© Ford Motor Company
Best-Sellers
Another year of automotive sales is in the books, completing what turned out to be a positive 2018 for the industry. Sales were up slightly — less than 1 percent — ending with a total of 17.3 million vehicles sold. Passenger car sales continue to trend downward, being displaced by more popular crossovers and SUVs. And as it has been for years, the top three best-selling vehicles in America are all pickup trucks. Several major brands had big sales increases for 2018, including Subaru, Jeep, Ram, Volvo and Mitsubishi. General Motors continues to lead all other manufacturers in the U.S. with a 17-percent market share, followed by Ford Motor Company, Toyota Motor Sales and Chrysler / FCA group. Here’s a look at the 25 best-selling models in America for 2018, according to numbers compiled from individual auto manufacturers’ sales reports and goodcarbadcar.net.
© Subaru of America
25. Subaru Forester
2018 Sales: 171,613
Vs. 2017: -3.4 %
The Forester is all new for the 2019 model year, and although model sales have increased in the last two months, it wasn’t enough to beat overall numbers from last year. The new fifth-generation 2019 Forester is the roomiest version ever offered with a 1.2-inch-longer wheelbase, more rear-seat legroom and rear cargo capacity. The new Forester offers improvements in crash protection, comfort, quietness and driving dynamics, powered by 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.
© Ford Motor Company
24. Ford Fusion
2018 Sales: 173,600
Vs. 2017: -17.2 %
Ford’s best-selling passenger car has experienced a sales decline over the last few months compared to a year earlier, but continues to be the best-selling passenger car in the U.S. from an American brand. The entire Ford car lineup was down 18 percent in 2018 compared to 2017, and Fusion continues to decline with a sales drop of 8 percent in December compared to a year earlier. Fusion is 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-keep assist and a rearview camera. Ford previously announced that the Fusion line will be discontinued as the company switches focus to SUVs and crossovers, which could be why sales have begun to drop.
© Subaru of America
23. Subaru Outback
2018 Sales: 178,854
Vs. 2017: -5.3 %
One of the vehicles that helped define the crossover segment, the Outback is Subaru’s best-selling model. In fact, the company recently celebrated the 2-millionth Outback sold in America. Sales of this wagon / SUV were down about 13 percent in December compared to a year earlier, but it was the 58th consecutive month with more than 10,000 Outbacks sold. The last extensive redesign was for the 2015 model year, and for 2018 Outback received revised exterior styling and interior updates with more premium materials. Chassis suspension and steering updates target a smoother ride with a more direct driving experience. New multimedia features include Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Nuance voice recognition, and steering-responsive LED headlights are offered.
© Hyundai Motor America
22. Hyundai Elantra
2018 Sales: 200,415
Vs. 2017: 1.1 %
Since its redesign in 2017, Elantra has gained enough momentum to become the best-selling model in the Hyundai lineup — surprising, given the general popularity of crossovers over passenger cars. Elantra had a strong start in 2018, and even with December sales down almost 30 percent versus one year earlier, overall sales ended up slightly higher than 2017. Available as a sedan or sportier GT, the Elantra features a signature hexagonal grille that closely ties it to the current Hyundai lineup. With a starting price around $17,000, Elantra is well equipped with entertainment and convenience features, and is available with the latest high-tech safety equipment.
© Nissan North America
21. Nissan Altima
2018 Sales: 209,146
Vs. 2017: -18.0 %
Once Nissan’s best-selling model, the Altima has experienced a decline over the last two years, allowing the hot-selling Rogue to claim its position as the top-selling Nissan in America. Nissan has hopes of reversing that trend with an all-new Altima introduced for the 2019 model year. 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 new Altima with all-wheel drive for the first time.
© Nissan North America
20. Nissan Sentra
2018 Sales: 213,046
Vs. 2017: -2.5 %
As with other manufacturers, Nissan continues to experience a general decline in passenger car sales. Even though Nissan’s passenger car sales are down 17 percent compared to a year ago , Sentra is clearly bucking the trend by holding relatively steady with last year’s sales rate. A member of the Nissan lineup for more than 35 years, Sentra is currently in its seventh generation. Available in a wide trim range with two powertrain choices, Sentra received several upgrades for the 2018 model year. Most noteworthy: automatic emergency braking is now standard on all Sentras (except those equipped with manual transmissions).
