Top 25 Best-Selling Cars and Trucks of 2017
Even a cursory look at the 25 best-selling cars in U.S. will tell you a lot about this country. While the rest of the globe’s inhabitants drive tiny, fuel-efficient cars, Americans embrace trucks as if we all called the famed Ponderosa Ranch home. They swept the top three spots and accounted for five of the top 25 on Kelley Blue Book’s 2017 compilation. Sure, the compact segment is well-represented. But the list reflects our national love affair with machines that make personal statements about who we are and what we care about.
In fact, America's love of full-size pickup trucks continues to grow. Though the segment is made up of just six models, total sales topped 2.2 million in 2017. This, in a year that saw U.S. sales drop year-over-year for the first time since 2009. While sedans remain popular, the dominant force in the marketplace is the compact and mid-size crossover SUV. Together, the segments account for 35 percent of all cars and trucks sold domestically last year.
Spoiler alert before you launch the slideshow: There’s not a European car in the bunch.
Ford F Series Truck
PROS
Ford never would have imagined that when it introduced the first-generation F-Series pickup in 1948 that it would one day stand alone as the most popular vehicle in America, and a backbone of the brand. The 2017 iteration boasts modern touches such as a Wi-Fi hotspot, smart cruise control, active park assist, and an infotainment system that reads your texts to you. And it’s quick! The 3.5-liter EcoBoost version posted a remarkable time of 5.8 seconds to reach 60 mph. Making your life easier outside of the cab are pop-out steps on either side of the bed that ease your reach for cargo.
CONS
The aluminum body panels and bed, which help make it the lightest truck in its class, can be more costly to repair than steel. And face it: A truck that’s fulfilling its destiny is bound to end up with a few bumps and bruises. Why Ford doesn’t respond to the popularity (see: fuel savings and pulling power) of diesel engines is a mystery. Bottom line: You’ll have to visit another car lot. The running boards and and front air dam somewhat limit ground clearance, for those owners who actually take the truck off the pavement. If you’re really nitpicking the top dog in the pack, its boxy look isn’t a head-turner.
X-FACTOR
Sway Control, a standard feature calibrated by two gyroscopic sensors, helps keep your trailer or camper from swaying side to side while towing it.
BASE PRICE
$28,675
MPG
18/25
Chevrolet Silverado
PROS
The quiet, well-appointed cabin and smooth ride make the seventh-generation truck absolutely sedan-comfortable on the highway. And when you want it to roll up its sleeves and go to work it delivers a towing maximum of up to 7,600 pounds with the standard V6 engine. The audio system includes a USB port and auxiliary audio jack. The addition of Chevrolet’s Teen Driver system allows parents to monitor — and to some degree, control — how their kids are driving. The maximum trailer rating has been bumped up 500 pounds to 12,500, adding to its status as a truck that works as hard as it plays.
CONS
While it earned a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Administration, it received 4 stars in the rollover category. The most efficient engine offering is burdened with either lower power or poorer fuel economy than its Ford and Dodge counterparts. And while some of us bring a little extra cushion with us (ahem, yours truly) the hard seats and somewhat clunky ride are a drawback. Not surprisingly, it isn’t the easiest to maneuver in tight spaces, particularly city-style parallel parking. And (head-scratcher) it doesn’t offer a manual transmission.
X-FACTOR
It’s overdue for a redesign, which means that current models are likely to have incentives as dealers try to make way for new, sexier inventory.
BASE PRICE
$27,585
MPG
18/24
Dodge Ram
PROS
When you need it to deliver — in the fast lane or on a rutted, muddy trail — the 395 horsepower emanating from its 3-liter V6 is a reassuring companion. It has three cab styles, multiple bed lengths, and 10 trim levels, all but assuring you won’t see another one like it when you place it in park — at the mall or the rodeo. Every model (and there are a bevy of them) is equipped with a smooth-shifting, 8-speed automatic transmission. And while fuel economy is not atop most truck-buyer’s lists, it’s the fuel-economy leader of the entire full-size truck segment.
CONS
Payload ratings for the Ram lineup are between 1,050 and 1,930 pounds, relegating it to last in its class. Its infotainment system is a bit lacking in functionality with only the “back” button to aid your navigation. It’s not compatible with Apple CarPlay or Android Auto either. And if you don’t like your truck sending a muscle-car message with its stocky lines and throaty exhaust, you might need to look on another lot.
