ATLANTA, March 25, 2020 – As shoppers shift online across all categories for both every day essentials and aspirational needs, they are facing a new reality. Within the automotive space, they are experiencing an increasingly crowded virtual marketplace, where visiting multiple dealerships isn’t practical. So, how are new-car buyers to know which vehicles are most worthy of their consideration in today’s environment? While there are several mainstays long-known for excellence in the automotive industry, the truth remains that standout vehicles can be found among a variety of price points, categories and brands. To help car shoppers expand their horizons as they consider which new vehicle to buy, Autotrader recently named the Best New Cars for 2020.
“Our goal was to provide a helpful list of cars that offer exceptional value for their class, regardless of vehicle type or price,” said Brian Moody, executive editor for Autotrader. “Anyone in the market for a new car really should look outside their typical go-to brands—they might be surprised what they find. It's also worth noting that out of our 12 best cars of the year, only one is from a luxury brand. That tells you just how good cars from volume brands are now in their top trims when it comes to comfort, technology and design. Every vehicle Autotrader listed as a Best New Car for 2020 has ‘that certain something’ that makes it stand out in a very crowded field.”
Each vehicle on this year’s list was agreed upon unanimously by the entire editorial and data team at Autotrader. To be considered, a vehicle must be of the current or next model-year and available for purchase at the time of the announcement. The editors capped the base price for consideration at $75,000 (although most vehicles on the list are well under), meaning they offer a significant value for the asking price. Not only was value a top priority, but vehicles also were judged on available technology and a rewarding or dynamic driving experience. Each winning car had to score an overall 3.9 or higher on the editors’ 5-point evaluation sheet.
Listed below, in alphabetical order, are the Autotrader experts’ choices for Best New Cars for 2020:
Autotrader’s Best New Cars for 2020
|
Vehicle |
Vehicle Category |
Sample Editorial Comments |
|
2020 Chevrolet Corvette |
Coupe/Convertible |
Tremendously well-executed, the Corvette drives well, is nice inside, and it’s roomy, fast and fun. More importantly, the Corvette is affordable, which can seem like a bargain compared to many exotic cars tested. |
|
2020 Ford Expedition |
Full-size SUV |
The 2020 Ford Expedition is the only car on the list that is not an all-new model or a full redesign for 2020. The Expedition got a big redesign for 2018 and has aged tremendously well ever since as a roomy and capable family hauler. Big SUVs are hard to get just right, as they can feel overwhelming and very truck-like. The Expedition is different – yes big, but it is very manageable from behind the wheel. |
|
2020 Honda CR-V Hybrid |
Compact SUV |
For the first time, a hybrid version of Honda's popular compact crossover is available in the U.S. The CR-V Hybrid is super-efficient and reasonably priced, with plenty of pleasant interior space. It deserves praise for its performance and capability. Acceleration is another high point – it feels quick but the engine sound isn't harsh or overwhelming |
|
2020 Hyundai Palisade |
Midsize SUV |
The Hyundai Palisade strikes the perfect balance between an affordable volume car and a premium luxury car. Hyundai has stepped up its game big time, emerging as a modern automaker delivering style, features, and value, all in one attractive package. |
|
2020 Hyundai Sonata |
Midsize Sedan |
The Hyundai Sonata makes a strong case as a class leader in a competitive segment. Its redesign brought with it a stunning new look, a roomy, premium interior, and a generous list of standard features, plus some interesting available tech in the higher trims. |
|
2020 Jeep Gladiator |
Midsize Pickup |
The Jeep Gladiator has all the coolness of a Wrangler with the functionality of a pickup bed. This is an off-roader without compromise. The Gladiator also delivers a surprisingly smooth and comfortable ride quality on the street, while displaying all the off-road chops you'd expect when the pavement ends. |
|
2020 Kia Telluride |
Midsize SUV |
The Telluride is an excellent SUV – a homerun for Kia. Everything about it is terrific – the look, the ride, the features, the space. It’s a well-executed midsize SUV that somehow manages to be simple, authentic and luxurious all at the same time. |
