Ars Technica names its 10 best vehicles driven in 2025, led by the Nissan Leaf

Ars Technica published its list of the 10 best vehicles it drove in 2025, placing the third‑generation Nissan Leaf at number one. The roundup appears against a turbulent year for the car industry. The outlet notes a backlash against EV optimism that has prompted some automakers to postpone or cancel new electric models in favor of gasoline cars, even as EV charging infrastructure continues to be built and racing seasons—from Formula 1 to Formula E—provided highlights.

The Leaf earned top spot for being smaller outside yet roomier inside, moving on from an air‑cooled battery and offering a version with steel wheels that exceeds 300 miles (487 km) per charge; the SV+ trim is singled out and the price is noted as under $35,000. The runner‑up was the Porsche 911 GTS T‑Hybrid, praised for a new flat‑six and turbocharger hybrid technology derived from F1 and Porsche’s Le Mans program that sharpen throttle response; the Honda Civic Hybrid finished third for combining about 200 hp (150 kW) with roughly 50 mpg (4.7 L/100 km) and a driver‑focused interior.

Other cars in the top ten include the Lotus Emira V6, Volvo V60 Cross Country, Volkswagen Golf GTI, BMW i4 xDrive40, Hyundai Ioniq 5, Mercedes‑Benz CLA and BMW iX3, each highlighted for specific strengths such as steering feel, ride comfort, refreshed controls, practicality, charging updates, software architecture and driving engagement.

Key Topics

Tech, Nissan Leaf, Honda Civic Hybrid, Lotus Emira, Honda Civic, Volkswagen Golf Gti