© FCA US
Value Winners
Most people have heard the saying that a new car loses value the moment the owner drives it off a dealer’s lot. Although that is essentially true, some models hold their value over time better than others. To that end, ALG (formerly Automotive Lease Guide), a division of research firm J.D. Power, is the industry benchmark for determining automotive residual values — or what percentage of value a vehicle will retain over time. After calculating factors for 2022 model-year vehicles, the company recently announced winners of the J.D. Power 2022 U.S. ALG Residual Value Awards. Winners were chosen after evaluating 284 models for used vehicle performance, brand outlook and product competitiveness.
© American Honda Motors
Forecasting Residual Values
Winners of the Residual Value Awards are the models projected by ALG to hold the highest percentage of their MSRP over three years of ownership. “Accurately forecasting residual values in the auto industry is a key factor in assessing an estimated $225 billion lease portfolio of vehicles in the United States,” said Eric Lyman, vice president of ALG. “The brands and vehicle models that rise to the top demonstrate that they score well across the award program’s criteria, including manufacturers’ superior design and quality,” Lyman noted.
© Toyota Motor North America
Top Brands
In addition to selecting individual vehicles in 29 categories, ALG recognized Honda and Lexus as brand award winners in the mass market and premium market, respectively. What follows are the J.D. Power 2022 U.S. ALG Residual Value Award winners in each vehicle category.
© American Honda Motors
Compact — Honda Civic
Now in its 11th generation since its introduction in 1973, the 2022 Honda Civic is built on a new stronger platform with fresh exterior styling . The new model features a longer hood for a more premium look, further enhanced by LED lights front and back. The interior has a high-tech feel thanks to an available LCD driver’s display, as well as a 9-inch touchscreen HD display with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. Two engine choices are available — a 2.0-liter or 1.5-liter turbocharged unit, both teamed with a continuously variable transmission. The CVT is designed for better response as well as improved fuel economy.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Full-Size — Dodge Charger
Charger returned to the Dodge lineup in 2006 as a 4-door sedan, carrying styling cues of the original muscle car and offering a powerful V8 engine. Today’s Charger is still a large 4-door sedan with sporty styling and a comfortable, spacious interior. Replete with plenty of high-tech features, Charger is available with an 8.4-inch touchscreen display, electric power steering, pushbutton start and a high-end audio system. And in keeping with tradition, Charger has powerful engine choices including the R/T Scat Pack with a 485-horsepower 6.4-liter HEMI V8, or the latest entry: the SRT Hellcat Redeye with a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 producing a mind-blowing 797 horsepower. With a top speed of more than 200 mph, the Hellcat Redeye is the most powerful mass-produced sedan in the world.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Midsize — Kia K5
Many car companies in America have stopped offering a traditional family sedan, going all-in on the increasingly popular crossover. Not only is Kia sticking by the sedan, the automaker is doubling down with the all-new K5. Replacing the Optima in the heart of Kia’s sedan lineup, the K5 gets built on an all-new platform with fresh styling, updated features and a range of powerful, efficient engines. The new Kia K5 is longer, lower and wider than the outgoing Optima, which not only gives it a more aggressive stance but also creates more interior space. The K5 comes well equipped even in base-level trim with a standard 8-inch display screen, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and materials that provide a premium vibe.
