© Ford Motor Company
Best-Selling Cars — First Quarter of 2022
The first three months of auto sales in 2022 are now on the books, and the effects of the ongoing chip shortage are quite evident as almost every major car company saw a decline in sales versus a year earlier. Although not all manufactures have reported sales, the total vehicles sold so far in 2022 is estimated to be around three million units — down about 16 percent compared to the first quarter of 2021. What follows are the best-selling cars during the first three months of 2022, according to numbers compiled from individual auto manufacturer sales reports.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
25. Subaru Outback
2022 Sales: 32,972
Vs. 2021: -20.6%
Sales of the popular Outback were strong during the first half of 2021, but the chip shortage hit supply of this popular model hard. Unable to keep up with demand, Outback sales continue to drop. The latest Subaru built on the company’s global platform, the Outback underwent updates in 2020 with fresh 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. For 2021 Subaru added the Outback Wilderness to the lineup — the most rugged, capable Outback the company has ever built.
© Toyota Motor Sales USA
24. Toyota 4Runner
2022 Sales: 34,907
Vs. 2021: -6.3%
After 35 years, Toyota’s 4Runner remains one of the few truck-based SUVs left on the market. This highly capable contender has a loyal following but sales declined at the beginning of the year. The 4Runner continues to be powered by a 4.0-liter V6 engine producing 270 horsepower and 278 lb-ft of torque delivered through a 5-speed automatic transmission. Even though all 4Runners are ready for off-road adventure, Toyota adds a 4Runner TRD Sport to the lineup for the 2022 model year. Designed to complement the TRD Off-Road and TRD Pro versions, the TRD Sport gets unique color-keyed accents on the grille, rocker panels and body molding with an emphasis on everyday driving dynamics.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
23. Subaru Crosstrek
2022 Sales: 37,643
Vs. 2021: 6.5%
Subaru introduced an updated Crosstrek for the 2021 model year, and the result was a relatively strong finish to 2021 as well as one of the few models that saw a positive gain so far in 2022. Last year Crosstrek added a new Sport trim with more aggressive styling; unique wheel arch moldings; 17-inch alloy wheels with a dark gray finish; and a gunmetal gray treatment for the grille, side mirrors and badges. Also new last year, the Limited and Sport trims received a new a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine that produces 182 horsepower and 176 lb-ft of torque. Subaru also offers the Crosstrek as an efficient plug-in hybrid.
© Nissan North America
22. Nissan Altima
2022 Sales: 38,295
Vs. 2021: 19.6%
One of the few sedans left on the best-seller list, the Nissan Altima exhibited surprising gains for the first quarter of 2022. The Altima received a major styling update in 2019 with a look that fits well within the Nissan lineup. Two engines are offered, including the unique VC Turbo that uses variable compression — a lower compression ratio provides more power, while a higher ratio gets better fuel economy. Available with front- or all-wheel drive, the Altima comes with a range of advanced safety features including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, high-beam headlight assist, lane departure warning, rear door alert and a rearview monitor. For 2022 Nissan offers the Altima with a special Midnight Edition Package with black-out exterior trim.
© American Honda Motors
21. Honda Civic
2022 Sales: 38,515
Vs. 2021: -31.1%
The ever-popular Honda Civic dropped several places on this best-seller list with a dramatic decline in sales so far in 2022. In March the compact Honda had a sales drop of more than 57 percent versus a year earlier. Now in its 11th generation since 1973, the 2022 Honda Civic is built on a new stronger platform with fresh exterior styling. Available as a sedan or hatchback, the 2022 model features a longer hood for a more premium look, further enhanced by LED lights front and back. The interior has a high-tech vibe thanks to an available LCD driver’s display, as well as a 9-inch HD touchscreen display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. All levels of the new Civic come with the Honda Sensing suite of advanced driver-assist systems including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, road departure mitigation, lane departure warning and lane-keeping assist.
