In a shift that underscores the evolving relationship between American drivers and electrification, Strategic Vision’s 2025 Most Loved Vehicle Awards reveal an unexpected twist: electric vehicles, once a source of political division, are now finding favor across party lines. And yet, the most beloved EVs of the year are not Teslas.
For the first time, a plug-in hybrid has captured the hearts of Republican consumers. The BMW X5e, a luxury PHEV, emerged as the most Loved Vehicle among Republican drivers, edging out traditional favorites like high-end SUVs and premium convertibles. The Chevrolet Corvette, long a symbol of American muscle and performance, placed a close second. While many Republican consumers have voiced concerns over range limitations and affordability in the EV market, those who take the leap often find themselves enamored with the experience.
Among Democrats, the Mercedes-Benz EQB secured the top spot, praised for its fusion of performance and luxury.
Tesla, once the unchallenged titan of the electric vehicle market, finds itself at a crossroads. Though many owners remain devoted to their cars—and to Elon Musk—the brand’s image has become increasingly entangled in political sentiment. “Political perceptions have become deeply woven into Tesla’s identity,” said Alexander Edwards, President of Strategic Vision. “The company must carefully consider what it wants to be in the coming years if it hopes to maintain its success.”
Historically, electric and hybrid vehicles have struggled to match the emotional connection drivers have with their gas-powered counterparts. That trend appears to be shifting. Today, electrified models are winning over consumers with cutting-edge innovation, high performance, and a refined driving experience. “The industry has learned that simply placing an electric powertrain into a gas-powered vehicle and calling it green is not enough,” said Christopher Chaney, Senior Vice President of Strategic Vision. “It’s no different from the 2007 launch of the iPhone—it wasn’t just a rebranded BlackBerry. It was something entirely new, innovative, and, ultimately, Loveworthy.”
Yet, the Most Loved Vehicles are not exclusively electric. The Jeep Wrangler, a symbol of rugged capability, remains America’s most Loved Utility Vehicle under $55,000, offering drivers an authentic off-road experience. The Toyota Camry leads among Latino consumers, resonating with values of security, quality, and trust.
“The Most Loved Vehicles aren’t just about luxury or technology,” Edwards added. “They’re about how those features make owners feel. When a customer uses the word ‘love’ to describe their vehicle, it’s the strongest predictor of long-term loyalty.”
The 2025 Most Loved Vehicles list features sixteen models, each winning over drivers with a unique blend of design, performance, and emotional connection. As electrification continues to reshape the industry, one thing remains clear: love, it seems, knows no political boundaries.
Category |
Most Loved in Category |
MLV |
||
Cars $45,000 and under |
Chevrolet Camaro Coupe |
580 |
||
Cars Over $45,000 |
Cadillac CT5 Sedan |
596 |
||
SUVs/CUVs $55,000 and under |
Jeep Wrangler |
525 |
||
SUVs/CUVs Over $55,000 |
BMW X6 |
609 |
||
Pickups |
Rivian R1T |
577 |
||
Minivans |
Kia Carnival |
467 |
||
Mass Market by Women |
Kia Forte Sedan |
606 |
||
Luxury by Women |
Genesis GV80 |
651 |
||
Mass Market by African American |
Honda Civic Hatchback |
559 |
||
Luxury by African American |
BMW X5 |
698 |
||
Mass Market by Latin American |
Toyota Camry |
568 |
||
Luxury by Latin American |
BMW 3-Series Sedan |
619 |
||
Mass Market by Youth (24 and under) |
Hyundai Elantra |
562 |
||
by Democrats |
Mercedes-Benz EQB |
604 |
||
by Republican |
BMW X5e |
587 |
||
Alternative Powertrain |
BMW i7 |
572 |