- Award honors world-renowned automotive artist Bill Neale who passed away in 2021

- 1st, 2nd, 3rd Place winners hail from Wisconsin, Michigan and Oklahoma

- In a world where AI increasingly threatens traditional creative arts, award seeks to advance automotive fine art among the next generation 

 

Tyler, TX - (March 26, 2026) -  The Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) is pleased to announce the winners of the 2026 BILL NEALE AUTOMOTIVE FINE ART AWARD FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS! The award honors the legacy of world-renowned automotive artist Bill Neale by recognizing and encouraging excellence in automotive fine art among high school students. TAWA thanks all of the students who participated in the 3rd annual competition that asked entrants to create a Bill Neale-inspired road rally, automotive or racing event poster.  

"Automotive art is about more than just machines. It tells stories of innovation, design, and human passion,” said Marc Newman, President of the Texas Auto Writers Association. “These awards celebrate young  artists who transform movement into feeling and engineering into lasting works of art."

 

In a world where AI-generated art is quickly changing the creative landscape, the award also seeks to keep traditional automotive fine art alive in its truest form by advancing the next generation of artists passionate about cars and art.

 

“Drawing and painting by hand are fine motor skills that are known to enhance brain development and critical thinking. We established The Bill Neale Automotive Fine Art Award for High School Students to encourage young artists to continue developing these talents in an increasingly led AI world and hone their artistic skills by exploring the genre of automotive art,” said Leslie Neale, daughter of Bill Neale. “Our father, Bill Neale, would be so proud of the creativity and artistry from this year’s winners! As our dad always said, ‘Keep painting!’”

Wisconsin 12th grader Felix Bucaro took top honors this year, winning 1st place with his entry “Road America 500”.

 

“I am grateful for the opportunity to honor the legacy of Bill Neale. For the piece, I used acrylic on canvas with contrasting color to give a feel for how the Road America 500 was in its day.” - Felix Bucaro, 1st Place Winner.

Winners
1st: Felix Bucaro - 12th grade, Wisconsin, “Road America 500” -  $1000 cash prize

2nd: Joel Murphy - 12th grade, Michigan, “Monaco” -   $500 cash prize

3rd: Emily Eilers - 12th grade, Oklahoma, “Race Against Time” -  $250 cash prize

 

1st, 2nd and 3rd place winners also receive $100 in BLICK Art Materials Gift Cards.

Honorable Mentions (tie)
William McElhoes, 11th Grade, Idaho -  “North Idaho Winter Rally”

Madison Randick, 12th Grade, Michigan “Momentous Macchina Match”
  

To view these students’ exceptional artwork, visit BillNealeAward.org. 

Sponsors

The Bill Neale Automotive Fine Art Award for High School Students would not be possible without the generous support of the following sponsors: BLICK Art Materials, Carroll Shelby Foundation, Terlingua Racing Team and the Texas Auto Writers Association. 

Award Beneficiary

For 2026, the award continued its support of art education with a donation to the Texas Cultural Trust’s Art Box project, an initiative within the nonprofit’s Arts Access program. Our donation supported efforts to provide more than 200 Art Kits to Hunt ISD (Texas) students directly impacted by the Texas Hill Country flooding in July 2025.

MEDIA CONTACT:  Amy Plemons amplemons.tvproducer@gmail.com.

About the Texas Auto Writers Association  

Founded in 1987, the Texas Auto Writers Association has grown to become one of the most recognized and reputable automotive press organizations in the industry. TAWA’s mission is to promote quality and accuracy in automotive journalism and to disseminate information about the automotive industry through news-related print, online and broadcast media. In addition to promoting journalism opportunities and professionalism internally, TAWA funds scholarships to journalism students.

Boerne, Texas — March 24, 2026 — The Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) today announced the winners of the 2026 Texas Auto Roundup, following hands-on vehicle evaluations by automotive journalists from across the state.

Each year, manufacturers enter their vehicles for TAWA members to evaluate and vote on the models they believe best serve Texas drivers. Awards are determined by a ranked ballot system, with points awarded for first-, second-, and third-place votes across multiple categories. These winners are now eligible for this year’s title award of “Car of Texas,” which will be announced at a later date.

