Top 10 Cars From 2025
About this episode
A dive into the top 10 cars of 2025 as ranked by Car and Driver, featuring a mix of performance and everyday vehicles. Host Matt Clausen shares insights on standout models like the BMW M2, Chevrolet Corvette, and Cadillac CT5V Blackwing, highlighting their specs, pricing, and unique features. The episode also touches on the Honda Accord, Honda Civic, and the all-electric Lucid Air, showcasing the diversity in the automotive landscape. With personal anecdotes and a wealth of automotive knowledge, Clausen provides an engaging overview for car enthusiasts.
Hey gearheads! In this episode Matt takes you through the top ten cars according to Car and Driver.
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BMW M2
"...it's a BMW M2. And this is the coupe version that they made..."
The BMW M2 is a sporty two-door car that is designed for performance and fun driving. It's part of BMW's special M series, which focuses on speed and handling.
The BMW M2 is a high-performance coupe that is part of BMW's M series, known for its sporty handling and powerful engines.
horsepower
"...that's got 473 horsepower out of a..."
Horsepower is a way to measure how powerful an engine is. The more horsepower a car has, the faster it can go.
Horsepower is a unit of measurement for power, commonly used to describe the power output of engines. In this context, it indicates how much power the BMW M2's engine produces.
inline twin turbo six cylinder
"...out of a inline twin turbo six cylinder. So the S58 engine."
An inline twin turbo six cylinder engine is a type of car engine with six cylinders in a line. It uses two turbochargers to help the engine produce more power without using more fuel.
An inline twin turbo six cylinder engine has six cylinders arranged in a straight line and uses two turbochargers to increase power and efficiency. This configuration is known for delivering strong performance and smooth operation.
S58 engine
"...So the S58 engine."
The S58 engine is a powerful engine made by BMW that has six cylinders and uses two turbochargers to boost its performance. It's designed for cars that need to go fast.
The S58 engine is a high-performance inline six-cylinder engine developed by BMW, featuring twin turbochargers. It is known for its power and efficiency, making it ideal for performance-oriented models like the M2.
zero to 60
"So it's zero to 60 is right at four seconds. It is a rear wheel drive vehicle."
Zero to 60 is how fast a car can go from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's a way to measure how quickly a car can speed up.
Zero to 60 time measures how quickly a vehicle can accelerate from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's a common performance metric used to gauge a car's acceleration capabilities.
rear wheel drive
"It is a rear wheel drive vehicle and it is available with the six speed manual."
Rear wheel drive means the back wheels of the car get the power from the engine. This can make the car handle better, especially for sporty driving.
Rear wheel drive (RWD) means that the engine's power is sent to the rear wheels of the vehicle. This setup can enhance handling and performance, especially in sports cars, but may be less effective in slippery conditions compared to all-wheel drive.
six speed manual
"and it is available with the six speed manual or an eight speed automatic,"
A six speed manual means the driver can change gears manually using a stick shift, with six different options to choose from. This gives the driver more control over how the car drives.
A six speed manual transmission allows the driver to manually select from six gear ratios, providing more control over the vehicle's power and speed. It's often preferred by enthusiasts for a more engaging driving experience.
eight speed automatic
"or an eight speed automatic, which is the no cost option."
An eight speed automatic means the car changes gears by itself without the driver needing to do anything. It can help the car drive smoother and save fuel.
An eight speed automatic transmission automatically changes gears for the driver, offering a balance of performance and fuel efficiency. More gears can lead to smoother acceleration and better power management.
Chevy Chevette
"but my first car was a 1984 Chevy Chevette. That was a five speed."
The Chevy Chevette is a small, affordable car that was made by Chevrolet in the 1980s. It was known for being easy to drive and good on gas.
The Chevy Chevette was a subcompact car produced by Chevrolet from 1976 to 1987. It was known for its economical design and lightweight construction, making it a popular choice for budget-conscious drivers.
five speed
"That was a five speed. And that got me around quite a bit."
A five speed means the car has a manual transmission with five different gears you can shift into. This helps the car go faster or save gas depending on how you're driving.
A five speed refers to a manual transmission with five gears. This allows the driver to select different gear ratios for better performance and fuel efficiency at various speeds.
Brembo calipers
"it's got the M Sport calipers, which are very Brembo-ish looking..."
Brembo calipers are special parts that help cars stop quickly and safely. They are often found in fast cars because they work really well.
Brembo calipers are high-performance brake components known for their superior stopping power and heat dissipation. They are commonly used in sports and luxury cars to enhance braking performance.
carbon ceramic brakes
"And also the carbon ceramics are available. So where the rotors and the pads are different."