© Hyundai Motor America
20. Hyundai Tucson
2022 Sales: 39,655
Vs. 2021: 19.6%
Tucson sales in the U.S. were up in 2021 and have continued that trend into this year, thanks in part to the arrival of the redesigned 2022 model. The new Tucson is longer, wider and taller than the previous version, and has lower, wider headlights and daytime running lights that seem to be an extension of the grille. The profile reveals a chrome accent that begins at the mirror and follows the shape of the roof. Tucson’s standard powertrain is a 161-horsepower 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with an 8-speed automatic transmission. An available hybrid drivetrain pairs a turbocharged 1.6-liter gasoline engine with a 44.2 kW electric motor and 1.49 kWh battery pack for an estimated total system output of 226 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque.
© Ford Motor Company
19. Ford Escape
2022 Sales: 39,962
Vs. 2021: -2.5%
At one time this small 5-seat crossover from Ford had been the best-selling American-brand SUV; however, sales steadily declined over the last year with numbers still down in 2022. Lower, wider and longer than its predecessor, the Escape was all new for the 2020 model year sporting looks that are a significant departure from the previous generation. The front-end styling looks surprisingly similar to those on Ford’s now discontinued passenger cars rather than the brand’s SUVs. The 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 brought back the Escape Hybrid, available as a standard hybrid as well as a plug-in version.
© American Honda Motors
18. Honda Accord
2022 Sales: 42,039
Vs. 2021: -9.8%
Although still one of the best-selling passenger cars in America, the Honda Accord has never approached the sales levels it had prior to its last major redesign in 2018. Sales increased slightly last year; however, figures are down for the first three months of 2022. Available in a range of trim levels, the Accord was refreshed last year with updated styling and additional safety features. Inside, an 8-inch display screen is now standard on all trim levels, as are Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The fuel-efficient Accord Hybrid gets powertrain updates to improve throttle response while still delivering close to 50 mpg.
© American Honda Motors
17. Honda HR-V
2022 Sales: 42,168
Vs. 2021: 61.1%
The smallest SUV in Honda’s lineup, the HR-V had a strong sales increase for 2021 — one that moved it into the top 25 best-selling vehicles for the first time ever. That trend continues into the 2022 model year. Introduced as a 2016 model, the HR-V received exterior updates for 2019 including a new grille, headlights and taillights; revised bumpers; and two new trim levels. The 2022 HR-V is now on sale in four trim levels: LX, Sport, EX and EX-L, and all are offered in front- or all-wheel drive. Power comes from a 1.8-liter i-VTEC engine producing 141 horsepower and 127 lb-ft of torque, combined with a continuously variable transmission. Look for an updated 2023 HR-V to arrive later this year.
© Ford Motor Company
16. Ford Explorer
2022 Sales: 42,736
Vs. 2021: -34.5%
Explorer is one of the few vehicles in America that posted positive gains in 2020, but sales ended up slightly lower for 2021, and that trend continues downward for 2022. Ford engineers updated the Explorer for the 2020 model year with an all-new rear-wheel-drive flexible architecture designed to improve ride, handling and overall capability. Ford also added two variants to the Explorer lineup — the Hybrid and the ST. The latter boasts a 400-horseower EcoBoost engine and is responsible for almost 20 percent of total Explorer sales. The Explorer features Co-Pilot360 — a suite of advanced safety features including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and post-impact braking. Last year Ford added the Explorer Timberline, a new trim level for the long-running full-size SUV that offers a more rugged overland appearance backed by engineering updates and new equipment to improve off-road performance.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
15. Nissan Rogue
2022 Sales: 45,235
Vs. 2021: -47.8%
Nissan introduced an all-new Rogue for the 2021 model year, and the result was a strong sales finish last year; however, that success seems to be short-lived with a dramatic drop in the first quarter of 2022. Built on a new platform with fresh styling, advanced safety features and a family friendly interior, the latest Rogue features a long list of standard equipment across all trim levels including LED headlights and taillights and alloy wheels, as well as Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Access to the rear seat improves in the new model thanks to rear doors that open nearly 90 degrees — much wider than the previous generation.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
14. Jeep Wrangler
2022 Sales: 45,551
Vs. 2021: -8.2%
As with most vehicles on this list, the iconic Jeep Wrangler experienced a sales decline during the first quarter of 2022. The latest-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 model, 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. The latest Wrangler is much more refined on road without losing any of its legendary off-road capability. For 2021 Jeep added two significant versions — the Wrangler 4xe plug-in hybrid and the 470-horsepower Wrangler Rubicon 392.
