Which car is the most technologically advanced in 2025?

The Mercedes‑Benz EQS (and its S‑Class sibling) equipped with Drive Pilot is the most technologically advanced production car you can realistically buy in 2025, chiefly because it’s one of the only vehicles with certified SAE Level 3 automated driving available in multiple markets. That edge, combined with an expansive digital cockpit, sophisticated safety redundancies, and comprehensive over‑the‑air support, puts it narrowly ahead—though rivals like the Lucid Air, Tesla Model S, and the refreshed Porsche Taycan lead in specific tech domains.

What “most technologically advanced” actually means

“Most technological” can vary by what you value: automated driving capability, electric powertrain efficiency and charging speed, software and over‑the‑air updates, or human‑machine interface and safety systems. No single model dominates every category simultaneously, but a clear frontrunner emerges when you consider certified autonomy plus breadth of in‑car innovation.

The frontrunner: Mercedes‑Benz EQS (with Drive Pilot)

Mercedes is currently the only automaker selling a Level 3 automated driving system in both Europe and the United States. Drive Pilot is available on the EQS and S‑Class in Germany and select U.S. states (including California and Nevada), allowing the car—not the human—to be legally responsible for driving in specific highway traffic conditions at limited speeds. This regulatory and technical milestone is a major differentiator in 2025.

Key technology pillars include a lidar‑equipped sensor suite (cameras, radar, lidar, microphones, moisture sensors), high‑definition maps with precise positioning, and redundancies in steering, braking, and power to enable safe fallback maneuvers. Inside, the MBUX Hyperscreen spans the dashboard with multiple displays, augmented‑reality navigation, rich voice control, and robust over‑the‑air updates. The EQS also offers rear‑axle steering, advanced active safety, and quiet, efficient electric cruising—even if its 400‑volt architecture charges more slowly than the latest 800–900‑volt rivals.

Category leaders that challenge the crown

Several cars out-tech the EQS in specific areas. Here’s how the competition stacks up by category, highlighting where each vehicle pushes the envelope.

• Software, OTA, and supervised autonomy: Tesla Model S

  Tesla’s FSD (currently supervised, SAE Level 2) and frequent over‑the‑air updates make the Model S a software standout. Its camera‑only approach and end‑to‑end neural networks are ambitious, though Tesla lacks regulatory approval for hands‑off Level 3 in public traffic and still requires constant driver supervision.

• Powertrain efficiency and charging architecture: Lucid Air

  With a 900‑volt system, compact high‑efficiency motors, and excellent thermal management, the Lucid Air delivers class‑leading real‑world efficiency and very fast DC charging. Certain trims offer the longest EPA‑rated ranges in the industry alongside cutting‑edge inverters and a powerful bidirectional‑ready charging unit.

• 800‑volt performance and thermal robustness: 2025 Porsche Taycan

  The refreshed Taycan pushes 800‑volt charging to new heights (peak rates around 320 kW in ideal conditions), backed by sophisticated thermal control that sustains repeat performance. Its chassis electronics and driver involvement set a high bar for tech‑infused performance EVs.

• Certified Level 3 alternatives: BMW 7 Series (i7/7 Series)

  BMW’s Personal Pilot L3 is available in Germany on the 7 Series and i7 for hands‑off, eyes‑off driving in limited scenarios (motorways up to defined speeds), demonstrating another credible, certified approach to Level 3 automation.

• Emerging China‑first innovation: NIO and Xiaomi

  NIO has pioneered large‑scale battery swapping and demonstrated a 150 kWh semi‑solid‑state pack in limited use, while Xiaomi’s SU7 integrates phone‑grade software, lidar‑assisted ADAS, and 800‑volt fast charging. Availability is largely China‑focused for now.

• Design‑driven tech showcases: Cadillac Celestiq and others

  Ultra‑low‑volume flagships like the Celestiq debut novel features (e.g., multi‑zone smart glass roof, hand‑built electronics integration). Driver assistance remains Level 2 in most cases, though the hardware is future‑leaning.

Taken together, these contenders demonstrate that “most advanced” is plural: Tesla leads in software cadence, Lucid in efficiency and charging voltage, Porsche in sustained high‑performance electrification, and BMW in expanding Level 3 beyond Mercedes’ orbit. Availability and regulatory approvals, however, still give Mercedes a practical edge.

