For those in the market for a new vehicle in 2025, reliability and safety are paramount. Consumer Reports, a trusted source for vehicle reviews and ratings, has released its latest top picks, highlighting models that excel in these critical areas without breaking the bank. Even as the average new car price hovers near $50,000, Consumer Reports’ list demonstrates that you can find excellent vehicles, including the best cars of 2025, starting at much more accessible price points.
“You don’t have to spend that much to get a car that’s going to be safe and reliable and enjoyable to own,” notes Alex Knizek, associate director of auto test development for Consumer Reports. This year’s selections also underscore the growing prominence of hybrid vehicles, with hybrids claiming spots in over half of the categories, signaling a shift towards fuel efficiency and performance in the automotive industry. Consumer Reports’ rigorous testing process, involving anonymous purchases, extensive evaluations, and member surveys, ensures that their top picks are genuinely the best cars you can consider in 2025.
Nissan Sentra: Top Small Car of 2025
The Nissan Sentra stands out as Consumer Reports’ top pick in the small car category for 2025. Praised for its surprisingly spacious cabin, responsive handling, and impressive fuel economy, the Sentra also offers a suite of standard active safety features that rival those found in more expensive vehicles. This combination of practicality, efficiency, and safety makes the Nissan Sentra a smart choice for drivers seeking the best small car 2025.
Subaru Crosstrek: Best Subcompact SUV 2025
For those needing a bit more versatility, the Subaru Crosstrek earns the title of best subcompact SUV 2025 from Consumer Reports. Its excellent fuel economy, generous ground clearance, and standard all-wheel drive make it equally adept at navigating city streets and exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations. Consumer Reports highlights the Crosstrek’s user-friendly controls and comfortable seating in both rows, ensuring a pleasant driving experience. While the base model engine is adequate, upgrading to higher trims unlocks a more powerful 2.5-liter engine for enhanced performance.
Subaru Forester: Leading Compact SUV for 2025
The Subaru Forester continues its reign as a top contender in the compact SUV segment, securing its place as a Best Car 2025 for the 12th consecutive year on Consumer Reports’ list. The redesigned 2025 Subaru Forester boasts a quieter cabin and increased cargo space, enhancing its practicality. Its exceptional visibility, fuel efficiency, and standard all-wheel drive contribute to its consistent recognition as a reliable and capable SUV. For families and individuals seeking a dependable and versatile vehicle, the Forester remains a top recommendation.
Toyota Camry: #1 Midsize Car of 2025
Completely redesigned for 2025, the Toyota Camry reaffirms its position as a leading midsize sedan. Consumer Reports lauds the Camry as “comfortable, practical, and user-friendly,” emphasizing its smooth ride and sharp handling. Now exclusively offered as a hybrid, the 2025 Toyota Camry delivers both fuel efficiency and a refined driving experience, making it arguably the best midsize car 2025 for discerning buyers.
Ford Maverick/Maverick Hybrid: Top Small Pickup Truck 2025
The Ford Maverick and Maverick Hybrid capture the best small pickup truck 2025 title, impressing Consumer Reports with their affordability, well-designed interior, and nimble maneuverability. Offering ample passenger space for its class, the Maverick provides a unique blend of car-like driving dynamics with the utility of a truck bed. While the standard turbocharged engine is capable, the hybrid version truly shines with its exceptional fuel economy, achieving 37 mpg in Consumer Reports’ testing, setting it apart in a segment known for lower mileage.
Toyota RAV4 Prime: Best Fuel-Efficient SUV 2025
For maximum fuel efficiency in an SUV, the Toyota RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid emerges as Consumer Reports’ best fuel-efficient SUV 2025. Outperforming other RAV4 models, the Prime delivers impressive acceleration and boasts an electric range of up to 42 miles. As one of the plug-in hybrids featured on this year’s list, the RAV4 Prime presents a compelling option for those transitioning towards electric vehicles while retaining the flexibility of a gasoline engine.
Toyota Highlander Hybrid: Best Midsized SUV 2025
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid earns recognition as the best midsized SUV 2025, offering a winning combination of fuel economy, three-row seating, and standard all-wheel drive. Achieving 35 mpg in Consumer Reports’ tests, the Highlander Hybrid is praised as a “smart, versatile vehicle” with comfortable seating, a smooth ride, responsive handling, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, making it an ideal choice for families.
Tesla Model Y: Best Electric Vehicle 2025
The Tesla Model Y stands out as Consumer Reports’ best electric vehicle 2025. Its practical hatchback design distinguishes it from other Tesla models, offering both utility and a futuristic appeal. Described as both practical and enjoyable to drive, the Model Y delivers exhilarating acceleration and a modern aesthetic. Improved reliability ratings have solidified the Model Y’s position as a top pick, demonstrating Tesla’s advancements in manufacturing quality and establishing it as a dependable EV choice for consumers.
Lexus NX350h/450h+: Best Luxury Compact SUV 2025
In the luxury compact SUV category, the Lexus NX350h and NX450h+ share the honor as best luxury compact SUV 2025. These models offer refined interiors, user-friendly technology, and a comfortable yet controlled ride. The NX350h hybrid achieves excellent fuel economy, while the NX450h+ plug-in hybrid provides a significant electric-only range, offering choices for different driving preferences within the luxury segment.
BMW X5/X5 PHEV: Top Luxury Midsized SUV 2025
Rounding out Consumer Reports’ top picks is the BMW X5 and X5 PHEV, recognized as the best luxury midsized SUV 2025. These SUVs deliver powerful acceleration, quiet and luxurious cabins, and supportive seats. The plug-in hybrid variant offers a notable electric range, combining performance with efficiency. With their refined driving dynamics and premium features, the BMW X5 models represent the pinnacle of luxury and performance in the midsized SUV category.
Consumer Reports’ best cars of 2025 list emphasizes that consumers can find reliable, safe, and enjoyable vehicles across various categories without exceeding budget. The prominence of hybrid and plug-in hybrid models signals an industry trend towards greater fuel efficiency and reduced emissions, offering consumers more choices than ever in the pursuit of their ideal vehicle. For detailed reviews and further information, refer to ConsumerReports.org.
