The Best Cars of 2018
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In a car-buying context, value and reliability are usually the two most significant considerations. After all, no one wants to pay for a vehicle that will give out or break down soon after they buy it. These days, the best cars also need to be fuel efficient to help drivers save on gas costs, which adds even more to a vehicle’s overall value.
The best cars offer the right balance between price, performance and practicality. That’s why many shoppers turn to cars from the Japanese automakers like Toyota, Nissan and Honda, which build some of the most refined daily drivers. However, if you’re in the market for an exotic sports or luxury car, European makers like Mercedes-Benz and Porsche have some of the finest offerings around.
For budget-minded shoppers, the Accord and Altima offer great value in the midsize sedan segment. Both have been redesigned recently, so buyers can enjoy modern, sophisticated interiors and the latest in-car tech. Meanwhile, the Accord’s spacious back seats and large trunk make it a great family choice, while the Altima’s sporty handling and powerful V-6 engine give it an edge in the performance category.
If you want an affordable electric vehicle that can get up to speed quickly, the Kia Niro hybrid is a good choice. Its smart, utilitarian design may not be as attractive as the Prius’s sleek looks, but it offers better fuel efficiency and a more spacious cabin. Other EVs that provide decent mileage include the Ford Fusion Energi, Hyundai Kona EV and Cadillac CT5 EV Blackwing Edition.
If a sporty coupe is more your speed, look no further than the Chevrolet Camaro ZL1. This muscle car has been redesigned for 2024, so it’s still packing plenty of punch. Its supercharged 6.2-liter V-8 is capable of delivering 650 hp and 650 lb-ft of torque, which should be enough to propel this big boy to 60 mph in under four seconds.
When it comes to luxury cars, BMW continues to lead the pack with its 2024 7 Series. Its design doesn’t herald any huge developmental leaps, but it is the best-looking, most refined model in this class and features an extensive suite of advanced technology and safety features. In addition, the brand’s excellent reliability reputation helps it stand out from some of its rivals.