The standards of luxury in the automotive world are evolving rapidly. Luxury no longer means just leather seats or classic designs; it now encompasses advanced technologies, superior performance, and innovation in every detail. In the "Drive Car of the Year 2025" report, a selection of the best luxury cars was highlighted-vehicles that have redefined what luxury means, whether in the executive sedan segment, sporty SUVs, or even electric cars that combine elegance with sustainability.
Polestar 4: Scandinavian Luxury in an Electric Package
For the first time in the 20-year history of the Drive Car of the Year awards, an electric car has won the best luxury car under $100,000 category: the Polestar 4. This vehicle blends minimalist Scandinavian design with high-quality materials and a cabin brimming with advanced technology. Notably, the Polestar 4 features no rear window, creating more interior space and sparking much discussion among the judges. It is available in two versions: a single motor producing 200 kW, or a dual motor with 400 kW, delivering a quiet and refined driving experience with strong electric performance.
Porsche Macan Electric: Sporty Luxury Without Compromise
The 2025 Porsche Macan marks a significant leap in the luxury sporty SUV segment, having fully transitioned from gasoline engines to a sophisticated electric powertrain. The new Macan boasts a bold, modern design inside and out, a generous list of standard features, and a driving range of up to 654 km thanks to a 96 kWh battery. Porsche has preserved its signature sporty driving dynamics while offering unmatched cabin quietness and smoothness, earning it awards for both best luxury SUV and best luxury electric vehicle under $150,000.
Land Rover Defender: Luxury Meets Off-Road Capability
The Land Rover Defender 110 continues to prove its status as an icon in the luxury SUV world by combining legendary off-road capabilities with top-tier luxury. The 2025 model features performance upgrades including a six-cylinder diesel engine producing 258 kW and 700 Nm of torque, alongside a smoother gasoline engine with 294 kW output. The interior is meticulously crafted to provide maximum comfort and advanced technology, with extensive customization options making each vehicle unique. The Defender is equally at home parked outside a Monaco casino or climbing rugged mountain trails with confidence and style.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class and GLC: Renewed German Luxury
Mercedes-Benz continues to shine in the luxury segment with models like the C-Class and GLC-Class. The C-Class offers a balanced driving experience blending performance and comfort, with a cabin rich in modern technology and luxurious finishes. The GLC comes in coupe and SUV variants, featuring advanced interiors and powerful engine options such as the GLC300 and GLC43 AMG. Both models exemplify Mercedes’ philosophy of delivering luxury in a contemporary and refreshed manner.
Cadillac Lyriq: American Electric Luxury
Cadillac has made a strong entrance into the luxury electric vehicle market with the Lyriq, combining powerful performance with attention to luxurious details. The Lyriq offers a rich list of features and stands as a competitively priced option among luxury SUVs from BMW, Mercedes, and Audi, with a distinct American elegance and presence.
Lexus GX: Japanese Luxury with Exceptional Capabilities
The Lexus GX and Toyota Prado provide a luxurious experience focused on high-quality materials and advanced technology, coupled with strong off-road capabilities. The new Prado features a four-cylinder diesel engine with mild hybrid technology, while the GX stands out with its luxurious interior and sophisticated equipment.
The "Drive Car of the Year 2025" selections demonstrate that luxury in cars has become more comprehensive and innovative, blending modern technology with superior performance and distinctive design. From electric vehicles to luxury SUVs, today’s customers can choose cars that combine luxury, practicality, and technological excellence, meeting future expectations and delivering an unforgettable driving experience.
Tamara is an editor who has been working in the automotive field for over 3 years. She is also an automotive journalist and presenter; she shoots car reviews and tips on her social media platforms. She has a translation degree, and she also works as a freelance translator, copywriter, voiceover artist, and video editor. She’s taken automotive OBD Scanner and car diagnosis courses, and she’s also worked as an automotive sales woman for a year, in addition to completing an internship with Skoda Lebanon for 2 months. She also has been in the marketing field for over 2 years, and she also create social media content for small businesses.
