2017 New Cars: The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

The new-car market is bursting with activity; it’s incredible how many options exist from affordable subcompacts to high-end sports cars and midsize sedans filled with premium options formerly reserved for the very top of the luxury market. There are plenty of luxurious options as well, and we’ve covered them all right here.

So when it’s time to learn more about the cars you’ve been considering, keep reading to find info on fuel economy, acceleration, trim changes, price ranges, and even IntelliChoice five-year retained value—it’s a package you’re only going to find on MotorTrend.com (stay tuned for a separate guide on trucks, vans, and SUVs).

And if you’re seeking more info than the entries below provide, don’t miss our industry-leading reviews and our newly designed online buyer’s guide pages.

Happy shopping!

KEY

  • 5M: 5-speed manual
  • 6A: 6-speed automatic
  • 6-sp auto-cl man: 6-speed auto-clutch manual
  • 7-sp twin-cl auto: 7-speed twin-clutch automatic
  • FWD: front-wheel drive
  • AWD: all-wheel drive
  • RWD: rear-wheel drive

All-New

New inside and out, possible powertrain changes

Major

Mid-cycle change updates, minor powertrain changes

Minor

Special editions, significant new features

Unchanged

Minor trim or package changes, new colors

IntelliChoice

Five-year retained value data may apply to common vehicle variants, not an average of all model variants.

EPA Ratings

EPA ratings for the 2017 model year are more stringent than before, so keep in mind as you’re new-car shopping that a car with no mechanical changes from 2016 may still get a slightly different rating for 2017.

New Cars in the 2017 New Car Buyer’s Guide
Acuras Dodges Lamborghinis Nissans
Alfa Romeos Ferraris Lexus HERE
Porsches
Aston Martins Fiats Lincolns Rolls Royce HERE
Audis Fords Lotus cars Smarts
Bentleys Genesis HERE
Maseratis Subarus
BMWs Hondas Mazdas Teslas
Buicks Hyundais McLarens Toyotas
Cadillacs Infinitis Mercedes-Benz HERE Volkswagens
Chevrolets Jaguars Minis Volvos
Chryslers Kias Mitsubishis

 

2017 Acura ILX

2017 Acura ILX front three quarter

Base Price: $28,930

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: After a busy year of updates in 2016, the Acura ILX continues for 2017 without major changes. Three new exterior colors include Lunar Silver Metallic, Modern Steel Metallic, and San Marino Red. Acura says the entry-level ILX has brought in more 35-and-under customers than anything else in the segment. We like the eight-speed transmission, which manages to be smooth and precise at the same time.

Look For: Perhaps a less luxurious Honda Civic instead—newer platform, more tech, and cheaper price point.

Sum Up: Acura’s most engaging car besides the NSX.

Acura ILX
Base Engine 2.4L/201-hp/180-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 8-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 25/35 mpg
0-60 mph 6.8 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 53%

2017 Acura NSX

2017 Acura NSX front three quarter motion3

Base Price: $157,800

Body Type: Coupe

All-New: The Acura NSX is finally here. The supercar packs a mid-mounted twin-turbo V-6, three electric motors, all-wheel drive, and a nine-speed twin-clutch automatic. With EV, Sport, Sport Plus, and Track drive modes, the NSX is a supercar that can adapt to any occasion. Leaving the car in Track mode all the time makes the NSX the supercar it was meant to be. Reserve EV mode for leaving early or sneaking in late.

Cool Fact: There’s a 25-decibel volumetric sound difference between Quiet and Track modes.

Sum Up: It’s a good year to be a mid-engine supercar fan.

Acura NSX
Base Engine 3.5L twin-turbo V-6 + 3 elec motors, 573 hp/476 lb-ft
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Mid engine, AWD
Transmission 9-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 21/22 mpg
0-60 mph 3.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Acura RLX

2016 Acura RLX front three quarters

Base Price: $55,400-$66,900*

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: Acura’s flagship sedan now offers the automaker’s Surround View Camera system, standard 19-inch wheels across the line, and some chassis refinements. Otherwise, the RLX stays the course; a base V-6 model produces 310 hp, and a performance-oriented hybrid V-6 tops the line with 377 hp combined.

Cool Fact: A new concept version of the RLX hybrid allows Acura to test new autonomous technologies before the automaker introduces more advanced versions of the tech around 2020.

Sum Up: Technologically impressive but ignored by the market.

Acura RLX
Base Engine 3.5L/310-hp/272-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine 3.5L V-6 + 3 elec motors, 377 hp/341 lb-ft
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 6A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 20-28/31-32 mpg
0-60 mph 5.1-5.8 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 43%

2017 Acura TLX

2016 Acura TLX front three quarter

Base Price: $32,820-$45,720

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: The Acura TLX heads into the 2017 model year with a few colorful changes but otherwise stays the same. San Marino Red, Lunar Silver Metallic, and Modern Steel Metallic are added as exterior color options; Basque Red Pearl, Slate Silver Metallic, and Graphite Luster Metallic, however, are discontinued. The black interior is now available with red and blue exteriors.

Look For: The available brown leather, called Espresso, which complements the lighter exterior paint colors.

Sum Up: A solid offering with Japanese reliability in a crowded segment.

