© Ford Motor Company
Buy American
During the 1960s and ‘70s vehicle imports rose in America, and due to the 1973 OPEC oil embargo sales of small, fuel-efficient imported cars began to flourish while Detroit-based automakers were still producing large, inefficient sedans and wagons. In the wake of that market shift, the sentiment to “Buy American” became an important factor to shoppers when searching for a new car. Although this principle remains important to some of today’s consumers, the truly American car has become more difficult to characterize thanks to economic globalization. Many European and Asian car companies build vehicles in America, while many so-called American car companies source parts and/or build vehicles overseas or in Mexico. In light of this ambiguity, let’s focus on the best-selling models from American brands, which include names such as Ford, Chevrolet, GMC, Ram and Jeep. Vehicles are listed based on U.S. sales during the first quarter of 2019, as reported by auto manufacturers.
© FCA US LLC
25. Chrysler Pacifica
2019 Sales: 23,274
Vs. 2018: -28.6 %
Chrysler introduced the Pacifica minivan a few years ago when it replaced the Town & Country in the lineup. After one year on the market, this modern-day minivan moved up the sales charts to become the second-best-selling minivan in America — bested by the Dodge Grand Caravan. With contemporary styling and a slew of innovations, Pacifica is arguably the finest minivan built by Chrysler since it created the category more than 30 years ago. Pacifica can be equipped with seating for up to eight occupants, which still leaves plenty of cargo space in the rear. A plug-in hybrid version of the Pacifica is also available, making this the first hybrid minivan ever sold in America.
© General Motors
24. Chevrolet Cruze
2019 Sales: 23,311
Vs. 2018: -41.5 %
American-brand passenger cars are becoming scarce —on this list of 25 vehicles, only three of them are sedans. The Cruze has been refreshed for the 2019 model year with updated styling and new features; however, sales continue to decline. Cruze is available as a sedan or hatchback, powered by a turbocharged 153-horsepower 1.4-liter direct-injection engine paired with a 6-speed manual transmission or an available 6-speed automatic. A diesel-powered Cruze is also available, delivering up to 48 mpg with a range of almost 650 miles on a tank of fuel.
© General Motors
23. Chevrolet Trax
2019 Sales: 24,580
Vs. 2018: 20.0 %
Redesigned for the 2017 model year, the Trax remains the least-expensive SUV in the Chevrolet lineup. Available with front- or all-wheel drive, Trax is powered by a 1.4-liter turbocharged Ecotec engine producing 138 horsepower and 148 lb-ft of torque. The engine may not be very powerful, but it delivers on fuel economy — Trax has ratings as high as 33 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive. For 2019 Trax is available as a Midnight Edition, which features Mosaic Black Metallic paint, Jet Black leatherette trim, 18-inch aluminum wheels, body-color door handles, black beltline moldings and a body-color tailgate handle.
© General Motors
22. Buick Encore
2019 Sales: 24,606
Vs. 2018: -3.4 %
Encore is the smallest vehicle in the Buick lineup, and with a starting price below $25,000 it’s a great entry into the luxury crossover segment. Encore comes well equipped with features such as a power driver’s seat, a 7-inch color display with backup camera and built-in 4G LTE Wi-Fi connection. Encore is available in four trims ranging from the base level to the well-equipped top-of-the-line Essence, all powered by a fuel-efficient 1.4-liter turbocharged engine. Decent fuel economy and a low starting price contribute to making this small Buick the most popular model in the Buick lineup by far.
© General Motors
21. GMC Terrain
2019 Sales: 25,364
Vs. 2018: -23.1 %
GMC redesigned the Terrain for the 2018 model year, giving the small crossover a bold new grille, sculpted headlights and C-shaped rear light graphics. GMC offers the Terrain as an SL, SLE, SLT or the luxurious Denali with three engine choices and available all-wheel drive. The standard engine is a turbocharged 1.5-liter unit that produces 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque, combined with a 9-speed automatic transmission. An optional turbocharged 2.0-liter powerplant produces 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque, also mated with a 9-speed automatic. GMC also offers the Terrain with a diesel powertrain that delivers as high as 39 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive.
