© Ford Motor Company
Best-Selling Cars of 2020
The first six months of auto sales in 2020 are now on the books, and the COVID-19 pandemic has certainly taken its toll on the auto industry. Some manufacturers won’t be reporting sales until later in July, but overall sales are estimated to be down 23 percent compared with the first half of 2019, at a total of approximately 8.2 million vehicles sold. Almost every car company experienced declining sales during the first half of the year, with many dealerships forced to close and factories suspending operations as the country tries to contain the Coronavirus. A few models have recorded positive sales over the last six months, although for the most part every car company reports decreased sales compared to last year. What follows are the best-selling cars of 2020 during the first half of the year, according to numbers compiled from individual auto manufacturers’ sales reports.
© FCA US
25. Jeep Cherokee
2020 Sales: 56,938
Vs. 2019: –41.4 %
Sales of the Jeep Cherokee were on the decline at the end of last year, and the current situation has not helped turn that around. Cherokee returned to the lineup as a 2014 model after a 12-year hiatus and, like all Jeep products, this popular SUV delivers legendary off-road capability with available features including a lifted off-road suspension with skidplates, tow hooks, Selec-Terrain traction control, Jeep Active Drive Lock with rear locker and Selec-Speed Crawl Control. Last year Cherokee received updated styling as well as an upgraded interior, increased cargo room and a new 2.0-liter turbocharged engine. For 2020 the Cherokee gets a range of new features as well as color options that include Sangria and Spitfire Orange.
© Hyundai Motor America
24. Hyundai Tucson
2020 Sales: 57,941
Vs. 2019: –12.1 %
On the heels of a downward sales trend at the end of 2019, Tucson sales continue in negative territory for the first half 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.
© Ford Motor Company
23. Ford Fusion
2020 Sales: 61,421
Vs. 2019: –36.3%
Last year Ford announced it will end production of all passenger car models, including the best-selling American passenger car — the Fusion. Despite its imminent demise, Fusion continues to remain popular with American shoppers, outselling all other American-brand passenger cars. Fusion was refreshed for the 2019 model year with subtle exterior design changes, interior improvements and standard Co-Pilot360, which includes automatic emergency braking, a blind-spot information system, lane-keeping assist and a rearview camera. Fusion is available with a variety of powertrains including hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants.
© Subaru of America
22. Subaru Outback
2020 Sales: 62,305
Vs. 2019: –33.5%
Despite the premiere of a new Outback for the 2020 model year, its sales are not immune to the current slump. In the second quarter of 2020, Outback sales dropped by 43 percent compared to a year earlier. The latest Subaru built on the company’s global platform, the 2020 Outback gets 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.
© Mazda North America
21. Mazda CX-5
2020 Sales: 65,072
Vs. 2019: –12.5 %
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 CX-5 sales took a downturn along with most other new vehicles. Once again, CX-5 sales exceeded the combined sales of all other Mazda models. Adopting the styling of the larger CX-9 when it was redesigned a few years ago, the CX-5 is refined in nearly every way. 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 the 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.
© Nissan North America
20. Nissan Altima
2020 Sales: 69,049
Vs. 2019: –36.5 %
Once Nissan’s best-selling car, the Altima had experienced a decline over the last few years, allowing the hot-selling Rogue small crossover to claim its position as the top-selling Nissan model in America. The automaker seemed to be reversing that trend with an all-new Altima introduced for the 2019 model year, but the current situation brings sales down a bit for the first half of 2020. The new Altima features updated styling inside and out as well as a range of new features. Two powertrains are offered, including the first production engine that uses variable compression — a lower compression ratio provides more power, while a higher ratio gets better fuel economy. Nissan also offers the Altima with all-wheel drive for the first time.
© Toyota Motor Sales USA
19. Toyota Highlander
2020 Sales: 79,071
Vs. 2019: –28.9%
All new of the 2020 model year, the Toyota Highlander had upwardly trending sales until March — from then sales continue to decline versus a year earlier. The fourth generation of this popular crossover gets built on Toyota’s New Global Architecture. The new Highlander has fresh styling with a bold black grille, available premium projector headlights and a 3.5-liter V6 engine that produces a plentiful 295 horsepower and 263 lb-ft of torque — enough power to provide a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Highlander Hybrid offering has a fuel-efficient gas-electric powertrain.
