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Best-Selling Cars in America
Up until 2020, the year of the pandemic, automobile sales in America had been robust and consistent, with more than 17 million new vehicles sold each year. While that number will be considerably lower this year, the surprising fact is that more than 25 percent of total sales can be accounted for by 10 top-selling models. But not every automaker has a high-volume model such as the Ford F-150 (almost 900,000 sold last year) or the Toyota RAV4 (more than 400,000 sold last year). So which vehicles are popular with consumers but sell in lesser numbers? The following vehicles represent the best-selling cars in America from nearly every automaker. Figures get compiled from auto manufacturer sales reports and are based on total volume in 2019. Note: Many exotic or exclusive car companies do not report individual model sales figures.
Acura RDX
Total Sales: 37,788
Last year Honda’s luxury brand introduced an all-new RDX for the 2019 model year and it quickly became the best-selling member of the Acura lineup. In fact, the RDX outsells all of the passenger cars in the Acura lineup combined. The RDX features a prominent Acura Diamond Pentagon Grille flanked by new Jewel Eye headlights that now include seven LED lighting elements, making them among the brightest on the road. Power for the Acura RDX comes from a new VTEC Turbo 2.0-liter direct-injection engine that produces 272 horsepower matched to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Acura’s Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive system also received updates, delivering up to 70 percent of available torque to the rear axle while employing dynamic torque vectoring to sharpen performance and handling in all weather and road conditions.
Alfa Romeo Stelvio
Total Sales: 6,758
Named after Stelvio Pass in the Italian Alps — considered by many to be one of the greatest driving roads in the world — the Stelvio arrived in the U.S. for the 2018 model year. The third vehicle in the Alfa Romeo lineup, Stelvio quickly became the best-selling model for the brand. The front-end appearance of the Alfa Romeo Stelvio takes design cues from the Giulia sport sedan, and the overall shape of this new 5-passenger SUV is very sleek. With standard full-time all-wheel drive, Stelvio is available with two powerful engines, including a 2.9-liter V6 producing 505 horsepower in the top-level Quadrifoglio.
© Aston Martin
Aston Martin Vantage
Total Sales: NA
Aston Martin makes some of the most beautiful high-performance sports cars on the market, but they don’t make very many of them. Although the company does not release sales data for individual models, we did learn that the Vantage is the brand’s best-seller. The Vantage name has been around for more than 50 years; however, the current sports car wearing the name was introduced a few years ago.
Powering the Vantage is a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing 503 horsepower teamed with an 8-speed automatic transmission — enough power to sprint from zero to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds with a top speed approaching 200 mph. Last year Aston introduced a limited-edition Vantage AMR that puts a 7-speed manual gearbox into this powerful sports car.
© Audi AG
Audi Q5
Total Sales: 29,370
Small crossovers continue to gain popularity in America, and nearly every car company has hopped on that bandwagon. The Audi Q5 is an excellent example as the best-selling vehicle offered by a company that until 10 years ago didn’t even offer an SUV. The Q5 was all new for the 2018 model year, designed with styling cues taken from its larger Q7 sibling, including the Singleframe grille flanked by stylish LED headlights. For 2020 Audi added its first plug-in hybrid Q5 SUV, featuring a 2.0-liter engine with an electric motor positioned between the engine and the 7-speed S-tronic dual-clutch transmission for a combined system output of 349 horsepower. The Q5 55 TFSI e gets an electric-only range of 20 miles and receives an EPA combined rating of 65 MPGe.