© BMW USA
Premium Compact — BMW 2 Series
BMW introduces an all-new 2 Series for the 2022 model year, which represents the second generation of this sporty coupe. Longer, wider and lower than the outgoing model, the new 2 Series has a more aggressive stance with a new turbine-style BMW kidney grille. Vertically arranged bars in the grille functions as air flaps that can be opened or closed depending on engine cooling requirements. The sporty look continues at the rear with darkened taillights and dual exhaust tips. The 2 Series is initially available in two trim levels — the 230i and the higher performance M240i xDrive, which boasts 382 horsepower from its BMW TwinPower turbo engine.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Premium Executive — Mercedes-AMG GT 4-Door
As the tuning group closely associated with Mercedes-Benz, AMG usually produces a more muscular version of an existing M-B model; however, the AMG GT 4-Door is the only AMG-specific four door ever produced. This four-door sports car has styling cues that clearly link it to its 2-door sibling. Up front are slim multibeam LED headlights that flank the AMG “shark nose” grille feeding into a low, long sculpted hood. At the rear of the AMG GT 4-Door are LED taillights and quad exhaust pipes. The AMG GT Four Door is available in four iterations, ranging from the GT 43 to the GT 63 S — the latter equipped with a 4.0-liter biturbo V8 engine producing 630 horsepower and the ability to reach 60 mph in a mere 3.1 seconds.
© Audi of America
Premium Full-Size — Audi A6 Allroad
Audi introduced a new A6 sedan for the 2019 model year, with the A6 allroad wagon joining the lineup one year later. The Audi A6 allroad features the latest styling cues of the Audi brand blended with a more rugged design that includes an allroad-specific grille, unique 20-inch wheels with a matte finish on wheel arches and rocker panels. Matrix-style LED headlights and LED taillights add to the premium look. The A6 allroad also has a turbocharged 335-horsepower V6 engine, quattro all-wheel drive and adaptive air suspension that can provide an additional 1.2 inches of ground clearance for off-road adventuring.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Premium Midsize — Genesis G70
The G70 is the entry point into the Genesis sedan lineup, and it gets a major refresh for the 2022 model year. Taking styling cues from the flagship G90, the updated G70 features a larger, bolder version of the brand’s crest grille, as well as distinctive LED running lights surrounding the slim headlights. With the optional Sport Advanced Package, the grille and other exterior trim has a subdued black chrome finish. For 2022 Genesis replaces the G70’s older display with a larger widescreen that gives the entire cabin a more high-tech look. Android Auto and Apple CarPlay are standard, as well as an optional Lexicon 15-speaker 660-watt audio system.
© Porsche Cars North America
Premium Sports Car — Porsche 911
The Porsche 911 of today carries the same basic shape as the first model introduced more than 50 years ago. Porsche premiered an eighth-generation 911 a few years ago, featuring the latest technology, more power, better performance and a more muscular look — at the same time remaining as familiar as that first-generation car. Available as a coupe or convertible and with rear- or all-wheel drive, the 911 is available in a range of performance variants, ranging from the 379-horsepower Carrera to the 911 Turbo S that has 640 horsepower and the ability to reach 60 mph in a mere 2.6 seconds.
© Subaru of America
Sports Car — Subaru WRX
This fall Subaru is coming to market with the fifth generation of the World Rally-inspired WRX, now built on Subaru’s Global Platform. The new platform promises an impressive upgrade in ride and handling with increased chassis stiffness and a lower center of gravity. For the 2022 model year, Subaru WRX gets a larger 2.4-liter turbocharged Boxer 4-cylinder engine producing 271 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque. Power gets directed to all four wheels via a 6-speed manual gearbox or a new Subaru Performance Transmission. Although the new look of the 2022 WRX remains recognizably Subaru, the larger signature hexagonal grille gets flanked by compact LED headlights. A wide hood scoop adds to the sporty packaging of the new WRX.