Acura TLX
Base Engine 2.4L/206-hp/182-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 3.5L/290-hp/267-lb-ft V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 8-sp twin-cl auto, 9A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 21-24/31-35 mpg
0-60 mph 5.9-7.2 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 49%

 

2017 Alfa Romeo 4C

2016 Alfa Romeo 4C Spider front three quarter in motion 02

Base Price: $57,500-$67,500*

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Unchanged: Alfa Romeo added the 4C Spider last year as the second body style of the lightweight sports car. The 237-hp, 1.7-liter turbo-four and the six-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission will remain as the only powertrain combination available. A new carbon-fiber package appeared for 2016, dressing up interior vents, the area around the instrument cluster, the instrument panel, and the shift bezels.

Cool Fact: Compared to the 4C Coupe, the 4C Spider is 22 pounds heavier and can be had with an optional carbon-fiber roof.

Sum Up: When performance and style are all that matters.

Alfa Romeo 4C
Base Engine 1.7L/237-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Mid engine, RWD
Transmission 6-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 24/34 mpg*
0-60 mph 4.0 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
* Estimated

Alfa Romeo Giulia

2017 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio front three quarter 04

Base Price: $40,000-$70,000*

Body Type: Sedan

All-New: When the Guilia arrives, it will be the latest entry in the compact luxury sport sedan segment and the automaker’s first rear-drive four-door in a long time; Alfa Romeo will also offer AWD. Built on a new platform, the Giulia promises class-leading performance on all of its variants; it’s one of two Alfa Romeo offerings in the U.S. A 276-hp, 2.0-liter turbo-four and a 505-hp, twin-turbo V-6 will be offered.

Driver’s Choice: The Giulia Quadrifoglio comes with a 505-hp, twin-turbo V-6 and a six-speed manual.

Sum Up: A sexy Italian sports sedan that is finally heading to the U.S..

Alfa Romeo Giulia
Base Engine 2.0L/276-hp/295-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 2.9L/505-hp/443-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 6M; 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 18-24/25-33 mpg*
0-60 mph 3.7-5.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
* Estimated

 

 

2017 Aston Martin DB11

2017 Aston Martin DB11 front three quarter in motion 02

Base Price: $214,820

Body Type: Coupe

All-New: The new DB11 is a clean-sheet design with a bonded aluminum monocoque; it shares nothing with the DB9 it replaces. Under the hood is a new 5.2-liter V-12 with a pair of twin-scroll turbochargers good for 600 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque paired to an eight-speed automatic. Thanks to the new Daimler-sourced electrical architecture, the DB11 has three selectable damping levels.

Look For: A new generation of Astons to roll out on the DB11’s platform over the next few years.

Sum Up: The DB11 redefines the Aston Martin brand.

Aston Martin DB11
Base Engine 5.2L/600-hp/516-lb-ft twin-turbo V-12
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy Not Yet Rated
0-60 mph 3.9 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/unlimited miles
* Estimated

2017 Aston Martin Rapide S

2015-Aston-Martin-Rapide-S-front-three-quarter-in-motion2

Base Price: $209,825

Body Type: Hatchback

Unchanged: Not much has changed for the Rapide S, which remains one of the more attractive four-door cars on the market. Previously optional 20-inch alloy wheels are now standard, a new infotainment system supports Apple CarPlay and an integrated satellite navigation system, and there are a series of new color and trim packages.

Cool Fact: The Rapide S sells well for Aston in China. A partnership with Faraday Future parent LeEco aims to build a RapidE EV there by 2018.

Sum Up: The perfect ride for a classy double date.

Aston Martin Rapide S
Base Engine 5.9L/552-hp/465-lb-ft V-12
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 14/22 mpg
0-60 mph 4.2 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/unlimited miles
* Estimated

2017 Aston Martin Vanquish

2016 Aston Martin Vanquish front three quarter

Base Price: $291,775-$309,775

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Unchanged: The Vanquish is still based on the older platform that underpinned the previous DB9, but the car gets a few additions for 2017, such as an updated infotainment system that features Apple CarPlay support, an integrated navigation system, and several new color and trim option packages. The limited-run Vanquish Carbon Edition is no longer available.

Avoid The new DB11 and get a Vanquish if you don’t like turbochargers on your V-12-powered grand tourer.

Sum Up: Is it $100,000 better than an all-new DB11?

Aston Martin Vanquish
Base Engine 5.9L/568-hp/465-lb-ft V-12
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 13/21 mpg
0-60 mph 3.6 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/unlimited miles
* Estimated

2017 Aston Martin Vantage

2017 Aston Martin V12 Vantage S front three quarter in motion 04

Base Price: $137,820-$202,820

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Minor: The V8 Vantage range is consolidated into the V8 Vantage GTS trim, which will be limited to just 100 units. The V12 Vantage S gains a new infotainment system (with Apple CarPlay), heated seats, and a 700-watt sound system as standard equipment. The optional Sport Plus package bumps output to 568 hp and 464 lb-ft of torque and adds alloy wheels, an Alcantara/leather interior, and a choice of five exterior color themes.

Driver’s Choice: The seven-speed manual V12 Vantage S is limited to just 100 units.

Sum Up: If you want a V-8 or a manual on the Vantage, you might want to hurry.