|
2020 Lincoln Aviator |
Luxury Midsize SUV |
The Autotrader editors liked the Aviator so much that some boldly declared it the best luxury midsize SUV, period. From the pillowy leather seats to the bevy of tech features to the gorgeously styled front fascia, Lincoln knocked it out of the park on this one. With an exceptionally impressive interior, this is the perfect car for everyday luxury. |
|
2020 Mazda CX-30 |
Compact SUV |
The Mazda CX-30 is just Mazda doing what Mazda does – clean lines inside and out, good acceleration and an overall vibe that makes you do a double-take on the price. If sporty handling and a premium interior are important to you in a small SUV, check out the CX-30. |
|
2020 Nissan Sentra |
Compact Sedan |
The 2020 Nissan Sentra is a very good compact sedan for buyers looking for comfort and value. Nissan has been making big strides in interior quality and design in recent years, and it shows on the new Sentra – which also has improved exterior styling and a quiet ride. |
|
2020 Subaru Outback |
Wagon |
At first glance it is hard to tell that the exterior of the 2020 Subaru Outback is all-new – but step inside and the redesign becomes much more apparent. It’s the perfect SUV alternative for those who want a rugged family car without the bulky size of a more truck-like vehicle. |
|
2020 Toyota Highlander |
Midsize SUV |
The Highlander is a good SUV and has been a leader in this segment since it was first introduced almost 20 years ago and its dominance continues with the freshly redesigned fourth generation. The new Highlander has more interior space, more standard tech, and it finally has a standard V6. Toyota might be the expected choice, but the driving dynamics and handling with the new Highlander are anything but expected. |
For more details about Autotrader’s Best New Cars for 2020, including full editorial commentary, pricing information and more, visit https://www.autotrader.com/best-cars/12-best-new-cars-2020-281474979998703.
If you are looking for a vehicle at this time, many dealers can accommodate your buying needs—shopping from your couch or having an advisor just a text or phone call away. Check out the latest on how to shop for your next vehicle online at https://www.autotrader.com/how-to-buy-cars-online.
For more information and news from Autotrader, visit press.autotrader.com, follow us on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Autotrader_com (or @Autotrader_com), Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/autotrader_com/ (or @autotrader_com), like our page on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/autotrader/, add us on Snapchat (@Autotrader_com),
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About Autotrader
Autotrader is the most recognized third-party car listings brand, with the most engaged audience of in-market car shoppers. As the foremost authority on automotive consumer insights and expert in online and mobile marketing, Autotrader makes the car shopping experience easy and fun for today's empowered car shopper looking to find or sell the perfect new, used or Certified Pre-Owned car. Using technology, shopper insights and local market guidance, Autotrader's comprehensive marketing and retailing solutions allow consumers to build their deal online, and guide dealers to personalized digital marketing strategies that grow brand, drive traffic and connect the online and in-store shopping experience. Autotrader is a Cox Automotive™ brand. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises. For more information, please visit http://press.autotrader.com.
About Cox Automotive
Cox Automotive Inc. makes buying, selling, owning and using cars easier for everyone. The global company’s 34,000-plus team members and family of brands, including Autotrader®, Clutch Technologies, Dealer.com®, Dealertrack®, Kelley Blue Book®, Manheim®, NextGear Capital®, VinSolutions®, vAuto® and Xtime®, are passionate about helping millions of car shoppers, 40,000 auto dealer clients across five continents and many others throughout the automotive industry thrive for generations to come. Cox Automotive is a subsidiary of Cox Enterprises Inc., a privately-owned, Atlanta-based company with revenues exceeding $20 billion. coxautoinc.com
|
Director, Public Relations |
Sr. Public Relations Manager Brenna Buehler 949.473.6595 brenna.buehler@coxautoinc.com |
For general inquiries, |
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