© Bentley Motors
Bentley Bentayga
Total Sales: NA
It may not sell in large numbers, but Bentley’s SUV became the marque’s best-seller after barely a year on the market. Not unexpectedly, the Bentayga offers the ultimate in luxury with full leather seating in a choice of 15 different hides, air suspension, LED active headlights, a panoramic sunroof, soft-close doors, and Wi-Fi connectivity. The big SUV is quick as well, thanks to its full-time all-wheel drive and choice of powerful V8 or twin-turbo W12 engines under the hood. This year Bentley introduced the marque’s first-ever plug-in hybrid — the Bentayga PHEV. This electrified Bentayga uses a 3.0-liter turbocharged V6 with an advanced electric motor; it can travel up to 18 miles in electric-only mode.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
BMW X3
Total Sales: 36,400
The most popular player of BMW’s lineup, the X3 was all new for the 2018 model year. The updated model received more aerodynamic styling, a “three-dimensional” kidney grille, available full LED headlights and a roof spoiler at the rear. The interior also received a complete refresh, centered around a large 10.25-inch touchscreen display. For 2020 BMW added performance to the X3 lineup with the introduction of the X3 M, which boasts more aggressive styling and up to 510 horsepower as well as a new plug-in hybrid. The X3 is produced alongside the rest of the BMW X lineup in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
© General Motors
Buick Encore
Total Sales: 35,414
Encore is the smallest vehicle in the Buick lineup, and with a starting price below $25,000 it’s a great entry into the premium crossover segment. Encore comes well equipped with features such as a power driver’s seat, a 7-inch color display with backup camera and built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi connection. Encore is available in four trims ranging from the base level to the well-equipped top-of-the-line Essence, all powered by a fuel-efficient 1.4-liter turbocharged engine. Decent fuel economy and a low starting price contribute to making this small Buick the most popular model in the lineup by far.
© General Motors
Cadillac XT5
Total Sales: 24,273
As the replacement for the SRX crossover, the XT5 was an all-new model for Cadillac in 2017, and it quickly became the brand’s best-seller. In fact, the XT5 makes up almost one-third of Cadillac’s annual sales. For the 2020 model year, Cadillac revamps this luxury crossover with fresh styling, updated features and a 237-horspower turbocharged engine that comes standard on Luxury and Premium Luxury trims. Inside the updated XT5 is the latest Cadillac user interface with one-touch phone pairing, 15-watt wireless charging for mobile devices and a new rear-pedestrian alert system.
© General Motors
Chevrolet Silverado
Total Sales: 414,650
Chevrolet introduced an all-new Silverado for the 2019 model year. Although sales were down slightly last year, the Silverado is certainly going strong in 2020 as one of the few vehicles showing positive growth year over year. The updated Silverado launched with fresh styling as well as improved performance and capability. Chevrolet’s best-seller can be configured in hundreds of ways with different cab sizes, bed lengths, drive systems and trim levels that range from basic Work Truck to the luxurious and powerful High Country. With seven different engine / transmission combinations, the Silverado can be set up for whatever task necessary — including towing up to 13,400 pounds when the need arises.
© FCA US
Chrysler Pacifica
Total Sales: 64,290
The Pacifica premiered a few years back to replace the aging Town & Country minivan in the Chrysler lineup. Although sales are off slightly compared to 2019, the Pacifica still accounts for the bulk of Chrysler sales. With contemporary styling and a slew of innovations, Pacifica is arguably the best minivan Chrysler has built since it created the category more than 30 years ago. Pacifica can be equipped with seating for up to eight occupants, which still leaves plenty of cargo space in the rear. Passengers enjoy an available Uconnect Theater featuring a 10-inch high-res touchscreen display with a variety of inputs and integrated games. A plug-in hybrid version of the Pacifica is also available, making this the first hybrid minivan ever sold in America. For 2020 Chrysler adds a Red S Edition to the Pacifica lineup, featuring a range of high-end features such as Nappa leather seats and a Harman Kardon audio system. Later this year a new 2021 Pacifica arrives with fresh styling, new features and available all-wheel drive.
