Front-wheel drive (FWD) cars are incredibly common on roads today, and for good reason. They’ve become a staple for everyday drivers, blending affordability with practicality. For manufacturers, FWD is often more cost-effective to engineer and produce, which translates to lower prices for consumers. This is why you’ll find that the majority of budget-friendly vehicles come with front-wheel drive as the standard configuration.
While automotive enthusiasts might lean towards the sporty feel of rear-wheel drive (RWD) or the enhanced grip of all-wheel drive (AWD), the humble FWD car holds significant advantages for the average driver. For many, the primary concerns are keeping costs down and ensuring reliable, fuss-free transportation. With these priorities in mind, we’ve compiled a list of the best front-wheel drive cars you can expect to see in 2025 in the USA.
To help you compare these vehicles, we’ve used our proprietary BuzzScore system. This score reflects how a vehicle stacks up against its direct competitors in its segment. It’s important to note that while cars on this list may have similar scores, they don’t necessarily compete in the same vehicle class. To understand more about how BuzzScore works, you can check out our detailed explanation here. We continually update these rankings to reflect the latest BuzzScores and new vehicle releases.
1. Honda Civic Type R
2025 Honda Civic Type R
BuzzScore: 8.9/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $45,895
Engine: 2.0L I4 Turbo
Horsepower: 315 hp
Drivetrain: FWD
Honda’s reputation for producing some of the best handling front-wheel-drive cars is well-earned, and the Honda Civic Type R sits at the pinnacle of their FWD performance lineup. Even with a recent price increase for the 2025 model year, starting at $45,895, the Type R delivers an exhilarating driving experience.
Under the hood is a potent 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine churning out 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Independent tests have shown the Type R can sprint from 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds and reach a top speed of 170 mph. As the most powerful Civic variant, it boasts a range of sporty enhancements, including high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires and Brembo brakes. While it might be a bit loud on long highway drives, it retains the practical spacious rear seats and trunk of the standard Civic hatchback.
However, the true magic of the Civic Type R lies in its cornering prowess. It defies typical FWD understeer, feeling remarkably agile in turns. Lifting off the throttle allows the rear axle to rotate smoothly, showcasing a chassis that’s incredibly balanced and forgiving, preventing snap oversteer unless provoked by significant driver error.
- Ian Wright, CarBuzz
Related: America’s Favorite Manual Car Maker Of 2024 Was…
2. Honda Civic Si Sedan
2025 Honda Civic Si Sedan
BuzzScore: 8.8/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $30,250
Engine: 1.5L I4 Turbo
Horsepower: 200 hp
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Stepping down slightly from the extreme performance of the Type R, the Honda Civic Si Sedan still offers a significant dose of fun. It comes exclusively with a manual transmission, delivers ample power for spirited driving, and boasts a considerably more accessible price tag, starting at $30,250. This makes the Si Sedan a compelling value proposition for driving enthusiasts.
Beneath the hood is a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain allows the Si Sedan to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just under seven seconds and reach a top speed of 130 mph. The Si also benefits from performance-oriented features such as available high-performance summer tires, ventilated front brake discs, and a MacPherson strut front suspension, enhancing its handling capabilities.
Related: 5 Ways The 2025 Honda Civic Si Has Seriously Upped Its Game
3. Kia K5
2025 Kia K5
BuzzScore: 8.8/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $27,190
Engine: 2.5L Four-Cylinder | 2.5L Turbo Four-Cylinder
Horsepower: 191 hp (2.5L) | 290 hp (2.5T)
Kia’s front-wheel-drive offerings are also strong contenders in the market. The Kia K5 competes directly with popular sedans like the Honda Civic and Toyota Camry, both of which also appear on this list. The K5 is available in five distinct trim levels, with the base model starting at an attractive $27,190.
Most K5 trims are powered by a 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine that produces 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more performance, the GT trim upgrades to a turbocharged version of the 2.5-liter engine, boosting output to 290 hp and 311 lb-ft. The 2025 K5 received a significant interior refresh, featuring an available single-pane, curved 12-inch gauge cluster and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, elevating its cabin to a more modern and sophisticated level.