X-FACTOR
While it’s not a parking attendant extending his hand, entry and exit is made easier courtesy of air suspension, which can lower the vehicle by 2 inches.
BASE PRICE
$26,395
MPG
21/29
Toyota RAV4
PROS
The king of the compact SUV segment has maintained control of the throne, in large part due to its abundance of premium features and an easily approachable MSRP. A drawback with many hybrids — sacrificing space to accommodate the battery pack — isn’t an issue. The pack takes up just 2 cubic feet of space designated for cargo. The rear seat reclines, complementing the headroom and legroom space. Handling continues to one of the model’s strong points, along with its steady resale value.
CONS
There’s no third row available in this fourth-generation RAV4, limiting it to five occupants. Those who are in the cabin will find the interior somewhat plasticky. The driver, according to many reviewers, will find the engine performance on the sluggish side, particularly the standard 2.5-liter, 4 cylinder. The cupholders — while not a deal breaker — are less than ideal, which is why eBay is doing a brisk business in “RAV4 cupholder inserts.”
X-FACTOR
The Toyota Safety Sense bundle — forward-collision warning, lane-departure alert, lane-assist, adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beams — is standard on even the entry-level model.
BASE PRICE
$24,410
MPG
23/30 mpg
Nissan Rogue
PROS
It’s the only vehicle in its class to have an optional third row. Cargo space is a selling point too, with 70 feet available after putting down the seats. The Divide-N-Hide cargo system is designed so that the rear floor can be raised, lowered, used as a shelf or cover hidden compartments. All-wheel drive is available on every model. A hybrid is now available, making it one of two cars in the compact crossover SUV category to offer the option. And if you’re going the traditional route, not to worry: The EPA rates it among the most fuel efficient in its class.
CONS
Acceleration, never the model’s strong point, continues to be a liability (0-60 in a little more than 9 seconds). The standard 2.5-liter 4-cylinder puts out an unremarkable 170 horsepower and 175 pound-feet of torque. With a 1,000-pound max tow rating there’s little reason to bother installing a hitch. The combination of larger dimensions and less-than-nimble steering conspire to make it feel slightly laborious to pilot. Advanced safety features are available only on the top trim and attractive features such as a panoramic sunroof is a slick choice are only offered with two pricey packages.
X-FACTOR
A rearview camera is standard on all models.
BASE PRICE
$23,820
MPG
26/33
Honda Civic
PROS
A turbocharged engine in standard models will ensure that when you’re late you have only yourself to blame. Its long history of reliability and top-tier resale value are again reinforced by the 2017 edition. Standard active safety features include ABS brakes, brake assist, LED daytime running lights, and a multi-angle camera to assist you in backing up. The Civic sedan delivers 112.9 cubic feet of space and it doesn’t come at the cost of interior space for passengers. When it comes to safety, it’s essentially without peer. Both the sedan and hatchback models ace every federal test when it comes to crash scores. If you don’t mind driving a manual transmission, you can get a Civic for under $19K.
CONS
The touchscreen interface has been described as everything between “confusing” to “annoying” to “maddening.” Toggling between Apple CarPlay or Android Auto and the Honda system is not exactly seamless. The sloping rear roof won’t be popular with tall passengers, as it makes it harder to enter and exit the rear seat. The forward collision warning system and the adaptive cruise control reportedly border on hyper-sensitive. That’s better than a lack of responsiveness, but less than ideal.
X-FACTOR
The 10th-generation Civic is available as a hatchback for the first time in its long and distinguished history.
BASE PRICE
$19,540
MPG
31/40
Toyota Camry
PROS
The car introduced as an offshoot of the Toyota Celica (remember those?!?!) in Japan in 1979 has come a long way from its humble beginnings. Firmly entrenched as one of the most popular cars in America, the 35th year for the midsize sedan extends Toyota’s reputation for comfort and quality. Highway ride (smooth) and the noise level for occupants (low) rate among the best in class. J.D. Power & Associates consistently ranks it as one of the most reliable cars on the road. All models come with a 60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
CONS
All trims have 60/40-split folding rear seats, but they don't completely fold flat. That’ll cost you some cargo space. The dashboard and infotainment interface lack a modern feel, bordering on utilitarian. And the lack of high-tech smartphone integration is also a negative. The few people who prefer a manual transmission will be disappointed if they have their heart set on a Camry as Toyota doesn’t offer one for its top-selling sedan.
