 10 manufacturers.

“Best of the Bay” provided a platform for side-by-side vehicle testing. It also fostered dialogue between automakers and the regional press. Participating journalists focused on the vehicles in various ways: performance metrics, practicality, comfort or design.

Long-term evaluations reveal a vehicle’s character, but direct back-to-back comparisons can sharply highlight differences. Subtle strengths and flaws become more apparent among rivals, clarifying areas where each model excels or falls short. This contrast is a core purpose of “Best of the Bay.” 

Putting the Cars to the Test

The program divided contenders into three price categories — under $50,000, under $75,000 and over $75,000. Journalists were allotted 40 minutes to drive each test model. The driving loop mixed highway stretches with curvy back roads, giving participants a rounded sense of comfort, performance and everyday drivability.

My evaluation attended to attributes beyond driving dynamics. Influenced by my own height and stature, my impressions were impacted by the vehicles’ adaptability to taller occupants. Vehicles with fixed headrests didn’t make my list of finalists. I found a headrest wedged between my shoulder blades awkward and uncomfortable.

Journalists voted for the best vehicle in each price category and three other metrics: Best Technology, Best Overall and the vehicle journalists would most likely buy with their own money. 

Under $50,000 Category

The review vehicles included four crossover utilities: The internal combustion engine (ICE) powered Acura ADX and Alfa Romeo Tonale (ICE), the Kia Sportage Hybrid and the Subaru Solterra EV. Every model proved competent and capable, but one vehicle stood out.

The new 2026 Subaru Solterra EV placed first. It features a fresh, clean new look. Body cladding is gone, replaced with piano black wheel opening trim. The Solterra looks and feels like a more expensive car, solid and well-planted. Fit, finish, materials and drivability exude refinement. Subaru’s sometimes intrusive EyeSight system is also much improved. The Solterra is value-priced with an MSRP of $48,275. https://www.subaru.com/index.html

Under $75,000 Category

In the mid-tier price category, vehicles combined premium appointments with capability and power. Entries included six vehicles: Five crossover SUVs, the Genesis GV60 EV and GV70 (ICE), Honda Passport TrailSport (ICE), Jeep Wagoneer S EV, Kia EV6 EV, and a traditional body-on-frame SUV, the Toyota 4Runner (ICE).

The 2025 Honda Passport TrailSport was my top choice. It’s also the vehicle I would most likely buy with my own money. The TrailSport combines handsome styling, comfort, roominess and perfect ergonomics. Together with rugged off-road capabilities, excellent road manners and a free-revving V6 engine, I felt at home driving the TrailSport. With an MSRP of $53,900 the TrailSport was also the least expensive vehicle in the under $75,000 category. https://automobiles.honda.com/

Over $75,000 Category

The most expensive category represented a range from muscle to electrified elegance. Competitors included the Dodge Charger Daytona (EV sedan), Hyundai Ioniq 9 EV, Lexus LX 700h (Hybrid), and the Lucid Air Touring EV.

The Dodge Charger Daytona out-classed the competition with a combination of refinement and raw cognitive dissonance inducing pleasure. As a V8 engine aficionado I didn’t want to like the Charger Daytona EV, but I loved it. The aggressive muscular styling telegraphs the Charger’s extreme performance. With 670 horsepower and 627 pound feet of torque, the Charger Daytona EV is a grin-inducing beast to drive. A handsome interior trimmed in premium materials and featuring cool lighting effects is a bonus. The 2026 Dodge Charger Daytona 4-door EV sedan had an as tested MSRP of $80,455. https://www.dodge.com/

Best Technology

The 2026 Subaru Solterra EV earned my vote. The Solterra’s twin inductive phone chargers replete with charge indicators was a pleasant surprise and a “why didn’t I think of that” moment. The twin inductive phone chargers also holds your phone(s) at a comfortable angle, allowing you to use the device(s) while in the cradle. https://www.subaru.com/index.html

Best Overall

The Jeep Wagoneer S EV SUV earned my vote for Best Overall. Riding on the same STLA Large Platform as the Dodge Charger Daytona and incorporating the same twin motors, the Wagoneer S is essentially a more formal, more upscale and more rugged SUV version of the Daytona.

The Wagoneer S is a pleasure to drive and feels highly refined. The chassis and body is quiet, poised and vault-like solid. The interior has an upscale feel and the on-board electronics are easy to use, well-integrated and look great. Stomp on the accelerator pedal and the Wagoneer S unleashes a level of vigor and venom found only in the world of supercars. The Wagoneer S is intoxicating to drive. It’s competitively priced with an as-tested MSRP of $71,790. https://www.jeep.com/

After driving all 14 vehicles one takeaway was clear: context matters. A car driven alone can feel impressive; driven next to its competition, its strengths and weaknesses come into sharper focus. Test drive several different models before buying a new car. Your opinion may change.

Collective Verdict

The results are in. Votes from the panel of judges has been tallied. Here are the winners of the “Best of the Bay” 2025.