 

“The Texas Auto Roundup stands out because it brings together experienced automotive journalists to test vehicles in real-world conditions, just like Texans drive every day,” said Marc Newman, President of TAWA. “These awards recognize vehicles that offer the best mix of performance, usability, innovation, and value for our members and drivers across the state.”

2026 TAWA Auto Roundup Award Winners

People’s Vehicle of Texas (Best Value)

2026 Kia K4 Hatchback GT-Line Turbo

The Kia K4 Hatchback stood out as a clear value leader, delivering a strong balance of affordability, modern design, and everyday usability. Journalists noted its appeal as an accessible and well-rounded option for Texas drivers seeking practicality without compromise.

“The K4 hatchback is a substantial amount of car at this price point. The styling is exciting, and the interior features on this trim punch well above the MSRP, giving a high amount of value to buyers.”

Cameron Biggs - CarQuicks

Family Vehicle of Texas

2026 Honda Pilot Elite

The Honda Pilot Elite earned top honors for its versatility, space, and family-focused functionality. TAWA members highlighted its comfort, intuitive layout, and overall capability as a dependable solution for Texas families.

“Still the best way to get up to 8 seatbelts and still drive something that will easily fit in most garages.  It's a proven formula that just works.  It's an easy choice for drivers who want 3-rows.  No nonsense, anyone can hop in and quickly operate everything without question, and the smooth revving V6 makes for a great driving experience.”

Adam Moline - DriveItOut

Supercar of Texas

2026 McLaren 750S Spider

The McLaren 750S Spider captured unanimous attention with its dramatic performance and unmistakable presence. Its combination of speed, precision, and open-top excitement made it the standout supercar of the event.

"Driving the 2026 McLaren 750 S Spider is like experiencing a Formula 1 race behind the driver’s wheel. With 740 horsepower and 590 lb.-ft of torque, this Supercar will definitely make one aware of its capabilities very quickly. The McLaren's Proactive Chassis Control linked-hydraulic suspension provides remarkably precise body control and an exceptional performance handling experience.”

Michael Rudd - Rudd Fotos

Performance Vehicle of Texas

2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack

The Charger Scat Pack impressed journalists with its bold performance character and strong road presence. It successfully blends traditional muscle car appeal with modern usability, resonating with drivers looking for both excitement and practicality.

“The addition of AWD makes this a year-round muscle car. It now makes even more practical sense that we have wide tires at all four corners. I love that at the push of a button, you can have true RWD performance. The Hurricane engine is sublime, even if its sound and cylinder count don’t match the heritage of the vehicle it is wrapped in.”

Cory Fourniquet - GT: Garage Talk

Luxury Vehicle of Texas

2026 Genesis G70 Prestige Graphite AWD

Genesis continues to elevate expectations in the luxury segment, and the G70 Prestige Graphite AWD exemplifies that progress. TAWA members praised its refinement, driving dynamics, and premium interior experience.

“The G70 is one of the best interpretations of what a sports sedan should be, combining a premium interior with excellent handling and powerful, linear power delivery. Even the traditional German competitors struggle to match this level of competence.”

Natan Tazelaar - Tazelaar Media

EV of Texas

2026 Lexus RZ 550e F SPORT AWD

The Lexus RZ 550e F SPORT AWD stood out for its execution as a refined and approachable electric vehicle. Journalists noted its balance of comfort, technology, and driving experience as key factors in its win.

“A well-designed and engineered luxury electric vehicle that is great to drive. With new multimedia displays and excellent driving dynamics, it sets the bar for electric vehicles.”

Marc Newman - High Altitude Entertainment

Hybrid Vehicle of Texas

2026 Honda Prelude

The return of the Prelude made a strong impression, particularly with its blend of efficiency and driver engagement. The S+ Shift system was highlighted as an innovative feature that enhances the driving experience in a hybrid platform.

