How We Rank Cars: MotorTrend tests more than 200 vehicles at the track every year. We rate cars using the same factors you do, including how they drive, interior space, efficiency, tech, value, and safety. Ratings are only applicable within each respective segment. Read More >>
MotorTrend scores are applicable only within each respective subclass.MSRP does not include destination fee.
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Best Subcompact Sedans
(4)#1
2022 Kia Rio
Although it's slow and tiny, the Rio impresses given its low pricing. It feels well-built and refined, more so than is expected from cars in this category. Critically the Rio doesn’t feel cheap, unlike some subcompact cars.
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MT Score8.4/10
MPG33/41
MSRP$16,150 - $17,090
#2
2022 Hyundai Accent
Although very basic, the Accent avoids major pitfalls. Exterior styling is mature and interior layout is sensible, even if the design is nothing special. Performance is also unremarkable, but it delivers good fuel economy.
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MT Score8/10
MPG33/41
MSRP$16,645 - $19,600
#3
2022 Nissan Versa
The Versa’s sharp exterior and stylish cabin are big upgrades from before, and we appreciate the modern technology. Don't have high expectations with the engine, however.
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MT Score6.8/10
MPG27/35
MSRP$15,080 - $18,490
Best Compact Sedans
(9)#1
2022 Honda Civic
The redesigned Civic impresses with clean interior design, excellent fuel economy, tight handling, and generous safety features. Some buyers will miss the coupe, but the sporty Si remains a good buy.
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MT Score9.1/10
MPG31/40
MSRP$21,900 - $29,400
#2
2022 Honda Insight
Superb fuel economy and safety scores aren’t the Insight’s only positives. Styling and tech are average, but it drives better than most compacts as long as you avoid the engine's thrashy top end.
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MT Score9/10
MPG55/49
MSRP$25,210 - $29,240
#3
2022 Hyundai Elantra
Edgy design makes this the most head-turning Elantra yet. But it’s more than just stylish—the Elantra drives well and offers many features. Value is high, while efficient hybrid and sporty N Line models broaden its appeal.
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MT Score8.8/10
MPG33/43
MSRP$19,850 - $33,400
Best Compact Hybrid Sedans
(3)#1
2022 Hyundai Elantra Hybrid
The Elantra enters 2021 with a hybrid variant to compete with the Toyota Corolla Hybrid and Honda Civic-based Insight. Like the standard Elantra, the Hybrid looks sharp and has a spacious interior.
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MT Score9.3/10
MPG49/52
MSRP$23,750 - $28,250
#2
2022 Honda Insight
Superb fuel economy and safety scores aren’t the Insight’s only positives. Styling and tech are average, but it drives better than most compacts as long as you avoid the engine's thrashy top end.
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MT Score8.6/10
MPG55/49
MSRP$25,210 - $29,240
#3
2022 Toyota Corolla Hybrid
Although the Hybrid lacks the visual excitement of other Corolla models, it's very efficient and affordable. If the Prius' looks aren't for you, this might work. We appreciate the new Premium Interior option.
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MT Score8.4/10
MPG53/52
MSRP$23,750
Best Midsize Sedans
(8)#1
2022 Honda Accord
Spacious, great to drive, fuel efficient, and safe, the updated-for-2021 Accord is a superb midsize sedan. Available with three engines including a hybrid, the Accord’s all-around excellence allows it to punch above its class.
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MT Score9.1/10
MPG30/38
MSRP$25,470 - $37,400
#2
2022 Subaru Legacy
Comfortable, economical, and spacious, the Legacy remains the only midsize sedan with standard AWD. Great build quality, a smooth ride, and a big trunk makes it a solid family vehicle.
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MT Score8.6/10
MPG27/35
MSRP$22,995 - $36,195
#3
2022 Hyundai Sonata
Striking exterior styling and cutting-edge tech make the Sonata worth a closer look. Its efficient hybrid and sporty N Line models add diversity to the range. Hyundai’s long warranty strengthens the Sonata’s value.
