What Are the Must-See Cars at the 2025 Munich Motor Show?
If you’re a car enthusiast or just curious about where the automotive world is headed, the 2025 Munich Motor Show is the place to be. This year’s event is shaping up to be the biggest in Europe since the pandemic, with a flood of new models, bold concepts, and a clear focus on electrification. From established giants like BMW and Mercedes-Benz to fast-rising Chinese brands and innovative newcomers, there’s something for everyone. Let’s dive into the highlights and see what’s making waves on the show floor.
Why Is the 2025 Munich Motor Show Such a Big Deal?
After years of uncertainty and scaled-back events, Munich has reclaimed its spot as Europe’s premier motor show. The buzz is real: major players like Volkswagen, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Renault, and Polestar are all unveiling crucial new models. What’s different this year? The sheer volume of electric vehicles (EVs) and the boldness of their designs. According to the European Automobile Manufacturers’ Association, EV sales in Europe jumped by over 30% in 2023, and the show’s lineup reflects that momentum. It’s not just about flashy concepts—many of these cars are headed for showrooms soon.
Which Electric Cars Are Turning Heads?
BMW iX3: The Neue Klasse Revolution
BMW’s iX3 is more than just another electric SUV—it’s the first car from the brand’s much-hyped Neue Klasse platform. Promising up to 500 miles of range, it’s set to outdistance rivals like the Mercedes-Benz CLA and comes in at a lower starting price than its predecessor. With a bold new design and cutting-edge tech, the iX3 could be a game-changer for families looking to make the switch to electric.
Mercedes-Benz GLC: A New Era for the GLC
Mercedes isn’t holding back, either. The new GLC, built on the MB.EA electric platform, boasts an 800V electrical system and a range of 435 miles. Inside, you’ll find a massive dashboard-spanning touchscreen and a distinctive grille with nearly a thousand LEDs. It’s part of what Mercedes calls its “biggest product offensive” ever—a clear sign the brand is betting big on EVs.
Volkswagen ID Polo and ID Cross: Affordable Electric Choices
Volkswagen is doubling down on making EVs accessible. The ID Polo, the production version of the ID 2all concept, will start at around £22,000 and offer up to 280 miles of range. Its sportier sibling, the ID Polo GTI, will arrive in 2027 with 233bhp and aggressive styling. Meanwhile, the ID Cross brings electric power to the compact SUV segment, targeting a starting price of just £25,000. These models are designed to bring electrification to the masses, not just early adopters.
Polestar 5: The Super-Saloon Challenger
Polestar’s new flagship is gunning for the Porsche Taycan with nearly 900bhp and an 800V electrical architecture. Developed largely in Britain, the Polestar 5 promises supercar-level stiffness and class-leading lightness. It’s not just about raw power—the car is a statement of intent from a brand that’s quickly carving out a niche for itself in the premium EV space.
What About the Most Eye-Catching Concepts?
Audi Concept C: A Glimpse Into Audi’s Electric Future
Drawing inspiration from the iconic Mk1 TT, the Audi Concept C is more than just a showpiece. Audi’s design chief, Massimo Frascella, says it’s almost a direct preview of a production model coming in two years. Built on the Porsche-Audi PPE platform, it’s expected to slot between the TT and R8, offering a blend of performance and style that’s sure to attract attention.
Cupra Tindaya and Raval: Spanish Flair Meets Electric Innovation
Cupra is making waves with two standout concepts. The Tindaya hints at the brand’s next design era, featuring a radical interior with a yoke-like steering wheel and racing seats. The Raval, arriving next year, is a sportier sibling to the VW ID Polo, with a hot hatch VZ variant boasting 223bhp and advanced chassis tuning. Cupra’s approach shows that electrification doesn’t have to mean boring design.
Skoda Epiq and Vision O: Practicality Meets Progress
Skoda’s Epiq is all about making EVs practical and affordable, with pricing to match the petrol-powered Kamiq. The Vision O concept previews the next-generation Octavia Estate, likely based on Volkswagen’s upcoming SSP platform. Skoda’s focus remains on delivering value without sacrificing innovation—a strategy that’s served it well in recent years.
Are Chinese Brands Making an Impact?
Absolutely. Chinese automakers are no longer content to watch from the sidelines—they’re stepping onto the European stage with confidence.
Changan Deepal S05: A New Player in the Electric SUV Game
Changan’s Deepal S05, following the S07, is positioned as a rival to the Skoda Enyaq and offers both battery-electric and range-extender options. The electric version delivers 320 miles of range (CLTC), while the range-extender combines a smaller battery with a petrol generator for added flexibility. With competitive specs and pricing, Changan is clearly aiming to disrupt the status quo.
Leapmotor B05: Affordable EVs With Real-World Range
Leapmotor’s B05 is a direct challenger to the Volkswagen ID 3, offering a 215bhp motor, 67.1kWh battery, and a range of up to 260 miles—all for around £27,000. As Chinese brands continue to refine their offerings, expect to see more competition in the affordable EV segment.
Which Models Are Keeping Combustion Alive?
While electrification is the star of the show, some brands are still making waves with combustion and hybrid models.
Volkswagen T-Roc: The Last of Its Kind
The new T-Roc, debuting in Munich, is set to be Volkswagen’s final new combustion-powered car—marking the end of an era. It features a bold new look and a hybrid drivetrain, with a high-performance R version on the way. VW’s move signals a clear shift toward electrification, but not before giving petrol fans one last hurrah.
Renault Clio: Hybrid-Only for the Next Generation
Renault’s sixth-generation Clio is ditching pure petrol engines in favor of a hybrid-only lineup, a move driven by stricter EU emissions targets. The new model introduces fresh design cues and aims to keep the beloved supermini relevant in a rapidly changing market.
What About the Showstoppers and Special Editions?
Mini John Cooper Works x Deus ex Machina: Racing Heritage Reborn
Mini is celebrating its performance roots with a pair of stripped-out John Cooper Works concepts, created in partnership with fashion brand Deus ex Machina. While these racers won’t make it to production, they signal Mini’s renewed interest in high-performance models and keep the brand’s motorsport spirit alive.
Vauxhall Corsa GSE Vision Gran Turismo: Digital Dreams Meet Reality
Vauxhall’s wild Vision Gran Turismo concept packs 789bhp and weighs just 1170kg, but it’s more than just a fantasy. Built on the same platform as the next-gen Corsa, it offers a glimpse into the future of the brand’s small cars—where performance and electrification go hand in hand.
Volvo ES90: Aerodynamics and Range in a Sleek Package
Volvo’s ES90 is its most aerodynamic car yet and the brand’s first non-SUV electric model. With up to 434 miles of range and ultra-fast charging (10-80% in just 20 minutes for the larger battery), it’s a serious contender in the premium EV segment. The ES90’s debut underscores Volvo’s commitment to electrification and sustainability.
What’s the Big Takeaway From This Year’s Show?
The 2025 Munich Motor Show isn’t just about shiny new cars—it’s a snapshot of where the industry is headed. Electrification is no longer a niche; it’s the new normal, with affordable options, high-performance models, and practical family cars all sharing the spotlight. Chinese brands are making their presence felt, established automakers are reinventing themselves, and design innovation is everywhere you look.
If you’re considering your next car—or just want a glimpse of what’s coming down the road—Munich’s lineup offers something for everyone. Whether it’s the promise of a 500-mile EV, the thrill of a hot hatch, or the practicality of a new family SUV, the future of driving is on full display. And if this show is any indication, it’s going to be an exciting ride.