© FCA US
Best-Selling New Cars in America
Until 2020 and its multifaceted strain on health and finances, automobile sales in America had been robust and consistent with more than 17 million new vehicles sold each year. Although that number dropped by more than 14 percent in 2020 compared to a year earlier, sales are experiencing a rebound in 2021, and a surprising fact remains that almost one-third of total vehicle 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 800,000 sold last year). So which vehicles are popular with consumers but sell in lesser numbers? The following vehicles represent the best-selling cars from nearly every automaker in America. Figures are compiled from manufacturer sales reports based on total volume in the first three months of 2021. Note: Many exotic or exclusive car companies do not report individual model sales figures.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Acura MDX
Total Sales: 16,988
Honda’s luxury brand introduces an all-new MDX for the 2022 model year and it seems the new model is resonating well with consumers. Surpassing the perennially best-selling RDX, the flagship of the Acura SUV lineup had a sales increase of 90 percent in the first quarter of 2021 versus a year earlier. The MDX is built on an all-new platform with bold styling, a spacious interior and a wide range of new high-tech features. Powering the 2022 Acura MDX is a 3.5-liter i-VTEC V6 engine producing 290 horsepower, teamed with a 10-speed automatic transmission with Sequential SportShift and paddle shifters. All Acura MDX trims are equipped with the brand’s suite of advanced safety and driver-assist features called AcuraWatch. This includes forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist, road departure mitigation, a blind-spot information system and rear cross-traffic alert.
© FCA US
Alfa Romeo Stelvio
Total Sales: 2,557
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 by outselling the 4-door Giulia. 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 looks incredibly sporty. 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. Despite the company not releasing sales data for individual models, we did learn that Vantage is the brand’s best-seller, even outselling the all-new DBX sport-utility vehicle. The Vantage name has been around for more than 50 years, although the current sports car wearing the moniker 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 brio to sprint from zero to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds with a top speed approaching 200 mph.
© Audi of America
Audi Q5
Total Sales: 14,731
Small crossovers continue to dominate sales 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. Outselling every other Audi by a large margin, the Q5 receives an updated look for the 2021 model year featuring a thinner and wider octagonal Singleframe grille with side air intakes that are taller and have sporty trapezoidal inserts. Last year 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 19 miles and receives an EPA combined rating of 50 MPGe.
© Bentley Motors
Bentley Continental GT / Bentayga
Total Sales: NA
Bentley introduced the third generation of the high-performance Continental GT last year, and while most car companies saw a downturn in 2020 sales, the new Continental GT helped Bentley achieve record numbers last year. Although the general shape of the Continental GT remains familiar, up front a larger grille with stylish headlights adds to the new look. The elegant interior features “diamond-in-diamond” quilted leather seats with 20 power adjustments as well as heating, cooling and massage functions. Available as a coupe or convertible, the Continental GT can even be fitted with a Naim 2200-watt, 18-speaker system with Active Bass Transducers built into the front seats. Proper Bentley power comes from either a twin-turbo V8 or a 6.0-liter W12 engine producing 626 horsepower. According to Bentley, the brand’s luxury SUV — the Bentayga — sold at about the same level as the new Continental GT.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
BMW X3
Total Sales: 14,988
The most popular player in BMW’s lineup, the X3 had its last full update for the 2018 model year. Since that time, the German company has expanded the X3 line with the high-performance X3 M, which stands out with more aggressive styling and up to 510 horsepower on tap. Last year BMW added a plug-in hybrid to the X3 family via the X3 xDrive30e PHEV, which gets a 2.0-liter TwinPower Turbo 4-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor for a combined output of 288 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. This translates to a 40-horsepower boost over the non-hybrid X3. According to the U.S. EPA, the electric-only range of the X3 PHEV is 18 miles with a rating of 60 MPGe.