“The headlines will tell you the Prelude is too slow and too expensive to wear the nameplate. While car enthusiasts like myself will always welcome more power in a sports coupe, what the Prelude showed me was its ability to be a "relaxed performer". The power isn't shocking, but the handling and ability to hold and carry its speed through corners is where this shines as a sports coupe. The ability to be efficient with its hybrid system can be considered the cherry on top for its use case.”

Cameron Biggs - CarQuicks

Best Exterior

2026 McLaren 750S Spider

With its sculpted design and unmistakable supercar proportions, the McLaren 750S Spider was widely regarded as the most visually striking vehicle at the event.

“Everyone stares!”

Gregory Riley - RILEY PLAYS CARS

Best Interior

2026 Dodge Charger Scat Pack 

The Charger’s interior surprised and impressed voters with its combination of modern technology, usability, and driver-focused layout, helping it secure top honors in this category.

“Big fan. Really liked the interior options that the charger was able to give me, such as changing the tone of the lighting and the option of having a four-door.”

Alyse Zagada - The Blooming Social

Best New Feature

Lexus RZ Virtual Manual Gear Shift System (M Mode)

Lexus earned recognition for innovation with its virtual manual gear shift system, which introduces a new level of driver interaction in an electric vehicle and sparked significant interest among journalists.

"The new M Mode was fun to test, and it provides a sportier, more responsive driving experience.”

Michael Rudd - Rudd Fotos

About the Texas Auto Roundup

The Texas Auto Roundup is TAWA’s annual spring driving event, bringing together automotive journalists and manufacturers for hands-on evaluation of the newest vehicles on the market. Vehicles are tested on public roads in and around Boerne, Texas, providing real-world driving conditions that reflect the needs of Texas consumers.

These results have been tabulated and certified by Rexroat CFO in Tyler, Texas. 

Photo Credits – Kevin McCauley

 https://mccauleycreativellc.com/tar2026

 

 

Media Contact

Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA)

Marc Newman, President

TAWAPresident@texasautowriters.org

https://texasautowriters.org

 

Gary Witzenburg has announced the release of his 11th book, Legends in Motion, a 310-page, full-color collection that promises readers an insider’s view of automobile excellence. Written in a light, non-technical style, the book pulls together some of his most fun, interesting, and informative stories from multiple outlets across four decades in automotive journalism.

Witzenburg brings rare credibility to the page as a longtime journalist and past president of the North American Car, Truck and Utility of the Year Awards (NACTOY). The collection mixes driving adventures with behind-the-scenes stories about how certain special cars were created by bold, visionary leaders, while also capturing the evolution of design and innovation through the people who shaped the industry.

Legends in Motion is available from barnesandnoble.com in eBook, paperback, and hardcover editions, with autographed copies available directly from the author.

The Texas Auto Writers Association has named its latest winners for two of its biggest honors. The Toyota Tacoma earned Truck of Texas. The Nissan Armada took home SUV of Texas. These awards spotlight vehicles that feel built for Texas life.

2026 SUV of Texas: Nissan Armada

The Nissan Armada won Texas SUV of Texas with size and presence. One phrase kept coming to mind behind the wheel: “Super Large BEAST.” Armada makes its case with big-body comfort and real-world usability. It feels made for families, road trips, and heavy-duty weekends. The PRO-4X flavor adds an extra edge for drivers who want a tougher vibe. It still keeps the daily drive easy.

2026 Truck of Texas: Toyota Tacoma

The Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter earned Texas Truck of Texas by delivering confidence from the driver’s seat. This was the truck that impressed the most based on feel behind the wheel.

Trailhunter leans into what Texas truck buyers ask for. It aims for capability without feeling like a chore to live with. It feels ready for trails, while staying comfortable for everyday miles. For drivers who want adventure hardware with a clean, purposeful attitude, Tacoma Trailhunter hits that sweet spot. SEE ALL TRUCK RODEO WINNERS MEDIA CONTACT:  Sean Tajipour tawavpcomms@texasautowriters.org

About the Texas Auto Writers Association  

Founded in 1987, the Texas Auto Writers Association has grown to become one of the most recognized and reputable automotive press organizations in the industry. TAWA’s mission is to promote quality and accuracy in automotive journalism and to disseminate information about the automotive industry through news-related print, online and broadcast media. In addition to promoting journalism opportunities and professionalism internally, TAWA funds scholarships to journalism students.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 31, 2025
Tyler, Texas

Texas Auto Writers Association Announces 2026 Board of Directors

The Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA), one of the most respected automotive media organizations in the nation, is proud to announce the incoming 2026 Board of Directors. TAWA continues its mission of promoting excellence in automotive journalism, fostering industry relationships, and producing hallmark events, including the Texas Truck Rodeo and Texas Auto Roundup.

