Thinking about getting a new car? You might be wondering if it’s worth waiting for the 2025 models, especially as we move deeper into 2024. It’s a common question: when exactly do these new model year cars become available? The answer might surprise you. The release of 2025 models isn’t strictly tied to the year 2025 itself. Understanding the difference between model years and production years is key to navigating the new car market effectively.
This article will clarify the distinction between model years and production years, explain why this difference matters to car buyers, and provide insights into when you can expect to see 2025 cars hitting dealerships. We’ll also highlight some of the most anticipated 2025 models that you could potentially get your hands on sooner than you think, including the latest in performance vehicles and cutting-edge electric vehicles.
Model Year vs. Production Year: Understanding the Difference
It can seem straightforward: a car’s year should simply be the year it was made, right? While that’s true for the production year, it’s not always the case for the model year. The production year is exactly what it sounds like – the year in which a vehicle was manufactured. If a car rolled off the assembly line in 2023, its production year is 2023.
However, the model year can be different. Often, especially for cars produced in the latter part of a year, they are designated as the model year of the following year. So, a car produced in 2023 could very well be marketed and sold as a 2024 model year (MY2024) vehicle.
Why this distinction? Model years are crucial because they signify the specific features, upgrades, and enhancements a particular version of a car possesses. Automakers frequently introduce running changes and improvements annually without performing a full-scale redesign or facelift. The model year essentially communicates the specification level of a vehicle. For instance, if a manufacturer adds new safety technology to a model, they might start production with this updated tech in the fall of a given year, and these vehicles will typically be sold as the next model year.
A prime example is the 2025 Ford Explorer. It features a redesigned front fascia, enhanced interior quality, and notably, it’s the first Ford to incorporate the new Ford Digital Experience software system. Production for the 2025 Ford Explorer has already commenced, meaning some of these vehicles, despite being 2025 models, will have a 2024 production year.
Why Model Year Matters to You
Knowing your car’s model year is more than just trivia; it’s practical information. Firstly, understanding your car’s model year allows you to research and learn about the specific features, technologies, and specifications included in your vehicle. Relying solely on the production year might not give you a complete picture of your car’s capabilities and equipment.
Furthermore, model year information is essential because manufacturers sometimes make changes that affect practical aspects like towing and hauling capacities. Knowing your model year ensures you are aware of the accurate and safe operational limits for your specific vehicle.
Model years are also invaluable when considering a used car purchase. The changes introduced from one model year to the next can have significant implications for a car’s long-term reliability. For example, the Toyota Avalon, spanning five generations, has model years known for exceptional reliability, while others are advised to be approached with caution. Both might fall within the same generation, but understanding the model year of a used Avalon you’re considering allows you to research potential recalls and common issues specific to that year, helping you make a more informed buying decision.
Decoding 2025 Car Release Dates: When to Expect New Models
Generally, automakers begin production and start making upcoming model year vehicles available for purchase in the fall of the preceding year. However, this isn’t a strict rule, and manufacturers often stagger the release of their new model year lineups. This means that at any given time, a dealer’s inventory might include a mix of current and upcoming model year vehicles.
Consider Toyota again. Currently, a significant portion of their SUV lineup consists of 2024 model year vehicles, while others are already 2025 models. Among the latter is the 2025 Toyota Crown Signia, a completely new model that Toyota launched in the latter half of 2024. Despite being available to buy in 2024, it’s designated as a 2025 model year vehicle. Conversely, if you’re looking for a newer Corolla Cross or Grand Highlander, you might still find only 2024 models available, indicating the 2025 versions are yet to be released.
Therefore, there’s no single, definitive date for when new cars come out. The best approach is to conduct research. Consult CarBuzz reviews and monitor manufacturers’ press releases. These resources often provide valuable clues about expected release timelines for specific models and their new model year iterations.
Automaker Approaches to Model Years: Are They Always Consistent?
It’s important to note that not all automakers adhere to the traditional model year system in the same way. While most mainstream car brands follow the model year convention, some, particularly in the luxury and high-performance segments, deviate. Brands like Ferrari and Lamborghini, often don’t emphasize model years on their official websites.
Another notable example is Tesla. Despite producing vehicles in a more accessible price range than the aforementioned supercars, Tesla also largely disregards the model year system. Similar to Ferrari, Tesla’s official website doesn’t typically list model years. Instead, Tesla prefers to implement continuous updates to their vehicles throughout the production year. Rather than holding back new features for a subsequent model year release, Tesla integrates improvements as they become available.
Exciting 2025 Car Models Already Available
Here are four examples of 2025 model year vehicles that are already available for order or purchase in 2024. These aren’t just minor updates; they represent brand-new or significantly redesigned models.
Toyota Crown Signia SUV
The Crown Signia SUV marks the first time Toyota’s Crown nameplate is available as an SUV. Continuing the Crown tradition, the Signia offers a premium experience both inside and out. This 2025 model expands Toyota’s lineup of hybrid vehicles and is positioned to replace the outgoing Venza.
Key Specs:
- Base MSRP: $43,590
- Engine: 2.5L Dynamic Force I4 Hybrid
- Horsepower: 188 HP
BMW M5 Touring
The 2025 BMW M5 Touring is generating buzz in the automotive world, partly due to its significant curb weight and its shift to electrification. For the first time, the M5 is offered exclusively as a PHEV model for the 2025 model year. This electrification contributes to its substantial power output, ensuring it maintains the expected M-series performance.
Key Specs:
- Base MSRP: $121,500
- Engine: 4.4-Liter Twin-Turbo V8 Gas PHEV
- Horsepower: 717 hp
Volkswagen ID. Buzz
The 2025 Volkswagen ID. Buzz represents the highly anticipated return of VW’s iconic ‘bus’ to American roads, now in a fully electric form. The ID. Buzz combines practicality with a playful design, offering vibrant color options, a spacious interior, and ample room for both passengers and cargo, perfect for those with adventure in mind.
Key Specs:
- Base MSRP: $59,995
- Engine: EV
- Horsepower: 282 HP
Polestar 3
The 2025 Polestar 3 is an often-overlooked EV option that provides a compelling alternative to market leaders. With its attractive and purposeful design, a tech-forward and luxurious interior, and a powerful 489 horsepower output, the Polestar 3 delivers a strong combination of performance and premium features.
Key Specs:
- Base MSRP: $73,400
- Engine: EV
- Horsepower: 489 HP