© General Motors
Buick Encore GX
Total Sales: 18,435
Buick added the all-new GX to its Encore lineup for 2020, and the small crossover is already the brand’s best-selling model by a wide margin. The new GX has premium styling both inside and out, as well as a more spacious cabin and improved cargo-carrying capacity versus the standard Encore. Two turbocharged engines are offered, including a 155-horsepower 1.3-liter unit with available all-wheel drive. In addition to its long list of standard equipment — which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto — the Encore GX gets the latest in advanced safety and driver-assist technologies.
© General Motors
Cadillac Escalade
Total Sales: 9,842
Last year Cadillac took the wraps off an all-new Escalade, the brand’s flagship SUV. This fifth generation of the iconic vehicle comes to market with fresh styling, new powertrains and a range of innovative high-tech features. The bold-looking full-size luxury SUV experienced a 75 percent increase in sales in Q1 of 2021 versus a year earlier — clearly this new model has been popular among Cadillac buyers. One of the many innovations in the new Escalade is a curved OLED display screen in the dashboard, further setting this luxury SUV apart from the competition. The 2021 Cadillac Escalade gets built with new architecture on a new chassis that helps increase interior space, which translates to 40 percent more legroom in the third row and almost 70 percent more cargo space behind that row.
© General Motors
Chevrolet Silverado
Total Sales: 126,591
Chevrolet introduced an all-new Silverado 1500 for the 2019 model year; although sales were down at the start of 2020, the pickup finished the fateful year as one of the few vehicles showing positive growth year over year. The updated Silverado can be configured in hundreds of ways with different cab sizes, bed lengths, drive systems and trim levels that range from the basic Work Truck to the luxurious and powerful High Country. With seven different engine / transmission combinations, the Silverado 1500 can be set up for whatever task necessary — including towing up to 13,400 pounds when the need arises. For those who require additional towing power, the Silverado 3500 HD bumps up to a max tow rating of 36,000 pounds for the 2021 model year.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Chrysler Pacifica
Total Sales: 34,342
The Pacifica premiered a few years back to replace the aging Town & Country minivan in the Chrysler lineup, and for 2021 the minivan gets a complete refresh. Pacifica has a new visage designed to give the minivan more of a sport-utility vibe. The primary grille is much larger than the previous version, while the lower grille mimics the style of the upper. All-new headlights incorporate a new LED running light style; LED headlights and taillights are standard on all versions of the 2021 Pacifica. All-wheel drive is available for the first time; Pacifica’s seamless system requires no driver interaction, and it can transfer up to 100 percent of the power to the rear wheels. Chrysler designed the AWD system so it wouldn’t interfere with one of the Pacifica’s most popular features: Stow n’ Go seats.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Dodge Durango
Total Sales: 20,560
Durango is one of the few truck-based SUVs left on the market, and in 2021 sales are up for this three-row SUV. For the 2021 model year, Durango’s redesigned front end has a new fascia, slimmer LED headlights, a sculpted hood, a rear spoiler and a range of new wheel options. The interior features a performance-oriented cockpit as well as Uconnect 5 availability with a 10.1-inch display. Dodge also adds the 2021 Durango SRT Hellcat to the lineup — with 710 horsepower on tap and three rows of seats, it becomes the most powerful production SUV on the road. The Durango SRT Hellcat sprints to 60 mph in a mere 3.5 seconds, and the NHRA has certified a time of 11.5 seconds to complete the quarter mile. Top speed is rated at 180 mph — certainly a unique experience from the third row of an SUV.
© FCA US
Fiat 124 Spider
Total Sales: 477
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 producing 160 horsepower (164 in Abarth), teamed with either a 6-speed manual transmission or a 6-speed automatic. The Spider is Fiat’s best-selling model in America; however, the company has announced the sporty roadster will no longer be produced.