X-FACTOR
Standard equipment on the base LE includes an Entune infotainment system, a rear-view camera, and Siri Eyes Free.
BASE PRICE
$23,070
MPG
29/41 mph
Honda CR-V
PROS
Fully redesigned for 2017, the fifth generation of the best-selling SUV is slightly longer than its predecessor. With 2.1 more inches of space in the rear, the CR-V delivers the most leg room in the compact SUV class. While you’ll have to shell out a few bucks for the optional hands-free liftgate, a rearview camera is standard. For snow drivers, it has an extra 1.5 inches of clearance and an improved all-wheel drive system.
CONS
The navigation screen is a bit undersized on the base LX model (5 inches). Its max towing capacity is a paltry 1,500 pounds, which means you may wish you had an industry competitors’ V6 under the hood. Another obvious oversight: Hill descent control is not available. The climate control requires some attention from the occupants. Reviewers indicated that the cooling system seems to work better at higher speeds.
X-FACTOR
Although you can still get a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder in the LX model, three other trims feature the new turbocharged 1.5-liter 4-cylinder motor, which delivers an impressive 190 horsepower and 179 pound-feet of torque. And it’s more efficient, getting close to 34 mph, according to the EPA.
BASE PRICE
$24,045
MPG
26/32
Toyota Corolla
PROS
The formula of attractive features, reliability and value pricing continues to be a winning one for 11th-generation of the longtime sales leader. Every Corolla comes standard with the Toyota Safety Sense-P driver-assistance package — automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane-departure alert, automatic high-beams, and radar cruise control. Also standard: a backup camera with projected path lines. It’s reasonably priced and top-tier resale values are also a consideration for the cash conscious.
CONS
The ride quality lacks refinement, and acceleration is nothing to write home about. More than one automotive editor described it as “sluggish.” The same can be said of the steering response and handling when pressed to dive into a corner. There’s also been criticism of its backup camera. The poor resolution is particularly problematic at night. If you’re planning on taking a long road trip, pack light. The old-school gooseneck hinges limit the amount of space you have for luggage when you close the trunk. The Corolla doesn’t offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto.
X-FACTOR
Toyota rolled out a 50th Anniversary Special Edition model in 2017. It’s available in three colors — Black Cherry, Classic Silver, Blizzard Pearl — and features 17-inch alloy wheels, a smart-key system with a push-button start and a 7-inch high-res touchscreen.
BASE PRICE
$18,500
MPG
28/36
Honda Accord
PROS
Revamped styling (note the gleaming chrome on the grille, door handles and side-window trim) continue to make it a looks-leader among the segment. And its driver-assisted technologies — adaptive cruise control, and warning systems for forward collisions and lane departures — is now available on all models. Designers improved rear-seat space, further adding to a cabin that’s know for a comfortable ride. And you’ll save on gas every time you fill up as it doesn’t require premium fuel. In terms of overall quality, and the prospects for long-term ownership, this is a hard car to argue against.
CONS
All versions are front-wheel drive. That could be a problem in snow country, when you need all-wheel drive at times. Its oddly shaped trunk is not as usable as the cargo space found in its competitors. And the sensitivity of the driver aids is a recurring complaint among industry experts. Warnings are a good thing, but they can become aggravating. In the Accord’s case, the forward collision system is a bit too vigilant.
X-FACTOR
A Sport Special Edition was introduced in 2017. Oddly, though, features that are available in the Sport trim — collision braking and road departure mitigation systems, lane keeping assist system and adaptive cruise control — are not available for the Sport Special Edition.
BASE PRICE
$22,355
MPG
23/32
Ford Escape
PROS
Ford’s foray into the compact SUV segment has been a rewarding one, as the Escape trails only the F-150 pickup in company sales. The 2017 edition’s vastly improved Sync 3 infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Automatic headlines, remote keyless entry and cruise control are standard features, and there are a number of electronic driving aids available as options, highlighted by the popular parking assist. A four-way adjustable headrest makes it easy for every driver to get comfortable, and the rear seats fold flat, so the stuff you’re hauling will feel similarly at ease.
CONS
The steering (too much play) and turning radius (mediocre) leave drivers feeling a bit empty-handed, literally and figuratively. Base models offer only in front-wheel drive, and there’s no manual transmission. Prospective owners who plan to spend a fair amount of driving time off the pavement should keep this in mind. What you get in mileage with the S model’s four-cylinder engine you give up in performance. This impacts its towing capacity (only 2,000 pounds) as well.
