Discover the most exciting new racing games of 2025 for PS5 and Xbox Series X — from hyper-realistic sims to action-packed arcade titles and open-world racers.
1. F1 25 – The Ultimate Racing Simulator of 2025
- Platform: PS5, Xbox Series X/S
- Release Date: May 30, 2025
- Developer/Publisher: Codemasters / EA Sports
- Best For: Hardcore sim-racers and Formula 1 fans
EA Sports' F1 25 is the most advanced Formula 1 game to date and the best racing simulator currently available for next-gen consoles. Built exclusively for PS5 and Xbox Series X, it features refined physics, deeper career progression, and official licensing from the 2025 F1 season.
Key Features:
- Overhauled handling system and tire physics
- Enhanced MyTeam and Driver Career modes
- Authentic tracks, drivers, and team liveries
- Dynamic weather and real-world race strategies
2. Forza Horizon 5 – Now Available on PS5
- Platform: Xbox Series X/S, PS5, PC
- PS5 Release: Spring 2025
- Developer: Playground Games
- Best For: Open-world driving, casual and competitive play
After years as an Xbox exclusive, Forza Horizon 5 officially launched on PS5 in 2025. Set in a sprawling and visually stunning Mexico, the game delivers endless freedom, customization, and fun with over 900 cars and seasonal events.
Highlights:
- Expansive open-world map with diverse environments
- Cross-platform multiplayer and co-op races
- Expansions including Hot Wheels and Rally Adventure
- Dynamic weather and festival-style atmosphere
3. Wreckfest 2 – The Best Destruction-Based Racing Game
- Platform: PS5, Xbox Series X/S (Coming Soon), PC
- Release Window: 2025
- Developer: Bugbear Entertainment
- Best For: Local multiplayer, demolition derby fans
Wreckfest 2 is poised to be the most entertaining demolition racer of the year. This sequel introduces more aggressive AI, enhanced vehicle damage, and new modes for couch and online play.
Key Features:
- Realistic crash physics and soft-body damage
- Local split-screen and online multiplayer
- Wide range of vehicles, from muscle cars to monster trucks
- Custom events and wacky race types
4. Test Drive Unlimited: Solar Crown – A Lifestyle-Driven Racing MMO
- Platform: PS5, Xbox Series X/S
- Release Date: September 12, 2024
- Developer: KT Racing
- Best For: Car collectors, MMO-style racing enthusiasts
Test Drive Unlimited: Solar Crown brings back the iconic franchise with an open-world recreation of Hong Kong Island. The game mixes exotic car ownership with a competitive online world where status matters as much as speed.
Highlights:
- Persistent online world and luxury car culture
- Fully licensed brands like Bugatti, Ferrari, and Pagani
- In-game economy, real estate, and reputation systems
- PvP, PvE, and time-based challenges
5. Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds – Arcade Racing With a Multiverse Twist
- Platform: PS5, Xbox Series X/S
- Release Date: September 25, 2025
- Developer: Sega
- Best For: Arcade fans, younger players, Sega enthusiasts
Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds reinvents kart racing with multiverse-inspired tracks, dynamic portals, and a wild roster including Sonic, Joker (Persona 5), Ichiban Kasuga (Yakuza), and Hatsune Miku.
Key Features:
- Gadget-based racing combat
- Cross-platform multiplayer
- Unique character abilities
- Stylized graphics and high-speed gameplay
6. NASCAR 25 by iRacing – Official Stock Car Racing Returns
- Platform: PS5, Xbox Series X/S
- Release Date: October 14, 2025
- Developer: iRacing
- Best For: NASCAR fans, motorsport sim purists
NASCAR 25 brings laser-scanned tracks, real team lineups, and deep career options. Whether you're running Daytona or short-tracking in ARCA, it delivers unmatched oval racing realism.
Highlights:
- Authentic NASCAR physics and telemetry
- Career mode from ARCA to Cup Series
- Single-player and online racing leagues
- Dynamic track rubbering and weather systems
Final Rankings: The Best New Car Games of 2025
| Game | Genre | Best For | Release Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| F1 25 | Simulation | Hardcore racing realism | ✅ Available |
| Forza Horizon 5 | Open-world arcade | Exploration, collection, online events | ✅ Available |
| Wreckfest 2 | Destruction derby | Split-screen chaos, party racing | ⏳ Coming Soon |
| Test Drive Unlimited | MMO racing | Car lifestyle & competition | ✅ Available |
| Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds | Arcade kart | Younger players, Sega fans | ✅ Available |
| NASCAR 25 | Motorsport simulation | Oval race fans | ✅ Available |
