If you’re looking to buy a car in the U.S., you may want to check out this list
Consumer Reports is one of the most dependable automotive data sources for the U.S. market, and their recently released 2016 Annual Top Picks reveals the best model from each segment. Let's check it out, working our way up from the cheapest to the most expensive models. Feel free to disagree with Consumer Reports’ findings in our commentary section.
Subcompact Car: Honda Fit ($19,025)
[Photo:8932] The Honda Fit (known as Jazz in other markets) is fuel-efficient (33 mpg combined), offers agile handling, but most importantly, surprising interior space and versatility for its size. The second-row seats can stow away or flip up to increase cargo volume.Compact Car: Subaru Impreza ($21,345-$22,345)
[Photo:8943] There are few cars out there that deliver better value for money than the Impreza. The ride is comfortable, the interior space is generous, and the excellent all-wheel-drive system comes standard. The available hatchback version adds practicality while the optional safety technologies help it prevent crashes.Midsize Car: Toyota Camry ($24,089-$32,603)
[Photo:8944] The Camry is one of those vehicles that are hard to fault. While not the most exciting car to drive in its class, it has a roomy interior that offers ergonomic controls and great visibility. Add to that the sound reliability and impressive crash-tests results and the Camry is a hard nut to crack.Small SUV: Subaru Forester ($27,145)
[Photo:8940] The Forester was picked for the roomy interior, comfortable ride, precise handling, and good fuel economy. Its all-wheel-drive system has proven to be better than those from the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V in Consumer Reports' snow-driving evaluations. The Forester also offers excellent visibility from the driver's seat.Sports Car <$40K: Mazda MX-5 Miata ($29,905)
[Photo:8938] The Miata is undoubtedly the people's sports car. No other vehicle delivers a better ratio between performance and costs. The Miata offers superb handling, a precise manual gearbox, and a lively engine that returns a remarkable 34 mpg combined. Add reliability to the equation and the small Japanese roadster is truly a no-brainer.Midsize SUV: Kia Sorento ($37,915)
[Photo:8934] The latest Sorento has gone upscale without increasing prices accordingly. The fact that it's a bit smaller than its competitors makes the Korean SUV easier to drive in the city while offering the space and features of a larger vehicle. The available all-wheel-drive system and safety tech make it a great all-rounder.Minivan: Toyota Sienna ($35,810-$38,201)
[Photo:8946] With a big and multifunctional interior that offers available seating for eight, a very comfortable ride, and powerful engine, the Sienna is the perfect car for a big, active family. Like most Toyotas, it is also reliable and safe in case of a crash. Oh, and it's the only vehicle in the segment to offer all-wheel drive as an option.Large Car: Chevrolet Impala ($39,110)
[Photo:8928] The big American sedan offers a spacious interior, with enough room for five adult passengers and their luggage. Unlike some systems used in rival models, the multimedia interface is intuitive and simple to use. The suspension manages to deliver both a comfortable ride and responsive handling.Luxury SUV: Lexus RX ($51,630-$57,565)
[Photo:8936] The Lexus RX has created the luxury crossover segment almost 20 years ago and is still going strong. The latest generation model combines bold styling with a quiet and comfortable interior, great fit and finish, a refined ride, and effortless power delivery. The hybrid version returns 29 mpg combined.Pickup Truck: Ford F-150 ($45,750-$46,755)
[Photo:8930] The F-150 has been dominating its segment for a long time, and the latest, aluminum-made model is quicker and more fuel-efficient than ever. The cabin is surprisingly quiet for a truck and very spacious. Plus, the new Sync 3 infotainment system is a major improvement over the previous MyFord Touch. The F-150's strong reliability record also recommend it.Story references: Consumer Reports