© Ford Motor Company
18. Ford Escape
2020 Sales: 84,797
Vs. 2016: –36.3 %
This small 5-seat crossover from Ford had been the best-selling American-brand SUV for many years, but a sales decline last year and a slow start for 2020 has dropped the Escape down the list. Once overall U.S. vehicle sales begin to recover, the Escape should experience a sales bump since it is all new for the 2020 model year. Lower, wider and longer than its predecessor, the new model has looks that are quite a departure from the previous generation. The front end features an all-new grille surprisingly similar to those on the Focus and Fusion passenger cars, rather than Ford SUVs. The 2020 Escape is available with a choice of four engines; the standard unit is a 3-cylinder 1.5-liter EcoBoost producing 180 horsepower. Ford also brings back the Escape Hybrid — the 2020 model is available as a standard hybrid as well as a plug-in version.
© Subaru of America
17. Subaru Forester
2020 Sales: 85,860
Vs. 2019: –0.4 %
Subaru introduced an all-new Forester last year, and it is one of the few models showing some sales success during this difficult year. Sales of the Forester were up almost 3 percent in Q2 versus a year earlier, with June numbers revealing an increase of 32 percent. The new fifth-generation Forester is the roomiest version ever offered with a 1.2-inch-longer wheelbase, more rear-seat legroom and rear cargo capacity. The Forester also offers improvements in crash protection, comfort, quietness and driving dynamics. Power comes from an updated direct-injection 2.5-liter Boxer engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. Subaru’s EyeSight driver-assist technology is now standard on the Forester, as is a new safety feature: Rear Seat Reminder.
© American Honda Motors
16. Honda Accord
2020 Sales: 88,754
Vs. 2019: –31.4 %
Although still one of the best-selling passenger cars in America, the Honda Accord has not experienced great sales success since its redesign for the 2018 model year. Sales of this long-lived sedan were down almost 15 percent by the end of February 2020 compared to a year earlier, and the current state of the world has also impacted sales. Available in a range of trim levels, Accord is one of the last midsize sedans on the market to offer a manual gearbox. Two turbocharged engines are available that feature great performance and fuel economy. For 2020 the company has made the Honda Sensing suite of safety features standard on all Accord variants.
© FCA US
15. Jeep Wrangler
2020 Sales: 96,131
Vs. 2019: –17.8%
Like most vehicles on this list, the iconic Jeep Wrangler has seen a sales decline when compared with last year; however, with sales down 16 percent for the quarter versus a year earlier, that number could almost be considered a success given the current conditions. The current-generation Wrangler premiered for the 2018 model year — the first redesign of this iconic off-roader in 10 years. Jeep stayed true to the original, retaining the 7-slot grille and round headlights, although the grille is taller and wider, and the big headlights have a stylish LED halo around the outer bezel. For 2020 Jeep adds a fuel-efficient diesel powertrain to the Wrangler, as well as the new luxurious High Altitude edition.
© FCA US
14. Jeep Grand Cherokee
2020 Sales: 96,409
Vs. 2019: –21.8 %
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 continues 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 adds 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.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
13. Ford Explorer
2020 Sales: 101,149
Vs. 2019: –0.7%
The Ford Explorer continues as a fixture on this best-seller list for almost 30 years; although sales were down for 2019, the arrival of the all-new 2020 Explorer helped bolster sales this year — in fact, Explorer numbers were up 12 percent in Q2 versus a year earlier. The 2020 Explorer is built on an all-new rear-wheel-drive flexible architecture designed to improve ride and handling as well as the vehicle’s overall capability. As part of the complete redesign, Ford added two new variants to the Explorer lineup — the Hybrid and the ST; the latter boasts a 400-horseower EcoBoost engine. One of the new features for the 2020 model is a suite of safety features called Co-Pilot360. This includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, cross-traffic alert, lane-keeping assist, post-impact braking, automatic high-beam headlights and a rearview camera with a built-in lens washer.
© Toyota Motor Sales, USA
12. Toyota Tacoma
2020 Sales: 104,699
Vs. 2019: -14.1 %
Toyota’s popular midsize pickup truck finished 2019 with record numbers, marking two consecutive years of best-ever sales. Based on robust sales in early 2020 this trend would have likely continued were it not for the pandemic. The midsize pickup had its last full redesign for the 2016 model year, featuring a more aggressive look, a new V6 engine, a smoother ride and stellar off-road capability. The Tacoma is available in several configurations with two cab styles, two bed lengths, five trim levels and a choice of 2WD or 4WD. For 2020 the Tacoma gets a new grille and wheel designs for most trim levels, as well as an upgraded audio system with a larger touchscreen and Android Auto, Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa compatibility.