Aston Martin Vantage
Base Engine 4.7L/430-hp/361-lb-ft V-8
Opt Engine 5.9L/565-568-hp/457-465-lb-ft V-12
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 6M; 7M; 7-sp auto-cl manual
EPA Econ City/Hwy 12-14/18-21 mpg
0-60 mph 4.1-4.7 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/unlimited miles
* Estimated

 

2017 Audi A3

2017 Audi A3 sedan European Spec front three quarter 04

Base Price: $32,000-$45,500*

Body Type: Sedan, conv, hatch

Unchanged: The A3 e-tron plug-in hybrid model introduced last year is a stylish alternative in the often staid hybrid segment. With its 292 hp and all-wheel drive, the S3 remains the most fun you can have in a small Audi, and there are two turbo-four A3s providing plenty of choice even with the TDI diesel now gone from the lineup. Audi’s Virtual Cockpit digital instrument cluster is now available on the refreshed A3, which comes standard with the automaker’s pre-sense front active safety tech.

Driver’s Choice The S3 is a ton of fun to drive, but manually adjusted seats feel out of place in the nicely trimmed interior.

Sum Up: Entry-level luxe without sacrificing style or quality.

Audi A3
Base Engine 1.8L/170-hp/200-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 2.0L/220-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4; 2.0L/292-hp/280-lb-ft turbo I-4; 1.4L turbo I-4 + elec, 204 hp/258 lb-ft
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 6-sp twin-cl auto; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 23-31/31-43 mpg; 83 mpg-e
0-60 mph 4.7-7.3 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 53%

2017 Audi A4

2017 Audi A4 20T quattro front three quarter in motion 01

Base Price: $35,850-$50,500*

Body Type: Sedan

All-New: Don’t let the familiar look fool you. The A4 and S4 have been redesigned for 2017. The suspension has been improved, the curb weight is lower, the interior is an attractive step forward, the 12.3-inch instrument cluster display is brilliantly integrated, and a new turbocharged four-cylinder engine is said to deliver more power and efficiency than the engine it replaces. A new front-drive base model called the A4 Ultra lowers the entry price but increases EPA mileage to 27/37 mpg. Power on the A4 Ultra comes from a 190-hp turbocharged 2.0-liter I-4 with 236 lb-ft of torque.

Cool Fact: With all-wheel drive, the A4 2.0T model has been Motor Trend tested from 0-60 in an impressively quick 5.4 seconds.

Sum Up: Recognizable from the outside and improved everywhere else.

Audi A4
Base Engine 2.0L/190-hp/236-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 2.0L/252-hp/273-lb-ft turbo I-4; 3.0L/354-hp/368-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 7-sp twin-cl auto; 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 18-27/28-37 mpg
0-60 mph 4.4-7.1 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 52%
* Estimated

2017 Audi A5

2017 Audi A5 front three quarter

Base Price: $42,150-$62,050

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Unchanged: The A5 line gets a number of small updates. The S line’s Competition package’s rear lip spoiler and blacked-out trim, a three-spoke flat-bottom steering wheel, and parking sensors are now standard. A new Convenience package offers heated front seats, Audi advanced key, and auto-dimming exterior mirrors, and the Black Optic package includes 19-inch wheels and gloss black trim around the grille and exterior mirrors.

Look For: The all-new A5 lineup for 2018; until then, it’s the only Audi with a manual transmission.

Sum Up: Before the redesign arrives, the sleek Audi is still a compelling buy.

Audi A5
Base Engine 2.0L/220-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 3.0L/333-hp/325-lb-ft s’chg’d V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, AWD
Transmission 6M; 7-sp twin-cl auto; 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 17-22/26-32 mpg*
0-60 mph 5.0-6.9 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 54%
* Estimated

2017 Audi A6

2017 Audi A6 front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $48,550-$71,850

Body Type: Sedan

Minor: The A6 3.0T Competition bumps output to 340 hp and adds a standard Quattro sport rear differential, Valcona leather seats, a flat-bottom steering wheel, S exterior elements, black mirror housings, and 20-inch titanium wheels. All other A6 models come standard with the S line exterior, 18-inch wheels, and the Audi smartphone interface, which is optional on 2.0T variants. The diesel is no more.

Driver’s Choice: The supercharged V-6 of the 3.0T nicely splits the difference between aggressive driving and commuting.

Sum Up: The bread and butter from Ingolstadt is very good.

Audi A6
Base Engine 2.0L/252-hp/273-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 3.0L/333-340-hp/325-lb-ft s’chg’d V-6; 4.0L/450-hp/406-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 8A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 18-24/27-35 mpg
0-60 mph 3.8-6.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 48%
* Estimated

2017 Audi A7

2016-Audi-A7-30T-front-three-quarter

Base Price: $69,750-$111,650

Body Type: Hatchback

Minor: The A7 3.0T Competition is a new trim with more power (340 hp), the S line exterior, red brake calipers, and 20-inch titanium wheels. All A6 models now get the Audi smartphone interface standard, a Bose surround-sound system, and new 19-inch wheels. The S7 also gets a Premium Plus trim, which comes with 20-inch wheels or the option of 21-inch wheels with the Black Optic package.

Driver’s Choice: The RS 7 if you want to haul ass while hauling more than a CLS63 or M6 Gran Coupe ever could.

Sum Up: A6 bones in a much more visually appealing package.

