Autobild Best Brands 2025: Genesis is the leader, BMW is the leader in awards

The Autobild Best Brands 2025/2026 ranking shows Genesis as the overall leader, BMW with 25 awards, and Chinese brands such as Xpeng and BYD advancing in electric vehicles. The automotive market is becoming increasingly diverse.
AutoBild’s latest ranking ‘Best Brands 2025/2026’ shows significant changes in the global automotive market. For the first time in a long time, a German brand did not take the first place in the general classification. Genesis took the lead, leaving Porsche and BMW behind. However, BMW underlined its strong position in quality and technology by winning the most championships in total with 25 awards in various categories and segments. BMW performed particularly well in the mid-size and business class segments, as well as SUVs. There is also a significant change in the market structure. If previously the premium segment was almost completely dominated by German brands, now Asian manufacturers are actively challenging them. Chinese companies such as Xpeng, Nio, BYD and Leapmotor have significantly strengthened their positions, especially in electric vehicles and value for money. Mass market segments are also more diverse. For example, Hyundai and Toyota continue to lead the affordable classes, Skoda remains strong in the compact segment, and Dacia wins in terms of price. The electric vehicle market deserves special attention. Xpeng is perceived as the technology leader here, surpassing Tesla and BYD. Meanwhile, BMW maintains its steady position in hybrids and alternative powertrains, demonstrating the versatility of its strategy. The ranking makes it clear that the market is no longer a ‘German club’. Chinese and Korean brands are not only catching up, but also competing on equal terms, especially in the electric age. If the trend continues, the struggle for leadership will become even more intense in the coming years.

Automobile Magazine – Spain