© FCA US
Dodge Charger
Total Sales: 53,631
The Charger returned to the Dodge lineup in 2006 as a 4-door sedan, carrying some styling cues of original 1960s muscle cars and offering a powerful V8 engine. Today’s Charger is still a large 4-door sedan with sporty styling and a comfortable, spacious interior. Replete with plenty of high-tech features, Charger is available with an 8.4-inch touchscreen display, electric power steering, pushbutton start and a high-end audio system. And in keeping with tradition, Charger has powerful engine choices including the R/T Scat Pack with a 485-horsepower 6.4-liter HEMI V8, or the latest entry: the SRT Hellcat Redeye with a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 producing a mind-blowing 797 horsepower. With a top speed of more than 200 mph, the Hellcat Redeye is the most powerful mass-produced sedan in the world.
© FCA US LLC
Fiat 124 Spider
Total Sales: 1,385
The current Fiat 124 Spider arrived for the 2017 model year, marking its return after a 30-year absence from the U.S. market. The result of a collaboration between Fiat and Mazda, the Fiat 124 Spider is based on the Mazda MX-5 Miata, but with Italian styling and a Fiat drivetrain, suspension and tuning. The double-wishbone front suspension, multi-link rear suspension and steering are all tuned for a dynamic driving experience. The soft-top can be manually operated from the driver’s seat and stows behind the seats without a tonneau cover. Powering the rear-wheel-drive 124 Spider is Fiat’s 1.4-liter MultiAir Turbo 4-cylinder engine that produces 160 horsepower (164 in Abarth) and 184 lb-ft of torque, teamed with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic.
© Ford Motor Company
Ford F-Series
Total Sales: 589,034
Thanks to strong sales in 2019, the Ford F-Series extended its streak as the best-selling vehicle in America to 38 years — 43 years as best-selling truck. Sales in 2020 are down slightly from last year, but certainly enough to keep Ford’s large truck offering in the No. 1 spot. Ford’s best-seller drives strong numbers with a wide range of configurations, fresh styling, and the latest safety and convenience features. Six engines are offered for the F-150, ranging from the standard 3.3-liter V6 that generates 290 horsepower to the high-output 450-horsepower EcoBoost unit. Ford has also introduced a revised 2020 F-Series Super Duty that boasts a class-leading towing capacity of 37,000 pounds. Look for an all-new F-150 with a range of innovative features, class-leading towing capability and a new hybrid powertrain arriving later this year.
© Hyundai Motor America
Genesis G70
Total Sales: 7,124
Genesis was an all-new brand for the 2017 model year, launched by parent company Hyundai to move its clientele upscale. With two luxury sedans in its portfolio, last year Genesis added the sportier G70 sedan to the family and it quickly became the brand’s best-seller. The G70 is available with rear-or all-wheel drive, and in a surprising move Genesis offers the G70 with an available manual gearbox. Exterior styling matches that of the rest of the Genesis lineup, while inside G70 designers created a nice mixture of luxury amenities with driver focus. The G70 gets power from either a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine or a 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 that produces 365 horsepower.
© General Motors
GMC Sierra
Total Sales: 174,645
The best-seller in the GMC lineup, the Sierra’s 2019 sales ended on a high note and have continued that upward trend in 2020, bucking the overall downward direction for U.S. auto sales. Like its Silverado sibling, the Sierra was completely new for the 2019 model year. Larger in practically every dimension, the new Sierra boasts a range of new comfort, convenience and safety features. One of Sierra’s standout features is its MultiPro Tailgate, which offers six positions for easier loading, as well as use as a standing workstation. A range of engine / transmission options are available, including a new 2.7-liter turbo and a new turbodiesel powertrain. For 2020 GMC added the AT4 CarbonPro Edition with a composite bed, unique grille surround and 18-inch wheels.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Honda CR-V
Total Sales: 237,334
The Honda CR-V achieved record sales for 2019, and prior to March 2020 the popular crossover was selling on the same pace as the year earlier. Still the best-selling vehicle in the Honda lineup, the CR-V’s success lies in its ability to offer consumers a comfortable, small crossover with great utility and excellent fuel economy. For 2020 Honda refreshed the CR-V’s exterior styling and added the first hybrid to the CR-V lineup. Similar to the Honda Accord Hybrid, the all-wheel-drive CR-V Hybrid uses a 2-motor hybrid powertrain that teams two electric motors with a 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine for a combined output of 212 horsepower, making it the most powerful variant in the CR-V lineup.
