Front-wheel drive (FWD) cars dominate the automotive landscape for a multitude of compelling reasons. Renowned for their cost-effectiveness in engineering and manufacturing, FWD vehicles have become the quintessential choice for everyday drivers. This inherent affordability naturally positions them as the go-to drivetrain for budget-conscious consumers and entry-level models. While automotive enthusiasts might yearn for the dynamic thrills of rear-wheel drive (RWD) and drivers in challenging terrains might seek the enhanced traction of all-wheel drive (AWD), the practicality and dependability of the humble FWD car remain undeniable. For a significant portion of car buyers, the primary concerns revolve around minimizing expenses and ensuring hassle-free commutes. It’s this demand that solidifies front-wheel-drive cars as the default configuration in the automotive market.
In recognition of the enduring appeal and widespread availability of Fwd Cars, we’ve compiled a definitive ranking of the best front-wheel-drive cars of 2025 available in the USA. Our selections are based on a comprehensive BuzzScore system, which evaluates vehicles against their direct segment competitors. 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 delve deeper into the intricacies of the BuzzScore rating methodology, you can explore here. This curated list is continuously updated to reflect the most current BuzzScores and incorporate new vehicles as they are introduced to the market.
1. Honda Civic Type R
2025 Honda Civic Type R
8.9/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $45,895
Engine: 2.0L I4 Turbo
Horsepower: 315 hp
Drivetrain: FWD
Honda’s legacy of producing some of the best front-wheel-drive cars for years is undeniable, and leading the charge is the exhilarating Honda Civic Type R. Despite a recent price increase for the 2025 model year, starting at $45,895, the Type R remains a top contender for driving enthusiasts seeking a high-performance FWD car. Under the hood of this potent Civic lies a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, churning out an impressive 315 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. Independent tests have clocked the Type R accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds, with a top speed reaching an exhilarating 170 mph. As the most powerful iteration of the Civic, the Type R is equipped with a suite of sporty enhancements, including high-performance Michelin Pilot Sport4S tires and robust Brembo brakes. While it might exhibit some road noise at highway speeds, it retains the practical spaciousness of the standard Civic hatchback, offering ample rear seat and trunk room.
However, the true magic of the Type R lies in its cornering prowess and handling dynamics. Instead of the typical understeer associated with front-wheel-drive vehicles, the Type R’s rear axle feels remarkably agile. Lifting off the throttle in corners induces a smooth, controlled rotation of the rear, showcasing exceptional chassis balance that prevents sudden oversteer unless provoked by significant driver error.
- Ian Wright, CarBuzz
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2. Honda Civic Si Sedan
2025 Honda Civic Si Sedan
8.8/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $30,250
Engine: 1.5L I4 Turbo
Horsepower: 200 hp
Drivetrain: Front-Wheel Drive
Stepping down from the extreme performance of the Type R, the Honda Civic Si Sedan offers a compelling blend of sportiness and practicality. As another excellent FWD car from Honda, the Civic Si retains a fun-to-drive character with a manual transmission, ample power for spirited driving, and a more accessible price point. Starting at $30,250, the Si Sedan delivers a rewarding driving experience without breaking the bank. Power comes from a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 200 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain enables the Si to achieve a 0-60 mph sprint in just under seven seconds and reach a top speed of 130 mph. Furthermore, the Civic Si is equipped with desirable performance features, including optional high-performance summer tires, ventilated front brake discs, and a MacPherson strut front suspension, enhancing its handling capabilities as a front-wheel-drive performance car.
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3. Kia K5
2025 Kia K5
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 lineup of front-wheel-drive cars also deserves recognition, with the Kia K5 standing out as a strong contender in the mid-size sedan segment. Competing directly with stalwarts like the Honda Civic and Toyota Camry (both featured on this list), the K5 offers a compelling alternative. Available in five distinct trims, the base K5 model starts at an attractive $27,190. Most trims are powered by a 2.5-liter naturally-aspirated four-cylinder engine producing 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque. For those seeking more spirited performance from their FWD sedan, the GT trim boasts 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 upgrade, enhancing its appeal with a new available single-pane, curved 12-inch gauge cluster and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, elevating its tech and premium feel within the front-wheel-drive car category.
