The top-ranked cars have maintained those leadership positions over the years. They are in high demand, convenient for everyday use, and have excellent technical characteristics.
The Honda CR-V is the benchmark for small SUVS, offering a dependable ride, generous cabin space, and helpful tech features. The Toyota Camry is an attractive, practical sedan with impressive fuel economy.
Volkswagen Polo
The Polo is Volkswagen’s little car that could. It’s the best supermini on the market and a big seller in its own right. It’s not exactly exciting, but it’s easy to live with, comfortable and capable.
This sixth generation of the car was launched back in 2017 – it’s now getting a bit long in the tooth, but it still has plenty to offer. There’s a choice of efficient engines and some sporty versions available, with the R-Line trim adding some extra luxury features.
What sets the Polo apart from rivals like the Peugeot 208, Renault Clio, Ford Fiesta and Skoda Fabia is how grown-up it feels. It can comfortably cruise at 70 mph on the motorway without swaying or being buffeted by wind gusts, unlike many smaller cars.
It’s not agile in the same way as a hot hatch, but it can still make light work of tight bends thanks to a rigid chassis. It’s also forgiving over speed bumps and handles potholes with ease.
It’s one of the safest superminis on the market too, with dual front airbags, anti-lock brakes and ISOFIX child seat mounts as standard. It can also be fitted with a range of useful bolt-ons, such as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, to keep your smartphone connected—the touchscreen infotainment system is precise and responsive, featuring dedicated shortcut buttons that speed up navigation.
Nissan Sylphy
Nissan Sylphy is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a compact sedan that’s both stylish and affordable. It features a responsive engine that strikes a balance between power and fuel efficiency, and offers agile handling and a comfortable ride quality. Plus, its high safety ratings will give you peace of mind when transporting your family.
Despite its small size, the Sylphy feels spacious inside. It has ample legroom in the back and can comfortably seat three people. The seats are also very comfortable, and the steering wheel is positioned well for easy driving. Moreover, the Sylphy features a spacious trunk, allowing you to carry all your luggage and equipment efficiently. The Bluebird Sylphy (G11 series) is a compact sedan that was first previewed in 2005. It is also known as the Nissan Tiida/Versa/Latio in Japan, and the Nissan Pulsar or Almera in other markets.
This model is based on the B platform and has a 1.8-litre twin-CVTC engine that produces 131 horsepower. It delivers good acceleration, and the CVT does a good job of providing smooth power. Its only drawback is that it can feel underpowered when you floor the pedal.
The Sylphy is loaded with modern technology features, including a touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It also has a range of safety features, including airbags and stability control.
Tesla Model 3
The Tesla Model 3 was a game-changer when it first hit the market, making electric car ownership more realistic for new buyers. It’s the quickest and most efficient electric vehicle available, and it can access the Tesla Supercharger network for worry-free, long-distance trips. Its spacious and comfy cabin is well-appointed, and it offers a range of features to keep you entertained and connected on your drives. However, the lack of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto is a little disappointing.
The 2024 Tesla Model 3 has received several significant updates to its technology, driving dynamics, and interior. It’s still an excellent choice for drivers who want a quiet, fast and environmentally friendly sedan. However, the competition is catching up, and it may no longer be as special as it was in 2017.
If you’re looking for an EV with a bit more space and versatility, check out the 2024 Kia EV9. It has a larger cargo area, better comforts and a lower price tag. It also has a top-rated head-up display that’s easy to use and doesn’t require you to look away from the road while operating the vehicle. Its nimble handling and fuel efficiency also make it a standout among its peers. It’s worth noting, though, that it doesn’t offer the fast charging capability of the Tesla Model 3. This might be a deal-breaker for some buyers.
Chevrolet Silverado
Chevrolet has kept its Silverado truck in top form, making it one of the best-selling pickups on the market. It features a powerful and efficient engine, along with a comfortable cabin. It also features advanced technology and a range of options. Its impressive roster of features includes user-friendly multimedia tech, a suite of advanced hands-free driver assistance, and trailer-camera support.
The 2024 Silverado offers a choice of four engines: a 2.7-litre turbocharged inline-four, a 3.0-litre diesel inline-six, and two versions of the 5.3-litre V8 gasoline engine. It can tow up to 13,300 pounds, depending on body style, bed length, and drivetrain. Chevrolet added several new tech features for 2021 that make towing easier, including a jackknife cornering feature and a trailer length display on the infotainment screen. Its corporate twin, the GMC Sierra, offers even more camera views for hooking up a trailer.
The ride quality could use a tune-up, however. The Silverado feels floaty over bumps and potholes, and its suspension can be sensitive to road conditions. It would be nice if it had adaptive dampers, like those found on rivals such as the Ram 1500. The lack of a hybrid version of the Silverado is another drawback, although one is in development for 2023. It should have an electric driving range of up to 450 miles.