© General Motors
11. GMC Sierra
2020 Sales: 106,833
Vs. 2019: 9.7 %
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 adds the AT4 CarbonPro Edition with a composite bed, unique grille surround and 18-inch wheels.
© Nissan North America
10. Nissan Rogue
2020 Sales: 106,965
Vs. 2019: –39.0 %
Nissan’s small crossover 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 should begin to arrive in showrooms in autumn 2020.
© Toyota Motor Sales USA
9. Toyota Corolla
2020 Sales: 109,601
Vs. 2019: -28.3 %
Corolla is one of the most time-honored names in the Toyota lineup, and recently the company celebrated the 1 millionth Corolla built in the brand’s Mississippi assembly plant. Toyota introduces an all-new Corolla for the 2020 model year; however, the current situation has kept this updated model from increasing sales. The 2020 Corolla — along with a Corolla Hybrid — features updated styling with a wider stance, as well as signature LED headlights and a range of new features. Three powertrains are available, including a very efficient hybrid system that has a U.S. EPA rating of more than 50 mpg. Toyota equips all levels of the new Corolla with Toyota Safety Sense 2.0. This suite of advanced safety features includes automatic emergency braking, lane departure alert with steering assist, automatic high-beam headlight and road sign recognition.
© General Motors
8. Chevrolet Equinox
2020 Sales: 124,251
Vs. 2019: –28.7 %
Chevrolet’s second-best-selling vehicle after the full-size Silverado pickup, the Equinox had record sales in 2019, marking the second year in a row for this feat. Equinox stands out in the crowded crossover market with projector-beam headlights, LED running lights, wider horizontal taillights and LED taillights for upper trim levels. Inside, the Equinox features a down-and-away instrument panel with a low windshield base for improved outward visibility. Two engine choices for Equinox are a 170-horsepower 1.5-liter turbo or a 252-horse 2.0-liter turbo teamed with a 9-speed automatic transmission. For 2020 Chevrolet adds a Midnight Edition Equinox to the lineup.
© Toyota Motor Sales USA
7. Toyota Camry
2020 Sales: 125,899
Vs. 2019: –28.5 %
Even though sales of the Camry were down slightly last year, the popular sedan continued its reign as best-selling car in America, with 2019 marking the 17th year in that top position. As with most vehicles on this list, the Camry had a steep decline in sales for Q2 versus a year earlier. Toyota introduced the eighth-generation Camry a few years ago, giving the popular sedan a more engaging appearance with a more comfortable interior and a range of fuel-efficient and powerful engines. For those seeking even more performance, Toyota adds the Camry TRD to the lineup with performance suspension and brakes, more aggressive styling and a cat-back exhaust system.
© American Honda Motors
6. Honda Civic
2020 Sales: 127,858
Vs. 2019: -24.4 %
Although sales are down almost 30 percent in Q2 2020 versus the previous year, the Civic remains the best-selling passenger car in the Honda lineup and — for the moment — it is the best-selling passenger car in America. The tenth generation Civic debuted early in 2017, built on a new vehicle architecture with improved driving dynamics and a more spacious interior. Last year Civic received a light refresh and a range of new features, as well as the new Civic Sport trim. Honda has made Honda Sensing standard on all trims, which includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assist.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
5. Honda CR-V
2020 Sales: 138,898
Vs. 2019: –21.5 %
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 refreshes the CR-V’s exterior styling and adds 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.
© Toyota Motor Sales USA
4. Toyota RAV4
2020 Sales: 183,360
Vs. 2019: -8.6 %
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. Toyota has also announced that the 2021 RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid will be arriving this summer, offering better fuel efficiency as well as much higher performance.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
3. Ram Truck
2020 Sales: 246,253
Vs. 2019: 17.8 %
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 and 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.
© General Motors
2. Chevrolet Silverado
2020 Sales: 267,166
Vs. 2019: 4.0 %
Chevrolet introduced an all-new Silverado for the 2019 model year, and while sales were down slightly last year, the Silverado is certainly going strong for 2020 as one of the few vehicles showing positive growth year over year. The new Silverado is longer and wider than its predecessor, which means more passenger space as well as more cargo room. Through an extensive use of mixed materials, engineers were able to lighten Silverado by an impressive 450 pounds, with 88 pounds of that coming off the body. Silverado received updated styling inside and out as well variety of powertrains, ranging from a new turbocharged 4-cylinder powerplant to V8 options with dynamic fuel management.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
1. Ford F-Series
2020 Sales: 367,387
Vs. 2019: -18.1 %
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. The F-150 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 and a new hybrid powertrain arriving later this year.
