© Ford Motor Company
Best-Sellers . . . So Far
Two months into 2018, automotive sales in the U.S. are a bit softer than they were a year ago. As of the end of February, sales in the U.S. totaled 2,460,970 — down just .06 percent from the same time period a year earlier. Several brands have experienced a fine start to 2018, including Mazda, Audi, Toyota, Jeep and Subaru. General Motors continues to lead all other manufacturers in the U.S. with a 17.04 percent market share, followed by Ford Motor Company, Toyota Motor Sales and Chrysler / FCA Group. Here are the best-selling vehicles in America after the first two months of 2018, according to numbers compiled from individual auto manufacturers’ sales reports and goodcarbadcar.net.
© FCA US LLC
20. Jeep Wrangler
2018 Sales: 27,675
Vs. 2017: 10.8 %
Jeep continues to report strong sales thanks to the iconic Wrangler, which had a nearly 17 percent increase in February compared to a year earlier. And with an all-new Wrangler about to begin arriving in showrooms, it’s likely that sales will continue their upward trend. 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-door and 4-door versions are available in Sport, Sport S, Rubicon and Sahara trim levels.
© Hyundai Motor America
19. Hyundai Elantra
2018 Sales: 29,741
Vs. 2017: 2.1 %
Since its redesign last year Elantra has been gaining momentum, becoming the best-selling model in the Hyundai lineup — surprising, given the general popularity of crossovers over passenger cars. Elantra sales are down slightly in February compared to the same month of 2017, but overall the sales story is still positive. 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 below $17,000, Elantra is well equipped with entertainment and convenience features and is available with the latest high-tech safety equipment.
© Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
18. Toyota Highlander
2018 Sales: 31,444
Vs. 2017: 10.0 %
Toyota’s 7-passenger crossover had impressive sales last year, and it appears the Highlander’s popularity continues into 2018. This success can likely be attributed to Highlander’s 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 front 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 USA
17. Toyota Tacoma
2018 Sales: 33,529
Vs. 2017: 25.3%
After experiencing a significant sales increase last year, Toyota’s compact pickup is starting 2018 with a bang — February sales reveal a jump of 18 percent versus February of 2017. 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. A new off-road-ready Tacoma TRD Pro was introduced last month in Chicago, 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.
© FCA US
16. Jeep Grand Cherokee
2018 Sales: 33,832
Vs. 2017: -6.6%
The Jeep brand had considerable success last year which makes sense, given the popularity of the SUV in America. The flagship Grand Cherokee continues to be the brand’s best-seller, although sales have started a bit slower than last year. The SUV continues its tradition of offering impressive off-road capability in an attractive package. Available with several 4WD systems and trim levels, 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 as its calling card.
© Nissan North America, Inc.
15. Nissan Sentra
2018 Sales: 34,879
Vs. 2017: 18.4 %
As with other manufacturers, Nissan experienced a general decline in passenger car sales in 2017; while Nissan’s passenger cars continue to sell at lower levels than last year, Sentra is bucking that trend. The compact sedan had a 7 percent increase in sales in February versus a year earlier. 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 different powertrains, Sentra enters the 2018 model year with several upgrades. Most noteworthy: Automatic Emergency Braking is now standard on all Sentras (except those equipped with manual transmissions).
© American Honda Motors
14. Honda Accord
2018 Sales: 37,430
Vs. 2017: -12.9 %
Honda introduced an all-new Accord late last year, and it’s better than the previous generation in nearly every way. The Accord ended 2017 with sales in decline compared to a year earlier, and the family sedan is starting 2018 in the same way. However, with this new Accord just coming to market, we fully expect sales to start recovering in the coming months. 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.
© Ford Motor Company
13. Ford Explorer
2018 Sales: 38,849
Vs. 2017: -1.3 %
The Ford Explorer remains a fixture on this best-sellers list, recording its best annual sales since 2005 last year. This family-size SUV offers many high-tech convenience and safety features including the latest version of SYNC, Ford’s voice-activated infotainment system. 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; current sales of the Interceptor are up 17 percent versus the first two months of 2017.
© Nissan North America
12. Nissan Altima
2018 Sales: 39,888
Vs. 2017: -12.3 %
Once Nissan’s best-selling model, the Altima experienced a decline over the last two years, allowing the hot-selling Rogue to claim its position as the top-selling Nissan in America. Altima’s sales dip is part of an overall decline in the popularity of passenger cars — Nissan passenger car sales were down around 11 percent in 2017. Altima continues its downward trend after a positive January, but the midsize sedan is holding its own thanks to a roomy interior as well as enhanced technology and connectivity. For 2018 all Nissan Altimas come standard with Automatic Emergency Braking and Forward Collision Warning.
© Ford Motor Company
11. Ford Escape
2018 Sales: 39,980
Vs. 2016 -17.1 %
This small 5-passenger crossover from Ford has been the best-selling American-brand SUV for a long time. The Escape turned in strong numbers over the last few months of 2017, helping the popular SUV achieve its best year ever, although it starts 2018 down a bit compared to the previous year. Escape is available with front or all-wheel drive and was redesigned for the 2017 model year with updated styling and an array of new features. For 2018 Ford adds 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.