Audi A7
Base Engine 3.0L/333-340-hp/325-lb-ft s’chg’d V-6
Opt Engine 4.0L/450-560-hp/406-516-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, AWD
Transmission 8A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 15-20/25-30 mpg
0-60 mph 3.2-5.4 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 47%
* Estimated

2017 Audi A8

2016 Audi A8 L 40T Sport front three quarter

Base Price: $83,450-$116,850

Body Type: Sedan

Minor: Audi will only offer its flagship in the long-wheelbase configuration from now on, following what BMW and Mercedes-Benz have done with their flagship sedans, but it keeps other changes light. 3.0T models now come standard with the Sport exterior, and a Black Optic package for 3.0T/4.0T models now includes black exterior accents, darkened taillights, and 20-inch wheels. The S8 now offers black leather seats with Arras red contrast stitching.

Driver’s Choice: The S8’s twin-turbo V-8 makes the flagship Audi a quintessential Q-ship.

Sum Up: A redesign of Audi’s executive sedan is just around the corner.

Audi A8
Base Engine 3.0L/333-hp/325-lb-ft s’chg’d V-6
Opt Engine 4.0L/450-605-hp/444-517-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8; 6.3L/500-hp/463-lb-ft W-12
Drivetrain Front engine, AWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 14-19/22-29 mpg
0-60 mph 3.5-5.8 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 44%

2017 Audi R8

2017 Audi R8 V10 Plus front three quarters 1

Base Price: $165,450-$192,450

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

All-New: We love that the R8’s high-revving V-10, borrowed from its Lamborghini Huracán platform-mate, makes do without the turbochargers that are so common today. The cabin sports diamond-stitched leather seats, switchgear that marries form and function perfectly, and a 12.3-inch virtual cockpit display instead of a traditional instrument cluster. The more recently revealed R8 Spyder completes the coupe-convertible supercar lineup.

Driver’s Choice The R8 V10 Plus gets you Lamborghini power in a less flashy package.

Sum Up: The R8 is only demure in contrast to its Lamborghini sibling.

Audi R8
Base Engine 5.2L/540-hp/398-lb-ft V-10
Opt Engine 5.2L/610-hp/413-lb-ft V-10
Drivetrain Mid engine, AWD
Transmission 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 14/22 mpg
0-60 mph 2.6-3.2 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles

2017 Audi TT

2017 Audi TT front three quarter

Base Price: $44,450-$53,450

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Minor: The Audi TT, all-new last year, gets a rearview camera and auto-dimming, power-folding side mirrors as standard equipment in 2017. A new Black Optic package adds a black grille surround, black exterior mirror housings, and 19-inch five-spoke wheels. The TTS package also adds a black rear diffuser and substitutes larger 20-inch five-spoke wheels. The TTS chassis makes quick work of a twisting back road.

Look For: The TT RS to arrive in 2017 sporting a 394-hp, turbocharged, 2.5-liter five-cylinder engine.

Sum Up: Pleasant to drive but not quite a sports car or luxury coupe.

Audi TT
Base Engine 2.0L/220-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 2.0L/292-hp/280-lb-ft turbo I-4
Drivetrain Front engine, AWD
Transmission 6-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 23/27-30 mpg
0-60 mph 4.4-5.6 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 53%

 

2017 Bentley Continental GT

2017 Bentley Continental GT Speed Black Edition front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $201,500-$266,100*

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Minor: The Continental GT Speed and GT Speed Convertible get more power (up to 633 hp and 619 lb-ft of torque), and Bentley has rolled out a new Black Edition, which blacks out exterior brightwork and adds all-black, 21-inch wheels, contrast color exterior accents in four colors (Hallmark, Beluga, St James’ Red, and Cyber Yellow), carbon-fiber interior trim pieces, Mulliner seats, and a sport steering wheel.

Cool Fact: The GT Speed has a top speed of 206 mph and hits 60 mph in an estimated 3.9 seconds.

Sum Up: One of the fastest ways to let people know you’re doing well.

Bentley Continental GT
Base Engine 4.0L/500-572-hp/487-518-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Opt Engine 6.0L/582-633-hp/531-619-lb-ft twin-turbo W-12
Drivetrain Front engine, AWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 12-15/20-25 mpg*
0-60 mph 3.6-4.2 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/unlimited mileage
* Estimated

2017 Bentley Flying Spur

2017 Bentley Flying Spur V8 S front in motion

Base Price: $206,800-228,100*

Body Type: Sedan

Minor:The Bentley Flying Spur V8 S is added for 2017. It slots between the V8 and W12 models and provides more sport than the regular V8 without compromising comfort. The V8 S gets a new grille, dark front and rear lamps, a revised suspension, a knurled gear lever and shift paddles, unique color combinations, and V8 S emblems throughout.

Driver’s Choice: If you want to drive instead of be driven, the V8 S promises luxury on the way and excitement when you get to those winding roads.

Sum Up: Updated and ready for super-luxurious battle with the Ghost.

Bentley Flying Spur
Base Engine 4.0L/505-521-hp/487-501-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Opt Engine 6.0L/616-hp/590-lb-ft twin-turbo W-12
Drivetrain Front engine, AWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 12-14/20-24 mpg*
0-60 mph 4.0-4.9 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/unlimited mileage
* Estimated

2017 Bentley Mulsanne

2017 Bentley Mulsanne Speed front three quarter 02

Base Price: $304,670-$335,600

Body Type: Sedan, convertible

Major: Last year the Mulsanne Speed made its debut with its overly generous 811 lb-ft of torque, and this year, an extended-wheelbase version adds 9.8 inches, along with a proper face-lift that updates the front-end styling. There’s a new armrest design and suspension tuning, both to increase comfort. The extended-wheelbase model will be limited to 25 units in the U.S.

