RC rally cars continue to evolve in 2025, with faster motors, tougher chassis, and more advanced handling than ever. Whether you’re a weekend basher or competitive racer, these are the top RC rally cars worth your attention this year.

1. Rlaarlo XTS-P12 – Best Value Metal Chassis Brushless Rally Car

The Rlaarlo XTS-P12 sets a new benchmark in the 1/12-scale RC rally scene with its aggressive specs and unbeatable price. Featuring a full CNC aluminum chassis, brushless power system, and four-wheel drive, it’s a high-performance machine that’s ready to rally straight out of the box.

It comes RTR (ready to run) with a 3200KV brushless motor, 35A waterproof ESC, and 2.4GHz transmitter. The 2000mAh LiPo battery delivers solid runtime, while oil-filled shocks and rally tires ensure stability across varied terrain. At top speeds of 60+ km/h (37+ mph), this car is no slouch.

Despite its compact 1/12 scale, the XTS-X12 handles like a pro, with plenty of tuning potential thanks to its adjustable suspension and metal drivetrain. Whether you’re skimming gravel, drifting on tarmac, or launching off-road jumps, this car punches well above its weight.

For RC fans who want a durable, fast, and low-maintenance rally car under $200, the XTS-X12 delivers phenomenal bang for your buck — ideal for both beginners and experienced drivers.

2. Rlaarlo XTS-F10 – Best Lightweight Carbon Fiber Racer

The Rlaarlo XTS-F10 is a premium evolution of its metal-framed sibling, built for racers who crave both speed and agility. At just 1110 grams, it’s one of the lightest brushless rally cars in its class thanks to a carbon fiber monocoque chassis that reduces weight without compromising strength.

Power comes from a 3200KV brushless motor matched with a 35A ESC and 2S LiPo battery, propelling the F10 to top speeds exceeding 75 km/h (46 mph). Combined with ultra-low center of gravity and four-wheel drive traction, the F10 hugs corners like it’s on rails.

Its upgraded electronics and finely tuned oil-filled shocks make it a standout on tight tracks and mixed terrain. The carbon layout not only enhances rigidity but also offers improved handling at high speeds, especially for technical rally courses.

If you’re chasing lap times or want a serious rally weapon that feels like a pro-level build out of the box, the XTS-F10 is a top contender. It’s a bit pricier than the X12, but for the weight savings and handling response, it’s well worth the investment.

3. HPI WR8 Flux Subaru STI – Best 1/8-Scale Rally Performer

The HPI WR8 Flux Subaru STI is a 1/8-scale rally car built for high-speed dirt dominance. Featuring a licensed Subaru WRX STI rally body and a powerful 4000KV brushless motor, this model is made for RC drivers who crave realism and power in equal measure.

Running on 3S LiPo, the WR8 Flux can reach blistering speeds of up to 80 km/h (50 mph). Its shaft-driven 4WD system, durable aluminum chassis, and rally-tuned suspension make it ideal for aggressive off-road rally runs or backyard dirt shredding.

The waterproof electronics and enclosed drivetrain help it handle harsh conditions, while the detailed rally body adds scale authenticity that makes it look the part. Large rally-spec tires and adjustable shocks give it traction and stability even on loose surfaces.

If you’re looking for a larger-scale rally car that offers both raw performance and licensed style, the WR8 Flux Subaru STI is a top-tier choice for 2025. It’s fast, tough, and looks incredible at speed.

4. HPI WR8 3.0 Nitro Subaru STI – Best Nitro Rally Car

The HPI WR8 3.0 Subaru STI is one of the few RTR (ready-to-run) nitro-powered rally cars still on the market, and it delivers a raw, mechanical driving experience that electric just can’t replicate.

Powered by the G3.0 HO Nitro engine, this 1/8-scale beast hits impressive speeds and has a massive power band perfect for dirt and gravel racing. Its full-time 4WD system, rally suspension geometry, and realistic Subaru rally body make it both a performer and a showpiece.

