The 10 best vehicles Ars Technica drove in 2025

Fourth: BMW iX3

BMW also has a brand-new EV with its latest and greatest powertrain technology, and it chose its best-selling compact crossover class to introduce it. Unlike Mercedes, which will make a hybrid version of the CLA, BMW’s new Class platform is fully electric, and the first vehicle is the iX3.

Instead of chrome, BMW’s traditional face has been chosen with lighting. Instead of an instrument binnacle, there’s a very impressive display that appears to be built into the base of the windshield. It can charge at up to 400 kilowatts and should drive at least 400 miles (643 km) on a full battery. Even better, it’s engaging to drive, the way BMWs should be – even in an SUV. But sedan fans take note: The new Klasse i3, a true electric 3 Series, will be next. We can’t wait.

Third: Honda Civic Hybrid

I had to go back to January 2025 for the first-ever podium finisher with the new Honda Civic Hybrid. The Civic is a good example of how the cars of the same name have grown up over the years: the 11th generation is three feet (920 mm) longer than the version sold in the early 1970s, and includes the 1974 car’s huge low-speed impact bumpers.

However, I wouldn’t want to be in an accident in a 1974 Honda Civic. And somehow I doubt it will generate 200 hp (150 kW) while achieving 50 mpg (4.7 l/100 km) while meeting modern emissions standards. There are still plenty of physical controls in the interior, and like the Golf, it’s refreshing to drive something so low to the ground and relatively lightweight.

Second: Porsche 911 GTS T-Hybrid

I’ve been lucky enough to drive some nice 911s this year. In January, I got behind the wheel of the new 992.2 GT3 on the road and track. This fall, I tested a convertible 911 T. Both are excellent 911s, but my preference is the 911 GTS T-Hybrid.