X-FACTOR
Rear-view camera, smartphone integration, and Bluetooth technology are standard equipment.
BASE PRICE
$23,600
MPG
21/29 mpg
Chevrolet Equinox
PROS
Chevy’s compact SUV does a lot of things well, and its blend of affordability and power has been rewarded with improved sales over the years. Drivers and passengers will enjoy the standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with up to six USB ports. The rear seat is adjustable, which in addition to giving tall passengers more comfort, simplifies the process of fastening a child seat. A 1.6-liter diesel with highway fuel economy of up to 39 mpg is available, giving you a little more time and distance between the ol’ filling station. A 4G Wi-Fi hot spot is standard.
CONS
Despite its exterior girth, it’s not the roomiest on the inside. It has less cargo space than the Honda CR-V, which checks in at 10 inches shorter than its Chevy counterpart. The base four-cylinder engine is lacking in punch, particularly when you’re hauling the soccer team or some out-of-town guests. It only earned a four-star safety rating, and the 2017 model doesn’t offer automatic braking technology. Lastly, active safety features like lane-keeping assist and an around-view camera are only an option on the most expensive Equinox Premier (formerly known as the LTZ trim).
X-FACTOR
In terms of price, performance and functionality, it ably competes in two categories — compact and midsize SUV.
BASE PRICE
$23,100
MPG
26/32
Ford Explorer
PROS
The base model provides you with a 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine that provides a balance of power and economy that has competitors envious. It boasts 280 horsepower and 310-pound feet of torque while delivering a solid 19 mpg around town and 27 mpg on the highway. Its third row of seating — which puts it in an elite group of three-row SUVS — is easily accessible. The distinctive exterior design sets it apart from the crowd. Your wallet can take comfort that these items are standard: front, front-side and curtain airbags; a third-row safety canopy, front passenger knee airbag, and rear outboard inflatable seatbelt.
CONS
It lacks Apple Carplay and Android Auto integration, which stands in stark contrast from Ford’s effort to stock the cabin with an array of creature comforts. Its wide turning radius can make city driving a bit of a grind, despite its comfortable ride and quiet interior. While we extoll the virtues of the third-row seating, it does come at a cost to the occupants of the middle row. Perhaps resting on its laurels as the best-selling SUV in its class, Ford kept the same features and engine lineup from the previous year, creating little incentive to look beyond the 2016 edition.
X-FACTOR
The XLT Sport Appearance package gives you some of the Sport model’s styling upgrades without having to also pay for the EcoBoost V6 power plant.
BASE PRICE
$31,600
MPG
19/27
Nissan Altima
PROS
When acceleration is a prominent attribute of a midsize sedan, that deserves more than a passing (pardon the pun) mention. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder puts out a brisk 179 horsepower, and the optional 270 horsepower 3.5-liter V6 will quicken your pulse with a 0-60 time of 6.1 seconds. Advanced Drive-Assist Display, Bluetooth hands-free phone system, push-button ignition, and a telescoping steering wheel are among the standard features. Aesthetically, its V-Motion grille dramatically distinguishes it from competing family sedans. All models are backed by a 60,0000-mile powertrain warranty, and the driver is backed by front-seat comfort that stands alone in its class.
CONS
The Altima last enjoyed a redesign in 2013, and frankly, it’s showing its age. Compounding that is the fact that getting a full suite of features will cost you, in some cases thousands more than competitors. It also lags behind some of its peers in roominess. Why Nissan doesn’t offer a hybrid model is beyond me. Similarly vexing is the lack of a manual transmission, something that would enhance the “fun factor” for those who like to drive with enthusiasm. If you live in snow country, you might need to consider another brand; there is no available all-wheel drive option.
X-FACTOR
It flashes the lights and sounds the horn when the tire you’re inflating has reached the proper pressure.
BASE PRICE
$24,025
MPG
27/38
Jeep Grand Cherokee
PROS
The five-passenger crossover SUV that has come to define the segment continues to do so with its off-road skillset mated with on-pavement performance. The standard safety equipment is impressive: anti-lock disc brakes, front-and-rear-seat airbags, side-curtain airbags, front-knee airbags and stability/traction control. An optional diesel V6 is something that sets it apart from the crowd. The same can be said for interior comfort and the quiet cabin. Both receive top marks. Its brawny good looks continue to turn heads.