Carbon ceramic brakes are special brakes made from strong materials that help cars stop better and are lighter than regular brakes. They are often used in high-end sports cars.
Carbon ceramic brakes are a type of high-performance braking system that uses carbon fiber and ceramic materials. They offer excellent stopping power, reduced weight, and improved heat resistance compared to traditional brakes.
iDrive system
"some notable features of the BMW M2 would be the iDrive system with customizable M modes."
The iDrive system is a technology in BMW cars that helps you control things like navigation and music using a screen. It also lets you choose different driving styles.
The iDrive system is BMW's infotainment and control interface, allowing drivers to manage navigation, media, and vehicle settings through a central display and controller. It includes customizable driving modes for enhanced performance.
quarter mile
"Quarter mile, if you wanna know, it's 11.8 or just around 12 seconds."
The quarter mile is a distance used in racing to see how fast a car can go. It's about 1,320 feet long, and racers often time how quickly they can complete it.
The quarter mile is a standard drag racing distance of 1,320 feet (402 meters). It's commonly used to measure a car's acceleration and performance.
Chevrolet Chevelle
"I mean, I had my 69 Chevelle with a 396, was doing maybe 14, but that was a heavier car and it was a coupe too, but I missed that car."
The Chevrolet Chevelle is a classic car that was made in the late 1960s and is known for its powerful engines and sporty design. The 1969 model is especially loved by collectors.
The Chevrolet Chevelle is a mid-sized car that was produced by Chevrolet from 1964 to 1977. The 1969 model is particularly popular among car enthusiasts for its classic muscle car styling and performance.
sticker price
"Sticker price is up there, 69,375 as tested."
The sticker price is the price that is shown on a car when you look at it in a dealership. It's the amount the manufacturer suggests the car should be sold for.
The sticker price refers to the manufacturer's suggested retail price (MSRP) displayed on the vehicle's window. It indicates the price at which the manufacturer recommends selling the car.
Chevrolet Corvette
"So the next car up is the 2025 Chevelle Corvette. Now this is the new style Corvette with the mid-engine..."
The Chevrolet Corvette is a famous sports car from America. The 2025 version has its engine located in the middle of the car, which helps it drive better and handle turns more effectively.
The Chevrolet Corvette is an iconic American sports car known for its performance and distinctive design. The 2025 model features a mid-engine layout, which enhances its handling and balance.
Corvette certified dealer
"is actually a Corvette dealer and the one we buy our cars from up in Lansing is a Corvette certified dealer"
A Corvette certified dealer is a special type of car dealership that is approved by Chevrolet to sell Corvettes. They know a lot about these cars and can help you with buying and servicing them.
A Corvette certified dealer is a dealership that has met specific standards set by Chevrolet to sell and service Corvette vehicles. This certification ensures that the dealer has the necessary knowledge and resources to provide the best experience for Corvette buyers.
0-60 time
"it does a zero to 60 in two and a half seconds if you can get it to hook up."
0-60 time is how long it takes for a car to go from stopped to going really fast—60 miles per hour. It's a way to see how quickly a car can speed up.
0-60 time refers to the duration it takes for a vehicle to accelerate from a complete stop to 60 miles per hour. It's a common performance metric used to gauge a car's acceleration capabilities.
traction control
"I would assume that it's got traction control and that would get you there."
Traction control helps a car keep its grip on the road when it's trying to go fast. It stops the wheels from spinning too much, which can happen on wet or slippery surfaces.
Traction control is a system in vehicles that helps prevent wheel spin during acceleration by adjusting engine power or applying brakes to individual wheels. This technology enhances stability and control, especially in slippery conditions.
roll cage
"So most drag strips, you'd need a roll cage in that thing if you were gonna go down the drag strip with it."
A roll cage is a strong frame inside a car that helps keep people safe if the car flips over or crashes. It's especially important in racing cars.
A roll cage is a framework installed in a vehicle to protect occupants in the event of a rollover or crash. It adds structural integrity and is often required in racing for safety purposes.
top speed
"Top speed of almost 200 miles an hour. And that's obviously what GM says."
Top speed is how fast a car can go when everything is perfect. It's the highest speed the car can reach.
Top speed is the maximum speed a vehicle can achieve under optimal conditions. It's a key performance indicator for many car enthusiasts and manufacturers.
supercharger
"You know, the Blackwing part of it gets you the supercharger. If it's not a Blackwing, you're still gonna get a 6.2 and it's still gonna be super fast."
A supercharger is a machine that helps the engine get more air, which makes it run faster and produce more power.
A supercharger is a device that forces more air into the engine's combustion chamber, allowing for more fuel to be burned and thus increasing the engine's power output.