Cool Fact: On a Mulsanne special-edition model shown in Beijing, the car featured a unique Fulbeck Walnut veneer sourced from a 350-year-old English walnut tree.

Sum Up: Bentley’s flagship sedan gets an extended update.

Bentley Mulsanne
Base Engine 6.8L/505-hp/752-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Opt Engine 6.8L/530-hp/811-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 11/18 mpg
0-60 mph 5.0-5.2 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/unlimited mileage

 

2017 BMW 2 Series

2016 BMW M2 coupe front three quarter turn

Base Price: $33,845-$52,695

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Major: BMW has given the 2 Series lineup two new engines along with the long-awaited M2, the car’s high-performance variant. The base model, now called the 230i, gets a new 248-hp, 2.0-liter I-4, and the M240i, which replaces the M235i, gets the 3.0-liter, turbocharged I-6 from the 340i. AWD remains available on all 2 Series models except for the M2, which is exclusively RWD.

Driver’s Choice: The M2 offers exceptional driving dynamics in a compact daily-driving package—a return to form for the Bavarian brand.

Sum Up: Pure driving fun like BMWs of years past.

BMW 2 Series
Base Engine 2.0L/248-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 3.0L/335-hp/369-lb-ft turbo I-6; 3.0L/365-hp/343-lb-ft turbo I-6
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 6M; 8A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 18-23/26-36 mpg*
0-60 mph 4.2-5.2 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 51%
* Estimated

2017 BMW 3 Series

2016 BMW 340i front three quarter

Base Price: $34,145-$87,145

Body Type: Sedan, hatchback, wagon

Major: After last year’s major refresh with the 330e plug-in hybrid and the 340i’s new 3.0-liter, turbocharged I-6, the 330i model makes its debut in 2017. A sedan, wagon, and newly refreshed Gran Turismo hatch comprise the 3 Series lineup. Replacing the 328i, the 330i introduces an updated turbo-four across the lineup. (The 328 name continues on 328d models.)  A new “30 Jahre M3” limited-edition model celebrates 30 years of the M3, 150 of which will reach the U.S. Learn more here.

Best Buy: The 330i offers an excellent blend of power, efficiency, and handling in your choice of sedan, wagon, or hatchback body styles.

Sum Up: The original sports sedan faces more competition than ever.

BMW 3 Series
Base Engine 2.0L/180-hp/200-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 2.0L/248-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4; 3.0L/320-hp/330-lb-ft turbo I-6; 2.0L/180-hp/280-lb-ft t-diesel I-4; 3.0L/425-444-hp/406-lb-ft twin-turbo I-6; 2.0L/250-hp/310-lb-ft turbo I-4 + elec
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 6M; 8A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 17-32/24-43 mpg*
0-60 mph 3.7-7.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 52%
* Estimated

2017 BMW 4 Series

2016 BMW 4 Series coupe front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $42,845-$75,695

Body Type: Coupe, convertible, hatch

Major: The BMW 4 Series receives the next generation of the automaker’s modular engines in 430i turbo-four and 440i turbo-six forms. The 4 Series lineup still includes the coupe, hardtop convertible, and Gran Coupe, a coupelike four-door. The M4 coupe and convertibles top the lineup, and this year the M4 coupe includes an adaptive M suspension. The $110,000 GTS is no more.

Driver’s Choice: The M4 offers nearly infinite ways to configure the car’s suspension, engine, steering, and transmission.

Sum Up: Still the legendary 3 Series at its core.

BMW 4 Series
Base Engine 2.0L/248-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 3.0L/320-hp/330-lb-ft turbo I-6; 3.0L/425-493-hp/406-443-lb-ft twin-turbo I-6
Drivetrain
Transmission 6M; 8A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 17-23/24-35 mpg*
0-60 mph 3.7-5.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 53%
* Estimated

2017 BMW 5 Series

2016 BMW 5 Series front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $52,000-$96,400*

Body Type: Sedan, hatchback

Unchanged: The midsize BMW, which is offered as a sedan and a four-door hatchback called the Gran Turismo, gets no changes in the lead-up to an all-new 5 Series. Powertrain choices include gas, diesel, and hybrid, and all offer class-competitive fuel efficiency. The lineup continues with the 5 Series-based 6 Series coupe, softtop convertible, and Gran Coupe, a coupelike four-door.

Look For An all-new 5 Series to make its debut sometime next year with updated engines and more semi-autonomous technologies.

Sum Up: BMW’s midsize luxury sedan prepares for a renewed battle with the E-Class.

BMW 5 Series
Base Engine 2.0L/240-hp/260-lb-ft turbo I-4*
Opt Engine 3.0L/300-hp/300-lb-ft turbo I-6; 3.0L/255-hp/413-lb-ft t-diesel I-6; 4.4L/445-600-hp/480-516-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8; 3.0L turbo I-6 + elec, 335 hp
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 6M; 8A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 15-32/22-45 mpg*
0-60 mph 3.8-6.2 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 49%
* Estimated

2017 BMW 6 Series

2016 BMW 6 Series front three quarter in motion

Base Price $78,595-$122,295

Body Type: Coupe, convertible, sedan

Minor: The 6 Series, which received a minor refresh last year, brings the latest version of iDrive and wireless charging with a Wi-Fi hot spot as standard equipment for 2017. You can personalize your 6 Series via BMW’s Individual Composition program, which allows buyers to opt for unique wood trims and matte exterior paint. Unlike the 4 Series’ drop-top variant, the 6 Series sticks with a traditional soft top.