© Hyundai Motor America
Subcompact — Hyundai Accent
One of the lowest priced cars in America, the Accent received fresh styling a few years ago to bring its looks in line with the rest of the Hyundai family. Last year Hyundai upgraded this affordably priced car with a Smartstream 1.6-liter 4-cylinder engine producing 120 horsepower. When teamed with Hyundai’s new intelligent variable transmission, the Accent’s fuel economy bumps up to 41 mpg on the highway. The base-level Accent SE is the only trim with a 6-speed manual transmission, and it also comes with air-conditioning, Bluetooth connectivity, a 5-inch display screen, a rearview camera, an AM/FM/CD/MP3 audio system with four speakers, and 15-inch steel wheels.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Compact Utility — Subaru Forester
The Subaru Forester gets a refresh for the 2022 model year. The most popular model in the Subaru lineup, Forester has new exterior styling including a redesigned grille, a new front bumper, LED headlights, a revised lower rear bumper and new exterior trim details. The new model also receives upgraded brakes as well as the latest version of EyeSight, Subaru’s advanced safety system. Also new for 2022 is the adventure-ready Forester Wilderness. The Forester Wilderness incorporates the 2022 design elements yet stands alone thanks to a unique bumper design, a bold hexagonal grille, larger wheel arch cladding, a front skidplate and unique hex-designed LED fog lights. Ground clearance is increased to 9.2 inches, and the rugged design gets rounded out with unique 17-inch matte-black alloy wheels fitted with Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires.
© General Motors
Full-Size Utility — Chevrolet Tahoe
The best-selling full-size SUV in America, the Chevrolet Tahoe was all new for 2021. Built on a new chassis with a new independent rear suspension, the Tahoe is available with Magnetic Ride Control and Four-Corner Air Ride Adaptive suspension. The new design adds 10 inches of third-row legroom and 60 percent more cargo room. The standard engine is a 5.3-liter V8 producing 355 horsepower and 383 lb-ft of torque. Also available are a 6.2-liter V8 engine producing 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, as well as a 3.0-liter Duramax turbodiesel producing 277 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque.
© Hyundai Motor America
Micro-Utility — Hyundai Kona
The Hyundai Kona has always differed from the rest of the crossover market with unique styling and a sporty demeanor. This differentiation continues on the 2022 Kona thanks to styling updates that include an updated grille, enhanced LED daytime running lights and a lower bumper fascia that flows smoothly into the wheel arch cladding. The 2022 Kona is slightly longer than its predecessor, which translates to more cargo space and increased legroom for rear-seat passengers. Hyundai also offers the high-performance Kona N that stands out with body-color fenders giving the vehicle a wider stance, further accentuated by red pinstripes at the bottom of the front fascia, side skirts and rear valance. Kona N boasts a 286-horsepower turbocharged engine teamed with an 8-speed wet dual-clutch transmission enhanced to handle high-performance demands.
© American Honda Motors
Midsize 2-Row Utility — Honda Passport
Honda’s Passport provides an option for shoppers seeking a larger SUV but with 5-occupant seating. Passport shares Honda’s Global Light Truck Platform with the larger Pilot, although Passport is not simply a 5-passenger version of the larger SUV. Passport rides on the same wheelbase, but it is 6 inches shorter, 1-inch taller and 1-inch wider than the Pilot, providing an overall sportier stance. With high ground clearance as well as aggressive approach and breakover angles, the Passport is designed to excel both on and off pavement. Passport gets updated styling for the 2022 model year as well as the new rugged-looking Passport TrailSport.
© Kia Motor America
Midsize 3-Row Utility — Kia Telluride
The largest SUV ever offered by Kia and created specifically for the U.S. market, the Telluride arrived last year with seating for up to eight occupants. The big SUV is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and an available active on-demand all-wheel-drive system. The stylish Telluride is available with a range of high-end features such as a leather-wrapped steering wheel; optional heated and ventilated seats for the first and second rows; available double-stitched, quilted leather-trimmed seats; simulated brushed metal and matte finish wood; and reclining third-row seats — all adding to this big SUV’s appeal.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Off-Road Utility — Ford Bronco
More than 50 years after the introduction of the original Bronco family, Ford introduced an all-new family of Bronco vehicles in 2019. With styling clearly reminiscent of the original, the new Bronco is available as a 2-door variant and — for the first time — is also be offered with four doors. Like the original, the new Bronco is built for off-road adventures and — also like the original — Jeep is once again Ford’s clear target. The new Bronco stands out with available features including a 7-speed manual gearbox, 35-inch tires, and a removable roof and doors that can be stowed onboard. Bronco has 11.6 inches of ground clearance and the ability to ford up to 33.5 inches of water.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Premium Compact Utility — Lexus NX
Lexus gives the compact NX a major refresh for the 2022 model year — the first major update since its introduction in 2014. Up front sits a new version of the brand’s spindle grille, which features a three-dimensional pattern providing depth and character, highlighting slim LED headlights that wrap around the corners and integrate with signature L-shaped running lights. Inside, the NX gets the newest Lexus infotainment system with a large touchscreen display and a sophisticated voice-activation system. Lexus offers the NX with a wide range of powertrains including — for the first time — a powerful plug-in hybrid system that generates 302 horsepower and achieves a fuel-economy rating of 84 MPGe.