4. Kia Carnival
2025 Kia Carnival
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 focus from sedans to family-oriented vehicles, another noteworthy front-wheel-drive car from Kia is the Carnival. This minivan prioritizes family hauling capabilities while remaining relatively affordable, offering an optional hybrid powertrain, and providing commendable fuel efficiency for its class. The Carnival LX base model starts at $36,800, undercutting the Toyota Sienna in terms of starting price. Buyers can choose between a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, or a more fuel-conscious 1.6-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain generating a combined 242 hp and 271 lb-ft. The gasoline-powered Carnival models achieve an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 16/26/21 mpg (city/highway/combined), while the hybrid variants significantly improve fuel consumption with ratings of 34/31/33 mpg, making it a practical and efficient FWD minivan choice.
5. Volkswagen Golf GTI
2025 Volkswagen Golf GTI
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 long held a special place in the hearts of automotive enthusiasts. This iconic hot hatch continues its legacy in the current generation, delivering engaging performance through its front-wheel-drive configuration and a potent engine. The GTI S trim starts at $32,445, a competitive price considering its fun-to-drive nature and rivals like the Toyota GR Corolla that command a higher price. While official power figures for the new GTI are yet to be confirmed, the outgoing model’s 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine produced 241 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque. If these figures remain consistent, the new GTI should maintain its impressive 0-60 mph acceleration time of approximately 5.5 seconds, solidifying its position as a benchmark FWD hot hatch.
6. Honda Civic Sedan
2025 Honda Civic Sedan
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
For those seeking practicality and efficiency without the sporty flair of the Si or Type R, the standard Honda Civic Sedan remains a sensible and reliable choice. This FWD sedan prioritizes functionality and efficiency, eschewing unnecessary frills while delivering dependable transportation. The base LX trim starts at $24,250 and is powered by a 2.0L four-cylinder engine producing 150 horsepower and 133 lb-ft of torque. For enhanced fuel economy, higher trims offer a 2.0L four-cylinder hybrid powertrain with a combined output of 200 hp. If passenger space is a primary concern, comparing the Civic to the larger Honda Accord might be beneficial, but for a compact and efficient front-wheel-drive car, the Civic Sedan excels.
7. Toyota Camry
2025 Toyota Camry
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 undergone a significant powertrain shift, embracing a hybrid-only approach for the latest model year. This bold move has resulted in a more fuel-efficient and refined driving experience. Starting at $28,700 for the FWD LE trim, the 2025 Camry is powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid system, delivering a total system output of 225 horsepower in front-wheel-drive configuration. The FWD LE trim also stands out as the most fuel-efficient Camry, achieving an impressive 53/50/51 mpg (city/highway/combined). The 2025 Camry’s exceptional blend of comfort, efficiency, and driving dynamics led to it being named the inaugural CarBuzz Car of the Year, underscoring its excellence as a front-wheel-drive hybrid car.
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
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The Camry’s recognition as Car of the Year signifies a new chapter for Toyota and the automotive industry, highlighting the increasing importance of efficient and well-rounded vehicles, especially within the FWD car segment.
8. Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class
2025 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class
8.4/10
What is Buzzscore?
Mercedes-Benz offers a selection of impressive front-wheel-drive cars, with the CLA-Class being a standout example. The entry-level CLA 250, starting at $44,400, delivers a blend of luxury and performance in a FWD sedan. Powering the CLA 250 is a 2.0-liter four-cylinder mild-hybrid engine producing 221 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque, enabling a 0-60 mph acceleration time of 6.3 seconds according to Mercedes-Benz. Standard features in the CLA 250 include heated side mirrors, 64-color ambient lighting, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a panoramic sunroof, and brushed aluminum interior trim, emphasizing the luxurious appointments expected from a Mercedes-Benz FWD vehicle.
9. Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
2025 Mercedes-Benz GLB-Class
8.3/10
What is Buzzscore?
