Edmunds names Top Rated vehicles for ’23
Every year Edmunds’ experts put their heads together to determine the best new vehicles on sale. Spread across six categories, the annual Edmunds Top Rated Awards are given to the cars, trucks and SUVs that rank at the top of their class according to Edmunds’ vehicle testing program. That means each winner has been tested at the Edmunds test track and thoroughly evaluated over many miles of real-world use.
All prices include destination charges.
Top Rated Car: Honda Civic
Starting manufacturer’s suggested retail price: $26,145
Edmunds says: The Honda Civic has won Edmunds Top Rated twice in a row for two good reasons. First, there’s the optional turbocharged engine. It gives you more power and better fuel efficiency than the base model. The other is that it provides an ideal combination of practicality, easy-to-use tech interface and engaging driving characteristics.
Counterpoint: Road noise is noticeable at highway speeds and driver assist features give too many false alarms.
Electric Car: Chevrolet Bolt EV
Starting MSRP: $27,495
Edmunds says: Price has long been a barrier for people looking to get an electric vehicle but that barrier is pretty low with the Chevrolet Bolt. The Bolt received a significant price reduction last year and can be less expensive for buyers who can qualify for the Bolt’s available federal $7,500 tax credit. The Bolt is a small car but there is plenty of usable space inside for most people. It’s also fun to drive.
Counterpoint: The Bolt’s cargo area is smaller compared to its competition.
Truck: Ford F-150
Starting MSRP: $35,590
Edmunds says: Modern trucks need to be like Swiss Army knives for many Americans. For some, they’re the lifeblood of their business. For others, they’re off-road adventure machines for weekend warriors. And for still others, they’re the new American family car. The Ford F-150 is another repeat winner in its category, as there is an F-150 for every wallet and purpose.
Counterpoint: The F-150’s interior storage compartments could be roomier or more versatile.
Electric truck: Ford F-150 Lightning
Starting MSRP: $58,369 Edmunds says: It was a field of two in the new category of electric pickup truck this year: the Rivian R1T and the Ford F-150 Lightning. For most Americans, the F-150 Lightning is going to be a better experience. It has plenty of range and power for an EV without being over quirky. Nearly all of the regular F-150’s qualities are present here as well.
Counterpoint: Maximum range is capped at 230 miles without the pricey extended-range battery.
SUV: Kia Sportage Hybrid
Starting MSRP: $28,815
Edmunds says: The Kia Sportage Hybrid dethroned the three-peat champ, Kia Telluride. People will take notice when you’re in a Kia Sportage Hybrid because it looks like nothing else on the road. The Sportage is one of the least expensive ways to get a hybrid in a compact SUV, and it doesn’t feel like you’ve compromised on modern features. It offers more power than the gas model plus better fuel economy.
Counterpoint: You’re limited to the base trim for front-wheel drive instead of the more expensive all-wheel drive.
Electric SUV: Hyundai Ioniq 5
Starting MSRP: $42,745
Edmunds says: The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is the best example of how an EV should serve its buyer. It has respectable range on a full charge, a high-tech interior, fast charging speed and unique style. The Ioniq 5 is also comfortable and fun to drive. It isn’t a flashy exotic electric, but it does have an X-factor that other automakers may struggle to replicate.
Counterpoint: Poor rear visibility can be an issue, and the front trunk and rear cargo area are smaller than in some competitors.