© General Motors
19. GMC Sierra
2018 Sales: 219,554
Vs. 2017: 0.7 %
The best-seller in the GMC lineup, the Sierra had a 6 percent bump in sales during the fourth quarter of 2018 compared to the same period a year earlier, helping the big truck to end positively for the year. (General Motors reports sales every quarter.) Like its Silverado sibling, the Sierra is completely new for the 2019 model year. Larger in practically every dimension, the new Sierra boasts a roomier cabin as well as a range of new comfort, convenience and safety features. One Sierra standout 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 as well as a new turbodiesel powertrain.
© FCA US
18. Jeep Grand Cherokee
2018 Sales: 224,908
Vs. 2017: -6.6 %
The Jeep brand had considerable success last year which stands to reason, given the overall popularity of SUVs in America. Although the Jeep brand experienced its best sales year ever in 2018, sales of the flagship Grand Cherokee are down a bit compared to 2017. 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 a high-performance version called the Trackhawk, boasting a staggering 707 horsepower.
© FCA US
17. Jeep Cherokee
2018 Sales: 239,437
Vs. 2017: 40.9 %
Jeep updated the Cherokee for 2019 and based on record sales in 2018, the redesign was right on target. This was also the best December on record for the Cherokee with a 7 percent increase versus a year ago. 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 such as 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. The 2019 Cherokee gets updated styling as well as an upgraded interior and increased cargo room. A new 2.0-liter turbocharged engine is added, and a lightweight hands-free power liftgate is now available.
© FCA US LLC
16. Jeep Wrangler
2018 Sales: 240,032
Vs. 2017: 26.0 %
An all-new Jeep Wrangler was introduced last year, and sales of this iconic off-roader have never been better. With record sales for 2018, Wrangler finished positively — December numbers were up more than 44 percent compared to a year ago, making Wrangler the best-selling model in the Jeep lineup and helping the Jeep brand to record annual sales. The 2018 Wrangler retains its 7-slot grille and round headlights but is more aerodynamic than the previous generation. Two hardtops, a new Sunrider soft-top and a new Sky One-Touch power top are offered. Both 2- and 4-door versions are available in Sport, Sport S, Rubicon and Sahara trim levels. The new Wrangler is much improved, offering a more comfortable ride on-road while retaining its legendary off-road capability.
© Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
15. Toyota Highlander
2018 Sales: 244,511
Vs. 2017: 13.3 %
Toyota’s 7-occupant crossover had impressive sales in 2017, and it appears the Highlander’s popularity continued into 2018 with its best sales year ever. Sales were up 10 percent in December compared to a year earlier. Highlander benefitted from a major update for 2017 including performance upgrades, refreshed styling and a new SE trim level. The SE stands out as a sportier version with 19-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, dark paint for the grille, dark headlight housings and dark roof rails. Also available is the fuel-efficient Highlander Hybrid, which features a direct-injection 3.5-liter V6 gas engine teamed with an electric drive motor-generator to produce a total of 306 horsepower while delivering a combined 29 mpg.
© Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
14. Toyota Tacoma
2018 Sales: 245,659
Vs. 2017: 24.0 %
After experiencing a significant sales increase in 2017, Toyota’s compact pickup continued where it left off, finishing 2018 in similar fashion. In fact, 2018 was the best year on record for Tacoma. Toyota’s compact pickup was all new for the 2016 model year, featuring a more aggressive design, 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. Toyota also offers the off-road-ready Tacoma TRD Pro, featuring 2.5-inch inch Fox shocks front and rear, combined with a larger front sway bar and TRD-tuned front springs that provide an additional one inch of lift.
