The Best Cars on the Market

The car market offers a veritable buffet of make, model and price point options. The right choice can offer a lot of bang for your buck, whether you want to drive a buttery-smooth entry-level luxury sedan or a 600-horsepower firebreathing truck. There are even a few vehicles that can scratch your itch for off-road capability and family hauling without punishing fuel economy. But with so many choices, it’s hard to know where to start. That’s where we come in. We’ve taken a deep dive into the newest cars that are worth your hard-earned money, evaluating them for comfort, performance, safety and value. The best cars we’ve found include a Toyota Corolla, Ford Maverick, Hyundai Santa Fe and a Tesla Model 3.

If you’re looking for a car that can get you from point A to point B in relative comfort and style, there aren’t many options that beat the Chevy Cruze. The latest model boasts a roomy cabin with plenty of amenities and desirable driver-assistance features. It also has excellent highway fuel economy and a comfortable ride. Those are some pretty impressive credentials for a subcompact car that costs less than $20K.

Hybrids aren’t just for hipsters, and the Hyundai Ioniq is one of the quickest hybrids on the market. It’s fun to drive and gets great gas mileage, combining the convenience of a plug-in electric vehicle with a zippy four-cylinder engine. Plus, it’s cheaper to own than a non-hybrid, as brakes and transmissions last longer in hybrids.

For a vehicle that’s perfect for weekend adventures, it’s hard to beat the Mazda MX-5 Miata. It may not lap the Nurburgring in seven seconds, but its light weight and nimble handling make it a joy to drive. Plus, it’s affordable enough that you can afford to keep it in top shape over time.

The Toyota Tacoma is the best small pickup in the market, offering a capable chassis, an array of convenient upgrades and the ability to tow up to 6,500 pounds. It’s also a more attractive option than the majority of sport-utes and trucks, with a look that’s more utilitarian than the forced-on ruggedness of other models.

A sporty, compact hatchback with a cult following, the Kia Soul delivers plenty of utility for its low price. Its fun-to-drive nature is complemented by premium cabin finishes and plenty of handy driver-assistance features, all at a price that’s hard to beat. Its only downside is a lethargic base engine and a cramped back seat.