© Stellantis
Premium Full-Size Utility — Jeep Grand Wagoneer
One of the first sport-utility vehicles when it debuted in 1962 as a 1963 model, the Jeep Wagoneer was the first 4-wheel drive vehicle with an automatic transmission and independent front suspension. Now 30 years after the last Wagoneer, Jeep brings back this iconic name on a new, fully capable luxurious full-size SUV. The Grand Wagoneer stands at the top of the model lineup with elegant styling inspired by the original Wagoneer, and is powered by a 6.4-liter V8 engine producing 471 horsepower with standard all-wheel drive. Inside, the Grand Wagoneer sports a blend of luxury and high tech with soft leather and multiple display screens including a 10.25-inch display for the front passenger.
© Jaguar Land Rover
Premium Midsize 2-Row Utility — Land Rover Range Rover Velar
The Velar joined the Range Rover lineup a few years ago. Unlike typical boxy Range Rover models, the Velar features sleek styling including flush-fitting door handles, flush glass and super-slim LED headlights. The Velar was the first Range Rover to feature a new infotainment system called Touch Pro Duo, which uses two high-definition screens designed to make in-car technology clearer, quicker and more enjoyable to use. The Velar is available in a range of trim levels, including the powerful R-Dynamic HSE that boasts a lavish interior and a powerful turbocharged engine.
© Jaguar Land Rover Limited
Premium Midsize 3-Row Utility — Land Rover Discovery
Land Rover updated the Discovery last year with a range of style and feature improvements. Discovery has new LED headlights, and daytime running lights set lower to create a new look for the popular SUV, as well as updated LED taillights. Although the exterior updates are subtle, the interior underwent a more extensive revamp. The Land Rover Discovery now features a center stack with an 11.4-inch full HD touchscreen that houses an advanced Pivi Pro infotainment system with a faster and more intuitive interface. Pivi Pro offers a simplified menu structure and a backup battery, which means navigation is available within seconds of vehicle startup. Like other Land Rovers, the Discovery offers impressive off-road capability, including a new Wade Mode that optimizes water fording.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
Premium Subcompact Utility — Audi Q3
The smallest SUV in the Audi lineup, the Q3 carries the same styling cues as larger, more expensive models. The subcompact Q3 has Audi’s signature octagonal Singleframe grille that has become the face of all new models, flanked by smoothly integrated LED headlights. The interior of the Q3 has a premium vibe with an integrated 10.1-inch display screen with large virtual buttons for easy navigation, as well as an available 12.3-inch high-definition display in front of the driver that makes up the Virtual Cockpit. Powering the Q3 is a potent 2.0-liter TFSI 4-cylinder engine that generates 228 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque sending power to the road via Audi’s legendary quattro all-wheel drive system.