© Hyundai Motor America
Hyundai Tucson
Total Sales: 91,139
On the heels of a downward sales trend at the end of 2019, Tucson sales continue in negative territory for the first three quarters of 2020. Hyundai introduced the latest version of the Tucson in 2018 when it received updated styling as well as a range of new features and powertrains. This 5-occupant crossover comes well equipped with a 7-inch touchscreen display, multiple USB chargers, a rearview camera and standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Forward collision-avoidance assist and lane-keeping assist are both standard as well, with additional safety and technology features available such as blind-spot collision warning and rear cross-traffic alert. Two engines are available, including a 2.4-liter 4-cylinder unit producing 181 horsepower.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Infiniti QX60
Total Sales: 17,505
The QX60 — Infiniti’s family-friendly 3-row luxury crossover — received revised exterior styling for the 2018 model year that reflects the contemporary design language of Nissan’s luxury brand, including a new signature grille, headlights, turn signals and new wheel designs. Available with front- or all-wheel drive, the QX60 gets power from a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces 295 horsepower and 270 lb-ft of torque. Advanced safety features including forward emergency braking with pedestrian detection, predictive forward collision warning and blind-spot warning are standard equipment for all trim levels of the QX60. Expect to see a new QX60 based on the recently introduced QX60 Monograph arriving sometime in 2021.
© Jaguar Land Rover
Jaguar F-PACE
Total Sales: NA
When Jaguar introduced the all-new F-PACE there was clear demand for such a vehicle — the sporty crossover is not only Jaguar’s best-selling model, it makes up almost half the brand’s sales and easily outsells all of Jaguar’s passenger cars combined. With styling that keeps with the rest of the Jaguar lineup — certainly a good thing — the F-PACE puts the “sport” in sport-utility vehicle. Power options range from a 247-horsepower turbocharged 4-cyliner engine to the 550-horsepower supercharged V8 powering the new high-performance F-Pace SVR. With Jaguar’s Lightweight Aluminum Architecture and an advanced torque-on-demand all-wheel drive system, the F-PACE offers the performance expected from a Jaguar SUV. Early next year an updated 2021 F-Pace will arrive in showrooms with new features as well as updated styling inside and out.
© FCA US
Grand Cherokee
Total Sales: 152,856
The Jeep Grand Cherokee continues to lead the sales charge at Jeep with record sales last year — this trend would have likely continued if the pandemic had not affected sales. The 5-seat Grand Cherokee retains its tradition of offering impressive off-road capability in an attractive package. Available in several trim levels and 4WD systems, the Grand Cherokee line ranges from the off-road-focused Trailhawk to the luxurious Summit. Jeep also offers the high-performance Trackhawk, boasting a staggering 707 horsepower. For 2020 Jeep added more standard equipment across the Grand Cherokee lineup, as well as the latest advanced safety features now available on all trims, including the base-level Laredo.
© Kia Motors America
Kia Forte
Total Sales: 62,911
Kia introduced an all-new Forte last year with fresh styling and a range of updated features. Kia’s top seller is powered by a 2.0-liter 147-horsepower engine matched to a 6-speed manual gearbox, and is rated as high as 37 mpg on the highway. Standard equipment on this small sedan includes air-conditioning, an 8.0-inch touchscreen display, a rearview camera with dynamic parking guide, Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth connectivity, forward collision avoidance, lane departure warning and driver attention warning.
