The “Latvian Car of the Year” competition will be held for the 26th time this year, and auto journalist Normunds Avotiņš has been confirmed as the chairman of the competition jury. This year, the latest car models will be evaluated by 15 jury car experts – car journalists, motor sportsmen and managers of the largest car fleets.
Normunds Avotiņš is a well-known car journalist in the community, creator and host of “TV Autoziňa” and “StarFM” radio programs, and has also been a jury member of the “Latvian Car of the Year” competition for a long time. In this position, Avotiņš replaces the former chairman of the competition jury, auto journalist Ati Jansons, who started the “Latvian Car of the Year” competition in 1997 and was the chairman of the competition jury 25 times.
Jury members of previous competitions Photo: Latvijas Gada Auto
The mission of “Latvian Car of the Year” is to help evaluate the advantages and disadvantages of the latest cars.
Around 350 new car models in various versions from more than 45 car brands are available on the Latvian car market, but several dozen new models reach our market every year – both the latest generations of existing models and previously unseen models. Therefore, it is very easy for buyers to get confused in the wide selection.
Normunds Avotiņš, chairman of the jury of the “Latvian Car of the Year 2025” competition emphasizes the need to help people navigate the wide offer: “It is clear that the auto industry and the concept of a private car are currently at a crossroads. Even the most recognized expert cannot predict with certainty where we are going. As can be seen, the green course and electromobility are not being implemented at the planned speed – also for objective reasons. This means that the diversification of different technologies awaits us. This, in turn, causes a lot of confusion among people. I think that the primary task of “Latvian Car of the Year”, like any Car of the Year competition, is to help people understand and navigate the range of car models, and not simply to highlight the best, prettiest, most powerful or sustainable car models. We must be able to explain what the car really is, what it is intended for and what is its future perspective. The task of the contest is, first of all, to help buyers make the right choice, not to once again praise car manufacturers and dealers – this, in my opinion, is the mission of the new “Latvian Car of the Year” contest.”
Māris Ozoliņš and Atis Jansons Photo: Latvian Car of the Year
They are talking about the “Latvian Car of the Year 2025”. contest organizer Māris Ozoliņš: “This year will be the 26th time we will evaluate and reward the newest car models available in Latvia. I express my deep gratitude to Atis Jansons for his contribution to the “Latvian Car of the Year” competition, both by starting this competition in Latvia and as the chairman of the jury. At the same time, I am glad that one of the leading Latvian car journalists, Normunds Avotiņš, has agreed to become the future chairman of the jury. Several interesting novelties have been applied for participation in the “Latvian Car of the Year 2025″ competition. Sharp competition can be seen in the ‘premium’ segment, where there are strong contenders from Porsche, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Audi and Volvo. China’s GWM also says that Wey is a premium segment. Popular models this year can also be found in the class of compact SUVs – the new Dacia Duster, Cupra Formentor, Toyota C-HR, Škoda Kodiaq and Volkswagen Tiguan. Also, other manufacturers offer attractive car models, so the jury will have to seriously dig in to evaluate them and give their opinion.”
The jury has 15 members – professionals in the auto industry
The jury of the “Latvian Car of the Year 2025” competition consists of car journalists, managers of Latvia’s largest car fleets, car engineers and service managers, as well as motor sportsmen and heads of car industry organizations. Each member of the jury is obliged to drive all the cars entered for the competition in order to qualify for voting. Therefore, the members of the jury perform both individual test drives and participate in various drives organized by the “Latvijas Gada auto” competition. The most important of them – the Big test drive will take place very soon – at the beginning of November, when the application for new cars will be finished and all applicants will be available to the jury in one place for testing and evaluation.
The jury of the “Latvian Car of the Year 2025” competition has 15 members:
- Aldis Zelmenis, car journalist, “TV Autozína”;
- Andris Valdemārs, director of transport provision, “Latvenergo” JSC;
- Artūrs Virbulis, press secretary of the Latvian Automobile Federation;
- Guntars Puls, car journalist, editor-in-chief of “Profi Latvija”;
- Jānis Bite, head of farm administration, “Latvijas Valsts meži” JSC;
- Jānis Rapa, head of infrastructure support department, “Tet” SIA;
- Jānis Vanks, racing driver, director of “Safe Driving School”;
- Juris Zvirbulis, president of auto club LAMB;
- Normunds Avotiņš, car journalist, “TV Autozišna”, chairman of the jury of the “Latvian Car of the Year 2025” competition;
- Paul Timrots, director, “Zebra TV”;
- Raimonds Volonts, member of the board of STZELNA and LAIA, technical director of “V4motors”;
- Raimonds Zandovskis, car journalist, editor of “Delfi Auto”;
- Sandris Metuzāls, car journalist, “Jauns.lv”;
- Tom Timoshko, car journalist, “Klubs” magazine;
- Viesturs Leitholds, car journalist, “iAuto.lv”.