© Toyota Motor Sales, USA
13. Toyota Corolla
2022 Sales: 47,501
Vs. 2021: -34.5%
Toyota rolled out an all-new Corolla last year, which helped the small car to positive sales in 2021; however, Corolla has had a slow start to 2022. The time-honored model — along with the 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 an efficient hybrid system that has a U.S. EPA fuel-economy 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 headlights and road sign recognition. For 2022 Toyota expands the Corolla lineup with additional Apex and Nightshade editions.
© Mazda North America
12. Mazda CX-5
2022 Sales: 50,653
Vs. 2021: 24.3%
The Mazda CX-5 made a big comeback from a slow-selling 2020, ending 2021 with a significant sales increase. That trend continues for the best-selling Mazda with a healthy sales increase in the first quarter versus one a year ago. Adopting the styling of the larger CX-9, the CX-5 is refined in nearly every way with a revised chassis, an updated SKYACTIV-G 2.5-liter gasoline engine, a new interior and many available features. At the top of the CX-5 range is 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. The new Carbon Edition includes Polymetal Gray paint, gloss black door mirrors, 19-inch black metallic aluminum alloy wheels and red leather seats. For 2022 Mazda has announced that all CX-5s will come with i-Activ all-wheel drive as standard equipment.
© Toyota Motor Sales, USA
11. Toyota Tacoma
2022 Sales: 53,182
Vs. 2021: -20.0%
Toyota’s popular midsize pickup had positive sales in 2021, but that trend has reversed thus far in 2022. The truck had its last full redesign for the 2016 model year, showcasing 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. Last year the Tacoma received 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. For 2022 Toyota adds a new Trail Edition to the Tacoma lineup, featuring a lifted suspension and a standard locking rear differential for better off-road performance.
© General Motors
10. Chevrolet Equinox
2022 Sales: 56,036
Vs. 2021: -11.4%
Chevrolet’s second-best-selling vehicle after the full-size Silverado pickup, Equinox sales are continuing to perform poorly compared to 12 months earlier. This may change as the new 2022 Equinox begins arriving in showrooms. The updated model features refreshed styling with a new grille, slim LED headlights and new LED daytime running lights. The new Equinox has a long list of standard safety features including an updated infotainment system with an available 8-inch display screen, as well as Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. Power for the new model comes from a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine producing 170 horsepower.
© General Motors
9. GMC Sierra
2022 Sales: 56,617
Vs. 2021: -10.0%
The best-seller in the GMC lineup, the Sierra’s 2021 sales dropped slightly compared to 2020, and that downward trend is continuing for 2022. Similar to its Chevrolet Silverado sibling, a completely new Sierra pickup rolled out for the 2019 model year. Larger in practically every dimension, the new Sierra boasts a range of comfort, convenience and safety features. One standout is the truck’s MultiPro Tailgate, which offers six positions for easier loading; it can also be used 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 2022 GMC adds the Sierra Denali Ultimate — the most luxurious Sierra the company has ever offered. Also new is the off-road-ready Sierra AT4X.
© American Honda Motors
8. Honda CR-V
2022 Sales: 58,579
Vs. 2021: -37.5%
The CR-V remains the best-selling model in the Honda lineup, but the popular crossover experienced a steep decline in December sales and that continues into 2022. Last year Honda refreshed the CR-V’s exterior and added the first hybrid variant. Similar to the Honda Accord Hybrid, the all-wheel-drive CR-V Hybrid uses a 2-motor powertrain that teams dual 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
7. Toyota Camry
2022 Sales: 61,505
Vs. 2021: -21.3%
The Toyota Camry experienced slow sales toward the end of 2021, but still managed to maintain an overall increase to retain its position as the best-selling passenger car in America for the 20th year. So far the Camry is holding onto that position, even with a large sales decline compared with a year ago. Toyota introduced the eighth-generation Camry a few years back, and for 2021 this best-seller received updated exterior styling, interior improvements and the latest version of the company’s Safety Sense 2.0 suite of safety features. For those seeking even more performance, Toyota offers the Camry TRD with performance suspension and brakes, more aggressive styling and a cat-back exhaust system.