6.2 engine
"If it's not a Blackwing, you're still gonna get a 6.2 and it's still gonna be super fast. But this one's gotta be ridiculous."
The 6.2 engine is a type of V8 engine that is very powerful, often used in fast cars to give them a lot of speed.
The 6.2 engine refers to a V8 engine configuration with a displacement of 6.2 liters, commonly found in high-performance vehicles, providing significant power and torque.
supercharged V8 engine
"and it's got 668 horsepower, 6.2 supercharged V8 engine."
A supercharged V8 engine is a type of engine that has a special device to help it get more air, which makes it more powerful and faster.
A supercharged V8 engine uses a supercharger to force more air into the engine, allowing it to burn more fuel and produce more power. This results in increased performance compared to a naturally aspirated engine.
miles per gallon
"and then it gets 15 miles to the gallon."
Miles per gallon (MPG) tells you how far a car can go on one gallon of gas. Higher numbers mean the car is more fuel-efficient.
Miles per gallon (MPG) measures how far a vehicle can travel on one gallon of fuel. It's a key indicator of fuel efficiency and can impact running costs.
Cadillac Ctsv
"...e Cadillac CT5V Blackwing. And I'm sorry if I say CTSV, because those were cool too,"
The Cadillac CTS-V is a fast and powerful car that combines luxury with performance. It’s designed for people who want a comfortable ride that can also go really fast.
The Cadillac CTS-V is a high-performance version of the CTS sedan, known for its powerful engine and sporty handling. It represents Cadillac's commitment to performance and luxury, often competing with European sports sedans.
Cadillac Ct4V
"...tle brother is also one of the top 10 cars is the Cadillac CT4V Blackwing with the twin turbocharged V6"
The Cadillac CT4 is a smaller luxury car that’s fun to drive and has a lot of modern tech features. It’s made for people who want a stylish car that’s also comfortable.
The Cadillac CT4 is a compact luxury sedan that emphasizes sporty performance and advanced technology. It is designed to attract younger buyers while maintaining Cadillac's reputation for comfort and refinement.
twin-turbocharged V6
"is the Cadillac CT4V Blackwing with the twin turbocharged V6 that just about goes almost as fast as the Blackwing..."
A twin-turbocharged V6 engine has two turbochargers that help it produce more power. This makes the car faster and more efficient.
A twin-turbocharged V6 engine uses two turbochargers to increase the engine's power output and efficiency. This setup allows for quicker acceleration and improved performance compared to naturally aspirated engines.
Cadillac CT5
"...about goes almost as fast as the Blackwing or the CT5. So you're getting 475 horsepower,"
The Cadillac CT5 is a stylish and comfortable car that offers a smooth ride. It has powerful engines and lots of modern features, making it a nice choice for those who want a luxury vehicle.
The Cadillac CT5 is a mid-size luxury sedan that offers a blend of performance, technology, and comfort. With a range of powerful engine options, it aims to compete with other luxury brands while providing a distinctive Cadillac experience.
fuel mileage
"this thing gets like five miles to the gallon, about a fuel mileage."
Fuel mileage tells you how far a car can go on a gallon of gas. Higher numbers mean better fuel efficiency, which saves money.
Fuel mileage, often expressed in miles per gallon (MPG), indicates how far a vehicle can travel on a gallon of fuel. It's a crucial factor for assessing a car's efficiency and running costs.
adaptive cruise control
"it's got adaptive cruise forward collision"
Adaptive cruise control helps your car keep a safe distance from the car ahead by automatically speeding up or slowing down. It makes highway driving easier and safer.
Adaptive cruise control is an advanced driver assistance system that automatically adjusts a vehicle's speed to maintain a safe distance from the car in front. It enhances convenience and safety during highway driving.
Honda Accord
"... the first mid-sized sedan coming up is the Honda Accord. Now this is a big shocker."
The Honda Accord is a type of car called a sedan, which means it has four doors and a trunk. It's known for being dependable and good on gas, making it a favorite for many people who need a car for everyday use.
The Honda Accord is a mid-sized sedan known for its reliability, spacious interior, and fuel efficiency. It has been a staple in the automotive market since its introduction in 1976, often praised for its balance of performance and comfort, making it a popular choice for families and commuters alike.
hybrid powertrain
"But hey, you know, it's got a hybrid powertrain and it's got a turbo four cylinder, which gives you that 192 horse."
A hybrid powertrain is a system that uses both a regular engine and an electric motor. This helps the car save fuel and produce less pollution.
A hybrid powertrain combines an internal combustion engine with an electric motor to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. This technology allows vehicles to operate on electric power alone or in combination with gasoline, depending on driving conditions.
turbo four cylinder
"...it's got a hybrid powertrain and it's got a turbo four cylinder, which gives you that 192 horse."