The results of the competition and the awarding of the winners will take place on December 12 of this year, live on TV and the Internet at 19.00. Last year, the Nissan X-Trail became the “Latvian Car of the Year 2024”.
Supported by: classifieds portal Zip.lv, t/c Mols, news portal jauns.lv, iAuto.lv, Delfi, TV Auto news, Klubs, Dieviete.lv, LAMB, V4 motors.
Atis Jansons, founder of the “Latvian Car of the Year” contest and chairman of the jury for 25 years. Photo: Latvian Car of the Year
Raimonds Zandovskis, car journalist, editor of “Delfi Auto” Photo: Latvijas Gada Auto
Toms Timoško, car journalist, “Klubs” magazine Photo: Latvijas Gada Auto
Pauls Timrots, director, “Zebra TV” Photo: Latvian Car of the Year
Jānis Rapa, head of infrastructure support department, “Tet” SIA Photo: Latvijas Gada Auto
Artūrs Virbulis, press secretary of the Latvian Automobile Federation Photo: Latvijas Gada Auto
Sandris Metuzāls, car journalist, “Jauns.lv” Photo: Latvijas Gada Auto
Jānis Bite, head of farm administration, “Latvijas Valsts meži” JSC Photo: Latvijas Gada Auto
Jury of the “Latvijas Gada Car 2024” competition Photo: Latvijas Gada Car
Participants’ cars in the 4×4 session Photo: Latvijas Gada Auto
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Latvian Car of the Year 2025: Let the Games Begin!
Ah, the “Latvian Car of the Year” competition! Yes, folks, it’s that glorious time of year when 15 jury members—car experts, journalists, and, dare I say, la crème de la crème of automotive wisdom—come together to ponder the vibrant array of automobiles like some sort of futuristic car Olympics. And who’s steering this spectacle? None other than the illustrious Normunds Avotiņš, a man whose name rolls off the tongue like a sporty exhaust note!
With the 26th edition revving up, we must tip our hats to former chairman Ati Jansons. If creating this competition in 1997 and chairing it 25 times isn’t “Godfather” status, I don’t know what is. But now, Normunds takes the reigns; a worthy successor who’s got car talk down to an art form!
The mission? To disentangle the conundrum of approximately 350 new car models from over 45 brands available on the Latvian market! I mean, it’s so confusing that I wouldn’t be surprised if buyers start asking which comes first — the car or the existential crisis! And let’s be honest, who doesn’t need a bit of help navigating through the maze of flashy brands and spiffy technologies?
Normunds has made it clear: “We’re not just handing out trophies for the shiniest paint job or the snazziest feature. Oh no, my friends! Our mission is deeper—a bona fide quest for clarity in this chaotic automotive landscape!” How noble! Like a knight in shining armor, armed not with a sword but rather a clipboard and a sharp eye for detail!
The competition has attracted quite a bit of buzz this year, especially in the ‘premium’ segment. Oh, you know, just your everyday tussle between Porsche, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Volvo. And then, out of left field, enters China’s GWM, claiming, “Why not us?” It’s like the surprise guest at a fancy dinner party who somehow shows up with a jar of pickles!
Māris Ozoliņš, the contest organizer, seems thrilled with the competitive scene. “Sharp competition and impressive novelties!” he exclaims. Well, I’d be thrilled too if I had a panel of 15 experts driving the latest compact SUVs like Dacia Duster and Volkswagen Tiguan. Differences in opinions, revs, and horsepower all mixing together like a fine cocktail of automotive critique!
