In a world with so many options available for a vehicle (and so many choices for vehicle comparisons) it can be difficult to choose out of the latest and greatest of 2018’s models. Luckily for you we’ve compiled a list of some of the best vehicles that won’t drive you crazy, grind your gears, or steer you off course. The list below (in no particular order) is based on several sites including Consumer Reports, and Car And Driver. Ready? We promise your mind won’t be racing by the end.
Toyota Corolla
Photo Credit: Toyota
Unsurprisingly, the Toyota Corolla returns once again to Consumer Report’s list as of one of the best cars of 2018. Achieving high miles per gallon is one of the major reasons it tops out their list with 32 mpg overall (and up to 43 mpg at highway speeds). The other major reason is the abundance of safety feature the car possesses. If you’re buying your son or daughter their first car for school (or if you are said son or daughter buying your own car) the 2018 Corolla is a great first choice of car (and won’t ruin your finances).
Kia Soul
Photo Credit: Kia
While the Corolla’s placement on the list seems almost standard at this point, the 2018 Kia Soul is a vehicle some might be surprised to see. Kia has made huge strides in their vehicles and the Soul is one of the best representations of that. Doubling down as part hatchback, part compact SUV, it fills a market niche many people didn’t realize they had an interest in. The 2018 Soul has a spacious interior with a powerful engine (ever more so if you choose the turbo option) and high-tech touchscreen with many music playing options. Overall, it’s an affordable package of a car that many will be pleasantly surprised with.
Subaru Forester
Photo Credit: Subaru
Subaru continues it’s trend of quality vehicles with the 2018 Forester. The base 2.5 L engine has excellent fuel efficiency, although those wanting more power can opt for the turbocharged variant. One of the best qualities of the 2018 Forester is its handling. It provides excellent grip in many different weather types. In addition, its spacious interior also makes it great for road trips or filling it up with cargo. The Forester is a great choice for anyone looking for a vehicle for in-city driving or long road trips.
Genesis G90
Photo Credit: Genesis
If you’re wanting more than just a car to get you from A to B, consider getting the Genesis G90. A relatively new brand to the luxury car world, Genesis plants its flag into the metaphorical dirt with the G90. It provides a more affordable option to those interested in models like BMW’s 7-series, but without compromise. With a plethora of luxury styling and both a large touchscreen, and heads-up display it provides a feature-packed package. You also have the option of rear or all-wheel drive for those that like to have a bit more control. Overall the G90 is a solid luxury package and will provide all the comfortable bits you could ever want in a luxury car.
Toyota Sienna
Photo Credit: Toyota
Less on the luxury side, but high on the practical factor is the Toyota Sienna. For those that live the “soccer mom” lifestyle, the Sienna is an excellent choice. Comfortable seats make those longer road trips much less painful and the option for a Wi-Fi hotspot will help keep the kids occupied (until they get bored and eventually start poking each other). Of course, this doesn’t mean much if it’s not a safe car to drive, but that’s definitely not the case when it comes to the Sienna. Packed with tons of safety features this is a car that will ensure you get to your heavily-booked soccer and football practices safely, comfortably, and on time.
Chevrolet Bolt EV
Photo Credit: Chevrolet
With more and more options seeping into the automotive world in terms of electric vehicles, it can be hard to chose one that stands out. The 2018 Chevrolet Bolt is a great choice for many people and is much more affordable for those that want an electric car but can’t afford a Tesla. With both excellent handling and acceleration, it’s a sporty package for an electric car. Of course range is one of the most important factors when it comes to electric vehicles and the Bolt delivers with around a 410 km range on a single charge. It’s spacious interior and cargo options also make it a great choice even just as a car. If you’ve always wanted an electric vehicle but never had the funds to pay for one, or just want to try out an electric car, the Bolt EV can be a great place to start.
Honda Ridgeline
Photo Credit: Honda
Are you living life like a country song and are looking for a truck to check that last item off the country lifestyle checklist? Then the 2018 Honda Ridgeline is a great choice for you, or anyone really who needs to haul just about anything. With a smooth, comfortable ride, and a spacious interior the Ridgeline is an interesting hybrid of a compact and extended truck. It offers a 5.3 foot truck bed, but also has a unibody cab design for better passenger comfort. It also has a great 5000lb towing ability with excellent fuel efficiency. Without a doubt, the Ridgeline is everything you need in a comprehensive 2018 truck package.
Hopefully now you have a starting point for your next car purchase. We encourage you to do your own research as well to ensure you get the best car for your needs.
*Sources: