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One thing many car owners can agree on is that they don't like surprises. If you’re in that group, then this year’s Consumer Reports top 10 best cars, trucks and SUVs is for you. Focusing on reliability and value, the Consumer Report (CR) ranking includes eight returning winners from last year, a number of hybrids, one electric vehicle and four cars that start at under $30,000.
"Car models tend to become more reliable over time, as manufacturers keep refining designs without making major changes. That's why some of the same models pop up on the list, year over year," says Alex Knizek, associate director of automotive test development for Consumer Reports.
Here's a rundown of the top 10 cars, how cars get on the list and the car Knizek says is best for older adults.
Which car is best for older drivers?
For those us in the over-50 set, Knizek says it's a good idea to consider accessibility and visibility when choosing a vehicle.
How CR picks cars for the list
Each year, CR purchases and tests roughly 50 vehicles. The non-profit then combines those results with their annual reliability and satisfaction survey of members, says Knizek.
The factors CR considers: performance, reliability, owner satisfaction and safety. Safety is based on ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). Recalls are not factored into Consumer Reports' (CR) final scores.
Of CR's top picks, the Subaru Forester came in first for Knizek in that regard. "Without a doubt, the Subaru Forester in terms of both seat height, which is at most people's hip level, and ride height, which is not too high, makes it particularly easy to get in and out of," he says. He also notes that with its boxy shape rather than swoopy design, the Forester has excellent visibility.
Conversely, shoppers should be aware that some sedans are not as accessible. Toyota's Camry, for example, has been given a sportier look, "but it's actually quite low to the ground, so it can be a little tricky getting in there," notes Knizek.
In terms of safety, all the top picks this year come standard with automatic emergency braking that works at both low speeds and highway speeds. CR is also a big proponent of blind spot warning and rear cross traffic warning systems, which tend to come bundled together. "I definitely encourage people to seek out those features," says Knizek.
Many hybrids and one electric vehicle made the cut
This year's 10 best also reflect the continuing electric car and hybrid trend, including more than half a dozen models that either come standard or available as electric-gas hybrids. One all-electric vehicle (EV) made the list this year: the Tesla Model Y. Why? "EVs are still kind of struggling when it comes to reliability," says Knizek.
Affordability important? Four cars under $30k are on the list
One other common feature among CR's top picks: value. The average U.S. buyer pays about $48,000 for a new car, according to CR. But there are 4 models on the list with starting prices under $30,000 including the Nissan Sentra, Subaru Crosstrek, Toyota Camry and Ford Maverick.
"You don't have to spend a ton to get something that's safe and reliable," notes Knizek.
Ready for the complete list? Here you go, starting with the best small car.
Best small car
Nissan
Nissan Sentra
- Price: Starting at $22,730
- EPA mpg: 34
- NHTSA safety rating: 5 stars
Boasting the lowest starting price on CR's list is the front-wheel drive Nissan Sentra (last year's winner in this category was the Mazda 3). Reviewers noted that it has a relatively spacious interior and is a smooth ride for a small car in this price range. Also noteworthy was the fact that it comes standard with safety features — including emergency braking — and that the vehicle's controls are straightforward and easy to master.
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