Finding a reliable and safe vehicle doesn’t necessarily mean breaking the bank. According to Consumer Reports’ latest top picks list, you can get a top-rated car without spending top dollar. While the average new car price in the U.S. hovers around $48,641, Consumer Reports highlights several 2025 model-year vehicles that are both affordable and high-performing, with some starting as low as $21,590.
Alex Knizek, associate director of auto test development for Consumer Reports, emphasizes that safety, reliability, and owner enjoyment are achievable without excessive spending. This year’s list also underscores the growing prominence of hybrid vehicles, featuring hybrids in six out of ten categories, including three plug-in hybrid models. Consumer Reports notes that hybrids excel in reliability, fuel efficiency, quietness, and acceleration, often presenting a compelling, no-compromise option for car buyers.
Consumer Reports rigorously tests approximately 50 new vehicles annually. Each vehicle is purchased anonymously and undergoes over 50 tests after a 2,000-mile break-in period. The organization also incorporates reliability and owner satisfaction survey data from its members into its evaluations, ensuring a comprehensive assessment.
Small Car: Nissan Sentra
The Nissan Sentra stands out in the small car category for its surprisingly spacious cabin and agile handling. Consumer Reports highlights its good fuel economy and a generous array of standard active safety features, often exceeding those found in more expensive competitors. For drivers seeking a practical and economical small car in 2025, the Sentra is a compelling choice.
Subcompact SUV: Subaru Crosstrek
For those looking for a versatile subcompact SUV, the Subaru Crosstrek earns high marks from Consumer Reports. Its combination of good fuel economy, generous ground clearance, and standard all-wheel drive makes it adept at both city driving and outdoor adventures. The user-friendly controls and comfortable seating in both rows further enhance its appeal, making the Crosstrek a top pick for a small, capable SUV. While the base trim engine is adequate, Consumer Reports recommends the peppier 182-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine available in higher trims for enhanced performance.
Compact SUV: Subaru Forester
The 2025 Subaru Forester is recognized by Consumer Reports as a highly practical compact SUV, particularly after its recent redesign. The updated model boasts a quieter cabin and increased cargo space compared to previous versions. Earning a spot on Consumer Reports’ Top Picks list for an impressive 12 consecutive years, the Forester excels in visibility, fuel economy, and standard all-wheel drive, solidifying its position as a leading choice in the competitive compact SUV segment.
Midsized Car: Toyota Camry
Redesigned for 2025, the Toyota Camry continues its legacy as a top midsized car, now exclusively offered as a hybrid. Consumer Reports praises the Camry’s comfortable ride, practical design, and user-friendly features. This hybrid sedan delivers a smooth driving experience with responsive handling, making it a smart and efficient choice for sedan buyers in 2025.
Small Pickup: Ford Maverick/Maverick Hybrid
The Ford Maverick and Maverick Hybrid earn their place on Consumer Reports’ list due to their affordability, well-designed interior, and maneuverability. Offering decent passenger space and easy handling, the Maverick distinguishes itself in the pickup truck category. While the standard 250-hp turbocharged four-cylinder engine provides ample power, Consumer Reports emphasizes the 191-hp hybrid version as the standout, achieving an impressive 37 mpg in their tests. Knizek points out the Maverick’s unique appeal as a reasonably sized truck that drives like a car but offers the utility of a truck bed, filling a unique niche in the market.
Fuel-Efficient SUV: Toyota RAV4 PHEV
For maximum fuel efficiency in an SUV, Consumer Reports recommends the Toyota RAV4 PHEV (plug-in hybrid electric vehicle). This compact plug-in hybrid outperforms other RAV4 models, delivering brisk acceleration, going from 0 to 60 mph in just over six seconds in Consumer Reports’ testing. It also offers a significant electric range of up to 42 miles, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to reduce their reliance on gasoline. As one of three plug-in hybrids on this year’s top picks list, the RAV4 PHEV represents a strong bridge for drivers transitioning towards full electric vehicles.
Midsized SUV: Toyota Highlander Hybrid
The Toyota Highlander Hybrid is lauded by Consumer Reports as a smart and versatile midsized SUV, offering three-row capacity and excellent fuel economy. Achieving 35 mpg in Consumer Reports’ tests and equipped with standard all-wheel drive, the Highlander Hybrid balances efficiency with practicality. Its comfortable rear seats, compliant ride, responsive handling, and comprehensive safety features further solidify its position as a top pick in the midsized SUV category for families.
Electric Vehicle: Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y tops Consumer Reports’ electric vehicle category, with its hatchback body style giving it an edge over other Tesla models in terms of practicality. Described as both practical and enjoyable to drive, the Model Y offers exceptional acceleration and a modern, minimalist design. Improved reliability has been a key factor in the Model Y’s consistent recognition by Consumer Reports. Knizek highlights Tesla’s refined manufacturing process for the Model Y, resulting in above-average reliability compared to other electric vehicles, making it a dependable EV choice for 2025.
Luxury Compact SUV: Lexus NX350h/450h+
In the luxury compact SUV segment, Consumer Reports recommends the Lexus NX350h and NX450h+. These models offer luxurious interiors with plush seats and user-friendly infotainment systems. The ride is described as refined yet firm, with responsive steering and capable handling. The NX350h hybrid achieved 38 mpg in testing, while the NX450h+ plug-in hybrid offers a 37-mile electric-only range and 35 mpg on gasoline alone, providing luxury buyers with efficient and refined SUV options.
Luxury Midsized SUV: BMW X5/X5 PHEV
The BMW X5 and X5 PHEV are Consumer Reports’ top picks for luxury midsized SUVs, praised for their exceptionally quiet cabins and richly finished interiors with supportive seats. The base X5 delivers swift acceleration and 23 mpg, while the plug-in hybrid version offers an electric-only range of up to 39 miles and 21 mpg when running on gasoline. Both models offer a premium driving experience with a blend of performance and luxury, making them top contenders in the luxury SUV market for 2025.
Consumer Reports’ 2025 top picks demonstrate that you can find excellent vehicles across various categories that prioritize reliability, safety, and owner satisfaction without exceeding your budget. The increasing presence of hybrid and plug-in hybrid models further highlights the automotive industry’s shift towards fuel efficiency and electrification, offering consumers more choices than ever before in the quest for the best cars of 2025.
