The automotive sector is undergoing a major transition toward electrification, sustainability, and digitalization, as highlighted by the BrandZ Most Valuable Global Brands 2025 report from Kantar. The 10 most valuable car brands in the world have a combined brand value of $224.1 billion, with an average growth of 7% compared to 2024, despite a volatile context marked by global trade tensions.

READ ALSO. What are the most valuable luxury brands in the world? Kantar BrandZ 2025

🚘 Which brands lead the 2025 automotive ranking?

Kantar released the list of the most valuable automotive brands of the year. Here’s the Top 10:

⚡ Why is Tesla still the most valuable brand?

Tesla solidifies its leadership as the world’s most valuable automotive brand, with 20% growth and a value exceeding $86 billion. The company has not only pioneered electric vehicles but redefined the user experience through:

• Direct-to-consumer sales (DTC model)
• In-cabin touch interfaces
• Manufacturing innovations (like its “gigafactories”)
• Autonomous systems and connectivity

Its ability to blend “tech” with “auto” has been key to attracting young and demanding consumers.

READ ALSO. What are the world’s most valuable food and beverage brands in 2025, according to Kantar?

🌱 What role does sustainability play in automotive brand value?

Kantar highlights that more consumers than ever are motivated by sustainability. Brands leading this change, like Tesla and Toyota, have captured global attention. Toyota, in particular, has maintained relevance through a strategic approach:

• Early introduction of hybrid cars (such as the Prius in 1997)
• Development of hydrogen technologies
• Diversification toward zero-emission fleets

This strategy allowed it to retain a value close to $29.3 billion, positioning it as the second most valuable brand in the ranking.

ALSO READ. What are the most valuable retail brands in the world in 2025, according to Kantar?

🏎️ Which brands have grown the most this year?

The fastest growth corresponds to BYD, the Chinese brand that increased its value by 44%, driven by global demand for affordable electric vehicles. Also noteworthy:

• Ferrari: +39%, due to its exclusivity and value as an investment symbol.
• BMW: +13%, for maintaining its premium positioning and investing in electrification.
• Maruti Suzuki: returns strongly to the Top 10, boosted by growth in the Indian market.

🌏 How are Chinese brands positioning themselves?

The report notes that China has become the world’s largest car producer and exporter, boosting the rise of brands like BYD and Xiaomi (in smart cars). These manufacturers compete on more than price: they stand out for futuristic design, advanced technology, and energy efficiency.

Additionally, Chinese brands are capitalizing on urbanization and shared mobility trends with offerings like e-bikes, autonomous taxis, and ride-sharing services.

📉 Why did some brands lose value?

Brands that declined include:

• Porsche: −20%, possibly due to lower perceived differentiation.
• Toyota: −3%, despite historic leadership, it faces greater competition in the EV segment.
• Honda: −10%, due to a slower pace in its electrification strategy.

📈 What drives brand value growth in automotive?

Kantar identifies two key factors:

1. Perceptions that exceed market share

Brands with clear differentiation and positive perceptions have outpaced those lacking these traits. Example: Mercedes-Benz has maintained consumer connection through consistent identity, cultural immersion (in films, music), and distinctive design.

2. Sustainability as a brand priority

Today, consumers no longer see sustainability as a “bonus”, but as an expectation. Brands leading in alternative fuels and electrification are gaining long-term value. Tesla, Toyota, and BYD dominate this space.

Top 10 Global Most Valuable Brands according to Kantar BrandZ 2025

For the fourth consecutive year, Apple tops the ranking, with an estimated brand value of $880.5 billion. The U.S. brand has solidified global leadership thanks to its tech ecosystem, user experience-focused product design, and premium positioning.

These are the 10 most valuable brands in the world according to the 2025 ranking published by Kantar:

This ranking not only reflects the financial values of the brands, but also their cultural impact, relevance in consumers’ lives, and capacity to innovate.

👉 Follow us on Google News.