Meet the Jury: The Pinnacle of Auto Expertise
- Aldis Zelmenis – Car journalist, “TV Autozína”;
- Andris Valdemārs – Director of transport provision, “Latvenergo” JSC;
- Artūrs Virbulis – Press secretary of the Latvian Automobile Federation;
- Guntars Puls – Editor-in-chief of “Profi Latvija”;
- Jānis Bite – Head of farm administration, “Latvijas Valsts meži” JSC;
- Jānis Rapa – Head of infrastructure support department, “Tet” SIA;
- Jānis Vanks – Racing driver, director of “Safe Driving School”;
- Juris Zvirbulis – President of auto club LAMB;
- Normunds Avotiņš – Car journalist, “TV Autoziņa”, chairman;
- Paul Timrots – Director, “Zebra TV”;
- Raimonds Volonts – Technical Director, “V4motors”;
- Raimonds Zandovskis – Editor of “Delfi Auto”;
- Sandris Metuzāls – Journalist, “Jauns.lv”;
- Tom Timoshko – Journalist, “Klubs” magazine;
- Viesturs Leitholds – Journalist, “iAuto.lv”.
And here’s the kicker: to participate, these jurors aren’t just sipping cappuccinos while deliberating; no, they must drive every single contender! A rather interactive way to judge, if I may say. You can practically hear these experts muttering things like, “Ah, the steering is like butter—why eat toast?” during their test drives!
The grand reveal of the winner will occur on December 12, broadcast live, with the anticipation thicker than the fog on a chilly Latvian day! Last year, Nissan X-Trail snagged the title, but who knows what rocket will launch through the finish line this year?
Supported by a slew of sponsors, including Zip.lv and Mols, it’s shaping up to be an event worth tuning in for! So, buckle up, folks! Whether you’re a car enthusiast or just someone who enjoys a good spectacle, the “Latvian Car of the Year 2025” is revving up to be a memorable ride!
In a significant event for auto enthusiasts, the prestigious “Latvian Car of the Year” competition is set to celebrate its 26th edition this year. Notably, auto journalist Normunds Avotiņš has been appointed as the chairman of the competition jury, bringing with him a wealth of experience and insight into the automotive landscape. This year, the competition will see 15 esteemed jury members, comprising car journalists, motorsport professionals, and key managers from the largest car fleets in Latvia.
Normunds Avotiņš is a respected figure within the automotive community, recognized not only as the creator and host of influential programs like “TV Autoziņa” and “StarFM” but also as a longtime jury member of the “Latvian Car of the Year” event. He succeeds the competition’s founder, Ati Jansons, who has chaired the jury an impressive 25 times since the competition’s inception in 1997, having paved the way for this cherished national tradition.
The primary aim of the “Latvian Car of the Year” competition is to meticulously assess and elucidate the advantages and drawbacks of the latest car models available in the market, aiding potential buyers in their decision-making process amid a vast array of options. Currently, approximately 350 new car models from over 45 brands are offered in Latvia, with many newcomers vying for attention each year. With the industry witnessing the evolution of existing models and the introduction of entirely new vehicles, buyers often feel overwhelmed by the plethora of choices.
As Avotiņš points out, navigating this intricate market landscape is crucial: “It is clear that the auto industry and the concept of a private car are currently at a crossroads. Even the most recognized expert cannot predict with certainty where we are going. The diversification of different technologies awaits us. This, in turn, causes a lot of confusion among people. I think that the primary task of ‘Latvian Car of the Year’… is to help people understand and navigate the range of car models, rather than merely highlighting the best or most visually appealing options. Our mission is to clarify the purpose and future potential of the cars we assess, ensuring buyers are well-informed and empowered to make the right choices.”
In preparation for this year’s competition, contest organizer Māris Ozoliņš expressed his gratitude to Atis Jansons for his pivotal role in establishing the contest and leading it for a quarter of a century. He welcomed Normunds Avotiņš as the new chairman, emphasizing the excitement surrounding the innovative entries this year. The competition will feature a dynamic lineup, particularly in the premium segment, which includes formidable contenders from renowned brands such as Porsche, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Volvo. Additionally, popular compact SUVs like the new Dacia Duster, Cupra Formentor, Toyota C-HR, Škoda Kodiaq, and Volkswagen Tiguan are set to compete as well.