Best Buy: The Alpina B6 xDrive Gran Coupe is perfect for those who want an exclusive autobahn-ready cruise missile.

Sum Up: A grand tourer that doubles as a personal rocket.

BMW 6 Series
Base Engine 3.0L/315-hp/330-lb-ft turbo I-6
Opt Engine 4.4L/445-600-hp/480-590-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 6M; 8A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 14-21/20-30 mpg
0-60 mph 3.9-5.4 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 49%

2017 BMW 7 Series

2016 BMW 7 Series front three quarters

Base Price: $82,495-$137,995

Body Type: Sedan

Major: The new Alpina B7 xDrive and M760i xDrive join the 2017 7 Series lineup. Both cars pack about 600 hp and 590 lb-ft of torque, giving them prodigious power on tap, and the standard AWD system should provide plenty of grip and traction for all kinds of fun on the road. The fancy Display key is now standard on all 7 Series models, remote-controlled parking is now available on 740 and 750 models, and M Sport brakes are a standalone option. Offered in price between the 740i and 750i models is the new 740e xDrive iPerformance, an all-wheel-drive plug-in hybrid with a net output of 322 hp and an EV range of 14 miles.

Cool Fact: The Alpina B7 xDrive has a top speed of 193 mph.

Sum Up: A true M-badged 7 Series is getting closer and closer.

BMW 7 Series
Base Engine 3.0L/315-hp/330-lb-ft turbo I-6
Opt Engine 4.4L/445-600-hp/480-590-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8; 6.6L/591-hp/590-lb-ft twin-turbo V-12; 2.0L/255-hp/295-lb-ft turbo I-4 + elec
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 15-20/20-29 mpg*
0-60 mph 3.6-5.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 42%
* Estimated

2017 BMW i3

2017 BMW i3 Front Three Quarter

Base Price: $44,595-$48,445

Body Type: Hatchback

Major: A 33-kW-hr lithium-ion battery has upped the i3’s electric-only range to 114 miles without increasing the unit’s dimensions. The new battery’s usable energy has increased from 18.8 kW-hrs to 27.2 kW-hrs. The i8’s Protonic Blue metallic exterior color is available on the i3, and newly standard equipment includes 19-inch wheels and two years of no-cost DC Fast charging from ChargeNow.

Cool Fact: The i3 offers a two-cylinder gas-engine range extender that now has a 25 percent larger fuel tank (2.4 gallons).

Sum Up: Ultimate urban runabout is more practical.

BMW i3
Base Motor 170-hp/184-lb-ft electric
Opt range-extending engine 38-hp I-2
Drivetrain Rear motor, RWD
Transmission 1A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 117-124 mpg-e*; 114-150 miles*
0-60 mph 6.4-8.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 BMW i8

BMW-i8-Concours-d-Elegance-Edition-front-three-quarter-in-motion1

Base Price: $141,700*

Body Type: Hatch

Unchanged:The BMW i8 isn’t expected to get a major update for the next year or two, but it could receive a host of new features, such as an updated iDrive multimedia interface with gesture control. BMW might also add a larger battery pack and a more powerful electric motor to improve the i8’s performance and range. The current i8 can travel more than 10 miles on electric power alone. The Protonic Red Edition, a special edition, will be limited to 100 units in the U.S.

Look For A convertible to join the standard i8 coupe in the near future.

Sum Up: Your environmentally friendly hybrid exotic sports car.

BMW i8
Base Engine 1.5L turbo I-3 + elec, 357 hp/420 lb-ft
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Mid engine, AWD
Transmission 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 28/29 mpg*; 76 mpg-e
0-60 mph 3.8 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
* Estimated

BMW Z5

2016 BMW Z4 front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $50,000-$65,000*

Body Type: Convertible

All-New: The Z5 will be the successor to the Z4 (pictured) and the first sports car born of a collaboration between BMW and Toyota. Judging from new spy photos, the Z5 will ditch the folding hard top in favor of a simpler and lighter soft top. Additionally, it’s possible that the Z5 will be smaller than the car it replaces, which could make it handle better. Expect BMW’s family of modular engines, including a turbocharged I-4 and I-6, to be offered.

Cool Fact: Magna Steyr may build the Z5 for BMW in Austria alongside Toyota’s Supra successor.

Sum Up: The BMW roadster returns with help from Toyota.

BMW Z5
Base Engine 2.0L/248-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4*
Opt Engine 3.0L/335-hp/369-lb-ft turbo I-6*
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 8A*; 7-sp twin-cl auto*
EPA Econ City/Hwy 20-24/30-33 mpg*
0-60 mph 4.6-5.3 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
* Estimated

 

2017 Buick Cascada

2017 Buick Cascada Sport Touring Nose Shot

Base Price: $34,000*

Body Type: Convertible

Unchanged: The Cascada, a four-seater that’s more at home cruising on the highway than carving up winding mountain roads, is Buick’s first convertible since the Reatta. The Cascada isn’t expected to get any changes for 2017, because it was new to the U.S. market for 2016. All Cascadas are powered by a 1.6-liter turbo-four with 200 hp and 207 lb-ft of torque paired to a six-speed automatic transmission.

Cool Fact: The Cascada is sold in Europe under General Motors’ Opel and Vauxhall brands and assembled in Poland.