CONS
Its base four-cylinder underperforms, partly due to the Cherokee’s bulkier dimensions. And when you opt for a bigger power plant, the fuel economy is below average. It received just four out of five stars in government crash tests, and scored relatively poorly in front-impact testing. Cargo space is not a selling point with dimensions commonly found in the subcompact crossover class.
X-FACTOR
You can get some of the features associated with higher-priced time packages a la carte style, such as a towing package and a technology package that showcases a number of safety-oriented features.
BASE PRICE
$25,490
MPG
19/26
Nissan Sentra
PROS
This compact sedan exudes sportiness not typically associated with the category. It delivers the most interior space for your dollar, comfortably seating five adults, sips fuel, and is affordable. In short, this is a car that’s easy to like. Thicker glass in every trim has reduced wind noise. The trunk offers a generous 15.1 cubic feet of storage space. Nissan’s customer-friendly sales approach — look for low payment leases, generous cash back offers and zero percent financing — can’t be overlooked.
CONS
Straight line speed is lacking. The base model SL needed 10.1 seconds to get from zero to 60 mph in testing. The NissanConnect infotainment interface feels a bit dated, which is, unfortunately, a theme throughout the entire interior. The brakes on the base model (drums in the rear) are a bit of a negative. A rating of Poor for its headlights kept it from being a Top Safety Pick from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
X-FACTOR
The SR Turbo model, new for 2017, is outfitted with a 188-horsepower, turbocharged 1.6-liter engine that will still deliver 32 mpg. It also includes upgraded brakes, recalibrated steering, and sport suspension.
BASE PRICE
$16,690
MPG
29/37
Toyota Highlander
PROS
A new lineup of standard items — topped by active cruise control, lane departure warning and a rear-view camera — are among the many reasons to be revved up about Toyota’s midsize SUV crossover. Reclining seatbacks in the second row add to what’s a comfortable and spacious interior. A new eight-speed transmission is an upgrade from the six-speed version, and it’s mated with a new, stronger optional V6 engine. The ride is smooth, the styling is borderline luxurious, and its resale value is consistently high.
CONS
The turning radius can transform a simple U-turn into a three or four-point turn. There’s less than 14 feet of cargo space behind the third row. Toyota only offers traditional halogen headlights; LED are not available in any model. The lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is also a drawback. The base four-cylinder engine is an underperformed, particularly when it comes to towing. It could be tougher, too. The lack of undercarriage protection means that while good for snow and the occasional dirt trail, it’s not a true off-road machine.
X-FACTOR
Toyota Safety Sense is now standard. At no additional cost you get a pre-collision system that alerts you and may apply the brakes, lane-departure alert, automatic high beams, dynamic radar cruise control and pedestrian detection.
BASE PRICE
$30,490
MPG
21/27
Ford Fusion
PROS
The baseline Fusion S is loaded with features that would be upgrades if you were shopping a competitor. Among them are automatic headlines, LED taillights, complete power accessories, rearview camera, cruise control, smartphone app integration, tilt-and-telescoping steering wheel, a USB port and the Sync wireless communication system with voice control. Ford’s popular mid-size sedan can claim more cargo space in the trunk than two key competitors.
CONS
It is slightly burdened by average rear-seat legroom, and mediocre fuel economy. Its reliability ratings are less than stellar. The rearward slope of the roof helps the car’s lines, but it reduces visibility out the rear window and cuts into backseat headroom a bit. There’s no automatic braking technology in the 2017 model. Nor is there a manual gearbox, particularly galling if you’re considering the pulse-quickening Fusion Sport. The tiny 4.2-inch screen for its infotainment system is simply insufficient.
X-FACTOR
Perhaps the best part of Ford’s Sync system is the emergency crash notification system that automatically dials 911. It’s initiated by an airbag deployment or when the fuel pump shut-off is triggered (often in the event of a rear collision).
BASE PRICE
$22,995
MPG
21/31
GMC Sierra
PROS
The standard V6 engine is a 4.6-liter brute that produces 285 horsepower and 305-pound feet of torque. It delivers on the three must-haves for truck buyers— payload, towing capacity and grunt (AKA horsepower). The level of passenger comfort in its quiet and well-appointed cabin sets it apart from many competitors. The 4G Wi-Fi hotspot will keep teenagers from asking “how long till we get there?” on road trips, as well as allow you to take care of a little business from the passenger seat. Trailer-sway control — intervening with braking and/or reduced engine power when necessary — is standard.