© Ford Motor Company
13. Ford Explorer
2018 Sales: 261,571
Vs. 2017: -3.5 %
The Ford Explorer remains a fixture on this list; in 2017 the pioneering SUV had its best annual sales since 2005 and is only slightly off that figure for 2018. This family-size SUV offers many high-tech convenience and safety features including the latest version of SYNC, Ford’s voice-activated infotainment system. For 2018 Ford added SYNC Connect with 4G connectivity and a Wi-Fi hotspot for up to 10 devices. Two EcoBoost engines are available, including a powerful 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 that makes 365 horsepower. Note: Explorer figures include sales of the Explorer-based Police Interceptor Utility, which is reportedly the most popular vehicle for law enforcement officers; year-end sales of the Interceptor are up 2.3 percent versus 2017.
© Ford Motor Company
12. Ford Escape
2018 Sales: 272,228
Vs. 2016: -11.7 %
This small 5-seat crossover from Ford has been the best-selling American-brand SUV for many years. Escape turned in strong numbers over the last few months of 2017, helping the popular SUV achieve its best sales year ever; however, the small SUV did not see the same success in 2018. Redesigned for the 2017 model year, Escape is available with front or all-wheel drive in addition to updated styling and an array of new features. For 2018 Ford added a higher-end SEL trim to the Escape lineup that includes leather seats, a power liftgate and the latest version of SYNC, Ford’s high-tech infotainment and connectivity system.
© American Honda Motors
11. Honda Accord
2018 Sales: 291,071
Vs. 2017: -9.8 %
Honda introduced an all-new Accord late in 2017, and it’s better than the previous generation in nearly every way. However, the new model doesn’t seem to be attracting as many new consumers as anticipated — Accord ended 2018 with sales in the red for the second year in a row. That said, Accord had a nice bump in December, with monthly numbers almost 30 percent better than the previous year. The new model features fresh styling, an updated interior, a suite of high-tech safety features as well as a lineup of new engines. Honda recently announced the new Accord 2.0T, which gives this popular four door a turbocharged 252-horsepower engine.
© Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
10. Toyota Corolla
2018 Sales: 303,732
Vs. 2017: -7.7 %
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. Sales of the compact sedan have declined during the last few months, following the trend of most passenger cars. For 2018 Toyota equipped all Corollas with Toyota Safety Sense-P, which includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, dynamic radar cruise control and automatic high beams. A new hatchback trim joined the Corolla lineup this year, adding a bit of sportiness to the popular passenger car. Watch for an all-new 2019 Corolla — as well as a Corolla Hybrid — coming later this year.
© American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
9. Honda Civic
2018 Sales: 325,760
Vs. 2017: -13.7 %
The all-new Civic had its sales difficulties in 2018, and ultimately this small Honda was unable to take the best-selling-car-in America crown. Sales are down slightly compared to last year, but the Civic is still the best-selling passenger car in the Honda lineup. The 10th generation of this popular car debuted early in 2017 featuring fresh styling, improved aerodynamics, new vehicle architecture, a more spacious interior and two new engines. Fuel economy also is impressive — rated as high as 42 mpg with a new turbocharged powerplant. Civic can be more than basic transportation thanks to two high-performance variants: the Civic Type R and Civic Si.
© General Motors
8. Chevrolet Equinox
2018 Sales: 332,618
Vs. 2017: 14.5 %
Chevrolet’s second-best-selling vehicle after the full-size Silverado pickup, the redesigned 2018 Equinox seems to have resonated well with consumers. Sales in December were up more than 26 percent compared to a year earlier, helping Equinox to record sales for the year. Equinox stands out with projector-beam headlights, LED running lights, wider horizontal taillights and LED taillights for upper trim levels. Inside, the new Equinox features a down-and-away instrument panel with a low windshield base for improved outward visibility. Equinox’s three engine choices are a 170-horsepower 1.5-liter turbo, a 252-horse 2.0-liter turbo combined with a new 9-speed automatic transmission, and a 136-horsepower 1.6-liter turbodiesel.
© Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
7. Toyota Camry
2018 Sales: 343,439
Vs. 2017: -11.3 %
Sales may be down compared to a year ago, but the Toyota Camry continues its reign as the best-selling passenger car in America, marking the 16th year in this top position. However, sales in December 2018 were down more than 30 percent compared to a year ago — surprising, given that the current Camry was all new for 2018. Lower and wider than the previous version, the new Camry has an updated grille, integrated headlights and sculpted lines that give the sedan a more engaging presence, as well as a completely new interior and choice of fuel-efficient, powerful engines. This new generation Camry also has some of the highest performance numbers ever in the lineup, including more than 300 horsepower.
© American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
6. Honda CR-V
2018 Sales: 379,013
Vs. 2017: 0.3 %
Completely redesigned for the 2017 model year, the Honda CR-V has been quite successful. While sales started slowly for 2018, a strong 14 percent increase in December versus 2017 helped CR-V end the year on a positive note. The CR-V’s success lies in its ability to offer consumers a comfortable, small crossover with great utility and excellent fuel economy. In fact, CR-V’s 2.4-liter 185-horsepower engine teamed with a new continuously variable transmission makes it one of the most fuel-efficient crossovers on the market.
© Nissan North America
5. Nissan Rogue
2018 Sales: 412,110
Vs. 2017: 2.1 %
Small crossovers are clearly among the most popular vehicles with American shoppers, and Nissan has capitalized on this with the versatile Rogue. Strong sales over the last several months have helped Rogue maintain its position as Nissan’s best-selling model, and positive numbers in 2018 have kept the Rogue near the top of the best-selling SUV list. Rogue has 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 also is available as a hybrid and as a smaller model called Rogue Sport. All Rogues are now available with ProPILOT Assist — Nissan’s first step toward building autonomous vehicles.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
4. Toyota RAV4
2018 Sales: 427,170
Vs. 2017: 4.8 %
Toyota’s RAV4 crossover has experienced impressive sales since the redesigned model premiered for the 2016 model year, and the sales trend has continued through 2018 — December sales were up almost 19 percent compared to a year earlier. One of the original compact crossovers on the American market, the RAV4 has been completely redone for the 2019 model year. With bold new styling, improved capability, better performance and an array of new safety and convenience features, this fifth-generation RAV4 is likely to remain popular with American car shoppers. In addition to the updated styling and efficient powertrains, the RAV4 now comes standard with automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection as well as lane departure alert.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
3. Ram Truck
2018 Sales: 536,980
Vs. 2017: 7.2 %
Ram ended 2018 in fine style, posting record sales for the third year in a row. Sales started slowly in 2018, but with the all-new Ram 1500 arriving in showrooms, December sales are up 34 percent compared to a year ago. The new Ram improves upon the current model in about every way. Styling on the 2019 Ram 1500 has been updated 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 will eventually include a hybrid system. Ram also announced that the previous generation will continue to be sold as Ram 1500 Classic to fill demand as the company ramps up production of the new model.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
2. Chevrolet Silverado
2018 Sales: 585,581
Vs. 2017: 0.0 %
The perennial runner-up to the Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado sales were down about 4 percent in the fourth quarter of 2018 compared to 2017, but thanks to stronger numbers earlier in the year Chevy’s full-size truck ended 2018 with sales almost identical to the previous year. Chevrolet hopes sales figures will start climbing in the new year as the all-new 2019 Silverado 1500 begins rolling into showrooms. 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 shed from the body. Silverado gets 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.
© Ford Motor Company
1. Ford F-Series
2018 Sales: 909,330
Vs. 2017: 1.4 %
After another year of impressive sales, the Ford F-Series extends its streak as the best-selling vehicle in America to 37 years — 42 years as best-selling truck. With more than 900,000 sales for the year, Ford’s full-size truck sold about as many as the top three passenger cars combined. The F-150 is driving strong sales thanks to updated styling, added safety and convenience features, and a new 3.3-liter V6 engine that generates 290 horsepower joining Ford’s lineup of powerful turbocharged EcoBoost powerplants.