Sum Up: An American drop-top cruiser with a hint of European flair.

Buick Cascada
Base Engine 1.6L/200-hp/207-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 20/27 mpg
0-60 mph 8.9 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles

2017 Buick LaCrosse

2017 Buick LaCrosse front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $32,990

Body Type: Sedan

All-New: The 2017 Buick LaCrosse is 300 pounds lighter than the car it replaces, thanks to the extensive use of high-strength steel. A new direct-injected, 305-hp V-6 engine paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission lies under the hood. GM’s patented HiPer Strut front suspension is used on front-drive versions, but an electronically controlled continuous damping control is also available and comes with two modes.

Cool Fact: The 2017 LaCrosse is the first U.S.-spec Buick to wear the new colored tri-shield emblem.

Sum Up: Looking younger than ever and aimed at your hip neighbor.

Buick LaCrosse
Base Engine 2.4L/182-hp/172-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 2.0L/259-hp/295-lb-ft turbo I-4
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 20-21/29-31 mpg
0-60 mph 6.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 45%
* Estimated

2017 Buick Regal

2016-Buick-Regal-side-profile

Base Price: $29,000-$38,000*

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: Three new exterior colors, Graphite Gray Metallic, Black Cherry Metallic, and Pepperdust Metallic, have been added to the 2017 Regal. Powertrain choices remain the same: the 182-hp, 2.4-liter I-4 standard and the 259-hp, 2.0-liter turbo-four optional. All-wheel drive is offered on turbo-four models.

Driver’s Choice Available in front- or all-wheel drive, the sporty Regal GS trim adds an upgraded suspension, bigger brakes, larger alloy wheels, and a drive mode selector with a GS mode.

Sum Up: An American midsize sedan with a hint of European dynamics.

Buick Regal
Base Engine 2.4L/182-hp/172-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 2.0L/259-hp/295-lb-ft turbo I-4
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 19-21/27-30 mpg
0-60 mph 6.1-9.1 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 45%
* Estimated

Buick Verano (discontinued)

2016-Buick-Verano-Turbo-front-three-quarter-in-motion-03

Discontinued: The discontinued Buick Verano served the automaker as its lease expensive sedan, below the Regal that’s about to be redesigned. With the success of the Encore subcompact crossover, Buick has decided to stop selling in the U.S. the quiet Verano, which was powered by naturally aspirated and turbocharged four-cylinder engines.

Avoid: Looking for a direct successor. Buick is focusing more on crossovers, such as the new Envision, after the Verano goes away.

Sum Up: The end of spring has arrived.

Buick Verano
Base Engine 2.4L/180-hp/171-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 2.0L/250-hp/260-lb-ft turbo I-4
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; 6A
0-60 mph 6.4-8.3 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 43%
* Estimated

 

2017 Cadillac ATS

2017 Cadillac ATS Coupe front three quarters in motion 1

Base Price: $34,500-$62,000*

Body Type: Sedan, coupe

Minor: The Cadillac ATS lineup got a boost in performance last year with a new V-6 engine and an eight-speed automatic replacing the old six-speed unit. A new Black Chrome model with 18-inch wheels featuring a special finish, gloss black side-window trim, and Black Chrome exterior accents joins the lineup. In its segment, the ATS is one of the most driver-focused options, offering exceptional handling and balance. There’s a new Carbon Black package, and the naturally aspirated 2.5-liter I-4 is gone from the lineup.

Driver’s Choice: Anything from the 272-hp turbo-four model to the 464-hp ATS-V, but any ATS should be fun to drive.

Sum Up: America’s compact luxury sport sedan loves to mix it up with its global rivals.

Cadillac ATS
Base Engine 2.0L/272-hp/295-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 3.6L/335-hp/285-lb-ft V-6*; 3.6L/464-hp/445-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 6M; 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 16-22/23-31 mpg
0-60 mph 3.7-6.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 46%
* Estimated

2017 Cadillac CT6

2016 Cadillac CT6 front three quarter in motion 01

Base Price $55,500-$66,500*

Body Type Sedan

Major: The CT6 flagship sedan, slotting above the CTS and XTS, made its debut last year. A plug-in hybrid variant that pairs a 2.0-liter, turbocharged I-4 with an electric motor for a total output of 335 hp and 432 lb-ft of torque could join the lineup for 2017. Unlike the gas-powered models, the CT6 plug-in hybrid will likely use an e-CVT instead of the standard eight-speed automatic transmission.

Cool Fact: The Cadillac CT6 plug-in hybrid will be the second GM vehicle (after the Buick Envision) built in China.

Sum Up: Cadillac’s new flagship takes aim at its German rivals.

Cadillac CT6
Base Engine 2.0L/295-hp/295-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 3.6L/335-hp/284-lb-ft V-6; 3.0L/404-hp/400-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6; 2.0L + elec, 335-hp/432-lb-ft turbo I-4*
Drivetrain Front engine RWD/AWD
Transmission 8A; CVT*
EPA Econ City/Hwy 18-23/26-32 mpg*
0-60 mph 5.0-6.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Cadillac CTS

2017 Cadillac CTS front in motion 2

Base Price: $47,000-$86,000*

Body Type: Sedan

Minor: The CTS enters 2017 with minor changes to its front and rear styling, and now offers the Rear Camera Mirror we first saw on the CT6 sedan and XT5 crossover. A new Carbon Black package to dress up the sedan’s exterior, with carbon fiber interior trim and available Recaro front seats.

