ACV facts & figures
Automotive technology is advancing rapidly, and self-driving cars are becoming more of a reality than ever. In 2025, a good number of vehicles are equipped with advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) offering semi-autonomous capability and moving us closer to fully autonomous transportation. While truly self-driving cars are not yet available, today’s leading models feature sophisticated systems that enable hands-free driving under specific conditions. This article takes a deeper look at the top autonomous driving technologies and highlights the vehicles equipped with these systems, so you can better educate your customers if they have questions on self-driving cars.
The 6 Levels of Autonomous Driving
The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) has defined six levels of autonomous driving, from Level 0 (no automation) to Level 5 (full automation). Most new vehicles in 2025 operate at Level 2 or Level 3 autonomy. Level 2 systems, such as Tesla’s Autopilot and Ford’s BlueCruise, provide advanced assistance with steering, acceleration, and braking but require constant driver supervision.1 Level 3 systems, like Mercedes-Benz’s Drive Pilot, allow the vehicle to take full control under specific conditions, permitting drivers to engage in secondary activities (i.e. watching videos) while remaining ready to intervene.2. Understanding these autonomous driving levels is important for assessing the capabilities of current self-driving technologies.
The Best Self-Driving Systems
While each car manufacturer has developed some sort of autonomous driving systems, there are five that are standing out from the pack.
Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot
Mercedes-Benz’s Drive Pilot is the first Level 3 autonomous system certified for use in the United States, and is currently available in California and Nevada.3 Exclusive to the S-Class and EQS Sedan, Drive Pilot enables hands-free, eyes-off driving on mapped highways at speeds up to 40 mph in clear weather and daylight.3 Drive Pilot uses LiDAR, radar, cameras, and high-definition maps to navigate traffic, and leaves drivers free to engage in activities like watching videos on the central display.4 A driver-monitoring camera ensures readiness to resume control when needed. Available at a $2,500 annual subscription fee.
Tesla Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (FSD) System
Tesla’s Autopilot is a Level 2 system offered on all models and includes lane-keeping, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warnings.1 The optional Full Self-Driving (FSD) package, priced at approximately $8,000 (it’s also available as a subscription for $99/month), includes features like Navigate on Autopilot, automatic lane changes, and Smart Summon, which allows the vehicle to maneuver to the driver’s location in parking lots.5 Despite its name, FSD requires constant driver supervision and is not a true Level 3 system.
General Motors Super Cruise
General Motors’ Super Cruise is a highly regarded Level 2 system that allows for hands-free driving on over 200,000 miles of compatible North American highways.6. Available on select Cadillac, Chevrolet, GMC, and Buick models, Super Cruise uses LiDAR-mapped data, cameras, and sensors to maintain lane discipline and adjust speed.1 A driver-facing camera watches to ensure the driver’s eyes remain on the road, and disengages the system if attention wanes. Super Cruise is also a cost-effective option, with subscriptions starting at only $25 per month.6
Ford BlueCruise
Ford’s BlueCruise is a Level 2 system that allows hands-free driving on over 130,000 miles of pre-mapped highways, known as Hands-Free Blue Zones.7 Available on models like the F-150, Mustang Mach-E, and Lincoln vehicles, BlueCruise integrates adaptive cruise control, lane-centering, and automatic lane changes.1 A driver-facing camera monitors attentiveness, enhancing safety. A one-year BlueCruise subscription costs $495 on certain trims, though additional options may be required.7 Additionally, Consumer Reports has praised BlueCruise for its reliability and ease of use.1
BMW Active Driving Assistance Professional Package
BMW’s Active Driving Assistance Professional Package, available on models like the 5 Series, 7 Series, X5, X7, and iX, provides Level 2 autonomy with hands-free driving at speeds up to 85 mph.8 The system includes adaptive cruise control, traffic-jam assist, and automatic lane changes introduced for 2025. Priced at $2,500, the professional package enhances comfort and safety, making it a strong option for luxury buyers.
Top Vehicles with Self-Driving Features in 2025
2024 Cadillac Escalade
The 2024 Cadillac Escalade marries luxury with advanced technology, featuring Super Cruise on its Premium Luxury trim and above.6 Super Cruise allows for hands-free driving on compatible highways, supported by a driver-monitoring camera to ensure attentiveness.1 A great choice for those requiring semi-autonomous capabilities in a luxury SUV, the addition of Super Cruise adds $2,500, but its seamless integration more than justifies the investment.6
2025 Genesis G90
The 2025 Genesis G90, a full-size luxury sedan, offers Highway Driving Assist, a Level 2 system combining adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assist.9 Standard on all trims, this system operates on specific highways at speeds below 95 mph, although it does require hands on the wheel.
