Top 10 New Vehicles That Defined 2025
The Car Guide has attended a ton of debuts and media events around the globe throughout 2025. We were able to test drive all-new vehicles as well as redesigned models introducing new generations with fresh styling and more advanced technology.
The current geopolitical climate is having a major impact on trade and GHG reduction targets, so some of these new vehicles reflect progress in EVs, while others mark the return to internal combustion engines.
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Below are the 10 new models that most caught our attention in 2025. Click on the links to learn more and read our reviews.
BMW iX3
The first vehicle in BMW's highly anticipated Neue Klasse was finally unveiled this year. It will serve as the foundation for all new BMW models in the coming years. Unsurprisingly, it’s an SUV. Powered by dual motors delivering a combined 464 horsepower, the 2027 BMW iX3 50 xDrive boasts a range exceeding 600 km and a maximum charging capacity of 400 kW. The Car Guide was able to do a test drive before its launch in Canada, which is expected in the second half of 2026.
Kia EV4
While electric vehicle sales fail to match government targets, Korean automakers are persisting and expanding their lineups. With the all-new 2026 Kia EV4 sedan, Kia is fulfilling the wish of many Canadian drivers, namely the return of an affordable compact electric car. Indeed, the EV4 will be the least expensive EV available in the country with a base MSRP of $38,995. Powered by a single electric motor on the front axle, the EV4 offers two battery options with four range levels.
Dodge Charger Sixpack
After launching the electric Charger Daytona, which has underwhelmed so far in terms of sales, Dodge is back with a gasoline-powered variant. With a base R/T model producing 420 horsepower and a Scat Pack model boasting 550 horsepower, the 2026 Dodge Charger Sixpack aims to appeal to muscle car enthusiasts and revitalize the Dodge brand, which clearly needs a significant boost.
Toyota RAV4
The best-selling SUV in Canada arrives with a new generation, dropping gas-only models and offering hybrid technology exclusively. The 2026 Toyota RAV4 also offers a more rugged variant called Woodland, which essentially replaces the Trail model and features bolder styling with enhanced capabilities. Our test drive of the new RAV4 left us quite impressed.
Nissan LEAF
The Nissan LEAF was a pioneer of electrification in the early 2010s, but it was quickly overshadowed by the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, which arrived with more advanced technology. However, the Japanese compact car was finally revamped this year with a new generation offering significantly improved range in a coupe-style crossover package better suited to today's drivers. In fact, the 2026 Nissan LEAF is a finalist for the North American Utility Vehicle of the Year award.
Honda Prelude
A legendary Honda made its triumphant return in 2025. Sporty and fuel-efficient, the all-new Prelude combines the proven electrified powertrain of the Civic Hybrid with several components borrowed from the high-performance Civic Type R. It offers responsive steering and enhanced comfort in a stylish package that is sure to appeal to Honda enthusiasts. Here are five things to know about the 2026 Honda Prelude.
Kia EV5
In the North American market, the all-new 2027 Kia EV5 will be sold exclusively in Canada. This electric compact SUV will slot just above the aforementioned EV4 sedan, which is also set to launch in 2026, and replace the larger, U.S.-built EV6 crossover. It will be offered in several configurations with a choice of two batteries (60.4 kWh or 81.4 kWh) and two drivetrains (front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive).
Chevrolet Bolt
The Bolt is back! Available in two trim levels (LT and RS), the new 2027 Chevrolet Bolt can travel up to 410 km on a single charge and is powered by an electric motor positioned on the front axle. While styling hasn't changed significantly compared to the previous generation, the in-car technologies, electrical architecture and powertrain have been completely redesigned. The Car Guide even got an exclusive opportunity to take it for a spin, so don’t miss our review.
Hyundai Ioniq 9
Following the success of the Kia EV9, which practically created the three-row electric SUV segment, Hyundai's response finally hit the market in 2025. With more rounded lines and a more refined interior, the 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 offers a sleeker alternative to the EV9, along with increased maximum range. However, considering the loss of EV incentives, will it achieve the same level of success as the EV9? Only time will tell.
Ram 1500 HEMI
While Detroit’s Big Three were hit hard by the Trump administration's tariffs earlier this year, they have been enjoying a break lately with the government rolling back fuel economy and emission regulations. Ram quickly seized the opportunity by bringing back the Hemi V8 to its full-size Ram 1500 pickup lineup for 2026. Delivering 395 horsepower, this venerable engine may be less powerful than the 6-cylinder Hurricane engine, but it's likely to win back the brand's loyal customers. Don’t miss our review!
