SAN ANTONIO – Toyota made a strong showing in Consumer Reports' annual top car picks, getting four top picks out of the 10 categories for 2018. Chevrolet, however, got top honors for large cars and best compact green car.
Consumer Reports tested about 50 2018 models at its sprawling test track, evaluating everything from performance to fuel economy to child safety seat installation.
While the Toyota Camry got top pick for midsized car and the Toyota Highlander was named top pick for midsized SUVs, Chevrolet's Impala was the top large car and the Chevy Bolt was named top pick among compact green cars.
In Texas, trucks rule the road. The Ford F-150 was named 2018 top pick for fullsized pickups.
The average price for a new car is more than $35,000. If that causes you sticker shock, buying a reliable used car can be the way to go.
"Your best bet is to look for a car around three to five years old that fits your budget," said Jake Fisher, Consumer Reports' auto expert. "That's because the typical lease is three years long. So you could pick up a great vehicle coming off lease at a pretty steep discount, as low as $20,000 or less."
If you don't have the money for a new car and are looking for a small SUV, Consumer Reports recommends a used Mazda CX-5 from 2013 to 2015 or a Toyota RAV4 from 2008 to 2013.
If you're thinking sportier, Consumer Reports suggests a 2014 Subaru BRZ or its sister car, the Scion FR-S.
And if practical is more your lane, Consumer Reports says to check out the Toyota Camry models from 2008 to 2015. It has consistently scored well in tests and can be had for less than $20,000.
2018 New Car Picks
Compact Car - Toyota Corolla
Compact Green Car - Chevrolet Bolt
Luxury Compact Car - Audi A4
Midsized Car - Toyota Camry
Large Car - Chevrolet Impala
Minivan - Toyota Sienna
Compact SUV - Subaru Forester
Luxury Compact SUV - BMW X3
Midsized SUV - Toyota Highlander
Fullsized Pickup - Ford F-150