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MT Score8.5/10
MPG28/38
MSRP$24,350 - $34,750
Best Midsize Hybrid Sedans
(3)#1
2022 Honda Accord Hybrid
The Accord Hybrid is a surprisingly quick and agile midsize sedan. Its cabin is comfortable, if not luxurious, and Honda’s infotainment is user-friendly. Updates for 2021 make the car drive smoother than before.
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MT Score8.9/10
MPG48/47
MSRP$26,670 - $36,540
#2
2022 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
The Sonata Hybrid offers more than great fuel economy; it drives well (except for aggressive brakes) and rides comfortably. Among its many clever, helpful features is a solar roof that can help recharge the battery.
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MT Score8.7/10
MPG50/54
MSRP$27,050 - $35,400
#3
2022 Toyota Camry Hybrid
This might be the best Camry to get—the hybrid engine’s relaxed nature suits the car’s demeanor. It isn’t the most fun or stylish hybrid midsize sedan, but the Camry Hybrid is quite efficient and an excellent value.
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MT Score8.6/10
MPG51/53
MSRP$27,380 - $32,820
Best Full-Size Cars
(5)#1
2022 Toyota Avalon
The Avalon's premium interior shines in the full-size sedan segment, and we're fans of the Toyota's overall well-rounded appeal. Too bad the AWD option is gone.
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MT Score8.7/10
MPG22/32
MSRP$36,275 - $42,975
#2
2022 Kia Stinger
With a new 300-hp base engine and an updated infotainment display, the Stinger is worth consideration. This hatchback isn't just entertaining to drive, it also boasts great safety ratings.
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MT Score8.3/10
MPG21/29
MSRP$36,090 - $53,490
#3
2022 Nissan Maxima
Despite its age, the Maxima has some appeal. Its comfortable, high-quality cabin makes it a nice cruiser, but driving dynamics don’t support its “Four-Door Sports Car” claims. Its safety is as strong as its value is weak.
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MT Score7.6/10
MPG20/30
MSRP$37,240 - $42,550
Best Luxury Subcompact Sedans
(6)#1
2022 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class
Available in three flavors, the second-gen CLA-Class is vastly improved compared to its predecessor, but with options, the price can quickly skyrocket. If it's within the budget, the CLA is a good pick.
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MT Score7.6/10
MPG25/35
MSRP$38,200 - $55,900
#2
2022 BMW 2 Series Gran Coupe
The new 2 Series Gran Coupe is BMW's most attainable sedan. Offered in 228i and M235i forms, the sedan is the most common variant, but BMW also applies the 2 Series name to a two-door coupe and convertible.
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MT Score7.5/10
MSRP$35,700 - $45,500
#3
2022 Acura ILX
The ILX targets buyers who want a small and affordable luxury-badged four-door. This little sedan has a solid ride/handling balance, but the center stack is packed with buttons. It'll soon be replaced by the Integra.
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MT Score7.4/10
MPG24/34
MSRP$26,500 - $32,400
Best Luxury Compact Sedans
(11)#1
2022 Tesla Model 3
The Model 3 merits consideration as a compact luxury sedan and electric car. Although a sparse interior layout won’t appeal to everyone, solid dynamics and range make it a great choice.
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MT Score8.8/10
MSRPComing Soon
#2
2022 Audi A4
A 2020 refresh gave the A4 standard AWD, hybrid assistance, more tech, and subtle restyling. Nothing major, but the A4 remains an all-around great car. Its quality and infotainment are among the segment's best.
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MT Score8.7/10
MPG26/34
MSRP$39,900 - $55,400
#3
2022 Genesis G70
There isn’t much room for golf clubs and efficiency is a weak point, but the otherwise excellent G70 impresses with a great driving experience, generous and clever tech, knockout design, and a decent value score.
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MT Score8.6/10
MPG21/31
MSRP$37,525 - $54,500
Best Luxury Compact Fastbacks
(3)#1
2022 Audi A5
Although the A5 is available in coupe and drop-top forms, the Sportback four-door hatch would be our pick. Excellent design and interior tech make this a great choice.
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MT Score9.2/10
MPG26/34
MSRP$43,500 - $62,550
#2
2022 BMW 4-Series
Offered as a Gran Coupe four-door, coupe, and convertible, the 4 Series lineup is a solid if not class-leading choice. Try the Audi A5 for superior tech and, arguably, style too.
