Strategic Vision’s 2025 Most Loved EVs: Bipartisan Favorites—Not Tesla

Strategic Vision’s 2025 Most Loved Vehicle Awards: EVs Unite Political Divides—And It’s Not Tesla

The 2025 Most Loved Vehicle Awards (MLV) by Strategic Vision reveal a compelling shift in the automotive industry: electric vehicles (EVs), including Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs) and Plug-In Hybrids (PHEVs), are bridging the political divide in America. For the first time, both Republicans and Democrats have chosen an electrified vehicle as their Most Loved Vehicle. And yet, the brand leading the charge is not Tesla. Instead, the BMW X5e (a PHEV) emerged as the most beloved vehicle among Republicans, while Democrats favored the Mercedes-Benz EQB, a fully electric luxury SUV.

This marks a significant moment in the automotive landscape, as EVs continue to redefine consumer preferences, breaking stereotypes and demonstrating that electrification can be a unifying force in a politically divided nation.

Republicans Embrace the BMW X5e: A Surprising Shift

Historically, Republican buyers have shown less enthusiasm for EVs, often citing concerns about range limitations, charging infrastructure, and affordability. Many lean toward powerful gas-powered SUVs, trucks, and performance vehicles that offer reliability and ruggedness. However, the BMW X5e—a plug-in hybrid luxury SUV—has defied expectations. It became the first electrified vehicle to top the list of Most Loved Vehicles among Republican consumers, beating out traditionally popular choices like luxury SUVs and premium convertibles. Notably, the Chevrolet Corvette finished in second place among Republican buyers, showing that while performance and power remain priorities, the addition of electrification is not a dealbreaker.

What is it about the BMW X5e that won over conservative car buyers? The answer lies in its ability to seamlessly blend traditional luxury SUV performance with electrified efficiency. With an electric range that alleviates range anxiety and a powerful gas engine providing reliability, the X5e delivers a best-of-both-worlds driving experience. Once behind the wheel, Republican consumers found themselves captivated by its refined power, cutting-edge technology, and overall driving experience.

Democrats Choose the Mercedes-Benz EQB: A Luxury EV Favorite

On the Democratic side, the most loved vehicle was the Mercedes-Benz EQB, a compact luxury electric SUV. Democrats have been more likely to embrace full electrification, with an emphasis on sustainability, technology, and innovation. The EQB exemplifies these values, offering an upscale experience that combines eco-friendliness with high-end comfort and performance.

The EQB stands out for its stylish design, advanced technology, and premium driving experience. It offers an electric range suited for urban and suburban lifestyles, with fast-charging capabilities that make long-distance travel more convenient. Its luxury interior and smooth ride have earned it admiration among Democratic buyers, reinforcing the notion that EVs can be both practical and aspirational.

Tesla’s Waning Dominance: The Musk Effect?

Tesla, once the undisputed king of the electric vehicle market, remains a beloved brand among many owners. However, the company’s grip on the title of Most Loved Vehicle appears to be loosening. Sales have seen fluctuations, and brand perception has shifted due to Elon Musk’s increasingly polarizing public presence. While some Tesla owners still express deep affection for their vehicles and the brand, the company is facing new challenges.

Alexander Edwards, President of Strategic Vision, notes, “Many Tesla owners still have deep affection for their vehicles (and Mr. Musk), but political sentiments have been beaten into the brand perception. Tesla must study carefully what it wants to be in the near future to continue its success.”

This shift suggests that while Tesla remains a major player, consumers are becoming more open to exploring alternatives, particularly among newer, well-established luxury brands entering the EV space.

Electrified Vehicles Gaining Ground in Consumer Love

For years, EVs, PHEVs, and hybrids have lagged behind their gas-powered counterparts in consumer satisfaction. The reasons varied—from range anxiety to lack of infrastructure and perceived trade-offs in performance. However, as technology advances, electrified vehicles are winning over consumers across all demographics.

Christopher Chaney, Senior Vice President of Strategic Vision, states, “The electrification of vehicles is enhancing the driving experience and inspiring unparalleled technology and performance. Car makers have learned the hard way that slapping an electrified powertrain into a gas-powered designed vehicle and calling it green will not lead to success and sales. It is common sense that the 2007 announcement of the Apple iPhone wasn’t about a redesigned Blackberry with an Apple logo slapped on; it was about something new, innovative, and Loveworthy.”

Manufacturers are now focusing on designing EVs that maximize the advantages of electrification rather than simply retrofitting gas-powered vehicles. The result is a new generation of cars and SUVs that are not only efficient but also fun to drive and emotionally engaging for owners.

Beyond EVs: Other Most Loved Vehicles in America

While alternative powertrains are gaining popularity, they are not the only vehicles earning consumer love. Several traditionally powered vehicles also ranked high in their respective categories due to their strong emotional connection with buyers.

For example, the Jeep Wrangler remains the Most Loved Utility Vehicle ($55K and under). This off-road icon continues to captivate enthusiasts with its rugged capability and adventurous spirit. Meanwhile, the Toyota Camry leads among Latin American buyers, thanks to its reputation for reliability, security, and quality.

Alexander Edwards emphasizes, “The Most Loved Vehicles are not just about luxury features—they’re about how those features make owners feel. When a customer uses the word ‘Love’ in their description of a product or service, it is the strongest predictor of loyalty.”

2025 Most Loved Vehicles in America

The following sixteen models stood out for their ability to create an emotional bond with their owners, offering a mix of performance, comfort, and style:

Final Thoughts: A Changing Automotive Landscape

The 2025 Most Loved Vehicles Report showcases an evolving auto industry where electrified vehicles are not only viable but also deeply cherished by consumers across political and demographic lines. The data suggests that as technology advances and automakers refine their EV strategies, the barriers to widespread adoption continue to erode.

With brands like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Rivian making strong impressions, and Tesla facing new challenges, the future of electric and hybrid vehicles looks more competitive than ever. Ultimately, love—not just efficiency or sustainability—will determine which vehicles win the hearts of consumers.

Strategic Vision’s study is based on data collected from over 32,000 new vehicle owners in the New Vehicle Experience Study (NVES), the largest syndicated study examining owner sentiment across emerging markets. For more information, interviews, or inquiries, contact Alexander Edwards or Christopher Chaney at (858) 576-7141 or via email at [email protected].

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