Leading the organization into the new year is Marc Newman, who has been elected President. Newman previously served as Vice President of Events and steps into the role with a strong history of leadership, event strategy, and member collaboration.

Outgoing president Cory Fourniquet will transition into the Past President position, continuing to support the board with experience and organizational continuity.

2026 TAWA Executive Officers & Directors

President
• Marc Newman

Past President
• Cory Fourniquet

Vice President of Membership
• Tim Esterdahl

Vice President of Communications
• Sean Tajipour

Vice President of Events
• Vacant (to be appointed)

Treasurer
• Cameron Biggs

Secretary
• Travis Hager

Director at Large
• Michael Rudd

Director at Large – OEM
• Kimberly K. Shults

The 2026 board includes a blend of returning leadership and fresh perspectives, setting the stage for a dynamic year of growth, community engagement, and industry collaboration. With several major initiatives in motion – including membership outreach, digital communication expansion, and preparation for the upcoming Texas Truck Rodeo – TAWA remains committed to elevating the voice of Texas-based automotive media professionals.

“We are excited about the talent and enthusiasm this board brings to TAWA,” said Past President Cory Fourniquet. “With Marc Newman at the wheel, our members, partners, and industry colleagues can look forward to an innovative year ahead as we continue to celebrate and support automotive journalism in Texas.”

For more information about TAWA, membership, sponsorship opportunities, or upcoming events, please visit our website.

About the Texas Auto Writers Association

Founded in 1987, the Texas Auto Writers Association is a nonprofit organization of automotive journalists, content creators, and industry professionals committed to accuracy, community, and excellence in automotive reporting. TAWA is best known for hosting the annual Texas Truck Rodeo and Texas Auto Roundup, where vehicles are evaluated and honored through the prestigious “Truck of Texas” and related awards.

Media Contact:
Texas Auto Writers Association
2627 S Broadway Ave
Suite 6523
Tyler, TX 75701
 texasautowriters.org

***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***

3rd Annual BILL NEALE AUTOMOTIVE FINE ART AWARD 
FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ANNOUNCES CALL FOR ENTRIES 

- Call For Entries Opened October 15, 2025 for Eligible U.S. High School Students in Grades 10-12 

- Award Honors World-Renowned Dallas-based Artist Bill Neale

- Submissions accepted through February 12, 2026 at 11:59 pm CST.

Flower Mound, TX - (October 23, 2025) - The Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) is pleased to announce the official call for entries for the 2026 Bill Neale Automotive Fine Art Award for High School Students!  The award, in its third year, honors world-renowned automotive artist Bill Neale by recognizing and encouraging excellence in automotive fine art among high school students. Neale passed away in 2021 at the age of 95. 

The Award is open to U.S. high school students in 10-12th grades.  Students attending a non-U.S. high school in grades 10-12 as a result of a parent serving in the U.S. Military are also eligible. The competition focuses on the traditional fine art mediums Neale so skillfully mastered. Neale was well-known for his posters promoting automotive events, races and road rallies. Entrants are asked to create an original, signed poster depicting a road rally, automotive or racing event.  Cash prizes and BLICK Art Materials gift cards will be awarded to first, second and third place winners.  Submissions accepted October 15, 2025 -  February 12, 2026. For rules, project brief and legal terms, please visit www.billnealeaward.org.  

 

Along with inspiring future automotive artists, the Award also seeks to support arts education by making art accessible to all young people. For 2026, the Award is proud to continue its support of the Texas Cultural Trust Art Box project, an initiative within its Arts Access program. Our donation is being used to support Hunt ISD elementary students impacted by the devastating July 4th, 2025 flooding in Central Texas.

