If the early results are any indication, 2014 will be a banner year for the auto industry and consumers alike. During the last part of 2013, several automakers unveiled exciting new concepts and technologies at auto shows all over the world, many of which offered a glimpse into the future of the automobile.
Consumer Reports recently released consumer rankings for the best cars of 2014 in each class. Obviously, there’s a lot of information to wade through so we’ve compiled the highlights for you here, as well as some links to other reviews, ratings and related news around the web.
Car Reviews & Resources
New Car Models 2014 - Get accurate and up to date information on new car releases from Kelley Blue Book.
Edmunds Car Reviews - Find performance ratings, auto reviews and road tests from Edmunds, a leading source of automotive information.
2014 Consumer Report - Best Car Models of the Year
Tesla Model S - The overall winner in the report was the Tesla Model S, which comes as no surprise to those that have been following the recent ascendance of Tesla as a company and the Model S in particular. Consumers noted the great performance for a luxury car, great handling, a spacious cabin and some of the best technological implementations in the industry. The large and easy-to-use touch screen that controls many of the car’s functions was a favorite among consumers that reviewed the vehicle.
Honda Accord - Not surprisingly, the Honda Accord had the best rating for midsize sedans. Combining the gas mileage of a compact and the roominess and performance of a sedan, the affordable 4-cylinder Accord continues to be a great value for consumers.
For more information, see this article from U.S. News about the best car values of 2014.
Subaru Impreza - The highest consumer rating for a compact car went to the Subaru Impreza. The Impreza is a four-wheel drive vehicle, but that doesn’t have a drastic impact the mileage it gets according to the report. For a compact, the Impreza is very roomy and offers one of the best overall values for the price in its class.
Toyota Prius - Winner of the best “green car,” the popular Toyota Prius is one of the most affordable and reliable hybrid cars currently on the market. With fuel efficiency that exceeds 40 miles per gallon, the Prius is a practical choice for environmentally conscious drivers. The Prius has won Consumer Report’s best green car for 11 years running.
Visit Green Car Reports for more information on hybrid, electric & PEV cars.
Audi A6 - The Audi A6 is one of the most fun cars to drive on this list. In addition to excellent handling and a powerful engine, the A6 has a gorgeous interior and still has good fuel efficiency for a V6 engine. The Audi A6 also has several features that will appeal to tech-friendly drivers, though some of the features may take some time to get comfortable with.
BMW 328i - Long appreciated as one of the top choices available among sports sedans, the 328i (part of BMW’s 3 series) scored very well for fuel efficiency, comfort, and handling in the report. The 328i perfectly captures the blend of power and luxury that has made the 3-series BMW’s most popular model and a consumer favorite.