CONS
If you’re not comfortable parking a full-size pickup, the Sierra promises to be a challenge. Ride quality is mediocre, particularly on bumpy roads. You won’t get a CD player, Bluetooth or telescoping steering wheel on the base model. If you start getting carried away with trim levels and options, the price can soar beyond $70,000. The child seat anchors were given a rating of Poor in terms of ease of use by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Surprisingly, its 6.2-liter V8 delivers less payload capacity than that of Ford’s Ecoboost V6 equipped F-150.
X-FACTOR
It carries a higher starting price than several rivals in its class.
BASE PRICE
$29,500
MPG
18/24
Toyota Tacoma
PROS
It’s not the best-selling midsize truck in America by accident. The base model features a composite bed with a movable cleat tie-down system, a backup camera tucked into the tailgate release handle, and a sliding rear window. The rear seats fold flat to create a handy cargo shelf. The driving experience is pleasant, aided by a responsive and sensitive steering feel. It’s nimble in the snow and sturdy in off-road situations. The controls are large and easy to reach, and the layout is functional and logical. A push-button start and a moonroof and welcome standard features
CONS
It fell one star short of a five-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. It was also just a four-star performer in the rollover test. If you want a manual transmission, you have to go with four-wheel drive. It still uses drum brakes in the rear, a sore point with many test drivers. The same can be said for the lack of power seats. In pursuit of ground clearance, the Tacoma has forsaken some creature comforts, namely a high step-up to the cab and a less-than-natural driving position. It used an app called Entune rather than the more universal (and popular) Apple CarPlay and Androit Auto.
X-FACTOR
A Go-Pro camera mount on the roofline is an industry first. Are your friends doubting how radical your off-road exploits were? Tell them to push play and pipe down.
BASE PRICE
$24,000
MPG
19/23
Hyundai Elantra
PROS
The South Korean compact sedan extended its reputation for dependability and efficiency in 2017. The interior space (110.2 cubic feet) qualifies it as a mid-size car. In addition to roominess, you’ll find tranquility — or at least Hyundai’s attempt at it. The 2017 model features thicker glass on the doors, and thicker carpeting, both of which contribute to a quieter cabin. Wind noise and vibration are largely absent. The new 2-liter, 4-cylinder engine puts out a respectable 147 horsepower, and it feels quicker than you might expect, perhaps due to the Elantra weighing less than 3,000 pounds.
CONS
Despite this being the sixth generation — and the recipient of a complete redesign for 2017 — it hasn’t shed its plastic-y interior. Nor has it closed the fuel economy gap with the rival Honda Civic. If you want active safety features, you’ll have to reach for your wallet. They’re available only on the top-of-the-line Limited model. In terms of design, the oversized gaping grille seems a bit out of place, as if it’s trying to prove something. The new model is barely larger than its predecessor, expanding less than an inch in length to 179.9 inches, and an inch in width (70.9). Lastly, its resale value trails the top-two market leaders.
X-FACTOR
The warranty is arguably the best you’ll find. The powertrain is covered for 10 years or 100,000 miles. The bumper-to-bumper warranty is good for five years or 60,000 miles.
BASE PRICE
$17,150
MPG
29/38
Jeep Wrangler
PROS
With a mix of toughness and fun, the Wrangler continues to defy time, and the competition. Its legendary off-road prowess and clever soft-top/hard-top design are unique in the automotive industry. Base models come with Chrysler’s Pentastar V6 under the hood (285 horsepower) and a versatile four-wheel drive system applying the power. There’s something for everyone with four trim levels: Sport, Sport S, Sahara and for the hard core, the Rubicon. Because its year-to-year changes are minimal it holds its value well. And while you won’t be racing for pink slips in a Jeep, the Wrangler’s quickness is a pleasant surprise. A two-door model was timed at 6.9 seconds accelerating from zero to 60.
CONS
Fuel consumption is an issue. Woefully poor would be a nice way to frame it. And both the automatic transmission and the manual deliver the same economy rating. It’s predictably noisy inside, even at low speeds, and the ride is on the bumpy side, which to be fair, is in keeping with its character. In terms of safety, the grades issued by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety are low. The two-door received Poor for its side-impact test. The four-door got a Marginal, the second-lowest rating. It was last designed in 2007. While we love its utilitarian look, it’s overdue for a significant makeover.
X-FACTOR
If the interior looks like it could use a fire hose trained on it, go ahead and turn the spigot. There are floor plugs hidden beneath the floor covering. They can be removed with a flat-head screwdriver so that water can drain after a thorough cleaning.
BASE PRICE
$23,995
MPG
17/21
Chevrolet Cruze
PROS
The second-generation release from Chevy comes with an impressive assortment of standard equipment. A backup camera, 7-inch color touchscreen display, USB port and BlueTooth technology all come with the base L model. The MyLink infotainment system includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. That’s standard as well. The fuel-sipping power plant is aided by a start-stop feature that will improve your gas mileage. The interior is stylish and well appointed, a notable difference from some of its competitors in the compact segment. Its lighter weight (by 250 pounds!) improves handling.
CONS
You’ll have to pay extra for cruise control. And even if you wanted to reach into your wallet and upgrade to all-wheel drive, well, you couldn’t. Chevrolet only offers a front-wheel drive. The rear seats are a bit cramped. Considering it’s Chevrolet’s best-selling car globally (3.5 million sold since its 2008 debut), we expect more attention to creature comfort. Most competitors offer features at a better price. One example: a standard Cruze lists for just under $17K. But if you want one with an automatic transmission, expect to pay well north of $19K. That kind of thing will add up quickly. The new hatchback that everyone’s excited about? It comes in just two trims — the pricey ones. Comparable offerings from Honda, Mazda and Kia are lower priced.
X-FACTOR
Every Cruze comes with OnStar (free for 3 months) and Teen Driver. In addition to its signature on-demand roadside assistance, OnStar includes automatic crash notification, remote control of door locks, and stolen vehicle assistance. Teen Driver lets you set custom alerts (warnings when the vehicle exceeds a preselected speed), as well as speed and audio limits (music is muted until front-seat occupants have fastened their seat belts).
BASE PRICE
$16,975
MPG
28/39
Subaru Outback
PROS
The base version of the midsize all-wheel drive wagon comes with a lineup of standard features that should be accompanied by trumpets as you read them: hill descent control and hill holding assist, the automaker’s Starlink 6.2-inch touchscreen infotainment interface, Bluetooth, a 4-speaker entertainment system with CD player, a USB-iPod interface, auxiliary audio jack, 60/40-split folding rear seat, air conditioning, automatic headlights … you get the point. When it comes to safety, its standard features are hard to beat: active front head restraints, front side and seat cushion airbags, antilock disc brakes, traction control, and a rearview camera. It seats 5 passengers comfortably, is nimble around town or in the snow, and combines off-road ruggedness with a hint of luxury.
CONS
The base 2.5-liter, 4-cylinder engine lags a bit when asked to accelerate with urgency. Considering it puts out 175 horsepower, it should pack more punch. If you upgrade to the 6-cylinder, you’ll find yourself at the gas pump more than you’d like. The lack of a third row seat option has elicited complaints, as has the tiny readouts for the clock and outside temperature. The Outback Limited and Touring are the only models that offer the 6-cylinder engine.
X-FACTOR
It has a hefty 73.3 cubic feet of total cargo space, the most in its class. Most trims include a sturdy cargo tray that helps hold your equipment, luggage, flea market treasures — you name it.
BASE PRICE
$25,645
MPG
25/32
Chevrolet Malibu
PROS
Chevrolet’s mid-size sedan, the 9th generation of the nameplate, gets plenty of points for affordability, style and driving enjoyment. The MyLink infotainment system (one of the best in the industry) has a 7-inch screen on the base model. Its safety ratings by the National Highway Traffic Safety Institute were the best possible. It delivers 163 horsepower out of its turbocharged, 1.5-liter 4-cylinder. and its automatic start-stop feature contributes to its impressive fuel economy. The muscled body and sleek lines are eye-catching, as are the twin exhaust pipes.
CONS
The base L model is pretty stripped down. Its high rear decklid and bulky roof pillars somewhat limit visibility. And the storage is surprisingly subpar: tiny glovebox, center armrest bin is average, door bins are on the small side as well. Same for the trunk. Feedback from the steering wheel is not the best, and the handling is not as responsive as competing performance sedans. Unlike some of its key rivals, Chevrolet doesn’t offer a manual transmission.
X-FACTOR
There’s no rearview camera or infotainment screen in the base model.
BASE PRICE
$21,680
MPG
27/36