The best self driving cars in 2025 are still far from being entirely autonomous. However, it surely offers the taste of advanced technology and how it can make our everyday driving easier, safer, and also a little smarter.
Most AI-advanced cars still need you to be alert behind the wheel and keep your hands nearby to take control anytime things don’t seem right. Self-driving technology has made huge progress in the last few years, with automakers like Tesla, Ford, BMW, General Motors, and Mercedes-Benz diligently working on making driverless cars.
However, while this becoming a reality is still far, there is a growing number of vehicles in the market that can handle specific tasks like staying in your lane, braking in traffic, or even changing lanes, but only with your input. In other words, while there are no fully self driving cars, you can still get yourself almost self driving rides that actually work and are some of the most popular models of this year.
Today, we have a list of 10 cars that actually deliver reliable, semi-autonomous driving in 2025. These rides are not only impressive, advanced, and worth their asking price, but they enhance your whole driving experience like never before.
Let’s dive in.
What Counts as Self-Driving in Cars?
Self driving in cars usually means Level 2 or Level 3 driver assistance. Instead of fully, these offer partial autonomy. It means that your car can help you steer, brake, accelerate, and sometimes even change lanes without requiring alertness and input from you at any moment.
As per the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), self driving is divided into six different levels.
- Level 0: There is no automation. You do everything. It is your good-old non-AI-powered ride.
- Level 1: The Level 1 comes with basic features like cruise control and lane assist. You get a little push from being the absolute controller behind the wheel.
- Level 2: Your vehicle can control steering and speed, but you must keep your eyes on the road and hands on the wheel (or at least nearby). Most self-driving cars for sale you find in the market, feature Level 2 autonomy.
- Level 3: A Level 3 car can fully drive itself in some situations, usually on highways, but at low speeds. However, even in this case, you must be able to take over if needed. You still need to be a responsible driver behind the wheel.
- Level 4: The car drives itself with no input from you, but only in specific areas or conditions. There is not a single road-legal model available for consumers yet.
- Level 5: The rides feature full autonomy, anywhere, anytime. You no longer need to be 100% present. However, this is something on paper. No vehicle with Level 5 autonomy exists, and we won’t be seeing one for a while.
So, when different car brands talk about self-driving, they often mean Level 2 features like Tesla’s Full Self-Driving, Ford’s BlueCruise, or Cadillac’s Super Cruise. Mercedes-Benz is the only automaker that has legally launched a Level 3 system in the U.S., called Drive Pilot, and even that’s only allowed in select states like California and Nevada.
Even on Reddit, users in r/SelfDrivingCars often point this out. One user wrote:
“People think they can nap in a Tesla, but it’s not even close to fully autonomous. It’s more like a really advanced cruise control.”
If you understand these levels, it will be easy for you to spot the difference between hype and reality. It will also help you choose a car that is right for your needs, comfort, and safety.
10 The Best Self-Driving Cars of 2025 That Work For Owners
The best self-driving cars of 2025 aren’t fully autonomous yet, but they surely are smart, safe, and make driving a lot less stressful. If your driving time has been reduced to nothing but a mere chore, a self-driving car can actually help bring back the fun.
Whether you are going out for the grocery run, getting back home from the office, or simply want to have a calm drive, autonomous vehicles (even the partial ones) can take the stress and frustration out of the task and make it much more manageable.
Below we have handpicked cars that offer the most advanced real-world driver assistance systems available today, including hands-free highway driving, automatic lane changes, and real-time driver monitoring.
1. Mercedes-Benz EQS (Drive Pilot)
- MSRP: From $105,550
- Autonomy: Level 3
- Key Features: Hands-off, eyes-off under 40 mph, lidar-based system, driver fallback required
The EQS is the closest thing to a self-driving car you can actually buy at present. It features Mercedes’ Drive Pilot, the first certified Level 3 system legally sold in the U.S.. However, it is only available in California and Nevada, in slow-moving traffic (under 40 mph) on approved highways. The system uses lidar, radar, cameras, and ultra-precise GPS to take full control. While not fully autonomous, it is still ground-breaking. You can legally look away from the road while the car drives itself.
2. Tesla Model S (Full Self-Driving Beta)
- MSRP: From $79,990
- Autonomy: Level 2
- Key Features: City and highway navigation, lane changes, stoplight response, no eye tracking
Tesla’s FSD isn’t actually a full self driving system. It is legally just a Level 2 system, meaning you must be attentive and ready to take over. But do not get disappointed, as it is the most advanced hands-free experience you can purchase. You can drive Model S with this autonomous system on highways and city streets, stop at lights, change lanes, and more. However, it will cost you an additional $12,000 for the FSD system.
Tesla ensures the system is working at its best and thus offers frequent over-the-air updates. But it still needs your full attention. Some users have even reported quirks with unexpected behavior. One user on Reddit shared: “It’s impressive but unpredictable. You can’t trust it with your eyes closed. Literally.”