© Ford Motor Company
Ford F-Series
Total Sales: 203,797
With annual sales that far outpace the competition, the Ford F-Series extended its streak in 2020 as the best-selling vehicle in America for 39 years — 44 years as best-selling truck. Based on strong sales so far in 2021, Ford’s large truck offering should easily retain its No. 1 spot since the new model year ushers in a completely 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.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Genesis GV80
Total Sales: 4,431
Genesis expanded its line for the 2021 model year with the brand’s first SUV, the GV80. This luxurious sport-utility vehicle has quickly become the Korean automaker’s best-seller, possessing a luxurious interior as well as exterior styling that complements the Genesis portfolio. Joining the G70, G80 and G90 sedans, the new SUV features the brand’s large Crest Grille with quad narrow headlights for a unique look. The quad light motif of the 2021 Genesis GV80 continues at the rear of the vehicle, where wraparound LED taillights echo the lighting style up front. Motivation comes from a 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine producing 375 horsepower, teamed with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
© General Motors
GMC Sierra
Total Sales: 62,917
The best-seller in the GMC lineup, the Sierra’s 2020 sales ended on a high note that bucked the overall decline of U.S. auto sales. That upward trend continued into the first quarter of 2021. Like its Chevrolet Silverado sibling, the Sierra pickup 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 standout is the truck’s MultiPro Tailgate that offers six positions for easier loading, as well as use as a standing workstation. A range of engine / transmission options are available, including new 2.7-liter turbo and turbodiesel powertrains. For 2021 GMC expands Sierra’s standard features and increases the trailer-towing capability to 36,000 pounds on properly equipped 3500 HD variants.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Honda CR-V
Total Sales: 93,766
Still the best-selling vehicle in the Honda lineup, the CR-V is having great success so far this year; in March sales of the small crossover increased 123 percent versus March 2020. Last year Honda refreshed the CR-V’s exterior styling and added the first hybrid to the lineup. Similar to the Honda Accord Hybrid, the all-wheel-drive CR-V Hybrid uses a 2-motor 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: 33,147
Hyundai’s compact 5-passenger crossover, the Tucson remains the most popular model in the Korean automaker’s lineup. 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. Look for an all-new 2022 Tucson arriving this spring.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Infiniti QX50
Total Sales: 6,425
Infiniti introduced an all-new QX50 last year, and the updated model experienced a sales increase in Q1 of 54 percent versus a year earlier. The updated premium crossover received a sportier look with a sculpted hood and character lines that run along the sides to the wraparound rear taillights. The large grille and stylish headlights match the rest of the Infiniti lineup. Infiniti also added a new infotainment system to the QX50 that uses dual HD touchscreen displays so multiple functions can be accessed and viewed simultaneously. Powering the QX50 is a rather innovative engine — a 2.0-liter VC-Turbo. According to Infiniti, this is the first production engine that adjusts compression ratio to optimize both power and efficiency.
© Jaguar Land Rover
Jaguar F-PACE
Total Sales: 2,064
About five years ago, Jaguar joined the burgeoning cadre of luxury SUVs when it introduced the F-PACE. The F-PACE quickly became the brand’s best-selling model and now outsells all Jaguar passenger cars combined. For 2021 the F-PACE gets a major refresh with updated styling inside and out, improved performance and a range of high-tech features. Although the exterior changes to the 2021 Jaguar F-PACE are certainly notable, the interior of the new version receives a complete makeover. One of the most significant highlights is an all-new 11.4-inch curved glass touchscreen display encased in magnesium alloy mounted at the center of the dashboard. This HD display is three times brighter and 48 percent larger than the previous unit.
© FCA US
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Total Sales: 55,198
Grand Cherokee is leading the sales charge at Jeep with a healthy recovery after a difficult 2020. This 5-seat SUV 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 that possesses 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. Earlier this year Jeep debuted an all-new three-row 2021 Grand Cherokee L, with a two-row replacement expected to follow soon.
