Testing a mountain of cars every year proves that while most are decent, very few stay with you. After a year of intense evaluations, only seven models truly stood apart. These aren’t just “paper winners”- they are the ones that actually shine in the mess of real life, blending everyday utility with that rare spark that makes you love being behind the wheel.
From versatile family haulers to punchy electric city cars and raw driving machines, these are the definitive highlights of 2025.
1. Chery Tiggo 8
The Tiggo 8 has turned out to be a real surprise in the crowded family SUV market. Both the petrol and hybrid versions beat expectations, pairing a sharp exterior with a premium, seven-seat cabin that rivals top-tier European brands. The plug-in hybrid version is a real standout, offering a great mix of smooth power and low running costs. It’s definitely more about a relaxed ride than sporty handling, but its knack for tackling family duties makes it a choice that’s hard to pass up.
2. Renault 5
It’s rare for a new car to feel this alive, but the Renault 5 does. Blending a classic ’70s vibe with modern electric power, it feels genuinely special. Compact, quick, and made for the city, it brings fun back to small cars. The range suits daily use, and the Google-based infotainment is among the most intuitive around. It’s not a family car- it’s a stylish electric hatch that makes everyday driving more enjoyable.
3. Citroën C5 Aircross
Citroën has gone all-in on comfort with the latest C5 Aircross, and it pays off. With its soft suspension and sofa-like seats, it’s still one of the most relaxing ways to get around, putting passenger comfort ahead of sporty ambitions. Now offered with hybrid and fully electric options, the C5 Aircross delivers the flexibility modern buyers want. Improved interior materials add a refined feel, raising the question of why anyone would pay extra for a luxury badge that doesn’t offer more comfort.
4. Mercedes-Benz CLA EV
The electric CLA represents a massive leap forward in how we think about efficiency. Rather than just fitting a massive battery, Mercedes has used clever aerodynamics and drivetrain engineering to extract maximum range. It proves that sleek design and sustainability can go hand-in-hand. The interior is a high-tech sanctuary, centered around a stunning digital interface that feels lightyears ahead of the competition. On the road, it’s refined and poised, offering a balanced drive that works just as well for the office run as it does for a cross-country road trip.
5. Fiat Grande Panda
The Grande Panda proves that a practical choice doesn’t have to be a dull one. Its chunky, boxy frame and clever styling give it a level of personality that most of its cookie-cutter rivals are missing.Step inside, and you’ll find a cabin packed with creative materials and clever storage spots, giving it a vibe that feels refreshingly lively rather than corporate and stiff. With electric, hybrid, and petrol options, it’s a versatile tool for almost any lifestyle. It’s easy to park, visibility is great, and it carries a sense of charm that makes even the most mundane errands feel a little more interesting.
6. Škoda Elroq
If the Renault 5 is the emotional choice, the Elroq is the logical one. It doesn’t try to reinvent the wheel; it just focuses on being an exceptionally well-packaged electric family car. It’s built on the foundation of “Simply Clever” ideas—think hidden umbrellas and ingenious trunk dividers—that make life easier. While the infotainment can be a bit menu-heavy, the rest of the package is incredibly solid. For the buyer who wants an EV that is spacious, sturdy, and completely fuss-free, the Elroq is the gold standard for 2025.
7. BMW M2
In a world of heavy batteries and autonomous driving aids, the BMW M2 feels like a love letter to the purist. Stick with a turbocharged straight-six, rear-wheel drive, and a compact footprint, and BMW proves the classic sports car formula is still alive and well. The magic of the M2 lies in how it wears two hats. It’s perfectly polite for the daily commute, but it turns into a raw, thrilling beast the second you hit an open road. It serves as proof that, even in 2025, that gut-level bond between a driver and their car hasn’t been lost.