"Our hearts go out to those impacted by the recent historic flooding in Texas," said Leslie Neale, Bill Neale’s Daughter/Terlingua Racing Team. "Artistic expression can help in the healing process and my dad would be honored that our donation to the Texas Cultural Trust Art Box Project is helping to provide creative support for elementary students in a community in the process of rebuilding."

“Thank you to the Bill Neale Automotive Fine Art Award for High School Students for their generous sponsorship of the Texas Cultural Trust’s Art Box program,” said Heidi Marquez Smith, CEO for TXCT. “Your support empowers young artists and helps to inspire self-expression and imagination of children who have little to no access to creative resources.”

The Bill Neale Automotive Fine Art Automotive Art Award for High School Students would not be possible without the generous support of the following sponsors: BLICK Art Materials, The Carroll Shelby Foundation, Terlingua Racing Team and the Texas Auto Writers Association. 

BLICK Gives Back:  https://www.dickblick.com/about-blick/gives-back

The Carroll Shelby Foundation: https://foundation.shelby.com

Terlingua Racing Team: https://terlinguaracingteam.com

Texas Auto Writers Association: https://texasautowriters.org/

Media Contact: amplemons.tvproducer@gmail.com.  

About the Texas Auto Writers Association  

Founded in 1987, the Texas Auto Writers Association has grown to become one of the most recognized and reputable automotive press organizations in the industry. TAWA’s mission is to promote quality and accuracy in automotive journalism and to disseminate information about the automotive industry through news-related print, online and broadcast media. In addition to promoting journalism opportunities and professionalism internally, TAWA funds scholarships to journalism students.

 

After a full day of hands-on test drives at the Texas Truck Rodeo, standout vehicles earned top honors, recognizing exceptional achievements in performance, capability, comfort, and innovation.

See the list of winners below!

Compact SUV

Winner: 2026 Genesis GV70 3.5T Sport Prestige AWD 

"Always a class act."

2nd: 2026 Honda CR-V TrailSport (AWD)

3rd: 2025 Volkswagen Tiguan SEL R-Line 4Motion

Mid-Size SUV

Winner: 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite

"Gamechanger."

2nd: 2025 Toyota 4Runner

3rd: 2025 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail+

Full-Size SUV

Winner: 2025 Nissan Armada PRO-4X 

"Super Large Beast."

2nd: 2025 Lexus LX 700h Hybrid Overtrail

3rd: 2026 Dodge Durango SRT Hellcat Jailbreak

Luxury SUV

Winner: 2026 Genesis GV70 3.5T Sport Prestige AWD

"Well Done."

2nd: 2025 Lexus LX 700h Hybrid Overtrail

3rd: 2025 Lexus GX 550 Overtrail+

Off-Road SUV

Winner: 2025 INEOS Grenadier Station Wagon Fieldmaster 

"This thing rocks!"

2nd: 2025 Toyota 4Runner

3rd: 2026 Honda Passport TrailSport Elite

Electric SUV

Winner: 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 AWD Performance Calligraphy

"Keeps its promise."

2nd: 2025 Jeep Wagoneer S Limited 4xe

Mid-Size Pickup Truck

Winner: 2025 Toyota Tacoma Trailhunter

"Just the right size."

2nd: 2025 Nissan Frontier PRO-4X

Full-Size Pickup Truck

Winner:2026 Ram 1500 Limited Longhorn 5.7L HEMI V-8 eTorque

"Beautiful Interior."

2nd: 2025 Toyota Tundra TRD Rally

Heavy-Duty Pickup Truck

Winner: 2026 Ram 2500 Warlock 6.7L Cummins I6 Turbo Diesel

"Glad to see it back."

Luxury Pickup Truck

Winner: 2026 Ram 1500 Limited Longhorn 5.7L HEMI V-8 eTorque

"Tough for the work a day world, nice enough for date night."

Off-Road Pickup Truck

TAWA is proud to see the level of competition this year, which was high quality and diverse. A big thanks to all our judges for spending time reading, watching, and listening to all of this great work: Chris Collard, Nicole Wakelin, Amelia Dalgaard, Harvey Briggs, Kristin Shaw, and Jared Rosenholtz. 

TAWA EICC WINNERS

Writing: Features

3rd: Natan Tazelaar, Tazio magazine: “Charge of the bright brigade” (print)

2nd: Adam Moore, TXGarage: “ Chevy’s Bolt EV and EUV: Still Shocking – and Sticker Shocked"

1st: Tim Esterdahl, Pickup Truck + SUV Talk: “ ARE DELETED DIESEL TRUCKS LEGAL AFTER EPA DEREGULATION NEWS?"

Our judges said of the winning entry, “Tim's breakdown of the change to the law takes a complex topic and makes it easy to understand.” 

Writing: Reviews

3rd:  Amy Plemons, CarPro: “ 2024 Genesis G70 2.5T RWD Sport Prestige Review ”

2nd:  Mercedes Lilienthal, OVR Magazine: “ Real-Life Comparison: 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz EV from North America vs. the 2024 ID. Buzz Pro German-Market Model ”

1st: Jill Ciminillo, freelancer at The Drive “ 2025 Ram 1500 RHO First Drive Review: So Good You Don’t Need a Hellcat V8 ”

The judge in this category commented, “Jill's technical knowledge shines through in a way that's relatable whether you've spent time behind the wheel of a performance truck or are dreaming of the chance one day.” 

VIDEO

3rd: Adam Moore, TXGarage: “ 2025 Equinox EV: Can Chevy’s All-Electric SUV Handle a Texas-Sized Road Trip?"

2nd: Brian Hodges, ROMR Reviews: “Deep Dive with Dre! Exploring Scout Motors UX”

1st: Tim Esterdahl, “Top GM 3 0L Duramax Diesel Questions Answered - DEF, Regen, Oil, Additives”

One judge said of the winning video: “Tim does a great job responding to questions from his audience and explaining the answers in a way that’s easy to understand.

RADIO/PODCAST

3rd: Michael Marrs, In Wheel Time: “ Adventures at the Big Bend Open Road Race with Rhonda! ”

2nd: Jill Ciminillo and Tom Appel, Car Stuff Podcast: “ New Forester Hybrid, A Conversation with Chrysler CEO Chris Feuell”

1st: Jerry Reynolds, CarPro: “ Interview with Ford Motor Chief Communications Officer Mark Truby”

“Informative, high-level guest, to the point, and offers an insight into car companies that most people don’t get,” the judge said about Jerry’s winning entry. 

PHOTOGRAPHY

2nd: Mercedes Lilienthal, OVR Magazine: “Waves Crash as San Francisco Greets the New 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz EV”

1st: Cory Fourniquet, GT: Garage Talk: "McLaren 750S"

“As automotive photographers, we must offer the viewer unique and varying perspectives of a given subject,” our expert judge said about Cory’s winning photo. “Shooting long and low, cropping in on specific details such as the photographer has done with this image, evokes emotion and visions of stabbing the brakes to set up for a hard drifting corner.”

SOCIAL MEDIA

1st: Mercedes and Andy Lilienthal, “Nine Countries, 16 Days, and 4,771 Electrified Miles, Competing in the World’s Northernmost Rally in with a 2024 German-Spec Volkswagen ID. Buzz EV”

Details – 

Day 2 the Kindness of Strangers and Hitting our Groove: from Falkenburg, Sweden to the Outskirts of Oslo, Norway https://www.instagram.com/p/C-ED27ASBti/

Day 8 Longest Drive Day and (Narrowly) Reaching the Top of the World at Nordkapp, Plus Bug-Infested Camping: Skibotn, Norway to Karasjok, Norway https://www.instagram.com/p/C-eWnvyxBpw/

Day 16 a Nail-Biting Victory After Many Uphill Battles and Charge Challenges: Berlin, Germany to Hamburg, Germany and Finish Line https://www.instagram.com/p/C_EtvTqNq08/

One judge said, “An absolutely epic journey, captured in exciting reels that gave us a taste of the Lilienthal’s adventure.”  