4. Kia Carnival
2025 Kia Carnival
BuzzScore: 8.8/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $36,800
Engine: 3.5L V6 Gas | 1.6L Turbo I4 Hybrid
Horsepower: 287 hp (V6) | 242 hp (hybrid)
Drivetrain: FWD
Shifting from sedans to family-oriented vehicles, the Kia Carnival is another excellent front-wheel-drive option from Kia. This minivan offers a compelling blend of affordability, an available hybrid powertrain, and respectable fuel economy, making it a practical choice for larger families. The base LX model starts at $36,800, which undercuts the price of the Toyota Sienna.
Powertrain choices include a 3.5-liter V6 producing 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, or a more fuel-efficient 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid system with a combined output of 242 hp and 271 lb-ft. The gasoline-powered Carnival achieves an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 16 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined, while the hybrid version significantly improves these figures to 34/31/33 mpg city/highway/combined.
5. Volkswagen Golf GTI
2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI
BuzzScore: 8.6/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $31,965
Engine: 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
Horsepower: 262 hp
The Volkswagen Golf GTI has maintained a special place in the hearts of car enthusiasts for decades. This latest generation continues the tradition, offering a potent engine and engaging front-wheel-drive dynamics. The GTI starts at $32,445 for the S trim, presenting a strong value proposition, especially when compared to more expensive competitors like the Toyota GR Corolla.
While official power figures for the 2025 GTI haven’t been released yet, the outgoing model is equipped with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. If these figures remain consistent, the new GTI should maintain its ability to accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in around 5.5 seconds. The Golf GTI remains a benchmark for front-wheel-drive performance and everyday usability.
6. Honda Civic Sedan
2025 Honda Civic Sedan
BuzzScore: 8.6/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $24,250
Engine: 2.0L I4 | 2.0L I4 hybrid
Horsepower: 150 hp (2.0L) | 200 hp combined (hybrid)
Base Trim Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
If you don’t require the sporty enhancements of the Civic Si or Type R, the standard Honda Civic Sedan remains an excellent and sensible choice. It prioritizes practicality and efficiency over outright performance, offering reliable and economical transportation. While it forgoes frills and a manual transmission, it excels at its core purpose: safely and efficiently getting you from point A to point B.
The base LX trim starts at $24,250 and features a 2.0L four-cylinder engine producing 150 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. For increased fuel efficiency and performance, the top two trims offer a 2.0L four-cylinder hybrid powertrain with a combined output of 200 hp. If passenger space is a primary concern, it’s worth comparing the Civic to the larger Honda Accord.
7. Toyota Camry
2025 Toyota Camry
BuzzScore: 8.5/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $28,400
Engine: 2.5L Inline-4 Hybrid
Horsepower: 225 hp (FWD) | 232 hp (AWD)
The Toyota Camry has made a bold move for 2025, transitioning to an all-hybrid powertrain lineup. While some may miss the V6 option, the new Camry compensates with improved fuel economy and a more refined driving experience. Starting at $28,700 for the FWD LE trim, the 2025 Camry presents a compelling package.
Powering the new Camry is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid system delivering a total system output of 225 horsepower in front-wheel-drive models. The FWD LE trim is also the most fuel-efficient, achieving an impressive EPA-estimated 53/50/51 mpg city/highway/combined. We were so impressed with the 2025 Camry that we named it the inaugural CarBuzz Car of the Year.
Mixed with the Camry’s good manners, it’s easy to claim the new Camry is the best yet – at least in XSE form. Where this writer feels Honda has dropped the ball with the Accord’s sporty flavor, Toyota appears to have picked that up and, rather than continuing to ease into going all hybrid, has committed to it and now gives buyers more choice in terms of hybrid trims.
- Ian Wright, CarBuzz
Related: 2025 Toyota Camry Crowned First-Ever CarBuzz Car Of The Year
8. Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class
2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class
BuzzScore: 8.4/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $44,400
Engine: 2.0L Turbo Inline-4 Gas
Horsepower: 221 hp
Mercedes-Benz offers a selection of excellent front-wheel-drive vehicles, and the CLA-Class is a highly-rated example. The entry-level CLA 250 starts at $44,400 and provides a taste of luxury in a compact sedan form.
Powering the front wheels is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder mild-hybrid engine that produces 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Mercedes-Benz estimates a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 6.3 seconds for the CLA 250. Standard features include heated side mirrors, 64-color ambient lighting, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a panoramic sunroof, and elegant brushed aluminum interior trim, creating a premium and comfortable cabin environment.
9. Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
BuzzScore: 8.3/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $45,800
Engine: 2.0-Liter Turbo I4
Horsepower: 221 hp
For families needing an SUV with Mercedes-Benz luxury, the GLB-Class is a compelling option. The base GLB 250 SUV starts at $45,800 and offers a blend of practicality and premium features.
It shares the same 2.0-liter four-cylinder mild-hybrid engine as the CLA, producing 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Due to its slightly heavier weight, the GLB 250 achieves a 0-60 mph time of around 6.9 seconds. The GLB-Class is a versatile family vehicle, offering optional seating for up to seven passengers. Second-row passengers enjoy 38.1 inches of legroom, while third-row occupants get 29.1 inches. Folding down the rear seats expands the cargo capacity to a maximum of 62 cubic feet.
10. Buick Envista
2025 Buick Envista
BuzzScore: 8.1/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $22,900
Base Trim Engine: 1.2L ECOTEC I3 ICE
Base Trim Horsepower: 137 HP @5000 RPM
Luxury doesn’t always require a hefty price tag, and the Buick Envista demonstrates this perfectly. While not strictly a “luxury vehicle,” it offers a surprisingly upscale look and feel for its affordable price point. The Envista is available in multiple trim levels, with the base “Preferred” model starting at just $23,800.
Under the hood is a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Despite its compact size and engine, the Envista’s interior feels surprisingly spacious, accommodating up to five passengers. Rear-seat occupants benefit from 37.3 inches of headroom and 38.7 inches of legroom. The Buick Envista proves that you can get a stylish and well-equipped front-wheel-drive vehicle without breaking the bank.
Best Of The Rest
2025 Buick Encore GX
BuzzScore: 8.0/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $26,000
Base Trim Engine: 1.2L Turbo I3
Base Trim Horsepower: 137 hp
2025 Chevrolet Trax
BuzzScore: 7.9/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $20,400
Engine: 1.2L Turbo 3 Cylinder Gas
Horsepower: 137 hp
Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
2025 Hyundai Tucson
BuzzScore: 7.3/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $28,605
Engine: 2.5L Inline-4 Gas
Horsepower: 187 hp
Drivetrain: FWD | AWD
Characteristics Of Front-Wheel-Drive Cars
Front-wheel-drive cars are available in a vast array of body styles and sizes, making broad generalizations challenging. However, certain defining characteristics consistently emerge due to the drivetrain configuration:
- Price: FWD systems are generally less complex and quicker to manufacture, leading to more affordable vehicles, even among top-rated FWD models. Entry-level cars often utilize FWD to minimize production costs and keep prices accessible.
- Traction: While FWD doesn’t match the all-weather grip of AWD, placing the engine weight directly over the drive wheels provides good traction, especially on slippery surfaces. FWD cars typically offer superior traction in snow or wet conditions compared to RWD vehicles.
- Practicality: Eliminating the need for bulky rear-wheel drive components frees up interior space for passengers and cargo. This design efficiency often translates to more spacious cabins and trunks in FWD vehicles.
- Efficiency: Lighter weight, inherent in FWD designs, contributes to better fuel economy. FWD cars generally achieve commendable gas mileage figures, making them economical to operate.
Related: 11 Best-Handling Cars With Front-Wheel Drive
What To Consider When Buying Cars With FWD
The selection of FWD cars is extensive, and while many excellent choices exist, it’s crucial to be aware of both the advantages and potential drawbacks. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of FWD will help you make an informed decision.
Pros
- Most Affordable Drivetrain: Generally, FWD is the most cost-effective drivetrain option, making vehicles more accessible to a wider range of buyers.
- Enhanced Traction in Slippery Conditions: FWD offers better traction than RWD in snow, ice, and rain, providing added confidence in challenging weather.
- Spacious Interiors: The FWD layout maximizes interior space, resulting in more passenger and cargo room compared to RWD counterparts in similar vehicle classes.
- Improved Fuel Economy: Lighter weight and efficient design contribute to better gas mileage, lowering running costs.
Cons
- Torque Steer: Powerful FWD cars can sometimes exhibit torque steer, a sensation of the steering wheel pulling to one side during hard acceleration.
- Limited Towing Capacity: FWD vehicles typically have lower towing capacities compared to AWD or RWD cars, especially trucks and SUVs.
- Not Ideal for High-Performance Applications: While some FWD cars are sporty, RWD and AWD are generally preferred for ultimate performance driving due to better weight distribution and handling dynamics at the limit.
Sources: Honda, Kia, Volkswagen, Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, Buick
