Which Car Is the Best Car in 2025? Here’s What Actually Matters
Let’s be honest — trying to name “the best car” in 2025 is like trying to name the best food. It really depends on who’s asking.
Some drivers want raw power and performance. Others care about tech or space for kids and camping gear or just want something that doesn’t cost a fortune to keep running. And now, with electric cars becoming the norm, the game has changed completely.
But still, every year there are standout vehicles — cars that hit that sweet spot between innovation, value, and practicality. So if you’re shopping around or just curious what’s hot on the road in 2025, here’s a real-world breakdown of the best cars right now — not just by the numbers, but by what actually makes them great.
So, what even makes a car “the best” in 2025?
Let’s get this out of the way: there’s no single answer. It really depends on what you value. That said, here’s what most drivers are thinking about right now:
- Fuel (or battery) efficiency: Nobody wants to charge or fill up more than they have to.
- Tech that actually helps: Big touchscreens are cool, but not if you’re tapping around just to change the AC.
- Safety: Still a biggie. Most cars today have automatic braking and lane assist, but not all are created equal.
- Comfort: Road noise, seat support, space — the things you feel on a long drive.
- Price (and value): A good car shouldn’t feel like a financial decision you’ll regret every month.
With those in mind, here are the cars that genuinely impressed in 2025.
Best Overall Car of 2025: Tesla Model 3 Highland
Yep, Tesla did it again. The Model 3 Highland (aka the refreshed Model 3) is still the people’s EV — but it’s more refined now.
The look is sleeker, the ride is quieter, and it handles better than ever. Range? Over 340 miles if you go for the Long Range model. That’s enough for most people to go days without charging.
More importantly, it doesn’t feel cheap inside anymore. The materials are better, and the tech works (mostly). Sure, you still control everything through one giant screen, but you get used to it.
If you want an EV that feels futuristic without breaking the bank, this is it.
Best Electric Car (Non-Tesla): Hyundai IONIQ 6
If you’re not into Tesla’s vibe, check out the Hyundai IONIQ 6. It’s weird-looking (in a cool way), smooth, and sneakily fast. The range is great — up to 360 miles — and Hyundai’s interior game is surprisingly strong these days.
Plus, it charges stupidly fast. You can go from 10% to 80% in under 20 minutes if you find the right charger. That’s road-trip material.
Best SUV: Kia EV9
Let me say this now: the Kia EV9 is going to be everywhere.
Three rows. Fully electric. Sharp design. Tons of space inside. It’s not trying to be flashy, but it does just about everything right — and it starts around $55K, which is wild for something this big and this well-equipped.
It’s the family hauler of the future, and honestly, it’s fun to drive too.
Best Budget Buy: Toyota Corolla Hybrid
Look, not everyone is ready for an EV or wants to drop $50K on a car. The Toyota Corolla Hybrid is still the most practical choice for normal humans who want something affordable, super efficient, and ridiculously reliable.
Over 50 mpg. Comfortable enough for long commutes. And you’ll probably never need to do more than oil changes and tire rotations.
It’s not exciting. But it’s the kind of car that quietly saves you money and stress year after year.
Best Hybrid: Honda Accord Hybrid
If you want something a little bigger and more premium than the Corolla, the Honda Accord Hybrid is a solid pick.
It’s smooth, roomy, and surprisingly fun to drive. The interior feels upscale without trying too hard, and the gas mileage is excellent — especially for a midsize sedan.
Honestly, this is one of the few “grown-up” sedans left that’s actually cool.
Best Luxury Pick: Mercedes-Benz EQS
The EQS is like driving a spaceship made of cashmere.
It’s dead quiet inside, rides like a cloud, and the tech is almost overwhelming — in a good way. The Hyperscreen dashboard stretches across the whole front, and the ambient lighting makes night drives feel like a sci-fi movie.
Yes, it’s expensive. Yes, it’s a flex. But if you want the most luxurious electric car right now, this is it.
Best Sports Car: Porsche Taycan GTS
This one’s for the driving nerds. The Porsche Taycan GTS is a beast.
It’s electric, but it doesn’t feel like it. The steering, the balance, the way it rockets out of corners — it’s pure Porsche. No, it doesn’t have the longest range (about 250–270 miles), but when you’re driving something this fun, who cares?
This is the car that proves EVs aren’t boring.
Honorable Mentions
- Lucid Air Pure—Luxury + crazy range, but still niche
- Ford Mustang Mach-E Rally—Sporty and a bit rugged, fun to throw around
- Toyota Prius (2025) – Yep, still going strong, and it looks way better now
Final Thoughts: It Depends on You
So, back to the big question: Which car is the best car in 2025? If you forced me to pick one for most people, I’d go with the Tesla Model 3 Highland. It’s affordable (for an EV), super capable, and constantly improving with software updates. But for some people, the Kia EV9 or Honda Accord Hybrid might make more sense. For others, the Porsche Taycan is a dream.