TEXAS TRUCK INVITATIONAL

Grand Prize Winner:  Jill Ciminillo, freelancer at The Drive “2025 Ram 1500 RHO First Drive Review: So Good You Don’t Need a Hellcat V8”

“It was clear that Jill’s thorough coverage and personal experience with this vehicle combined for an excellent story that’s both informative and riveting,” the judge said. “Beautiful work.”

TAWA JOURNALIST OF THE YEAR

In 2024, TAWA added a new award for the person who contributed the most to TAWA’s event coverage for the 2024 Texas Truck Rodeo and 2025 TAWA Auto Roundup. This year, the award goes to Adam Moore of TXGarage for his quality and body of work for the past year. Adam, TAWA thanks you for your dedication to our association events with complete and thoughtful coverage. 

TAWA appreciates everyone who submitted their work for 2025. We look forward to seeing next year’s entries! 

Dear Members,

You've been busy creating content all year long and now it's time to submit your favorite features, reviews, radio presentations, photos, podcasts and social media campaigns for the 2025 TAWA Excellence in Craft Competition!  

CALL FOR ENTRIES begins Tuesday, July 1, 2025. 
ENTRY DEADLINE is 11:59 PM Friday, July 25, 2025

EICC CATEGORIES (for TAWA members): 

• Writing (features and reviews subcategories)
• Radio and Podcast (single episode)
• Video (YouTube or broadcast TV)
• Photography (static and action subcategories)
• Social Media Video (3 minutes or less)
• TAWA Event Coverage (at 2024 Truck Rodeo or 2025 Auto Roundup)

TEXAS TRUCK INVITATIONAL (Includes Non-Members): The Texas Truck Invitational competition invites TAWA members and non-members worldwide to enter their works in exclusive truck-writing categories. A range of truck-related writing topics are eligible for entry, which includes large vans (Sprinter, Transit, etc), chassis cabs, SUVs and CUVs.

ELIGIBLE CONTENT:  The EICC competition is open to TAWA members in good standing. Eligible entries for the 2025 competition include automotive-related content that has been published or has an on-air date from July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025. All entries must be in English. 

An eligibility exception applies to the Texas Truck Invitational Writing categories, in which non-TAWA members are invited to participate. 

For the complete official entry rules and requirements, please click on the link provided at the end of this email.

EICC FEES: Cost per single entry remains unchanged:

• TAWA members - EICC: $15.00 per entry
• Non-members – Texas Truck Invitational: $25.00 per entry

For EICC questions, contact Kristin Shaw at KristinVShaw@gmail.com.

FOR EICC RULES AND ENTRY FORM, CLICK HERE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Texas Auto Writers Association Announces Award-Winning Vehicles from 2025 Texas Auto Roundup

Conroe, Texas (April 30, 2025) — The Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA) proudly announces the winning vehicles from their annual Texas Auto Roundup, where members evaluated and honored the best vehicles across multiple categories. First held in 2003, this year's Auto Roundup was held at the Margaritaville Resort on Lake Conroe on April 6, 2025.

After a day of rigorous testing, standout models were awarded top honors, showcasing excellence in performance, luxury, family-friendliness, and innovation.

People’s Vehicle of Texas (Best Value)

• Winner: Honda Civic Hybrid Sport Touring
  “Best daily driver money can buy.”
• Second Place: Kia K4 GT-Line Turbo
• Third Place: Nissan Murano Platinum AWD

Family Vehicle of Texas

• Winner: Toyota Sienna Platinum Hybrid AWD
  “I was blown away by the Toyota Sienna. The value really can't be beat, and it's a hybrid to boot. I was sold with the vacuum and reclining back seats with the footrest.”
• Second Place: Kia Carnival Hybrid SX-Prestige
• Third Place: Honda Odyssey Elite

Minivan of Texas

• Winner: Toyota Sienna Platinum Hybrid AWD
  “It’s like a Gulfstream with wheels—super comfortable and impressive cabin, mileage, and drivability.”
• Second Place: Chrysler Pacifica Limited AWD
• Third Place: Kia Carnival Hybrid SX-Prestige