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MT Score8.7/10
MPG22/30
MSRP$45,200 - $66,200
#3
2022 Polestar 2
The stylish Polestar 2 is the young automaker’s first mass-market vehicle, offering exciting electric performance and minimalist design. Ride quality is stiff though, and range trails some EV competitors.
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MT Score8.6/10
MPG94/84
MSRP$45,900 - $49,900
Best Luxury Midsize Sedans
(8)#1
2022 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Our 2021 Car of the Year, the E-Class offers excellent powertrains and a good ride with the air suspension. More interior space would be nice, but the superb E-Class does nearly everything right.
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MT Score8.7/10
MPG22/31
MSRP$54,950 - $75,400
#2
2022 Audi A6
Behind the A6’s evolutionary looks are an impeccably built interior and one of the quietest interiors in the class. A comfortable ride and secure handling cement the A6’s place as a class leader.
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MT Score8.6/10
MPG23/32
MSRP$55,900 - $72,400
#3
2022 Lexus ES
Spacious and comfortable, the ES provides a traditional luxury sedan experience. Although the Lexus can't match the segment's best in performance, we still appreciate its value and available hybrid model.
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MT Score8.5/10
MPG22/32
MSRP$40,800 - $51,080
Best Luxury Midsize Fastbacks
(7)#1
2022 Audi A7
Stylish, luxurious, and simply cool, the A7 is a fantastic fastback. Although the standard A7 isn’t quite sporty, the S7 and RS7 turn up the wick. In any setup the A7’s tech and quality excel. Good cargo space adds to its allure.
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MT Score8.9/10
MPG21/30
MSRP$69,200 - $81,250
#2
2022 BMW 8-Series
The Gran Coupe model morphs the 8 Series coupe and convertible into a sleek four-door fastback—which drives just as well but might look even better. Panache is prioritized over practicality; rear headroom is tight.
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MT Score8.1/10
MPG22/29
MSRP$85,000 - $139,900
#3
2022 Porsche Taycan
One word: incredible. Porsche’s sporty four-door EV looks great and drives better. Yes, it’s pricey, has limited range, and lacks interior space. That matters little when you experience the Taycan’s electrifying performance.
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MT Score8/10
MPG76/84
MSRP$82,700 - $187,600
Best Luxury Full-Size Sedans
(7)#1
2022 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
This flagship sedan’s plush ride, semi-autonomous driving capability, and huge OLED infotainment display ooze modern luxury. It’s pricey, but what do you expect?
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MT Score8.7/10
MSRP$111,350 - $117,700
#2
2022 Tesla Model S
This iconic luxury EV's latest update promises more range and quicker acceleration. Its revamped interior has some wild features. Tesla quality remains dubious, but the Model S is amazing nonetheless.
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MT Score8.3/10
MPG115/107
MSRP$94,990 - $149,990
#3
2021 Audi A8
For ultimate comfort, it’s hard to beat the A8. Audi’s flagship is astoundingly smooth, quiet, and high-tech—stylish and sporty, less so. Performance improves in the S8, which packs over 500 hp. A hybrid model is offered, too.
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MT Score8.2/10
MPG17/26
MSRP$86,500 - $98,900
Best Electric Luxury Cars
(9)#1
2022 Lucid Air
The Lucid Air is among the most impressive EVs in years with over 500 miles of range and over 1,000 hp, not to mention a properly luxurious interior. Tesla should watch its back.
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MT Score8.9/10
MSRP$77,400 - $169,000
#2
2022 Tesla Model S
This iconic luxury EV's latest update promises more range and quicker acceleration. Its revamped interior has some wild features. Tesla quality remains dubious, but the Model S is amazing nonetheless.
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MT Score8.7/10
MPG115/107
MSRP$94,990 - $149,990
#3
2022 Mercedes-Benz EQS-Class
The EQS is a new full-size electric four-door from Mercedes. Packed full of luxury features and futuristic tech, the EQS has an incredibly smooth ride but rear-seat comfort and driving range could be better.
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MT Score7.9/10
MSRP$102,310 - $125,310