© Jaguar Land Rover
Land Rover Range Rover Sport
Total Sales: NA
Land Rover has earned a reputation for building vehicles with true off-road capability; however, with the Range Rover Sport the company added excellent on-road performance to the package. Outselling the larger Range Rover as well as the smaller Evoque, the Range Rover Sport features full-time 4-wheel drive with electronic traction control, an 8-speed automatic transmission and an extensive list of safety features. A number of engines are available, ranging from a fuel-efficient diesel to a 550-horsepower supercharged V8 in the Range Rover Sport SVR. Not only can the Range Rover Sport top 150 mph, it can also claw its way through three feet of water — just not at the same time.
© Toyota Motor Sales USA
Lexus RX
Total Sales: 66,251
The popular RX tops Lexus charts once again, boasting sales that are considerably higher than all other models in the lineup. One of the first luxury crossovers when it debuted as a 1998 model, the RX combines the utility of an SUV with the ride and comfort of a luxury sedan. Last year Lexus upped the utility of the RX with the addition of the RX L, which is slightly larger and offers seating for up to seven via a new third row. Both the original and L versions of the RX are available as the RX 350 or the RX 450h, the latter featuring a powerful and fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain. Lexus is adding new tech for the 2020 model year; the RX will be the first in the lineup to feature Android Auto connectivity to go with the already available Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa integration.
© Ford Motor Company
Lincoln Corsair
Total Sales: 18,177
Lincoln has been quickly revamping its entire SUV lineup, and one of the newest to join the group is the 5-passenger Corsair. Replacing the MKC, the new Corsair is easily recognizable as a Lincoln thanks to styling cues borrowed from the larger Nautilus and Aviator models — specifically similar grille and headlight treatments. However, the Corsair does have an overall style all its own with deep contouring along the side panels, which adds depth to the overall design. The Corsair may be an entry-level model in the Lincoln lineup, but inside it features upscale materials to create a premium feeling within the cabin. Corsair also features active noise control, and sounds that occupants do hear are chimes recorded by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. A range of new technology can be found in this small crossover; for example, owners will be able to use their smartphones as keys to the Corsair.
© Mazda North America
Mazda CX-5
Total Sales: 104,277
Mazda CX-5 sales were up slightly in 2019, posting the fourth consecutive year of record sales. That trend continued into 2020 until the pandemic struck, and then CX-5 took a downturn along with most new vehicles. Although overall sales are still down, the CX-5 had a 31 percent increase in September sales versus the same month in 2019. When redesigned a few years ago, the CX-5 adopted the refined styling of the larger CX-9. The CX-5 is the first Mazda to feature G-Vectoring Control, which enhances vehicle responsiveness and stability while reducing the sideways sliding of occupants during spirited driving. Last year Mazda added the Grand Touring Reserve and Signature trim levels, both powered by a turbocharged SKYACTIV-G 2.5T engine rated at 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque with premium fuel and i-ACTIV all-wheel drive as standard equipment.
© McLaren
McLaren 720S
Total Sales: NA
McLaren built its reputation creating lightweight sports cars that offer not only extreme performance but also occupant comfort and entertaining driving dynamics. The famed British car company doesn’t sell many vehicles annually, but in the first nine months of 2020 the extreme 720S is the most popular model in America. Initially available as a coupe, McLaren added the Spider a few years ago equipped with a retractable carbon fiber roof that can raise or lower in 11 seconds. Both coupe and Spider boast a 4.0-liter turbocharged V8 engine producing 710 horsepower and 568 lb-ft of torque. The McLaren is very quick — the sprint to 60 mph takes 2.8 seconds, and 124 mph comes up in a hair under 8 seconds, and with enough space to stride the 720s will reach 212 mph. With standout styling, excellent handling and a wonderful V8 sound, the 720S checks all the boxes — and more.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Mercedes-Benz GLC
Total Sales: 33,987
Mercedes-Benz introduced the GLC crossover in 2016 when it replaced the GLK, and since then the luxury crossover has experienced impressive sales success — 2019 was the GLC’s third year of record sales. The German automaker hopes to continue that momentum with the introduction of the revised 2020 Mercedes-Benz GLC. With updated styling, innovative technology and a potent AMG variant, the new GLC is better than ever before. Still easily recognizable as the Mercedes-Benz GLC, the 2020 model receives a new grille, updated front and rear fascias, slimmer headlights and redesigned taillights. Buyers may choose from the GLC 300 or more powerful AMG GLC 63, both available as a standard SUV or sportier SUV Coupe.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
MINI Cooper
Total Sales: 13,259
The MINI Cooper may be one of the smallest cars available in America, but it still offers a premium ride with excellent performance. A few years ago MINI updated the Cooper with a new MINI logo, new alloy wheels and MINI logo projection from the driver’s side exterior mirror, as well as new interior features such as wireless phone charging and rear LED lights with a Union Jack design. For 2020 MINI adds two new versions of the Cooper that will bookend the lineup. At one end sits the new fully-electric Cooper SE; at the other resides the high-performance MINI Cooper JCW GP boasting more than 300 horsepower.
