Finding a new car that balances quality and cost can be challenging in today’s market, where the average new car price remains high. However, Consumer Reports has released its latest top picks, highlighting that you don’t have to overspend to get a vehicle that excels in reliability, safety, and overall satisfaction. This year’s list for the Best 2025 Cars emphasizes value, showcasing models that deliver exceptional performance without breaking the bank. Notably, hybrid vehicles continue to dominate, securing spots in multiple categories due to their fuel efficiency, smooth driving experience, and increasingly competitive pricing. Consumer Reports’ rigorous testing and owner surveys ensure these recommendations are grounded in real-world performance and owner satisfaction, making them a valuable resource for anyone in the market for a new vehicle.
Small Car: Nissan Sentra
The Nissan Sentra stands out in the small car category for its blend of practicality and features. Consumer Reports highlights its surprisingly spacious cabin, agile handling, and commendable fuel economy. Moreover, the Sentra comes equipped with a generous suite of standard active safety features, often exceeding what’s offered by some pricier competitors. This combination of value, safety, and user-friendly design makes the Nissan Sentra a smart choice for those seeking an efficient and reliable compact car in 2025.
Subcompact SUV: Subaru Crosstrek
For those needing a bit more versatility, the Subaru Crosstrek earns its place as a top subcompact SUV. Consumer Reports praises its excellent fuel economy, generous ground clearance, and standard all-wheel drive, making it equally adept at navigating city streets and venturing onto unpaved roads. The Crosstrek also scores well for its intuitive controls and comfortable seating in both rows. While the base model engine is adequate, upgrading to higher trims unlocks a more powerful 2.5-liter engine, providing a more energetic driving experience for this capable and popular SUV.
Compact SUV: Subaru Forester
Subaru continues its winning streak with the Forester, recognized as a top compact SUV by Consumer Reports for the 12th consecutive year. The redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester further solidifies its position with a quieter cabin and increased cargo space compared to previous models. Its exceptional visibility, fuel efficiency, and standard all-wheel drive are key factors in its consistent top ranking. The Forester remains a practical and reliable choice in the competitive compact SUV segment, appealing to buyers who prioritize these qualities.
Midsized Car: Toyota Camry
Completely redesigned for 2025, the Toyota Camry maintains its reputation as a top midsized car, now exclusively offered as a hybrid. Consumer Reports describes the new Camry as comfortable, practical, and user-friendly. The hybrid powertrain delivers a smooth and refined driving experience, complemented by surprisingly sharp handling. This evolution of the Camry ensures it remains a leader in the sedan market, providing fuel efficiency and Toyota’s renowned reliability in a stylish package.
Small Pickup: Ford Maverick/Maverick Hybrid
The Ford Maverick and Maverick Hybrid stand out in the small pickup truck category, earning praise from Consumer Reports for their affordability, well-designed interior, and easy maneuverability. Offering decent passenger space and car-like driving dynamics, the Maverick fills a unique niche. While the standard turbocharged engine provides ample power, the hybrid version is particularly compelling, achieving excellent fuel economy in Consumer Reports’ testing. The Maverick offers truck utility in a smaller, more fuel-efficient, and budget-friendly package.
Fuel-Efficient SUV: Toyota RAV4 PHEV
For those prioritizing fuel efficiency in an SUV, the Toyota RAV4 PHEV (Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle) is Consumer Reports’ top pick. Outperforming other RAV4 models, the PHEV variant delivers impressive acceleration and boasts an electric-only range of up to 42 miles. As one of the plug-in hybrids highlighted on this year’s list, the RAV4 PHEV presents a strong option for buyers considering electrification but not yet ready for a fully electric vehicle. It balances electric driving capability with the flexibility of a gasoline engine for longer trips.
Midsized SUV: Toyota Highlander Hybrid
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is recognized by Consumer Reports as a top midsized SUV, especially for families needing three-row seating and fuel efficiency. Offering excellent gas mileage for its class, along with standard all-wheel drive, the Highlander Hybrid is a versatile and practical choice. Praised for its comfortable rear seats, smooth ride, responsive handling, and extensive safety features, the Highlander Hybrid excels as a family-friendly SUV that doesn’t compromise on efficiency or driving enjoyment.
Electric Vehicle: Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y earns its place as Consumer Reports’ top electric vehicle pick, distinguishing itself from other Tesla models with its practical hatchback body style. Described as both practical and engaging to drive, the Model Y offers impressive acceleration and a modern, minimalist design. Improved reliability has contributed to its top pick status this year. The Model Y stands out as a dependable and appealing EV option, demonstrating Tesla’s refined manufacturing process for this popular model.
Luxury Compact SUV: Lexus NX350h/450h+
In the luxury compact SUV category, the Lexus NX350h and NX450h+ hybrids are Consumer Reports’ top selections. These models offer a refined driving experience with comfortable, upscale interiors and user-friendly technology. The NX hybrids deliver a smooth yet controlled ride with responsive steering and handling. Whether opting for the traditional hybrid NX350h or the plug-in hybrid NX450h+, buyers can expect luxury, fuel efficiency, and Lexus’s renowned reliability in a compact SUV package.
Luxury Midsized SUV: BMW X5/X5 PHEV
Rounding out Consumer Reports’ top picks for 2025 is the BMW X5 and X5 PHEV in the luxury midsized SUV category. These models excel with powerful acceleration, especially in the base X5, and offer a remarkably quiet and luxurious cabin. The plug-in hybrid X5 PHEV extends electric driving range while maintaining BMW’s signature performance. With their richly appointed interiors, supportive seats, and refined driving dynamics, the BMW X5 models represent the pinnacle of luxury and performance in the midsized SUV segment.
Consumer Reports’ top picks for the best 2025 cars demonstrate that you can find excellent vehicles across various categories without compromising on reliability, safety, or enjoyment. The strong presence of hybrid and plug-in hybrid models on this list reflects the automotive industry’s ongoing shift towards more fuel-efficient and environmentally conscious vehicles. By focusing on real-world testing and owner feedback, Consumer Reports provides valuable guidance for consumers navigating the new car market and seeking the best options for their needs.
