Vehicles are one of the most expensive purchases people make so it’s important they get the most for their money.
Consumer Reports has been helping people select safe, reliable and satisfying vehicles for years and the publication is back with its top ten picks for 2018.
The Toyota Corolla took home the top honors in the compact car class as CR said it’s a “practical, fuel-efficient sedan” with a “strong reliability track record.” Pricing starts at $18,600 and power is provided by a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine producing up to 140 hp.
The Chevrolet Bolt was named the best compact green car as it has an EPA-estimated range of 238 miles and a powerful electric motor which enables the car to run from 0-60 mph in just 6.5 seconds. The Bolt starts at $37,495 but is eligible for a federal tax credit that lowers the cost of entry to $29,995.
Buyers looking for something luxurious and affordable will want to check out the Audi A4. It won top honors in the compact luxury class and Consumer Reports says it shines in a “segment populated by superstars.”
In the midsize car category, the Toyota Camry beat out the Honda Accord. The publication praised the car’s handling, ride quality and fuel-economy – among other things.
The Chevrolet Impala doesn’t get a lot of love from car enthusiasts but Consumer Reports calls it a “gem” in the large car segment. While it’s not the most exciting vehicle, it offers plenty of room and an upscale driving experience which isn’t bad considering it starts at $27,895.
The Chrysler Pacifica is a major improvement over its predecessor but the changes weren’t enough to dethrone the Toyota Sienna. It was praised for having a comfortable ride, an optional all-wheel drive system and “respectable fuel economy.”
Subaru has seen a lot of success in recent years and part of that is due to models such as the Forester which was named the best compact SUV. Billed as a practical crossover that offers responsive handling, the model edged out numerous competitors in a booming segment.
Speaking of crowded segments, there’s certainly not a lack of compact luxury SUVs. Consumer Reports says the redesigned BMW X3 is the best of the bunch as it combines “driving enjoyment, comfort, slick technology and utility in one appealing package.”
Midsize crossovers populate America’s roads and the publication says consumers should certainly check out the Toyota Highlander. While drivers shouldn’t expect to be able to tackle Moab, the Highlander is spacious, comfortable and reliable.
Last but not least, the Ford F-150 walked away with tops honors in the full-size truck category. It will be interesting to see if the model can compete this feat again next year as it will face renewed competition from the redesigned Chevrolet Silverado and Ram 1500.
Consumers Reports also compiled a list of which companies build the best cars. The list factors in predicted reliability ratings and owner satisfaction. This year’s winner was a bit of a surprise as Genesis beat out Audi (#2), BMW (#3), Lexus (#4) and Porsche (#5) to claim the top spot. Rounding out the top ten are Kia, Subaru, Tesla, Honda and Toyota.