© Mitsubishi Motors North America
Mitsubishi Outlander
Total Sales: 25,046
Even though sales of Mitsubishi’s Outlander are down overall for 2020, the midsize 7-passenger crossover had a 60 percent bump during the third quarter versus a year ago. The Outlander starts below $25,000 and tops out with the GT, featuring Mitsubishi’s Super All-Wheel Control all-wheel-drive system. Two engines are available, including a 3.0-liter MIVEC V6 that produces 224 horsepower and 215 lb-ft of torque. Mitsubishi also offers the Outlander as a plug-in hybrid that has the same 224 horsepower but gets 22 miles of electric-only range and impressive fuel economy.
© Nissan North America
Nissan Rogue
Total Sales: 167,401
Nissan’s small crossover’s sales were down 15 percent for 2019, and that downward trend is continuing for 2020; however, the Rogue still remains the best-selling vehicle in the Nissan lineup. Rogue features a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with an advanced Xtronic transmission with Eco mode, boasting an EPA fuel-economy rating as high as 33 mpg. Rogue is available in three trim levels, and also comes as a smaller model called Rogue Sport. All Rogues are now available with ProPILOT Assist — Nissan’s first step toward building autonomous vehicles — as well as Nissan Safety Shield 360. An all-new Rogue has been introduced for the 2021 model year and is expected to arrive in showrooms shortly.
© Porsche Cars North America
Porsche Macan
Total Sales: 13,207
The compact premium SUV market is undeniably crowded, but the Macan certainly stands out from said scrum. The second crossover to join the Porsche lineup, Macan has experienced strong sales since its introduction in 2014; however, demand dropped slightly in the last year. Styled after the larger Cayenne, Macan still embodies all qualities expected from the iconic German sports car brand. The compact SUV has full-time all-wheel drive and is available with various powertrains including a new 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 introduced for the 2020 Macan Turbo.
