Electric vehicles (EVs) are charging into 2025 with bold designs, jaw-dropping tech, and wallet-friendly prices. From sleek sedans to luxury sports cars, this year’s lineup is packed with exciting models that could redefine how we drive. Whether you’re an EV enthusiast or just curious about the future of cars, here are the top 5 new EVs to watch in 2025, including the Kia EV4 and BYD’s Denza. Let’s hit the road!
1. Kia EV4: The Affordable Sedan Stealing the Show
Kia is shaking up the EV world with its first global all-electric sedan, the 2026 Kia EV4, unveiled at the New York International Auto Show in April 2025. This sleek, budget-friendly sedan is gunning for the Tesla Model 3 and BYD Seal with style and value.
Why It’s a Big Deal
- Range & Power: Choose between a 58.3 kWh battery (235 miles) or an 81.4 kWh battery (up to 330 miles). A 150 kW front-mounted motor delivers zippy 0-100 km/h in 7.4 seconds.
- Fast Charging: Native NACS port (Tesla-compatible) charges from 10% to 80% in 28–31 minutes.
- Cool Tech: Dual 12.3-inch screens, a 5-inch climate display, and advanced driver aids like one-pedal driving.
- Price: Starts at $37,000 in the U.S. ($29,500 after federal EV credit), making it a steal.
- Design: Features Kia’s “Tiger Face” grille, vertical LED headlights, and a fastback roofline for a sporty vibe.
Why Watch It?
The EV4’s aggressive pricing and Tesla-beating features make it a top pick for buyers wanting a practical yet stylish EV. With production starting in South Korea and a global rollout planned for 2025, it’s poised to be a bestseller
2. BYD Denza Z9GT: Luxury Meets Lightning Speed
Chinese EV giant BYD is taking on Porsche and BMW with its premium Denza brand, launching the Denza Z9GT in Europe by late 2025. This “shooting brake” station wagon, debuted at Milan Design Week, blends insane power with luxury.
Why It’s a Big Deal
- Powerhouse Performance: A tri-motor electric version pumps out 952 bhp, hitting 0-62 mph in 3.4 seconds. A plug-in hybrid option is coming in 2026.
- Range: Offers 391 miles (electric) or up to 683 miles (hybrid, CLTC cycle).
- Luxury Tech: Twin 13.2-inch screens, a 17.3-inch touchscreen, heated/massaged seats, and a 50-inch AR head-up display.
- Design: Crafted by ex-Audi designer Wolfgang Egger, it’s sleek, with “crab walk” capability for tight maneuvers.
- Price: Expected around £90,000 (~$115,000), competing with the Porsche Taycan Sport Turismo.
Why Watch It?
The Z9GT shows BYD’s ambition to dominate the luxury EV market. With European factories in Hungary and Turkey ramping up, Denza could make premium EVs more accessible, even amid trade tensions.
3. Hyundai Ioniq 9: The Ultimate Family SUV
Hyundai’s Ioniq 9, a three-row electric SUV, is set to rival the Kia EV9 and Tesla Model Y with its spacious design and long range. Launched in Korea and hitting U.S. roads in spring 2025, it’s perfect for big families.
Why It’s a Big Deal
- Range & Battery: A 110.3 kWh battery delivers over 330 miles (rear-wheel drive) or 300 miles (all-wheel drive).
- Fast Charging: 800-volt system charges from 10% to 80% in 24 minutes.
- Spacious Comfort: Seats six or seven, with swiveling second-row “relaxation seats” and a 14-speaker Bose system.
- Power: 215 hp (single motor) or dual-motor AWD for quicker acceleration.
- Price: Estimated at $65,000–$80,000, offering premium value.
Why Watch It?
The Ioniq 9 combines luxury, practicality, and eco-friendly materials, making it a top choice for families. Its shared platform with the award-winning Kia EV9 ensures reliability and performance.
4. XPeng Land Aircraft Carrier: The Flying Van of the Future
China’s XPeng is pushing boundaries with the Land Aircraft Carrier, a van that carries a foldable eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) aircraft. Unveiled at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, it’s slated for production in 2026 but stealing attention now.
Why It’s a Big Deal
- Unique Concept: A six-wheeled van houses a two-seat eVTOL for short flights (up to 30 miles), perfect for urban mobility or remote areas.
- EV Specs: The van offers a 400-mile range (CLTC) with a 100 kWh battery and 800-volt charging.
- Tech: Autonomous driving tech and a futuristic cabin with AI-powered displays.
- Design: Rugged, sci-fi-inspired look with sliding doors and a drone bay.
- Price: Estimated at $150,000+, aimed at tech pioneers and luxury buyers.
Why Watch It?
This wild concept blends ground and air travel, showcasing China’s bold EV innovation. While not for everyone, it’s a glimpse into the future of mobility.
5. Chery iCAR V23: The Rugged, Budget-Friendly SUV
Chery’s iCAR brand is targeting young adventurers with the iCAR V23, a compact electric SUV with Bronco-like vibes. Showcased at the 2025 Shanghai Auto Show, it’s a value-packed rival to the BYD Atto 3.
Why It’s a Big Deal
- Range & Power: Expected 300–400 km (186–248 miles, CLTC) with single- or dual-motor options.
- Charging: 400-volt system for 10–80% charge in ~30 minutes.
- Design: Boxy, retro style with rugged tires, roof rails, and a spare wheel mount.
- Tech: Large touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay, and basic driver aids.
- Price: Likely $20,000–$25,000 in China, potentially higher globally.
Why Watch It?
The iCAR V23 offers affordable fun for urban and off-road drivers. If Chery exports it to markets like Australia or Europe, it could disrupt the budget EV segment with its quirky charm.
Why These EVs Matter in 2025
These five EVs showcase the diversity of 2025’s electric vehicle market:
- Affordability: The Kia EV4 and iCAR V23 make EVs accessible to more buyers.
- Luxury: BYD’s Denza Z9GT brings high-end performance at a competitive price.
- Practicality: The Hyundai Ioniq 9 caters to families with space and range.
- Innovation: XPeng’s Land Aircraft Carrier pushes the limits of what EVs can do.
With global EV sales up 29% in Q1 2025 and CATL’s fast-charging batteries hitting the market, these models are riding a wave of excitement.
What to Watch Next
- Kia EV4: Will its $29,500 price (after credits) make it a Tesla-killer in the U.S.?
- Denza Z9GT: Can BYD crack Europe’s luxury market despite tariffs?
- Ioniq 9: Will it outshine the Kia EV9 as the top family SUV?
- XPeng & iCAR: Will these Chinese EVs expand globally, or stay China-focused?
Final Thoughts: The EV Revolution Is Here
2025 is shaping up to be a blockbuster year for electric vehicles, with the Kia EV4, BYD Denza Z9GT, Hyundai Ioniq 9, XPeng Land Aircraft Carrier, and Chery iCAR V23 leading the charge. From affordable sedans to flying vans, there’s an EV for every driver. Which one are you most excited about? Drop your thoughts in the comments and subscribe for more EV news!