As 2022 comes to a close, we’re taking a look back and asking our readers what cars they fell in love with this year.
We’ll lay down some ground rules and limit answers to vehicles either introduced or launched in 2022, but there’s no shortage of options as automakers had a very busy year.
GM was one of the most active as they introduced a slew of new vehicles including the Chevrolet Blazer EV, Equinox EV, and Silverado EV as well as the redesigned Colorado and Trax. Not to be outdone, GMC introduced the new Canyon, Sierra HD, and Sierra EV. Cadillac didn’t rest on their laurels either as they launched the Lyriq and Escalade-V, while also unveiling the all-new Celestiq.
That’s a ton of new and upcoming models, and we didn’t even mention the Corvette Z06. While the Lyriq is great, I’m excited about the Sierra EV Denali Edition 1 as it looks fantastic inside and out. While not as flashy or as powerful as the GMC Hummer EV, the electric pickup is undeniably luxurious and will have approximately 400 miles (644 km) of range.
If that wasn’t impressive enough, the dual-motor all-wheel drive system is slated to produce 754 hp (562 kW / 764 PS) and 785 lb-ft (1,063 Nm) of torque in Max Power mode. This should enable the truck to hit 60 mph (96 km/h) in less than 4.5 seconds.
Changing course, Porsche and Lamborghini introduced rally-inspired special editions that are sure to delight fans. The 911 Dakar is limited to 2,500 units and offers a Rallye Design Package, which pays tribute to the car that won the 1984 Paris-Dakar Rally.
If the old school styling didn’t win you over, perhaps the increased capability will as the model sports all-wheel drive, specially developed Pirelli Scorpion All Terrain Plus tires, and an extra 3.1 inches (80 mm) of ground clearance. Buyers will also find Rallye and Off-Road driving modes as well as a twin-turbo 3.0-liter engine developing 473 hp (353 kW / 480 PS) and 420 lb-ft (569 Nm) of torque. That’s enough to allow for a 0-60 mph (0-96 km/h) time of 3.2 seconds and a limited top speed of 150 mph (241 km/h).
If the 911 Dakar is too tame for your liking, there’s always the Lamborghini Huracán Sterrato which will be rarer with production limited to 1,499 units. It features an aggressive exterior, an extra 1.7 inches (44 mm) of ground clearance, and a 5.2-liter V10 pumping out 602 hp (449 kW / 610 PS) and 413 lb-ft (560 Nm) of torque. Despite being significantly more powerful than the Porsche, the two are similarly matched as the dash to 62 mph (100 km/h) takes 3.4 seconds while the Lambo’s top speed is slightly higher at 162 mph (260 km/h).
As for cars out now, you can’t go wrong with the BMW 760i xDrive. While some people still take issue with the car’s styling, it’s a blast to drive. Furthermore, it’s a comfortable and high-tech luxury cruiser with a massive 31.3-inch theater screen in back.
While those are just some examples, let us know your favorite cars of 2022 in the comments below.