Performance Vehicle of Texas

• Winner: McLaren Artura Spider
  “A pure driver's car. Even with the hybrid system, power hard top, and glass roof adding weight, it still came in at only 3200 lbs. Unreal! The only car I would ever own in orange. I've been dreaming of it since I got out of it.”
• Second Place: Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack
• Third Place: Toyota GR Corolla

Luxury Vehicle of Texas

• Winner: Genesis G80 AWD 3.5T Sport Prestige
  “Genesis continues to develop their vehicles to be a value that cannot be ignored in this segment. Arguably better at the same game than the current competition.”
• Second Place: INFINITI QX80
• Third Place: Lexus LX 700h Hybrid Overtrail

EV of Texas

• Winner: Hyundai IONIQ 5 Limited AWD
  “The styling for me is more creative, distinctive, and unique than a Model Y. Hyundai has married a nice fusion of futuristic touches and current modern styling.”
• Second Place: Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack
• Third Place: Acura ZDX Type S

Hybrid Vehicle of Texas

• Winner: Honda Civic Hybrid Sport Touring
  “This vehicle is practical, well-executed, reliable, and has great handling. It’s also fuel-efficient.”
• Second Place: Lexus LX 700h Hybrid Overtrail
• Third Place: Toyota Sienna Platinum Hybrid AWD

Best Exterior

• Winner: McLaren Artura Spider
  “I can NOT say enough about the papaya spark color on the McLaren! It will definitely turn heads on the road!”
  “Incredible…”
• Second Place: Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack
• Third Place: INFINITI QX80

Best Interior

• Winner: INFINITI QX80
  “The driving experience was effortless with its intelligence integrated technology. Easily one of the best family-oriented vehicles on the market, and its luxury design and craftsmanship are exquisite.”
• Second Place: Genesis G80 AWD 3.5T Sport Prestige
• Third Place: Lexus LX 700h Hybrid Overtrail

Best NEW Interior

• Winner: INFINITI QX80
  “Just WOW!”
• Second Place: Nissan Murano Platinum AWD
• Third Place: Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack

Best New Feature

• Winner: Nissan Armada Invisible Hood View
  “The Nissan Armada is a big, beautiful beast!”
• Second Place: Dodge Charger Daytona Fratzonic Chambered Exhaust
• Third Place: INFINITI Klipsch Reference Premiere Audio System with Individual Audio

“The 2025 Texas Auto Roundup showcased an incredibly diverse field of vehicles,” said Cory Fourniquet, TAWA President. “From electrifying EVs and cutting-edge hybrids to luxurious family movers and pure performance machines, our journalist members had the difficult but exciting job of recognizing the best of the best.”

Full list of participating vehicles:

• Acura RDX A-Spec w. Advance
• Acura ZDX Type S
• Alfa Romeo Tonale 2.0L Turbo
• Chrysler Pacifica Limited AWD
• Dodge Charger Daytona Scat Pack
• Genesis G80 AWD 3.5T Sport Prestige
• Honda Civic Hybrid Sport Touring
• Honda Odyssey Elite
• Hyundai Elantra N
• Hyundai IONIQ 5 Limited AWD
• Hyundai Kona Limited AWD
• INFINITI QX80 AUTOGRAPH
• Kia Carnival Hybrid SX-Prestige
• Kia K4 GT-Line Turbo
• Lexus LX 700h hybrid Overtrail
• McLaren Artura Spider 
• Nissan Armada Platinum Reserve
• Nissan Murano Platinum   AWD
• Toyota 4Runner TRD Sport Premium
• Toyota Crown Signia Limited
• Toyota GR Corolla GR Direct Automatic Transmission Premium Plus
• Toyota Sienna Hybrid AWD Platinum

About TAWA
Founded in 1987, the Texas Auto Writers Association has grown to become one of the most recognized and reputable automotive media organizations in the industry. TAWA’s mission is to promote quality and accuracy in automotive content creation and to disseminate information about the automotive industry through news-related print, online and broadcast media.

For more information about the Texas Auto Writers Association, please visit texasautowriters.org

Media Contact:
Cory Fourniquet
TAWAPresident@texasautowriters.org
Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA)