The best in
Bankrate’s expert editorial team reviewed nearly 40 lenders so you can find the right fit for your next vehicle. While we may partner with some of the lenders who took gold, our team did not let those relationships influence scores.
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At Bankrate we strive to help you make smarter financial decisions. While we adhere to strict , this post may contain references to products from our partners. Here's an explanation of . Read more about how we scored the Bankrate Awards winners in .
See our top picks
Best from a bank
USAA
Why they won
USAA serves military families financing new and used cars in addition to lease buyouts and cash-out refinancing loans. It boasts special features such as long loan terms, up to 84 months, and competitive rates for both new and used vehicle loans. And while it stands out for its bank-backed offerings, it also has a strong digital experience and an easy-to-use app.
Top features
- Same-day funding available
- Customized payment options
- Fully online application
Best from an online lender
LightStream
Why they won
LightStream offers unsecured loans to finance a new or used vehicle. Its easy-to-navigate online presence and speedy funding help it take first place among other online lenders. A strong user experience isn’t LightStream’s only perk — it also includes a range of loan amounts and available terms.
Top features
- Loan terms up to 84 months
- Easy online application
- Loans up to $100,000
Best for auto refinance
RateGenius
Why they won
RateGenius serves as an auto loan marketplace. This makes it easy to compare rates side-by-side to ensure you secure the best deal. More than that, RateGenius boasts fast funding and accepts borrowers with poor credit.
Top features
- Interest rates displayed online
- Fast funding timeline
- Perfect credit not required
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Best for used car purchase
PenFed
Why they won
The Virginia-based credit union encourages borrowers to prequalify, which can provide a firm grasp of expected costs. PenFed is an especially strong option for used car buyers as it has an online car-buying service where drivers can shop and buy in one place. Lastly, the membership fee required for credit union members is waived for those applying for auto loans.
Top features
- Online car-buying program
- Loans up to $150,000
- Range of loan terms, up to 84 months
Best for new car purchase
Autopay
Why they won
Drivers buying a new vehicle will benefit from Autopay’s financing experience. Shoppers are not only encouraged to prequalify, but your rate is locked in for 30 days, which can help you shop confidently. And with terms up to 96 months, borrowers are sure to find a term that fits in their monthly budget.
Top features
- Loans up to $100,000 available
- Terms between 24 and 96 months
- Side-by-side loan comparison
Best all-in-one experience
Bank of America
Why they won
If you are looking for a seamless car-buying process, Bank of America takes first place against its competitors for its integrated car shopping program. You can enter your ZIP code and be presented with vehicles available in your area. That, combined with prequalification, makes Bank of America a top choice for borrowers who don’t want to spend time switching between websites or visiting dealers in person.
Top features
- Discounts for premium account holders
- Long shopping window
- Lease buyouts available
Best for first-in-class customer service
Consumers Credit Union
Why they won
While Consumers Credit Union takes first place for its expansive customer service hours and easy-to-navigate site, this is not all that makes the lender a good option. Borrowers can also take advantage of its car-buying service powered by TrueCar and benefit from in-person customer support.
Top features
- TrueCar shopping program
- Low minimum APR
- Loan reps available 24/7
Explore the best of the best
Check out the 2025 Bankrate Awards winners across our top categories.
