Despite the dominance of crossovers and SUVs, sedans remain in demand among those who appreciate comfort, dynamics, and classic style. Corporate fleets, taxi services, and private owners continue to rely on this body type. Auto.ru magazine summed up the year and named the five best sedans of 2025 — models that received the highest expert ratings based on a combination of characteristics: from driving performance to equipment and ergonomics.
Fifth place went to GAC Empow (3.58 points out of 5). This model has become one of the most striking novelties in the class — a sporty silhouette, a massive front bumper, and aggressive proportions give the car individuality. Empow is not created for corporate fleets, but for those who enjoy driving. Under the hood is a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with 177 hp, which, paired with a robotic gearbox, accelerates the sedan to 100 km/h in about eight seconds. The rear suspension is multi-link, the steering is responsive, and the chassis is tuned towards sports. However, there are nuances: the transmission does not always respond quickly, the sound insulation is weak, and the stiff suspension feels better on smooth asphalt. Nevertheless, for those who want an inexpensive but exciting sedan with a bright design, GAC Empow is one of the most interesting options.
In fourth place is Lada Aura (3.7 points out of 5) — the main flagship of the domestic auto industry. The increased body length gave the car a spacious interior and an impressive appearance, and the interior with leather trim, soft headrests, and a full set of heated seats creates a feeling of a "people's business class." Under the hood is a modernized 1.8 engine with 122 hp paired with a continuously variable variator of Chinese production. Aura confidently moves around the city and highway, although the dynamics remain moderate. The interior pleases with sound insulation and build quality, but in the details, the "Vesta" base is felt, and the equipment lacks the signature touches that are associated with premium — such as seat ventilation or an expanded range of assistants. Nevertheless, Aura is a serious bid by AvtoVAZ to return to a higher class.
Third place went to Hongqi H5, which also scored 3.7 points. Hongqi H5 is an example of how Chinese brands are trying to occupy the vacant niche of business sedans. The model, originally conceived as an alternative to the Audi A6 and Toyota Camry, offers rich equipment, a spacious interior, and a smooth ride. Under the hood is a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with 218 hp, working in tandem with a classic "automatic." Handling is predictable, the suspension is tuned towards comfort, and the sound insulation is better than most competitors from China. True, the multimedia system leaves much to be desired — the menu is overloaded, and the translation into Russian is lame. The quality of the interior trim does not reach the premium level, but for its 3.5–4 million, Hongqi H5 offers more than many classmates and looks truly status.
In second place was Dongfeng Aeolus Shine Max (3.84 points) — one of the most underrated sedans of 2025. Its two-liter engine produces 190 hp, providing excellent dynamics and quick reactions to the gas pedal. The suspension is assembled with a margin of safety and perfectly holds the road, and the steering gives precise responses. Shine Max is a Chinese alternative to European sedans of the late 2010s: the dynamics are on par, and the comfort and equipment are head and shoulders above many competitors in the same price range. Of the minuses — not the most modern media system, a dense suspension, and average sound insulation. But in general, Dongfeng offers a very balanced car, suitable for both everyday driving and long trips.
First place in the ranking went to Geely Preface (3.96 points out of 5). The sedan, created on the CMA platform, shared with Volvo, has become the benchmark in its class. A 190 hp engine and a robotic dual-clutch transmission provide confident acceleration and stable operation. Preface combines excellent handling, balanced suspension, and a high level of comfort. The car confidently holds the road, does not lose smoothness on bad surfaces, and at the same time offers a spacious interior with high-quality trim.
Experts noted ergonomics among the minor shortcomings: the unsuccessful location of some controls and excessive digitalization of simple functions such as climate control adjustment. But these little things do not prevent Preface from remaining the most "driver-oriented" and harmonious sedan from China, available on the Russian market.
The test results show: 2025 has become the year of the return of sedans. While crossovers dominate in sales, traditional four-doors are becoming more and more interesting — with expressive design, advanced technologies, and a balanced character.