© Ford Motor Company
20. Ford Edge
2019 Sales: 30,920
Vs. 2018: 20.0 %
The 2019 Ford Edge gets updated styling, new features and a high-performance variant —all of which factor into strong sales so far this year for the midsize crossover. The most noticeable change is a new grille flanked by sleek LED headlights. Ford has also introduced the Edge ST – the Ford Performance team’s first application of the ST treatment to an SUV. Powered by a 2.7-liter twin-turbocharged EcoBoost engine producing 335 horsepower and 380 lb-ft of torque, the Edge ST also features an 8-speed automatic transmission, standard all-wheel drive with selectable traction control, ST-tuned suspension and an available performance brake package. Inside, the Edge ST is outfitted with contoured ST sport seats, steering-wheel–mounted paddle shifters, ST badging on the steering wheel, ST logos on the seatbacks and Ford Performance scuff plates.
© FCA US LLC
19. Dodge Journey
2019 Sales: 31,085
Vs. 2018: 3.4 %
Dodge’s affordable midsize crossover with standard 3-row seating, the Journey is one of the older models in the lineup but continues to sell well. Journey is offered with either a 173-horsepower 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine or a 283-horsepower 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 and front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive. Three trim levels are available: SE, Crossroad and GT. Journey Crossroad now includes 19-inch Black Noise aluminum wheels. For 2019 Dodge has given the base-level SE additional standard features that include fog lights, tri-zone climate control and LED rear taillights. The SE can also be had with the Blacktop Appearance Package with available 19-inch gloss black wheels.
© General Motors
18. GMC Acadia
2019 Sales: 31,200
Vs. 2018: 4.3 %
The midsize crossover of the GMC lineup, Acadia received a major update for the 2017 model year with new features and styling that brought it in line with the rest of the GMC family. Acadia is available with front- or all-wheel drive and offered in a number of trim levels, including the top-line Denali and the All-Terrain, which features improved off-road capability. GMC builds the Acadia with 5-, 6- or 7-passenger seating — the third row is a 50/50 split and when folded provides a flat cargo floor for easy loading. This fall look for an all-new Acadia with bolder styling, a new turbocharged engine and upgraded features.
© Ford Motor Company
17. Ford Transit
2019 Sales: 31,842
Vs. 2018: 4.9 %
There aren’t many full-size vans available in America today, but the Transit outsells all others. According to Ford, there are almost 60 different configurations available for this big van, including two wheelbases, three roof heights as well as 150, 250 and 350 variants. The Transit can seat up to 15 passengers, or as a cargo van the space is immense — the largest Transit features a space 172.2 inches long, 70.2 inches wide (54.8 inches between the wheels) and 81.5 inches high for a total of 487.3 cubic feet of room. With the high-roof option, a person 6 feet 5 inches can stand upright.
© General Motors
16. Chevrolet Colorado
2019 Sales: 33.494
Vs. 2018: 16.1 %
The Colorado (and it’s GMC Canyon sibling) came to market about five years ago, offering the only American-brand alternative to the full-size pickup truck. Available as either an extended cab or 4-door crew cab, the Colorado can be optioned with rear- or 4-wheel drive. Multiple engines are available, including a 308 horsepower V6 or a 2.8-liter Duramax diesel that produces 181 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque for a maximum trailering rating of 7,700 pounds. Colorado can be equipped with plenty of luxury items, or for those looking to head off-road there’s the ZR2 with unique styling, lifted suspension, front and rear electronic locking differentials and large off-road tires.