Unlike brushless models, nitro cars require more hands-on tuning and maintenance, but that’s part of the charm. You’ll need to fuel up, tune the carb, and listen to that high-revving roar as it screams around corners. For many, that’s the ultimate RC thrill.

If you want to relive the golden age of RC or simply love the sound, smell, and tuning of nitro, the WR8 3.0 is one of the last great nitro rally cars that still delivers modern handling and RTR convenience.

5. ZD Racing RX12 Rocket – Best Budget Blaster

The ZD Racing RX12 Rocket delivers some wild performance for a rally car that costs less than many 1/10-scale bashers. It’s a 1/12 scale brushless 4WD rally car that includes a 3S-compatible ESC, metal chassis, and even a built-in gyro for stability on loose surfaces.

At full throttle, it hits speeds up to 80 km/h (50 mph), rivalling much more expensive cars. The LED lights, oil shocks, and realistic body styling give it a premium feel, while the gyro helps new drivers keep the car controlled during aggressive turns or slides.

It may not have the brand cachet of Rlaarlo or HPI, but the RX12 is a solid all-rounder for those who want serious brushless speed without draining their wallet. Available through Banggood, it’s also fairly easy to source parts and upgrades if you want to tweak performance.

If you’re a budget-conscious RC fan who still wants big thrills and flashy features, the RX12 Rocket is hard to beat in 2025.

6. MJX 7303 1/10 Rally Car – Best Entry-Level Brushed Option

The MJX 7303 is a great choice for newcomers to RC rally. At a very accessible price point, it offers decent speed, stylish design, and good build quality for a brushed 1/10-scale rally car.

While it won’t compete with brushless monsters like the Rlaarlo XTS-F10 or HPI WR8, the MJX 7303 offers a stable and fun driving experience that’s perfect for younger drivers or those new to the hobby. It features 4WD for solid traction, oil-filled shocks for smoother rides, and a slick rally-style shell with LED lights for added flair.

It’s not going to break speed records, but it will hold up to weekend bashing and light trail runs with ease. The included transmitter, battery, and charger make it a true plug-and-play experience.

If you want to dip your toes into RC rally without investing heavily, the MJX 7303 offers a lot of fun in a simple, affordable package. And thanks to its 1/10 scale size, it looks impressive while being forgiving enough to learn on.

7. Maverick QuantumRX Flux 4S – Best Big-Scale Basher with 4S Brushless Power

The Maverick QuantumRX Flux 4S is a true heavyweight in the rally scene — literally. At 1/8 scale, it’s larger, tougher, and more capable than most models in this list, giving it a big advantage when it comes to high-speed stability and terrain clearance.

Equipped with a FLX10-3674-2250KV brushless motor and FLX10-4S120 waterproof 120A ESC, this machine can run on a 4S LiPo (14.8V) for staggering acceleration and top-end speed. Built on the rugged Quantum+ chassis, it includes a center differential, metal drivetrain components, oil-filled aluminum shocks, and Tredz belted rally tires that grip every surface.

This rally car is packed with thoughtful features, including hard plastic rally body components like wing mirrors and a dual-level rear wing, HD steel driveshafts, and high-clearance bumpers. The aggressive styling and oversized build make it a favorite for off-road bashers and speed freaks alike.

One important note: batteries are not included out of the box, but we offer a bundle deal that includes 2x 4S LiPo batteries so you can start tearing up the track right away. Whether you’re jumping curbs, sliding on gravel, or drifting on tarmac, the QuantumRX delivers thrilling, scalable rally performance that few cars can match.

If you want a serious 1/8 scale rally car with huge power and durability, the QuantumRX Flux is the big bad basher to beat in 2025.

From high-end carbon racers to affordable beginner models, 2025 offers something for every RC rally fan. Whether you prefer brushless speed, nitro realism, or budget-friendly thrills, the models listed here deliver some of the best value and performance in the hobby today.

Which one will you be racing this year?

All of todays selection are available on www.radio-controlled.co.uk/rally