© Toyota Motor Sales USA
6. Toyota Highlander
2022 Sales: 66,026
Vs. 2021: 3.4%
All new for the 2020 model year, the Toyota Highlander ended 2021 with strong sales results, and while the SUV is up only 3.4 percent in 2022, in today’s market that’s a strong result. The fourth generation of this popular crossover is built on Toyota’s New Global Architecture and is available with 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 Japan-based automaker also offers a Highlander Hybrid possessing great performance via a fuel-efficient gas-electric powertrain. For 2022 Toyota adds the Highlander Hybrid Bronze Edition with unique styling and premium features.
© Stellantis North America
5. Jeep Grand Cherokee
2022 Sales: 75,117
Vs. 2021: 36.1%
Jeep introduced an all-new 2022 Grand Cherokee last year, as well as its first-ever version with three rows of seats — the Grand Cherokee L. The result was record sales in 2021, and 2022 is already on track for another record. The updated 2022 Grand Cherokee features slim LED headlights, a smaller forward-leaning 7-slot grille, a roof that tapers to a spoiler and slim wraparound taillights. The Grand Cherokee interior is much more upscale and features an available 10.25-inch front passenger interactive display. Jeep offers the capable Grand Cherokee with a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 engine or a 5.7-liter HEMI V8, and arriving later this year will be a Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid version combining two electric motors with a 2.0-liter turbocharged gasoline engine.
© Toyota Motor Sales, USA
4. Toyota RAV4
2022 Sales: 101,192
Vs. 2021: -11.4%
Although Toyota’s RAV4 experienced a slight sales decline last year and into this year, it still retains its spot as the best-selling SUV in America. One of the original compact crossovers on American roads, the RAV4 was completely redone in 2019 with bold new styling, improved capability, increased performance and an array of new safety and convenience features. In addition to the updated styling and efficient powertrains, the RAV4 features automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane departure alert as standard equipment. For 2021 Toyota added the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid to the lineup, offering better fuel efficiency as well as seemingly contradictory higher performance.
© General Motors
3. Chevrolet Silverado
2022 Sales: 121,107
Vs. 2021: -4.3%
The longtime best-seller of the Chevrolet lineup, the full-size Silverado pickup truck experienced a sales drop in 2021 — enough that it fell to third position in overall U.S. sales and has remained there for the first quarter of 2022. Chevrolet hopes to reverse that trend with the introduction of a 2022 Silverado with updated exterior styling as well as a revised interior with enhanced technology. Higher-level trims get a new 13.4-inch display screen and available Super Cruise driver-assistance technology. Also new is the Silverado ZR2, which takes its place as the flagship of the Silverado lineup with impressive off-road capability direct from the factory.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2. Ram Pickup
2022 Sales: 127,116
Vs. 2021: -14.6 %
Ram introduced an all-new 1500 pickup in 2019 and followed shortly thereafter with the Ram Heavy Duty. Sales continue to show strong results — the big truck overtook Chevrolet to become the second-best-selling vehicle in America for 2021, and it still holds onto that position. The Ram features bold exterior styling, and the interior is one of the nicest on the market. Multiple trim levels are available, as well as a new powertrain lineup that includes a potent diesel and eventually a hybrid system. The updated Ram Heavy Duty now boasts a diesel with 1,075 lb-ft of torque providing a 37,100-pound towing capacity. Ram offers a wide range of trim levels with different capabilities, including the high-performance 702-horsepower TRX, which is designed to tackle off-road terrain at high speeds.
© Ford Motor Company
1. Ford F-Series
2022 Sales: 140,701
Vs. 2021: -31.0%
With annual sales that far outpace the competition, the Ford F-Series extended its streak in 2021 as the best-selling vehicle in America for 40 years — 45 years as best-selling truck. Even though sales are down slightly for 2022, Ford’s large truck easily retains its No. 1 spot thanks to the introduction of the new 2021 F-150. With fresh styling, an updated interior, a new hybrid powertrain, a range of innovative and versatile new features and a class-leading 14,000-pound towing capacity, the 2021 Ford F-150 will likely continue the F-Series juggernaut. Later this year Ford will come to market with its first all-electric F-150, the Lightning. The 2022 F-150 Lightning will be powered by dual three-phase fixed magnet AC electric motors and have the ability to tow up to 10,000 pounds.