© General Motors
15. Chevrolet Malibu
2019 Sales: 34,197
Vs. 2018: 0.1 %
A familiar name in the Chevrolet lineup off and on for more than 50 years, the Malibu gets fresh styling and upgraded features for the 2019 model year. Sales are not as high as they once were, since typical passenger cars buyers now tend to opt for more popular crossovers, but the Malibu is still the best-selling passenger car in the General Motors portfolio. Chevrolet is hoping to give the Malibu a boost with the all-new Malibu RS, which stands out via a black sport grille, black bowtie emblems, rear spoiler, dual exhaust and 18-inch machined wheels. Malibu is also available as a very efficient hybrid — the most fuel-efficient American vehicle without a plug. The 1.8-liter direct-injection 4-cylinder gas engine teamed with a 2-motor drive unit delivers 182 horsepower and up to 49 mpg on the highway.
© General Motors
14. Chevrolet Traverse
2019 Sales: 34,223
Vs. 2018: -10.4 %
Chevrolet’s 3-row crossover is redesigned for the 2019 model year with a bold look that follows Chevrolet’s larger full-size SUVs. The updated Traverse offers a roomy interior with seating for up to eight. The standard engine is a 3.6-liter V6 that produces 310 horsepower and 266 lb-ft of torque, teamed with a 9-speed automatic transmission with either front- or all-wheel drive. The Traverse RS is offered with a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 257 horsepower and 295 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission. Available with a range of high end features, the Traverse can be equipped with LT Premium Package featuring Surround Vision, 20-inch aluminum wheels, a rear camera mirror, 8-inch diagonal navigation radio, Bose speakers and a 110-volt outlet.
© FCA US LLC
13. Dodge Grand Caravan
2019 Sales: 25,440
Vs. 2018: -17.9 %
The original minivan, the Dodge Grand Caravan offers more style, versatility and technological innovation than any other time in its 30-year history. The lineup has been simplified down to four trim levels: SE, SE Plus, SXT and GT. The standard engine for all trims is a 3.6-liter Pentastar V6 producing 283 horsepower, combined with a 6-speed automatic transmission to deliver EPA fuel economy ratings of 17 mpg city / 25 mpg highway / 20 mpg combined. The future of the Grand Caravan is unclear since the new Chrysler Pacifica came to market.
© FCA US
12. Jeep Compass
2019 Sales: 37,306
Vs. 2018: -14.3 %
Jeep introduced an all-new Compass for the 2017 model year, and while sales are down slightly in 2019, overall the small crossover has made huge strides versus the previous generation. Built on FCA’s small-wide 4X4 architecture, Compass is offered in four trim levels: Sport, Latitude, Limited and Trailhawk — all of which are powered by a 2.4-liter Tigershark engine producing 180 horsepower, teamed with either a 6-speed manual or 9-speed automatic transmission. Two full-time 4-wheel-drive systems are offered: Active Drive and Active Drive Low. For 2019 Jeep Compass Sport adds the Upland special edition with 17-inch Trailhawk wheels, front Trailhawk fascia, black tow hooks, a front-suspension skidplate and gloss black accents. Also new is the Compass Limited High Altitude Appearance Package, which includes 19-inch Satin Gloss Granite wheels, HID headlights with LED signature, LED taillights and tungsten stitching.
© General Motors
11. GMC Sierra
2019 Sales: 40,546
Vs. 2018: -2.2 %
The best-seller in the GMC lineup, the Sierra ended 2018 on a positive gain, but in the first three months of 2019 the truck’s sales experienced a slight decline overall. Like its Silverado sibling, the Sierra is 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 of Sierra’s standout features is its MultiPro Tailgate, which offers six positions for easier loading as well as use as a standing work station. A range of engine / transmission options are available, including a new 2.7-liter turbo as well as a new turbodiesel powertrain.
© Ford Motor Company
10. Ford Fusion
2019 Sales: 41,683
Vs. 2018: -3.5 %
Ford has announced that it will be ending production of its passenger car models, including the best-selling American passenger car — the Fusion. Despite its imminent demise, the Fusion is holding its own with a slight decline in the first quarter of 2019. Fusion has been 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-keeping assist and a rearview camera.