For families seeking Mercedes-Benz luxury in a more versatile SUV form factor, the GLB-Class is an excellent front-wheel-drive option. The base GLB 250 SUV starts at $45,800 and 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 distinguishes itself as a practical family SUV, offering seating for up to seven passengers. Second-row occupants enjoy 38.1 inches of legroom, while third-row passengers have 29.1 inches. Folding down the rear seats expands cargo capacity to a maximum of 62 cubic feet, making it a versatile and luxurious FWD SUV.
10. Buick Envista
2025 Buick Envista
8.1/10
What is Buzzscore?
Luxury experiences don’t always necessitate a hefty budget, and the Buick Envista exemplifies this principle. While not strictly classified as a “luxury vehicle,” the Envista offers a premium look and feel at a more accessible price point. The “Preferred” base model starts at just $23,800. Under the hood of this FWD crossover is a 1.2-liter turbocharged three-cylinder engine producing 137 horsepower and 162 lb-ft of torque. Despite its compact size and smaller engine, the Envista’s interior feels surprisingly spacious, accommodating up to five passengers with 37.3 inches of rear headroom and 38.7 inches of rear legroom, making it a compelling value proposition in the front-wheel-drive SUV segment.
Best Of The Rest
2025 Buick Encore GX
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
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
7.3/10
What is Buzzscore?
Base MSRP: $28,605
Engine: 2.5L Inline-4 Gas
Horsepower: 187 hp
Drivetrain: FWD | AWD
Beyond our top 10, several other front-wheel-drive cars deserve consideration. The Buick Encore GX offers a slightly more premium compact SUV experience. The Chevrolet Trax stands out as an exceptionally affordable FWD SUV option. Lastly, the Hyundai Tucson presents a well-rounded and stylish front-wheel-drive SUV with a range of features.
Characteristics Of Front-Wheel-Drive Cars
While front-wheel-drive cars encompass a vast spectrum of vehicle types, certain inherent characteristics define this drivetrain configuration:
- Price: The simplified engineering and reduced complexity of FWD systems translate to lower manufacturing costs. This economic advantage makes even the top front-wheel-drive cars relatively affordable, and it’s a key reason why FWD is prevalent in entry-level and budget-focused vehicles.
- Traction: Although FWD cars don’t match the all-weather grip of AWD systems, the placement of the engine directly over the drive wheels provides significant weight distribution advantage. This forward weight bias enhances traction on slippery surfaces like snow or wet roads, offering superior grip compared to RWD vehicles in similar conditions.
- Practicality: The absence of a driveshaft running to the rear wheels in FWD cars frees up interior space. This design allows for a flatter floor and more flexible cabin packaging, resulting in increased passenger and cargo room compared to RWD equivalents.
- Efficiency: Front-wheel-drive cars typically weigh less than their RWD or AWD counterparts due to the simpler drivetrain. This reduced weight contributes to improved fuel economy, making FWD a more efficient choice for daily driving and long commutes.
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What To Consider When Buying Cars With FWD
Navigating the extensive market of FWD cars requires careful consideration. While numerous excellent options exist, it’s crucial to be aware of both the advantages and potential drawbacks before making a purchase decision. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of front-wheel-drive cars will help you choose the best vehicle for your needs.
Pros of FWD Cars
- Most Affordable Drivetrain: Generally, FWD cars are more budget-friendly to purchase and maintain due to simpler engineering.
- Superior Traction in Slippery Conditions (vs. RWD): Front-wheel drive offers enhanced grip on snow and ice compared to rear-wheel drive.
- Increased Interior Space: The FWD layout optimizes cabin space for passengers and cargo.
- Improved Fuel Economy: Lighter weight and drivetrain efficiency contribute to better gas mileage in FWD cars.
Cons of FWD Cars
- Torque Steer: Powerful front-wheel-drive cars can sometimes exhibit torque steer, a pulling sensation in the steering wheel during hard acceleration.
- Limited Towing Capacity (vs. AWD): FWD is generally not as well-suited for heavy towing compared to AWD.
- Less Ideal for High-Performance Applications (vs. RWD/AWD): While capable, FWD is not typically the preferred drivetrain for ultimate performance driving compared to RWD or AWD, especially in high-horsepower scenarios.
Sources: Honda, Kia, Volkswagen, Toyota, Mercedes-Benz, Buick
