If the 2017 market has a breakout star, it is arguably . Once considered a budget-only brand, Kia has successfully pivoted to offering "luxury-adjacent" features at mainstream prices. The 2017 Kia Optima stands out as a top midsize sedan pick by Consumer Reports , praised for its responsive handling and value-laden cabin. Similarly, the Kia Soul has secured its place as a top "Best Car for the Money" in the compact category due to its massive interior and exceptional warranty.
For those prioritizing efficiency, the remains the undisputed king of hybrids, achieving a staggering 52 mpg overall in testing—the highest recorded for a non-plug-in vehicle at the time. Best Cars for the Money Awards 2017
Chevrolet also enjoyed a resurgence in 2017, proving that domestic automakers can compete in reliability and refinement:
For many, the best new car of 2017 isn't a car at all, but a crossover or SUV. The was completely redesigned for the 2017 model year, immediately claiming the top spot in compact SUV rankings for its blend of practicality and advanced safety. Other notable utility winners include:
: This redesigned compact became the first domestic car in over a decade to earn a top pick from Consumer Reports , offering a hushed ride and impressive highway fuel economy of up to 47 mpg.
: Consistently praised for its "unmatched visibility" and boxy, practical shape that defies styling trends in favor of utility.
Best New Car To Buy 2017 -
If the 2017 market has a breakout star, it is arguably . Once considered a budget-only brand, Kia has successfully pivoted to offering "luxury-adjacent" features at mainstream prices. The 2017 Kia Optima stands out as a top midsize sedan pick by Consumer Reports , praised for its responsive handling and value-laden cabin. Similarly, the Kia Soul has secured its place as a top "Best Car for the Money" in the compact category due to its massive interior and exceptional warranty.
For those prioritizing efficiency, the remains the undisputed king of hybrids, achieving a staggering 52 mpg overall in testing—the highest recorded for a non-plug-in vehicle at the time. Best Cars for the Money Awards 2017
Chevrolet also enjoyed a resurgence in 2017, proving that domestic automakers can compete in reliability and refinement:
For many, the best new car of 2017 isn't a car at all, but a crossover or SUV. The was completely redesigned for the 2017 model year, immediately claiming the top spot in compact SUV rankings for its blend of practicality and advanced safety. Other notable utility winners include:
: This redesigned compact became the first domestic car in over a decade to earn a top pick from Consumer Reports , offering a hushed ride and impressive highway fuel economy of up to 47 mpg.
: Consistently praised for its "unmatched visibility" and boxy, practical shape that defies styling trends in favor of utility.