© Toyota Motor Sales USA
10. Toyota Corolla
2018 Sales: 46,428
Vs. 2017: -4.7%
Corolla is one of the most time-honored names in the Toyota lineup, and last year the company celebrated the 1 millionth Corolla built in the brand’s Mississippi assembly plant. Sales of the compact sedan have declined in the last few months, allowing the Corolla’s direct competitor — the Honda Civic — to overtake it. Although sales were down in 2017 compared to the previous year, the Corolla is selling at about the same level as a year ago. The small car’s success is likely due in part to its impressive fuel economy, roomy interior and extensive list of standard features. For 2018, Toyota equips all Corollas with Toyota Safety Sense-P, which includes Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection, Lane Departure Alert with Steering Assist, Dynamic Radar Cruise Control and Automatic High Beams.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
9. Honda Civic
2018 Sales: 49,565
Vs. 2017: -1.1 %
The all-new Civic had its ups and downs in 2017, and ultimately this small Honda was unable to retain the best-selling-car crown. But sales are slightly lower than a year ago, with the tenth generation of this popular car premiering early last year 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 new high-performance variants: the Civic Type R and Civic Si.
© American Honda Motor Co., Inc.
8. Honda CR-V
2018 Sales: 50,178
Vs. 2017: -18.0 %
All new for the 2017 model year, the redesigned Honda CR-V has been quite successful, posting its best numbers ever last year. Sales are starting slower for 2018 — currently 19 percent below February of 2017 — but the CR-V is still the best-selling nameplate 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. 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.
© General Motors
7. Chevrolet Equinox
2018 Sales: 50,458
Vs. 2017: 26.0 %
Chevrolet introduced an all-new Equinox last year, and sales numbers indicate that this refreshed crossover is a big hit. Following a very strong January, Equinox sales are continuing a positive trend — up 7 percent versus February of 2017 — helping solidify the SUV’s position as one of Chevrolet’s best-selling models. In addition to its updated styling and comfortable interior, the new Equinox is equipped with the latest in high-tech safety features and now offers the option of a fuel-efficient diesel powertrain.
© Toyota Motor Sales USA
7. Toyota Camry
2018 Sales: 55,503
Vs. 2017: 16.1 %
Camry has held the title of best-selling passenger car in America for 15 years, and with a strong push in December the popular Toyota retained its crown for 2017. Sales in February continue to be strong compared to year ago, thanks to the arrival of an all-new eighth-generation Camry. 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 also is the first Camry ever offered with more than 300 horsepower.
© Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.
5. Toyota RAV4
2018 Sales: 56,522
Vs. 2017: 16.5 %
Toyota’s RAV4 crossover has experienced impressive sales since the redesigned model premiered for the 2016 model year, and it seems like the sales trend is continuing into 2018. One of the original compact crossovers on the American market, the current RAV4 features edgy styling and is available with front- or all-wheel drive. RAV4 can be powered by a 2.5-liter gas engine or a more powerful and efficient hybrid powertrain. Several trims are available, including a new Adventure Grade with more rugged styling, raised ground clearance and other special features.
© FCA US
4. Ram Truck
2018 Sales: 62,657
Vs. 2017: -14.0 %
Ram ended 2017 with a strong showing, posting record sales for the second year in a row. Sales are starting 2018 down slightly compared to a year earlier, which has dropped the full-size truck to fourth position in the overall sales list. However, we don’t expect the Ram to stay down very long — an all-new Ram 1500 rolled out at the Detroit Auto Show earlier this year and it looks to improve on the current Ram in just about every way when it arrives later this year. The current Ram is available in many body styles and powertrains, offered in many special editions that keep customers returning to the brand. The latest to join the Ram lineup is the Limited Tungsten Edition, billed as the most luxurious Ram pickup ever.
© Nissan North America
3. Nissan Rogue
2018 Sales: 74,303
Vs. 2017: 20.0 %
Small crossovers are clearly among the most popular vehicles with American shoppers, and Nissan has capitalized on this with the versatile Rogue. A strong showing over the last several months has helped Rogue become Nissan’s best-selling model for the first time, and a strong start in 2018 puts the Rogue at the top of the SUV best-sellers list. The 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 is also available as a hybrid and as a smaller model called Rogue Sport. For 2018, Rogue is available with ProPILOT Assist — Nissan’s first step toward building autonomous vehicles.
© General Motors
2. Chevrolet Silverado
2018 Sales: 82,998
Vs. 2017: -3.6%
The perennial runner-up to the Ford F-Series, sales of Chevrolet’s Silverado declined a bit last month versus February a year ago. Silverado is available in several configurations with different cab and trim-level options, ranging from a basic work truck to the ultra-luxurious High Country. Chevrolet also offers many special-edition packages on the Silverado, including the Black Out Edition, Special Ops Edition and Texas Edition. Silverado can be ordered as a half-ton, three-quarter ton or the most capable one-ton Silverado HD. An all-new Silverado made its debut at this year’s Detroit Auto Show, so expect to see the new truck coming to showrooms later this year.
© Ford Motor Company
1. Ford F-Series
2018 Sales: 127,180
Vs. 2017: 2.6%
The Ford F-Series pickup truck has been the best-selling vehicle in America for 36 years, and 2017 marked its 41st year as America’s best-selling pickup truck. The F-Series shows no signs of slowing — last month’s sales were the best February the F-Series has experienced in 18 years. The 2018 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 and joins Ford’s lineup of powerful turbocharged EcoBoost powerplants.