How to decide what’s “most technological” for you

Choosing the right tech leader depends on your priorities and where you live. Use the checklist below to match features with your real‑world needs and legal environment.

• Autonomy priority: If you want legally recognized hands‑off capability today, look for certified Level 3 in your country/state (e.g., Mercedes Drive Pilot, BMW Personal Pilot L3 in Germany).
• Charging and long‑distance travel: For the fastest DC sessions and minimal time at plugs, favor 800–900‑volt platforms with strong preconditioning and robust public charging support (Lucid Air, Porsche Taycan).
• Software pace and OTA depth: If frequent feature drops and UI evolution matter most, Tesla’s OTA ecosystem remains the most aggressive; Mercedes, BMW, and others now offer meaningful OTA as well.
• Interface and cabin tech: For the most immersive cockpit with AR and multi‑display integration, Mercedes’ Hyperscreen and BMW’s theater‑grade rear cabins are benchmarks.
• Regional ecosystem: In China, brands like NIO and Xiaomi deliver bleeding‑edge integrations (battery swap, phone‑native OS, city NOA), but check export availability and feature localization.

By weighing these factors against your routes, charging options, and local regulations, you can identify the car whose technology will benefit you the most day to day, rather than in spec sheets alone.

Verdict

On balance, the Mercedes‑Benz EQS (with Drive Pilot) currently holds the broadest, most consequential tech lead you can buy globally, thanks to certified Level 3 autonomy in real markets paired with a deep sensor stack, redundancy, and a richly integrated digital cabin. If your focus is powertrain innovation and rapid charging, the Lucid Air is the benchmark; for software velocity and OTA scale, the Tesla Model S remains compelling; for performance‑centric electrification with blistering 800‑volt charging, the 2025 Porsche Taycan is the standout. Your “most technological” winner should align with the tech you’ll actually use.

Summary

The most technologically advanced car you can realistically purchase in 2025 is the Mercedes‑Benz EQS equipped with Drive Pilot, owing to its certified Level 3 automated driving and comprehensive in‑car technology. Close rivals lead in specific arenas: Lucid Air (efficiency and 900‑V charging), Tesla Model S (software and OTA cadence), Porsche Taycan (800‑V performance and charging), and BMW 7 Series (expanding Level 3 availability). The right choice depends on whether you prioritize certified autonomy, charging speed, software updates, or cabin tech—and where those features are legally supported where you drive.

What is the most intelligent car?

Top 10 Smartest Cars in the World

• Audi Q7.
• BMW X7.
• Mercedes-Benz EQE SUV.
• HiPhi X.
• Nio ET7. Another pride of the Chinese automotive industry is the first electric sedan from Nio.
• Tesla Model Y. Once again, an electric crossover, this time from Tesla Corporation.
• Volkswagen ID.6. Interestingly, both ID.
• Cadillac Lyriq.

What’s the best car with no problems?

Cars from brands like Lexus, Toyota, Honda, Mazda, and Porsche consistently rank high in reliability studies, indicating they tend to have fewer problems. Specific reliable models to consider include the Toyota Camry, Lexus RX, and Toyota Prius, though it’s always best to check the latest ratings from sources like J.D. Power and Consumer Reports for the most current information.
 
Top Reliable Brands

• Lexus: Toyota’s luxury division frequently tops reliability rankings due to its strong dependability scores. 
• Toyota: A consistent leader in the mass market segment, known for its durable vehicles. 
• Honda: Ranks highly for its reliable and long-lasting vehicles, often appearing on best-of lists. 
• Mazda: Known for strong reliability, with some models demonstrating very high dependability in various areas. 
• Porsche: A top-ranking premium brand for dependability. 

Reliable Models

• Toyota Camry: A perennial favorite for its strong track record, longevity, and low maintenance costs. 
• Lexus RX: A top choice for a reliable luxury SUV, with high owner satisfaction. 
• Toyota Prius: Praised as a highly reliable and inexpensive hybrid to own, with low maintenance costs. 

Where to Find Current Information

• J.D. Power: Publishes annual studies on vehicle dependability, providing detailed data and rankings. 
• Consumer Reports: Offers comprehensive reliability ratings for new cars, trucks, and SUVs based on owner surveys. 
• Other Sources: Keep an eye on reports from reputable automotive publications like MotorTrend and Indy Auto Man for ongoing reliability data. 