© Kia Motors America
Kia Forte
Total Sales: 24,850
Completely redesigned in 2019 with updated features and a fresh new look, the stylish Kia Forte is powered by a fuel-efficient 2.0-liter 147-horsepower engine matched to a 6-speed manual gearbox. According to the U.S. EPA, the base-level Forte FE is rated at 37 mpg on the highway. Standard equipment on this small sedan includes air-conditioning, an 8-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: 5,742
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 — not at the same time of course.
© Toyota Motor Sales, USA
Lexus RX
Total Sales: 27,941
The popular RX tops Lexus charts once again, boasting sales considerably higher than all other models in the luxury brand’s 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. A few years ago 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. The RX is also the first Lexus to offer Android Auto connectivity in addition to existing Apple CarPlay and Amazon Alexa integration.
© Ford Motor Company
Lincoln Corsair
Total Sales: 7,114
Replacing the MKC, the new 5-occupant Corsair is easily recognizable as a Lincoln thanks to styling cues borrowed from the larger Nautilus and Aviator models. However, the Corsair does have an overall style all its own, with deep contouring along the side panels that adds depth to the overall design. The Corsair may be an entry-level model in the Lincoln lineup, yet inside it features upscale materials to create a premium feeling within the cabin. Lincoln’s small crossover 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 Corsair; for example, owners have the ability to use their smartphones as keys to the vehicle.
© Mazda North America
Mazda CX-5
Total Sales: 40,750
Mazda CX-5 has made a big comeback from a slow-selling 2020. In March 2021, the sporty crossover’s numbers were up more than 90 percent compared to March of last year. When redesigned a few years ago, the CX-5 adopted the refined styling of the larger CX-9 and comes in a range of trim levels including the luxurious Signature as well as the new Carbon Edition. For 2021 Mazda adds a new 10.25-inch center display as standard equipment with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Also available is Mazda’s 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.
© McLaren
McLaren 765LT
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 three months of 2021 the all-new 765LT was the brand’s best-seller in North America. The 765LT is the latest in a line of vehicles that started in the 1990s with the McLaren F1 GTR — a lineage of street-legal machines that most recently included the 600LT. The 2021 McLaren 765LT is the most potent Longtail ever. Powering the new 765LT is a McLaren 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 engine producing a plentiful 755 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 7-speed Sequential Shift gearbox. Performance numbers are stunning: 60 mph goes by in 2.7 seconds and in 7.2 seconds the 765LT is already at 124 mph. Maximum speed is reportedly 205 mph.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Mercedes-Benz GLE
Total Sales: 16,668
Completely new for the 2019 model year, the GLE (formerly known as the M-Class) offers premium levels of luxury with the latest high-tech features and safety equipment. Updated styling includes a dual power-dome hood and large air intakes. The LED Intelligent Light System features an ultra-wide beam — the brightest allowed on a motor vehicle. Mercedes gives the GLE impressive capabilities off-road with E-Active Body Control that can smooth the ride as well as deliver up to 100 percent of the torque to either axle as needed. For those requiring a bit more power, the AMG GLE63 S sports a 4.0-liter biturbo V8 engine producing 603 horsepower.
© BMW USA
MINI Cooper
Total Sales: 4,123
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. Last year MINI added two new versions of the Cooper that bookend the lineup. At one end sits the new all-electric Cooper SE; at the other resides the high-performance MINI Cooper JCW GP exceeding 300 horsepower.
© Mitsubishi Motors North America
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Total Sales: 15,356
Mitsubishi’s compact Outlander Sport surpassed its larger sibling as the best-selling model in the automaker’s lineup so far this year. The Outlander Sport received styling updates last year including a new grille and front bumper, an updated hood, reshaped fenders, new LED headlights and taillights, LED daytime running lights and a new rear bumper. All trim levels are offered with all-wheel drive, starting with the Outlander Sport ES at $23,995 and powered by a 2.0-liter engine producing 148 horsepower and 145 lb-ft of torque combined with either a 5-speed manual or a CVT. The Outlander Sport GT draws motivation from a 2.4-liter engine producing 168 horsepower and 167 lb-ft of torque.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Nissan Rogue
Total Sales: 86,720
Nissan’s small crossover sales have bounced back from a slow 2020, and Rogue remains the best-selling vehicle in the Nissan lineup. The automaker hopes to continue this trend with an all-new 2021 Rogue. 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 for 2021 thanks to rear doors that open nearly 90 degrees — much wider than the previous generation.
