These Are the Best Cars Jalopnik Readers Saw in 2025
These Are the Best Cars Jalopnik Readers Saw in 2025 – Rankings, Specs, and Why They Stood Out
Image: These Are the Best Cars Jalopnik Readers Saw in 2025 – Rankings, Specs, and Why They Stood Out – Performance Comparison and Specifications
When Jalopnik asked its community what they’d spotted on the road this year, the answers were wildly varied – some cars were familiar, others were so fresh they felt like a glimpse into the future. The poll captured everything from hyper‑charged turbo‑petrol legends to sleek EVs that barely whisper. Below is a deep‑dive into the models that earned the most love, complete with design details, tech features, engine specs, and price points. All data is sourced from the original Jalopnik reader poll and official manufacturer releases (jalopnik.com).
Why the 2025 Reader Survey Matters
Jalopnik’s community is a mix of gearheads, daily commuters, and early‑adopters. When they point out a car that turns heads, it’s a strong signal that the vehicle is resonating beyond the usual press hype. In 2025 we saw a surge of interest in ADAS (advanced driver‑assist systems), turbo‑petrol performance, and the ever‑growing electric market. That blend makes this list a perfect snapshot of where the automotive world is heading.
Top Picks Across Segments
1. Tesla Model S Plaid+ (Electric)
The Model S Plaid+ continues to dominate conversations. With a 0‑60 mph time under 1.9 seconds, it feels more like a track car than a family sedan. Its tri‑motor setup delivers 1,200 horsepower, and the latest Full Self‑Driving (FSD) beta pushes ADAS to a new level. Inside, the 17‑inch cinematic display feels like a living room TV on wheels.
2. BMW i4 M50 (Electric Performance)
BMW’s answer to the high‑performance EV segment, the i4 M50, blends classic BMW dynamics with a 536‑horsepower dual‑motor system. The rear‑wheel‑bias can be dialed back to a near‑perfect 50/50 split, giving drivers a familiar sporty feel while staying under 350 miles of range.
3. Porsche 911 GT3 (Turbo‑Petrol)
If you still crave the roar of a naturally aspirated engine, the 2025 911 GT3 offers a 4.0‑liter flat‑six that spins up to 8,400 rpm. Porsche’s latest PDK 8‑speed gearbox and lightweight carbon‑fiber rear wing make every corner a conversation. The car’s ADAS suite is subtle – lane‑keep assist only steps in when you truly need it.
4. Ford F‑150 Lightning (Electric Pickup)
The Lightning proves that an electric pickup can be both work‑horse and weekend warrior. With up to 580 lb‑ft of torque, the Pro Power Onboard system can run a job site or charge an RV. Its Co-Pilot360 suite adds adaptive cruise and automatic emergency braking, making it surprisingly gentle in city traffic.
5. Subaru WRX STI 2025 (Turbo‑Petrol)
Subaru kept the STI spirit alive with a 2.5‑liter turbo‑charged flat‑four delivering 310 hp. The new Symmetrical AWD and revised chassis give the car sharper handling without sacrificing the ruggedness Subaru is known for. The updated infotainment screen now supports wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, a first for the line.