© FCA US
9. Jeep Cherokee
2019 Sales: 49,420
Vs. 2018: -2.4 %
Jeep updated the Cherokee for 2019, and based on record sales in 2018 the redesign was spot-on. Cherokee sales were down 23 percent in March, but overall the SUV is holding its own for the year. 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 including 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 receives 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 available.
© FCA US LLC
8. Jeep Wrangler
2019 Sales: 49,978
Vs. 2018: -10.0 %
An all-new Jeep Wrangler was introduced last year, helping the iconic off-roader achieve its best sales ever; however, Wrangler is experiencing a slow start to 2019. The updated model 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.
© FCA US
7. Jeep Grand Cherokee
2019 Sales: 57,749
Vs. 2018: 8.0 %
The Jeep brand had considerable success last year which stands to reason, given the overall popularity of SUVs in America. Jeep experienced record sales during 2018, and for 2019 the Grand Cherokee is leading the charge with a 26 percent increase versus March of last year. 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 the high-performance Trackhawk, boasting a staggering 707 horsepower.
© Ford Motor Company
6. Ford Escape
2019 Sales: 60,702
Vs. 2016: -9.9 %
This small 5-seat crossover from Ford has been the best-selling American-brand SUV for many years, as well as the second best-seller in the Ford lineup. Escape had its best sales year ever in 2017 and has dropped off since hitting that peak. Sales were down last year, and March numbers declined almost 20 percent compared to a year earlier. 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. Ford recently took the wraps off an all-new 2020 Ford Escape with fresh styling and new powertrains, including the return of the Escape Hybrid. Look for the new model to arrive in showrooms this fall.
© Ford Motor Company
5. Ford Explorer
2019 Sales: 61,922
Vs. 2018: -1.4 %
The Ford Explorer remains a fixture on this list; in 2017 the pioneering SUV had its best annual sales since 2005 and was 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 SYNC Connect featured new 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. Look for an all-new Explorer as well as an Explorer Hybrid to help boost sales when the model line goes on sale later this year.
© General Motors
4. Chevrolet Equinox
2019 Sales: 88,500
Vs. 2018: 7.4 %
Chevrolet’s second-best-selling vehicle after the full-size Silverado pickup, the redesigned 2018 Equinox seems to be resonating well with consumers. Equinox had record sales in 2018 and the upward movement continued in the first quarter of 2019. 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. Three engine choices for Equinox 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.
© Perry Stern, Automotive Content Experience
3. Chevrolet Silverado
2019 Sales: 114,313
Vs. 2018: -15.7 %
Chevrolet has an all-new Silverado for the 2019 model year; however, it seems like consumers are not embracing the new version — sales were down in the first quarter of 2019. This is the first time in many years that the perennial runner-up to the Ford F-Series has dropped below the Ram pickup. 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 coming off 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.
© FCA US LLC
2. Ram Truck
2019 Sales: 120,026
Vs. 2018: 15.4 %
Ram ended 2018 with a strong showing, posting record sales for the third year in a row, and it seems like the big truck is on its way to setting a new record in 2019. With a March sales increase of almost 10 percent versus a year earlier, the Ram has moved up as the second-most-popular truck in America. The new Ram features updated exterior styling 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. A new Ram Heavy Duty that boasts a new diesel with 1,000 lb-ft of torque is likely to help Ram hold onto this sales position.
© Ford Motor Company
1. Ford F-Series
2019 Sales: 214,611
Vs. 2018: 0.2 %
Thanks to strong sales in 2018, the Ford F-Series extended its streak as the best-selling vehicle in America to 37 years — 42 years as best-selling truck. Sales in 2019 are relatively flat so far, but certainly enough to keep the F-150 at the top. The F-150 is driving strong sales with 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.