What is the newest car technology?

New car technology focuses on artificial intelligence (AI) for improved safety and automation, advanced electric vehicle (EV) platforms for better performance and sustainability, enhanced connectivity through vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication and 5G, and refined driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that provide hands-free driving capabilities. Other developments include immersive infotainment, augmented reality displays, biometric access, cabin health sensors, and the return of physical buttons for key controls.
 
Safety & Driver Assistance

• Advanced Driver-Assistance Systems (ADAS): Features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking are becoming more sophisticated and standard, with many vehicles now offering hands-free driving in certain conditions. 
• AI-Powered Perception: Vehicles are gaining enhanced environmental awareness through AI-driven 360-degree cameras and sensors, enabling them to “see” beyond obstructions and communicate with other vehicles. 
• Biometric Vehicle Access: Keyless entry systems are evolving to include biometric scanners, allowing drivers to access their cars with their fingerprints or other personal data. 
• Cybersecurity: As cars become more connected, advanced cybersecurity measures are being implemented to protect vehicle systems and personal data. 

Electric & Sustainable Technology 

• Next-Generation EV Platforms: Opens in new tabNew platforms are improving EV performance, efficiency, and battery technology, moving EVs beyond a “eco-friendly” reputation to become performance leaders.
• Sustainable Interior Materials: Opens in new tabThe focus on eco-conscious design extends to the interior, with a greater use of sustainable materials in car cabins.

Connectivity & Infotainment

• V2X Communication: Opens in new tabVehicle-to-Everything (V2X) technology allows cars to communicate with other vehicles, infrastructure, and pedestrians, improving safety and traffic efficiency. 
• Augmented Reality (AR): Opens in new tabAugmented Reality Head-Up Displays are transforming the driver’s experience by overlaying navigation and other information directly onto the windshield. 
• Seamless Smartphone & Cloud Integration: Opens in new tabCars are becoming deeply integrated with users’ digital lives, offering seamless connectivity to smartphones, apps, and cloud-based services. 

User Interface & Experience

• Return of Physical Buttons: After years of touchscreen dominance, some automakers are bringing back physical buttons and knobs for crucial functions like volume and climate control, citing improved ease of use. 
• Smart Climate Control & Cabin Health: In-car climate control is becoming smarter, integrating sensors to monitor and improve the cabin’s health and wellness. 

Which car is the most futuristic?

There is no single “most futuristic car,” but some strong contenders include the Mercedes-Benz Vision AVTR, a concept inspired by Avatar with bionic flaps, independent wheel movement, and a bio-connected control interface; the Klein Vision AirCar, a unique vehicle that functions as both a car and a plane; and the BMW i Vision D, a concept known for its customizable E-Ink body that can change color. Other futuristic vehicles include the Tesla Cybertruck for its advanced charging and potential amphibious capabilities, and the DS X E-Tense, a self-repairing concept with a three-seat, asymmetrical design and advanced driver focus. 
Mercedes-Benz Vision AVTR 

• Bio-connection: The car is named after the movie Avatar and is designed to be connected to the driver’s body. 
• Bionic flaps: 33 “bionic flaps” at the rear move independently, resembling scales, changing color for braking or accelerating. 
• Advanced mobility: Spherical wheels allow the car to move diagonally and “crabwalk”. 
• Driver control: There is no traditional steering wheel; instead, a central control element responds to a placed hand for steering and acceleration. 

Klein Vision AirCar 

• Amphibious capability: This car is notable for its ability to transform from a car into an airplane.

BMW i Vision D 

• Color-changing body: The concept features an E-Ink exterior that can change its color on demand, similar to a Kindle.

Other Futuristic Cars & Features

• Tesla Cybertruck: Known for its advanced one-megawatt liquid-cooled charging capability and claims of being waterproof enough to float. 
• DS X E-Tense: A high-performance electric concept with self-healing body panels, an asymmetrical design, and a cocoon-like interior. 
• Hyundai Ioniq 5: A production electric vehicle praised for its futuristic styling and smooth, quiet ride. 
• BMW iX: A production electric SUV with an electrochromatic panoramic roof and self-healing body components that can eliminate minor scratches.