Design & Dimensions
| Model | Length (mm) | Width (mm) | Height (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model S Plaid+ | 4,970 | 1,964 | 1,445 |
| BMW i4 M50 | 4,782 | 1,852 | 1,452 |
| Porsche 911 GT3 | 4,530 | 1,850 | 1,300 |
| Ford F‑150 Lightning | 5,890 | 2,027 | 1,996 |
| Subaru WRX STI | 4,610 | 1,795 | 1,460 |
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Model | Details |
|---|---|---|
| ADAS | Tesla Model S Plaid+ | Full Self‑Driving beta, Navigate on Autopilot |
| ADAS | BMW i4 M50 | Driving Assistant Professional, Adaptive Cruise |
| ADAS | Porsche 911 GT3 | Lane‑Keep Assist (optional), Porsche InnoDrive |
| ADAS | Ford F‑150 Lightning | Co‑Pilot360 with BlueCruise |
| ADAS | Subaru WRX STI | EyeSight Driver Assist, Adaptive Cruise |
| Infotainment | All models | Wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay (2025 updates) |
Engine Specifications
| Model | Power | Torque | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model S Plaid+ | 1,200 hp | 1,300 lb‑ft | Tri‑motor electric |
| BMW i4 M50 | 536 hp | 586 lb‑ft | Dual‑motor electric |
| Porsche 911 GT3 | 502 hp | 346 lb‑ft | 4.0 L flat‑six, naturally aspirated |
| Ford F‑150 Lightning | 426 hp (Extended Range) | 580 lb‑ft | Dual‑motor electric |
| Subaru WRX STI | 310 hp | 332 lb‑ft | 2.5 L turbo‑petrol flat‑four |
Price Comparison (MSRP, US)
| Model | Base MSRP | Top Trim MSRP |
|---|---|---|
| Tesla Model S Plaid+ | $129,990 | $149,990 |
| BMW i4 M50 | $66,900 | $73,200 |
| Porsche 911 GT3 | $161,200 | $190,800 |
| Ford F‑150 Lightning | $55,000 | $82,500 |
| Subaru WRX STI | $38,700 | $44,500 |
What Sets These Cars Apart?
Every model on this list shines for a reason. The Tesla Model S Plaid+ still leads the EV performance charge, while the BMW i4 M50 offers a more traditional sedan feel with electric torque. For purists, the Porsche 911 GT3 delivers an analog soundtrack that no turbo can mimic. The Ford F‑150 Lightning proves that electrification can coexist with utility, and the Subaru WRX STI reminds us that a well‑tuned turbo‑petrol engine still has a place in modern line‑ups.
Across the board, advanced driver‑assist systems (ADAS) were a top‑voted feature. Readers praised Tesla’s FSD, Ford’s BlueCruise, and Subaru’s EyeSight for making daily drives safer without sacrificing the thrill factor.
Conclusion
2025 has already proven to be a landmark year for automotive diversity. From silent electric powertrains to screaming turbo‑petrol legends, Jalopnik readers highlighted cars that match their lifestyles, budgets, and the pure love of driving. Whether you’re hunting a high‑tech EV, a track‑ready sports car, or a rugged pickup, this roundup offers a solid starting point. Keep an eye on the next reader poll – the road ahead is only getting more exciting.
FAQ
- Which 2025 model has the fastest 0‑60 time?
- The Tesla Model S Plaid+ clocks under 1.9 seconds, making it the quickest among the listed cars.
- Do any of these cars offer a hybrid powertrain?
- All models featured are either pure‑electric or traditional internal‑combustion; no plug‑in hybrids made the top‑five list.
- Is the Porsche 911 GT3 equipped with any ADAS?
- Yes, it offers optional lane‑keep assist and Porsche InnoDrive, though the system is intentionally less intrusive than most EV counterparts.
- Can the Ford F‑150 Lightning charge an RV?
- Absolutely – the Pro Power Onboard system provides up to 9.6 kW of AC power, enough for most RV appliances.
- Which car provides the best range per charge?
- The Tesla Model S Plaid+ offers an estimated 520 miles of EPA‑rated range, the highest in this group.
- Are wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay standard?
- In 2025, all five models include wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard equipment.
- What’s the lowest‑priced entry in the list?
- The Subaru WRX STI starts at $38,700, making it the most affordable of the highlighted vehicles.
- Do any of these cars have carbon‑fiber bodies?
- The Porsche 911 GT3 features carbon‑fiber rear wing and optional carbon‑fiber bucket seats, while the others rely on aluminum or high‑strength steel.
- Which model has the most advanced driver‑assist suite?
- While opinions vary, many readers pointed to Tesla’s Full Self‑Driving beta as the most comprehensive, followed closely by Ford’s BlueCruise.
- Will the 2025 BMW i4 M50 be available in a rear‑wheel‑drive version?
- No, the i4 M50 is exclusively an all‑wheel‑drive (dual‑motor) model for 2025.
