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The best new cars of 2018 are incredible performers - proven to be reliable, safe, and rewarding. That means they have gained high scores in our rigorous track tests and extensive owner surveys. They have won our admiration, and we recommend them with confidence.
After you see our Top Choice, follow the poll below to tell us which car you're likely to buy.
What It Takes to Be the Peak
A model must have an exemplary Overall Score in its category to be Top Choice. This single number combines road test performance, reliability, owner satisfaction, and safety. Cars that have high scores in these four main sizes are truly remarkable.
Road Test: This score is based on over 50 tests and evaluations conducted at our Auto Test Center by our experienced staff.
Reliability: We estimate the possibility of new cars will persist based on customer reported problems for more than half a million vehicles (in our latest survey).
Owner Satisfaction: We assess owner satisfaction based on the percentage of surveyed owners who say they will buy back the same vehicle.
Safety: All recommended cars should perform well in crash avoidance tests from CR and also provide effective occupant protection in an insurance industry or government insurance trials (if a vehicle has been tested). Models with standard emergency head and / or emergency braking alert are automatically awarded bonus points.
Click the links below to read the road test and see the full ratings. And watch our long road test video, available on every model car page.
The vehicles listed below are based on the size class.
Compact Car: Toyota Corolla
This practical and fuel-efficient sedan has all the perks sought by small car buyers, backed by a robust track record of reliability. Despite its compact proportions, the Corolla has a relatively airy interior, with a spacious rear seat. Handling is safe, and the quality of the vehicle is a snippet above for its class. The ho-hum engine with medium power will not make the driver excited, but the trade-off is a 32 mpg star fuel economy overall. At our highway test circuit, the Corolla reaches 43 mpg. Also very meaningful: The car comes standard with advanced safety features that include warning of forward collision, pedestrian detection, automatic emergency braking, departure lane warning, and lane maintenance assistance. Corolla is a smart purchase that will not disappoint you.
Prices tested: $ 20,652
Compact Green Car: Chevrolet Bolt
Bolts prove that electric cars do not need to apologize for lack of driving performance. This distinctive looking hatchback provides fast acceleration and rigorous handling, plus a 250 mile power range at the primary price (when tax incentives are taken into account). This pure electricity is built around a 60-kWh battery pack that holds a generous payload, reducing the anxiety that you will run out of power and be stranded. The driver sits high in Bolt, with a commanding view on par with a small SUV. Like most electric cars, Bolt is very quiet, and road and wind noise is minimal. The controls take a bit of getting used, and sometimes the trip can get choppy. All told, GM has made an impressive achievement with Bolt.
Prices tested: $ 43,155
Luxury Compact Car: Audi A4
A4 shines with a sporty, luxurious, and polished in a segment inhabited by superstar. Very satisfying to drive, with a nimble and safe handling, aided by minimal body rolls and responsive steering. The controlled trip is on the firm side, but proves to be stable and absorbing. Powerful turbocharger-powered four-cylinder engine accelerates vigorously, proving to be always eager to make a quick getaway, but not hurt your wallet at the pump. Slide into the A4 cabin and you are greeted by a high quality interior. The controls have the right flavor and look clean and modern. The front seats are sturdy yet comfortable, but the rear seat space is tight. A4 is a wonderful sedan to differentiate buyers. It comes with standard forward-collision warning and auto speed-municipal emergency braking.
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