Suggestion: Honda Civic 2025 Sedan Or Hatchback, Which Should You Choose
3. Ford Mustang Mach-E (BlueCruise 1.2)
- MSRP: From $37,995
- Autonomy: Level 2
- Key Features: Hands-free highway driving, lane change assist, eye-tracking driver monitoring
Ford’s BlueCruise is one of the best self-driving systems for regular buyers. In the latest Ford Mustang Mach-E, it supports hands-free driving on over 130,000 miles of pre-mapped highways in the U.S. (called Blue Zones). Version 1.2 brings more features like lane change assist, better lane centering, and smoother turns. It also uses an eye-tracking system to make sure you’re paying attention.
Overall, this self driving system is smooth, smart, and designed with safety in mind. To have it integrated in your Mach-E, you can pay $2,495 at once or opt for monthly payments of $49.99 per month after the 90-day trial.
4. Cadillac Escalade (Super Cruise)
- MSRP: From $102,700
- Autonomy: Level 2
- Key Features: Hands-free highway driving, auto lane change, real-time driver monitoring
Super Cruise is one of the best-rated and safest semi-autonomous systems on the road today. This premium hands-free system of GM is a luxurious experience in the Escalade. In your Cadillac, you can drive long distances on mapped highways without touching the wheel, and the family-friendly car will even change lanes automatically when needed.
5. BMW i7 (Driving Assistant Pro)
- MSRP: From $105,700
- Autonomy: Level 2+
- Key Features: Hands-off highway assist, auto lane change, radar + camera + lidar-ready sensors
BMW does not like to show off when it comes to its self driving technology, but its i7 lineup offers a seriously refined Level 2+ experience. It typically adds about $2,500 to the MSRP when selected as a factory-installed option. But the good thing is that it can also be added later via the BMW ConnectedDrive store, for almost the same price. This premium assisted-driving experience rivals Tesla and GM in smoothness and comfort. It can maintain lane position, change lanes, and keep a safe following distance.
The best part is that you can take your hands off the steering under certain conditions and offer well-integrated features for experienced drivers. The Driving Assistant Pro uses radar, ultrasonic sensors, and camera data to support decision-making. Once you test drive this ride, you will understand when I say that it feels like the car is working with you, not against you.
6. Hyundai Ioniq 5 (Highway Driving Assist 2)
- MSRP: From $66,200
- Autonomy: Level 2
- Key Features: Lane centering, adaptive cruise control, highway lane change assist
The Ioniq 5 is the most affordable and best value car among semi-autonomous EVs. While the Highway Driving Assist 2 system of the vehicle supports only hands-on driving, it does a great job of steering, braking, and keeping you centered on highways.
If you have a restricted budget but want to taste the best of the American automotive world, the latest Ioniq 5 is perfect. It may not be as polished hands-free as Tesla or GM, but it is refined for its price. Hyundai offers its self driving tech as standard on the Ioniq 5 but only on SEL, Limited, and XRT.
A proud owner on an online forum praised HDA2 in the Ioniq 5:
“I don’t think I could ever go back to owning a vehicle with anything less than HDA2.”
Another noted:
“It can change lanes by itself, but it’s very slow. But it’s really fantastic.”
7. Chevrolet Tahoe (Super Cruise)
- MSRP: From $59,000
- Autonomy: Level 2
- Key Features: Hands-free highway driving, lane change assist, real-time driver monitoring
Chevrolet brings General Motors’ excellent Super Cruise system to its full-size SUV lineup with the all-new Tahoe. This seven-to-eight-seater now features hands-free driving on hundreds of thousands of miles of mapped highways. Just like Cadillac, it uses driver-facing cameras to make sure you’re alert and watching the road.
Chevy takes it to the next level by offering Super Cruise as standard on the Premier and High Country trims. The first 3 years are fully covered with your car purchase, no subscription needed. After that, you only have to pay $25/month, about $300/year for continuation. If you are looking for a ride that is easy to keep in every manner, this American car is for you.
8. Nissan Ariya (ProPILOT Assist 2.0)
- MSRP: From $39,700
- Autonomy Level: Level 2
- Key Features: Hands-free highway driving, automatic lane change, eye-tracking driver monitoring
Nissan is doing some excellent work with semi-autonomous driving. However, it does not get enough credit. The latest Ariya comes equipped with ProPILOT Assist 2.0 and is a quiet overachiever in its class. It is not flashy, but it surely is capable. The system offers hands-free driving on certain highways, automatic lane changes, and even eye-tracking tech to make sure you’re paying attention.
The best is that it is a lot more intuitive than people expect. If you’ve driven a Nissan car with older adaptive cruise systems, ProPILOT 2.0 will feel like a big leap. It is smoother in traffic, more confident on curves, and surprisingly good at handling long journeys. Furthermore, this AI self driving system is included as standard equipment. Also, when it is not included, you can add it later through a factory-installed package via a dealer or activate it via NissanConnect services.