© Porsche Cars North America
Porsche Macan
Total Sales: 6,391
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. 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 in four high-performance trim levels, including the Macan GTS with its 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 engine producing 375 horsepower.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Ram Pickup
Total Sales: 148,836
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 has overtaken Chevrolet to become the second-best-selling vehicle in America thus far in 2021. The Ram features bold exterior styling and the interior is one of the best in the segment. Multiple trim levels are available, as well as a new lineup of powertrains that includes a powerful diesel and eventually a hybrid system. The updated Ram Heavy Duty now rocks a new diesel with 1,075 lb-ft of torque providing a 37,100-pound towing capacity. For 2021 Ram adds the high-performance 702-horsepower TRX, a truck designed for tackling off-road terrain at high speeds.
© Rolls-Royce Motor Cars
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 Cullinan — the first SUV from Rolls-Royce. Cullinan is built on an 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 also offers a Black Badge version of the Cullinan that includes special trim details as well as performance upgrades.
© Subaru of America
Subaru Forester
Total Sales: 47,694
Subaru introduced an all-new Forester in 2019, and it is one of the few models that had some success during a difficult 2020. Sales have certainly recovered for 2021 — the Forester’s March sales beat the previous year by 123 percent. The 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 a 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 well as a new safety feature called rear seat reminder.
© Tesla
Tesla Model Y
Total Sales: NA
The newest model at Tesla, the Model Y is not only the best-seller in the lineup, it’s also the most fuel-efficient crossover sold in America. Smaller than Model X, Model Y offers optional third-row seating that enables the vehicle to carry up to seven occupants. The dual-motor system provides torque to both the front and rear axles for full-time all-wheel-drive capability. According to Tesla, the Model Y can accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 3.5 seconds with a top speed of 145 mph. The Model Y can recharge up to 158 miles in 15 minutes at a Tesla Supercharger location.
© Toyota Motor Sales, USA
Toyota RAV4
Total Sales: 114,255
Toyota’s RAV4 experienced a slight sales decline last year, but with an 89 percent increase in month-over-month sales in March 2021, this popular crossover retains its spot as the best-selling SUV in America. One of the original compact crossovers on the U.S. market, the RAV4 underwent a complete redesign in 2019 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 features automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane departure alert as standard equipment. For 2021 Toyota adds the RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid to its lineup, offering better fuel efficiency as well as much higher performance.
Volkswagen Atlas
Total Sales: 30,520
Volkswagen joined the burgeoning 3-row SUV market a few years ago when it introduced its largest vehicle, the Atlas. With a roomy interior and the latest high-tech features, Atlas grew in popularity to become VW’s best-selling model. Last year’s introduction of the Atlas Cross Sport provided some relief to Atlas sales figures during a tough year. Based on the 7-passenger Atlas, the Cross Sport has the same wheelbase as its sibling; however, the vehicle is 2.8 inches shorter and 2.3 inches lower. With seating for five rather than seven, the new Atlas Cross Sport is able to provide a roomier passenger experience and more extensive cargo space. While the resemblance to the Atlas is clear, the Cross Sport does have its own distinctive styling. Up front sits a three-bar chrome grille, a new front bumper and sculpted hood — all designed to give this new crossover a more aggressive stance.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Volvo XC90
Total Sales: 8,334
As the Swedish brand’s flagship, the 7-seat XC90 SUV was the first Volvo built on the automaker’s Scalable Product Architecture platform — now used for all 90- and 60-series Volvos. Like the S90 and V90, 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. Last year the XC90 received a light exterior refresh including 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.
