As the calendar inches closer to a new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the electric vehicles (EVs) that charged into our lives in 2025. With the excitement of the New Year ahead, we’re eager to unveil our Top 5 Cars of 2025 next Wednesday. But for now, let’s explore the standout electric vehicles that captivated our hearts and minds this year.
Porsche Macan
The all-electric Porsche Macan did not just fill the absence of its petrol-powered predecessor; it elevated the nameplate to new heights. Spanning over the picturesque route from Melbourne to Sydney, our day spent behind the wheel unveiled not only the car’s performance but also its impressive comfort and driving dynamics.
While the electric Macan comes with a heftier price tag than older models, it excels in performance—effortlessly merging luxury with power. Even on long-distance journeys, it matches the capabilities of its fuel-guzzling counterpart, marking a significant shift for Porsche’s SUV lineup. With the upcoming Cayenne Electric set to transform the brand further, the Macan has confidently proven that a Porsche can thrive in the EV landscape.
Cadillac Lyriq
The Cadillac Lyriq made waves in 2025, marking the iconic brand’s arrival in Australia after a century-long wait. Although it hasn’t dominated the sales charts—its presence on the roads remains scarce—the Lyriq is notable for its sophistication.
Though it may not be revolutionary, this luxury SUV introduces a unique style that embodies Cadillac’s essence. It sets the stage for a brighter future, as the brand gears up for an expanded range in 2026 and a foray into Formula 1. For luxury-minded consumers seeking an EV, the Lyriq is a luxurious option that breathes new life into Cadillac’s storied heritage.
Kia EV3
With the EV landscape dominated by Chinese brands, Kia stepped in to challenge this notion with its 2025 model, the EV3. It stands out as an affordable, stylish, and efficient electric SUV, boasting a competitive starting price of $47,600—making it a rare find in its category.
The Kia EV3 is designed to bridge the gap for first-time EV buyers. It effectively combines style and space while demonstrating that South Korean manufacturing can provide value without compromising quality. This ‘gateway’ EV is essential for enticing more consumers into the electric market, especially as the overall share of EVs remains stagnant at around 10%.
Rivian R1S
While the Rivian R1S doesn’t yet make its mark on Australian soil, our opportunity to test drive it in the U.S. unveiled a brand that aims to carve out its niche as the “anti-Tesla.” With a slow and steady approach, Rivian emphasizes building trust through quality rather than high-stakes marketing.
During our test, the R1S—a robust SUV with a tri-motor setup—impressed with its luxurious touches and performance capabilities. However, it still exhibits some first-production teething issues in ride and handling. As Rivian partners with Volkswagen to secure its future, we look forward to seeing how they work out these kinks before introducing the R1S to Australian buyers.
The electric vehicle landscape is rapidly evolving, with each manufacturer bringing its unique flair and innovation to the table. As we count down to the new year and the unveiling of our Top 5 Cars of 2025, it’s evident that 2025 has shaped up to be a pivotal year in the world of electric mobility.