© Mazda North American Operations
Subcompact Utility — Mazda CX-30
Mazda introduced the all-new CX-30 for the 2020 model year, slotting the stylish crossover between the CX-3 and CX-5. With seating for five and familiar Mazda styling, the CX-30 earned deserved recognition as a useful and fun-to-drive package. Inside, the CX-30 focuses on creating a premium vibe via a cockpit-like driver experience and an open area for the front passenger. Last year the CX-30 received updated headlights, which helped it rank as one of the safest cars in America according to the IIHS. Mazda offers the CX-30 with two engine options, including a powerful 2.5-liter turbo SKYACTIV powerplant producing 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque driving all four wheels for engaging performance.
© Hyundai Motor America
Mass Market Electric — Hyundai Kona EV
Hyundai refreshes the Kona Electric for the 2022 model year with a new, sleeker front-end design that further differentiates it from its gas-powered siblings. New headlights and daytime running lights give the Kona Electric a unique look, as do updated taillights. With 201 horsepower and 291 lb-ft of torque from its front-mounted electric motor, the Kona Electric can travel an estimated 258 miles between charges. When plugged into a Level 3 Fast Charger, the Kona can be charged from 10 to 80 percent in less than an hour.
© Tesla Motors
Premium Electric — Tesla Model Y
As the newest vehicle line at Tesla, the Model Y is the best-seller of the brand and 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 on its way to a top speed of 145 mph. The Model Y can recharge up to 158 miles in 15 minutes at Tesla Supercharger locations.
© General Motors
Full-Size Heavy Duty Pickup — GMC Sierra HD
GMC introduced an all-new Sierra HD for the 2020 model year with updated styling and more capability than ever before. Built with new architecture, the Sierra HD is taller and longer than its predecessor and features a bold grille and LED signature lighting. The interior is more spacious and has a host of new features. Available as the 2500 HD or 3500 HD, the Sierra has multiple trim levels that include the off-road-ready AT4 and the ultra-luxurious Denali. The Sierra HD can be configured depending on need; with the right setup it can tow as much as 35,500 pounds.
© Toyota Motor Sales, USA
Full-Size Pickup — Toyota Tundra
Toyota introduces an all-new Tundra for the 2022 model year with improved performance and fresh styling. Built on a new chassis designed to improve capability and ride comfort, the new Tundra is available with two new powertrains. A 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 engine generating 389 horsepower is standard, or buyers can opt for the hybrid i-FORCE MAX twin-turbo V6 that bumps to 437 horsepower and 583 lb-ft of torque, allowing Tundra to tow up to 12,000 pounds. Inside, the Tundra features some great improvements including an available 14-inch touchscreen display as well as standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.
© Toyota Motor Sales, USA
Midsize Pickup — Toyota Tacoma
Toyota’s popular midsize pickup 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 upgrades the Tacoma TRD Pro and introduces a Trail Edition 4WD.
© Mercedes-Benz USA
Commercial Van — Mercedes-Benz Metris
A relative newcomer to the U.S. commercial van market USA, Metris has been a European product since 1996. Although Mercedes has been a longtime purveyor of luxury and performance cars in America, Metris is only the second commercial van in the M-B lineup, joining the larger Sprinter. Metris possesses plenty of features that help this van stand out from the crowd, including 270-degree opening rear doors, available active park assist, crosswind assist, lane-keeping assist, collision prevention assist and Eco start/stop. The Metris is about the size of a typical minivan, offered in standard and long wheelbase versions — the latter providing a spacious 199 cubic feet of cargo room and an equally impressive 2,370-pound maximum payload. Metris can also tow 5,000 pounds.
© American Honda Motors
Minivan — Honda Odyssey
One of the most popular minivans in America, the Odyssey offers a range of family friendly features including a “Magic Slide” second-row seating system that offers multiple configurations, an in-car vacuum cleaner, tri-zone climate control, multiple USB ports and an in-cabin child monitoring system called Cabin Watch. Odyssey is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower, teamed with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The Honda Sensing suite of advanced safety features is also standard on all Odysseys, which includes automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, forward collision warning, road departure mitigation, lane departure warning, lane-keeping assist and adaptive cruise control.