© FCA US
Ram Pickup
Total Sales: 402,410
Ram introduced an all-new 1500 pickup last year and followed shortly thereafter with the Ram Heavy Duty. These two offerings have done wonders for Ram truck sales — last year the brand achieved its fourth consecutive year of record sales. The new Ram features updated exterior styling, and the interior is one of the nicest on the market. Six trim levels are available, as well as a new lineup of powertrains that includes a powerful diesel that will eventually feature a hybrid system. A new Ram Heavy Duty that boasts a new diesel with 1,000 lb-ft of torque helped Ram hold onto this sales position. Ram recently introduced the TRX, which has a supercharged 702-horsepower V8 engine under the hood.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Rolls-Royce Cullinan
Total Sales: NA
The maker of ultra-exclusive automobiles, Rolls-Royce does not sell vehicles in large volumes; however, the current sales leader for the marque is the first SUV from Rolls-Royce — the all-new Cullinan. Cullinan is built on a new all-aluminum platform, dubbed the Architecture of Luxury. First used for the flagship Phantom, this aluminum spaceframe is higher and shorter for Cullinan, accommodating a first for Rolls-Royce — a tailgate. Easily recognizable as a Rolls-Royce with the iconic grille and Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament, the new Cullinan is designed to take its passengers through any terrain while cosseting them in the lap of luxury. Rolls-Royce has recently announced the Black Badge version of the Cullinan, which includes special trim details as well as performance upgrades.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Subaru Outback
Total Sales: 106,346
Despite the premiere of a new Outback for the 2020 model year, its sales are not immune to the current slump. That said, September was a strong month for this crossover wagon, posting a 50 percent increase versus a year ago. The latest Subaru built on the company’s global platform, the 2020 Outback received updated exterior styling, many new features, a greatly improved interior, updated powertrains and the latest version of EyeSight — Subaru’s suite of advanced safety technology. EyeSight includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision braking, lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist. All Outbacks feature Subaru’s Symmetrical all-wheel drive with active torque vectoring, vehicle dynamics control and a generous 8.7 inches of ground clearance.
© Tesla Motors
Tesla Model 3
Total Sales: 128,000
The third model in the Tesla lineup, the aptly-named Model 3 is more affordable than the higher-end Model S and Model X offered by the American car company. With an enviable level of standard equipment and sleek styling that befits the rest of the Tesla lineup, the more economical Model 3 was designed for high-volume sales. Although the Model 3’s standard battery delivers a 220-mile range, the Long Range trim features a larger battery that bumps range up to 310 miles. Performance is quite impressive — the dual-motor all-wheel-drive Model 3 sprints to 60 mph in 4.5 seconds.
© Toyota Motor Sales USA
Toyota RAV4
Total Sales: 302,574
Toyota’s RAV4 experienced record sales in 2019, and this popular crossover was on track to continue this upward trend for 2020 until the pandemic changed that direction. One of the original compact crossovers on the American market, the RAV4 was completely redone last year with bold new styling, improved capability, better performance and an array of new safety and convenience features. In addition to the updated styling and efficient powertrains, the RAV4 now has automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane departure alert as standard equipment. Earlier this year Toyota added the 2021 RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid to its lineup, offering better fuel efficiency as well as much higher performance.
© Volkswagen of America
Volkswagen Tiguan
Total Sales: 75,583
Volkswagen’s compact Tiguan crossover was redesigned in 2018 specifically for the U.S. market, and to say it has hit the mark is an understatement. Sales doubled in 2018 versus the previous year, and sales grew by almost seven percent in 2019. The Tiguan is built on Volkswagen’s Modular Transverse Matrix architecture, featuring a roomy interior with available third-row seating. Styling is similar to the larger Atlas with sharp, strong lines and a low, wide stance. Power comes from Volkswagen’s turbocharged 2.0-liter TSI engine producing 184 horsepower; that power gets delivered to the front wheels through an 8-speed automatic transmission. Volkswagen’s 4Motion all-wheel drive with Active Control is optional, offering four drive modes to maximize traction in varying driving conditions. For 2020 Volkswagen adds standard driver assistance features as well as the brand’s next-generation telematics system.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Volvo XC90
Total Sales: 22,535
As the Swedish brand’s flagship model, the 7-seat XC90 SUV was the first Volvo built on its Scalable Product Architecture platform — now used for all 90- and 60-series Volvo products. Like the S90 and V90 models, the XC90 carries classic design cues including T-shaped “Thor’s Hammer” LED headlights, a grille with the large Volvo Iron Mark, and large VOLVO lettering across the liftgate. For the 2020 model year the XC90 received a light exterior refresh that includes a new concave design for the front grille that has a more premium impression with two-color inlays and a chrome-accented frame. Front and rear bumpers have also been restyled, and the XC90 gets updated wheel designs. The 2020 XC90 has a new available 6-passenger configuration that replaces the second-row bench with individual bucket seats.