The 15-member jury comprises a diverse array of professionals from the automotive sector, including car journalists, fleet managers, automotive engineers, service managers, motorsport competitors, and representatives from car industry organizations. Each jury member is mandated to test drive every vehicle entered into the competition, engaging in both individual assessments and organized events, with the pivotal Big Test Drive occurring early next month. At this event, all participating car models will be available for evaluation, providing the jury with a firsthand opportunity to experience each vehicle’s capabilities.
The results of the “Latvian Car of the Year 2025” competition, along with the announcement of winners, will be broadcast live on December 12 at 19:00, allowing viewers nationwide to witness this prestigious ceremony. Last year’s victor, the Nissan X-Trail, set the bar high, and anticipation is building for this year’s contenders.
, guiding buyers toward making informed decisions that suit their needs.”
This year’s competition is generating substantial excitement, especially within the premium segment, where notable competitors from brands like Porsche, Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, Audi, and Volvo are vying for recognition. Surprisingly, GWM from China is also contesting in this segment, signaling a growing diversity in offerings within the Latvian automotive market.
Māris Ozoliņš, the contest organizer, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming evaluations, stating, “We are set for yet another thrilling year. With robust competition and remarkable new entries, our jury will face a challenging but exhilarating task in determining the winners.”
The Process of Evaluation
To ensure fairness and thoroughness, each jury member is required to personally drive every vehicle submitted for the competition. This hands-on approach allows them to assess the cars based on performance, comfort, and various features, ensuring a comprehensive understanding before casting their votes. The most significant event among their evaluations will be the Big Test Drive scheduled for early November, allowing jury members to test all cars in one location.
The competition jury consists of fifteen qualified individuals, including:
- Aldis Zelmenis - Car journalist, “TV Autozína”;
- Andris Valdemārs - Director of transport provision, “Latvenergo” JSC;
- Artūrs Virbulis – Press secretary of the Latvian Automobile Federation;
- Guntars Puls – Editor-in-chief of “Profi Latvija”;
- Jānis Bite – Head of farm administration, “Latvijas Valsts meži” JSC;
- Jānis Rapa – Head of infrastructure support department, “Tet” SIA;
- Jānis Vanks – Racing driver, director of “Safe Driving School”;
- Juris Zvirbulis – President of auto club LAMB;
- Normunds Avotiņš – Car journalist, “TV Autoziņa”, chairman;
- Paul Timrots – Director, “Zebra TV”;
- Raimonds Volonts – Technical Director, “V4motors”;
- Raimonds Zandovskis – Editor of “Delfi Auto”;
- Sandris Metuzāls – Journalist, “Jauns.lv”;
- Tom Timoshko – Journalist, “Klubs” magazine;
- Viesturs Leitholds – Journalist, “iAuto.lv”.
This prominent group brings a wealth of experience and perspective to the evaluation process, playing an essential role in ensuring that the “Latvian Car of the Year 2025” reflects not just trends, but the actual needs and expectations of car buyers in Latvia.
As we approach the grand finale of the competition on December 12, excitement grows regarding which model will take home the coveted title. Last year, the Nissan X-Trail managed to capture the award, but this year’s field is surely going to be a fierce competition from the numerous contenders on the market.
With a strong support system comprising sponsors such as Zip.lv and Mols, this year’s event is anticipated to provide valuable insights into the evolving automotive landscape while celebrating the latest innovations that make our daily drives safer and more enjoyable.
The “Latvian Car of the Year 2025” is not just an awards ceremony; it’s about celebrating the future of automotive engineering and helping drivers make informed choices in a rapidly changing market. So, gear up and get ready for an exciting ride!
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The results of the “Latvian Car of the Year 2025” competition will culminate in a live event airing on December 12 at 19:00, where the racing excitement and industry buzz will meet. Last year, the coveted title was claimed by the Nissan X-Trail, setting a high benchmark for this year’s contenders. With a diverse selection ranging from luxury brands to compact SUVs, the stakes have never been higher, and the anticipation continues to build.
Supported by various sponsors, including Zip.lv and Mols, not only is the competition a celebration of automotive engineering, but it also serves as a foundational guide for consumers navigating the expansive car market. So if you’re keen on the latest automotive trends or just enjoy the thrill of competition, be sure to tune in! The “Latvian Car of the Year 2025” promises to be a stimulating event full of insights, evaluations, and perhaps a few surprises along the way! Buckle up, as we embark on this riveting journey in the automotive world!