A turbo four cylinder engine is a smaller engine that uses a special device called a turbocharger to make more power without using a lot of fuel. This helps the car go faster while still being efficient.
A turbo four cylinder engine is a type of internal combustion engine that uses a turbocharger to increase power output while maintaining fuel efficiency. The turbocharger compresses the air entering the engine, allowing for more fuel to be burned and resulting in higher performance.
Honda Civic
"... next one's it's a little brother, it's the Honda Civic. And again, they redesigned that Honda Civic"
The Honda Civic is a smaller car that is popular for being fun to drive and saving money on gas. It's a great option for people who want a reliable vehicle that’s easy to park and maneuver.
The Honda Civic is a compact car that has gained a reputation for its sporty handling, fuel efficiency, and practicality. Redesigned multiple times since its launch in 1972, it appeals to a wide range of drivers, from young enthusiasts to those seeking a reliable daily driver.
Honda That Honda
"it's the Honda Civic. And again, they redesigned that Honda Civic and their target audiences,"
The Honda That's is a small car that’s designed to be easy to drive and park in busy city areas. It’s practical and has a unique look that makes it stand out.
The Honda That's is a compact car primarily marketed in Japan, known for its unique design and practicality. While it may not be as well-known internationally, it represents Honda's innovation in creating versatile vehicles for urban environments.
MSRP
"...the Honda Civic is decently priced at, you know, between 26,000 and 48,000..."
MSRP is the price that the car maker suggests the car should be sold for. It can be different from what you actually pay at the dealership.
MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price. It is the price that the manufacturer recommends that retailers sell a vehicle for, but actual sale prices can vary based on demand and dealership pricing strategies.
Porsche Boxster
"...ars are basically the same. It's got the Subaru's Boxster engine but with Toyota in put on the design"
The Porsche Boxster is a sporty car that you can drive with the top down. It's known for being fun to drive and has a powerful engine, making it a favorite among car enthusiasts.
The Porsche Boxster is a two-seat convertible sports car that combines performance with everyday usability. Known for its mid-engine layout and precise handling, it has become a symbol of affordable luxury sports cars since its debut in the late 1990s.
Volkswagen Golf
"...o coming up next, we got a German car, Volkswagen Golf, the GTI and the Golf R. Kinda similar to what it..."
The Volkswagen Golf is a small car that’s easy to drive and has a lot of space inside for passengers and cargo. It’s known for being fun to drive and comes in different versions, some of which are sportier than others.
The Volkswagen Golf is a versatile compact car that has been a favorite in the automotive world for decades. Known for its practicality, solid build quality, and enjoyable driving experience, the Golf is available in various trims, including the sporty GTI and performance-oriented Golf R.
Lucid Air
"...t we got an all electric vehicle. It's called the Lucid Air. The model that they tested was the Lucid Air Pur..."
The Lucid Air is a fancy electric car that can go really far on a single charge. It has lots of high-tech features and is designed to be very comfortable and stylish.
The Lucid Air is a luxury electric sedan that showcases cutting-edge technology and impressive performance, including long-range capabilities and rapid charging. It represents Lucid Motors' ambition to compete in the high-end electric vehicle market against brands like Tesla.
Chevrolet Silverado
"I can get 400 miles out of a tank of fuel on my Silverado with a V8 engine. So keep that in mind."
The Chevrolet Silverado is a big truck that can carry heavy loads and tow trailers. It’s great for people who need a strong vehicle for work or outdoor activities.
The Chevrolet Silverado is a full-size pickup truck known for its strong performance, towing capabilities, and spacious interior. It is a popular choice among truck enthusiasts and those needing a reliable workhorse for both personal and commercial use.
Lucid Gravity
"They got SUVs too. The gravity is available and I don't know that I know of a Lu..."
The Lucid Gravity is a new electric SUV that doesn’t use gas. It’s designed to be very comfortable and has a lot of high-tech features, making it a modern choice for families.
The Lucid Gravity is an all-electric SUV from Lucid Motors, designed to offer luxury and advanced technology in a spacious package. As part of the growing electric vehicle market, it aims to compete with established luxury brands while providing impressive range and performance.
Chevrolet C10
"...ry and get Danny on here so we can talk about the C10. Either way, I'm gonna talk about the progress"
The Chevrolet C10 is an older model truck that many people love because of its classic look and sturdy build. It’s popular for restoration and customization projects.
The Chevrolet C10 is a classic pickup truck that was produced from the 1960s to the early 1990s, known for its simple design and durability. It has become a favorite among collectors and enthusiasts who appreciate its vintage style and ease of customization.
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