Also Read: Top Vehicle Recalls by Manufacturer in 5 Years In US
9. Toyota Tundra (Toyota Safety Sense 3.0)
- MSRP: From $40,090
- Autonomy: Level 2
- Key Features: Lane centering, adaptive cruise, traffic jam assist, driver alerts
Toyota is not big on self-driving tech, but in the latest Tundra, it offers some useful semi-autonomous features under its Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 suite. Standard on most trims, this system includes adaptive cruise control, lane-centering, and steering assist, especially helpful on highways and during stop-and-go traffic.
While the Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is not hands-free and does not change lanes for you, it does do a great job keeping your truck centered, especially on long highway drives. What I like the most is how smart and well-calibrated the assistive features are. If you’ve ever been stuck in I-5 traffic with a trailer, you’ll appreciate how well the system eases the burden. This pickup truck is a solid choice for drivers who want a mix of muscle and mindfulness on the road.
10. Mercedes-Benz E-Class (Driver Assistance Package Plus)
- MSRP: From $62,450
- Autonomy: Level 2+
- Key Features: Adaptive cruise, active steering assist, lane change assist, Traffic Jam Assist, driver monitoring
Despite Mercedes leading the industry with its Level 3 Drive Pilot in the EQS, it plays it safe with Level 2+ autonomy in the new E-Class. When equipped with the optional Driver Assistance Package Plus, this luxury sedan turns into a highly capable co-pilot for daily commutes and highway travel.
The system can automatically keep you in your lane, adapt your speed, change lanes with a tap, and even take over steering duties in stop-and-go traffic. The experience is refined and smooth, and feels smarter than most systems in its class. The package adds around $1,950 to your final purchase price, but you will be getting some of the same features found in more expensive Mercedes models, excluding full hands-off driving.
Frequently Asked Questions
What self-driving cars can’t do yet?
The self driving cars can not drive fully on their own. Most vehicles are still on Level 2 or 2+ and need the driver’s attention and control. They also struggle on unfamiliar roads, in bad weather, on unmarked lanes, and at complex intersections. Studies show misuse (like napping in a Tesla) is dangerous. Buyers need to understand that these systems are to provide ease while driving, not eliminate their job behind the wheel.
Are self-driving cars legal in the U.S.?
Yes, but with certain conditions. 21 states plus DC have laws allowing driving of autonomous vehicles, but mostly for testing or limited commercial use. Whereas a handful ban them or lack regulations. Automakers like Tesla, Mercedes, GM, and Ford legally sell Level 2/3 systems in America. Not only this, but fully driverless robotaxis operate in cities like San Francisco under special permits.
What cars have self driving?
Many 2025 models feature Level 2+ self driving technology. You can find it integrated within sedans, large to mid-size SUVs, and even pickup trucks.
Are there any full self-driving cars?
No, not yet. Surely, Tesla markets its vehicles as full self-driving, but those rides are still at Level 2 and require your supervision. The only true Level 4/5 hands-free systems appear in limited robo‑taxi fleets like Waymo One in San Francisco and Phoenix. But these are commercial services and not for sale.
When were self-driving cars invented?
The experiments on building self driving cars date back to the 1950s. However, real autonomy began in the 1980s (e.g., Carnegie Mellon’s Navlab, PROMETHEUS by Mercedes). Toyota introduced adaptive cruise in 1998, Tesla rolled out Autopilot in 2014, and Waymo launched robo‑taxis with Waymo One in 2018.
Which SUVs have the best self-driving tech?
If you wish to own a spacious SUV with the latest self driving technology that is worth every dollar, Cadillac Escalade, Hyundai Ioniq, and Tesla S are some of the best options for you to consider. They offer refinement, elegance, and luxury at their best.
Are there self-driving cars operating in San Francisco?
Right now, Waymo One is the only fully autonomous ride-hailing service available to anyone in San Francisco. You can hail a driverless Jaguar I-PACE via the app. Ford’s BlueCruise once had a popular fleet in this city but has scaled back after safety issues.
What are most important facts about self-driving cars?
The most crucial thing about self driving cars is that they are not fully hands-free. They can check the operation of your car, but they need your intervention from time to time. Most rides feature a Level 2 system that is ideal only for driving on mapped routes. Currently, only Mercedes offers limited Level 3 autonomy in some U.S. states.
Conclusion
The best self driving cars in 2025 aren’t fully autonomous, but they can seriously lighten your load behind the wheel. From hands-free highway cruising to smart lane changes and traffic jam assist, these vehicles are built to help, not take over.
Whether you want premium luxury, advanced tech at its peak, or everyday value, there is a self-driving system out there that fits your needs and your budget.