2025 Tesla Model S
The 2025 Tesla Model S remains the pioneer in semi-autonomous driving technology. Equipped with Autopilot (standard) and the optional FSD package, the Model S has an impressive range (up to 400 miles), luxurious interior, and rapid acceleration.5 FSD facilitates advanced maneuvers like navigating intersections and responding to traffic signals, though it does require driver supervision.1 Continuous software updates keep the Model S at the forefront of innovation.5
2025 BMW X5
The 2025 BMW X5 offers the Active Driving Assistance Professional Package for $2,500.8 This package includes hands-free driving, traffic-jam assist, and automatic lane change, enhancing comfort on long highway drives. The X5’s performance, family-friendly features, and advanced safety technologies makes it a great choice for those seeking semi-autonomous capabilities in a premium SUV.
2025 Chevrolet Tahoe
The full-size 2025 Chevrolet Tahoe SUV supports Super Cruise on its Premier and High Country trims.6 This system allows hands-free driving on compatible roads, along with safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane-keeping assist.1 With robust engine options, ample space, and a head-up display, the Tahoe balances traditional SUV utility with modern autonomous technology.6
2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and EQS
The 2025 Mercedes-Benz S-Class and EQS Sedan lead the luxury segment with Drive Pilot, the only Level 3 system available in the U.S.3 Both models offer exceptional comfort, advanced infotainment, and semi-autonomous driving on approved highways. The EQS, an electric sedan, has an impressive 340-mile range, while the S-Class delivers traditional luxury.3 Drive Pilot’s ability to handle low-speed traffic autonomously makes these vehicles ideal for urban commuters.4
2025 Ford F-150
The 2025 Ford F-150, a top-selling full-size pickup, offers BlueCruise on its XLT trim and above for $495, including a one-year subscription - the cost of this is $495 annually and $49.99/month.7 BlueCruise enables hands-free driving on mapped highways, with adaptive cruise control and lane-centering as well.1 The F-150’s towing capacity, attractive interior, and semi-autonomous features make it a practical choice for business or pleasure.7
Source the Best Used Self-Driving Cars & Trucks with ACV
Vehicles with autonomous features are becoming more widely available, making them essential for any dealership’s inventory. Find top-notch used cars with self-driving technology at ACV Auctions. We have a wide variety of thoroughly inspected vehicles across the country, along with the expertise and transparent reporting to help you get exactly what you need. Register today to browse and bid.
Sources
- "The Best (Almost) Self-Driving Cars Available Today." Iseecars, 15 Jan. 2025, www.iseecars.com/articles/the-best-almost-self-driving-cars-available-today. Accessed 12 May 2025.
- "Vehicles That Are Almost Self-Driving." US News and World Report, 21 Mar. 2025, cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/advice/cars-that-are-almost-self-driving. Accessed 12 May 2025.
- "Drive Pilot." Mercedes-Benz USA, 12 May 2025, www.mbusa.com/en/owners/manuals/drive-pilot. Accessed 12 May 2025.
- "Mercedes-Benz Drive Pilot First Drive: It Actually Drives Itself*." MotorTrend, 22 Jan. 2022, www.motortrend.com/reviews/mercedes-benz-drive-pilot-autonomous-first-drive-review#google_vignette. Accessed 12 May 2025.
- "Autopilot and Full Self-Driving (Supervised)." Tesla, 12 May 2025, www.tesla.com/support/autopilot. Accessed 12 May 2025.
- "What Is Super Cruise?" U.S. News & World Report, 26 Mar. 2025, cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/advice/what-is-super-cruise. Accessed 12 May 2025.
- "BlueCruise Is Hands-Free Highway Driving." Ford, 12 May 2025, www.ford.com/technology/bluecruise/. Accessed 12 May 2025.
- "2025 BMW X5." Car and Driver, 12 May 2025, www.caranddriver.com/bmw/x5. Accessed 12 May 2025.
- "2025 Genesis G90." US News and World Report, 28 Nov. 2024, cars.usnews.com/cars-trucks/genesis/g90. Accessed 12 May 2025.