Driver’s Choice The 640-hp CTS-V offers weapons-grade power and exceptional handling, which makes it almost like a four-door Corvette Z06 in a tuxedo.

Sum Up: America’s answer to the E-Class.

Cadillac CTS
Base Engine 2.0L/268-hp/295-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 3.6L/335-hp/285-lb-ft V-6; 3.6L/420-hp/430-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6; 6.2L/640-hp/630-lb-ft s’chg’d V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 6M; 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 14-22/21-30 mpg
0-60 mph 3.8-6.0 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 45%
* Estimated

2017 Cadillac XTS

2017 Cadillac XTS front three quarter

Base Price: $46,290-$67,790*

Body Type: Sedan

Minor: Currently one of the largest sedans offered by Cadillac, the XTS is more of a cruiser. For 2017, the XTS will likely receive only minor changes, which could possibly include more creature comfort features, additionally alloy wheel designs, and new exterior colors. A 410-hp, twin-turbo V-6 in the XTS VSport offers plenty of power for high-speed highway cruising.

Look For: A more comfort-oriented suspension setup in the XTS even when equipped with the available Magnetic Ride Control dampers.

Sum Up: The affordable American luxury sedan for when the CTS is too small.

Cadillac XTS
Base Engine 3.6L/305-hp/264-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine 3.6L/410-hp/369-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 16-18/23-28 mpg
0-60 mph 5.3-6.9 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 40%

2017 Chevrolet Bolt

2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV front side view parked

Base Price $37,500*

Body Type Hatchback

All-New: Is 200 miles enough range to make you consider switching from your hybrid to an electric vehicle? Chevrolet’s Bolt aims to test that by delivering an EV with Tesla-like range, for a mainstream price. Chevrolet plans to introduce an unprecedented level of smartphone integration with the ability to unlock the doors as a paired phone approaches while managing other features (including enabling car sharing) via the car’s data connection.

Look For The Bolt in showrooms by the end of the year.

Sum Up: The affordable 200-plus-mile EV Volt fans have been asking for.

Chevrolet Bolt
Base Motor 200-hp/266-lb-ft electric
Opt Motor None
Drivetrain Front motor, FWD
Transmission 1A
EPA Econ City/Hwy Not Yet Rated
0-60 mph 6.9 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Chevrolet Camaro

2017 Chevrolet Camaro 50th Anniversary front three quarter in motion 05 1

Base Price: $27,300-$44,900

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Major: New 1LE packages give V-6 and V-8 models improved handling. The ZL1 returns sporting a 640-hp, supercharged V-8, which also appears in the Cadillac CTS-V, and will be the first application of the 10-speed automatic co-developed with Ford. A special 50th Anniversary edition will get unique badging, Nightfall Gray paint, 20-inch wheels, an orange stripe package, and a black suede and orange contrast stitched interior.

Look For: A Z/28 to make its debut in the next year to challenge the Mustang GT350R.

Sum Up: Motor Trend’s 2016 Car of the Year looks ready to take another run at Best Driver’s Car.

Chevrolet Camaro
Base Engine 2.0L/275-hp/295-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 3.6L/335-hp/284-lb-ft V-6; 6.2L/455-hp/455-lb-ft V-8; 6.2L/640-hp/640-lb-ft s’chg’d V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 6M; 8A; 10A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 13-22/21-31 mpg*
0-60 mph 3.3-5.3 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 55%
* Estimated

2017 Chevrolet Corvette

2017 Chevrolet Corvette Grand Sport front three quarter in motion 11

Base Price: $56,400-$84,400*

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Minor: A performance model called the Grand Sport joins the lineup between the Z06 and the Stingray. With the Grand Sport, Chevrolet creates a desirable middle ground by adding wider wheels (up 1.5 inches in front and 2 inches wider in back), standard Magnetic Ride Control, bigger brakes (14-inch fronts, and 13.6-inch rears), and a smattering of track-focused aero elements.

Cool Fact: The Grand Sport with the Z07 package was just 1 second slower than the previous-gen ZR1 around GM’s Milford Proving Ground handling circuit.

Sum Up: Chevrolet’s supercar-beating icon gets more diverse.

Chevrolet Camaro
Base Engine 6.2L/455-460-hp/460-465-lb-ft V-8
Opt Engine 6.2L/650-hp/650-lb-ft s’chg’d V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 7M; 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 13-17/22-29 mpg
0-60 mph 3.2-3.8 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 57%

2017 Chevrolet Cruze2017 Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback front side view

Base Price: $17,500-$23,100*

Body Type: Sedan, hatchback

Minor: The Cruze adds a hatchback model this year after being fully redesigned for 2016. The Hatchback offers 18.5 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats and 47.2 cubic feet with the rear seat folded (up from 13.9-14.8 cubic feet in the sedans). If you want a sportier look, the RS is available in both body styles and provides more aggressive styling with improved handling.

Commuter’s Choice Pick a Cruze with the smaller 16-inch wheels for a quieter, more compliant ride.

Sum Up: Classier Chevrolet compact adds a cargo-friendly hatch.

Chevrolet Cruze
Base Engine 1.5L/153-hp/177-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 29-30/40-41 mpg*
0-60 mph 8.0-8.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 51%
* Estimated

2017 Chevrolet Impala

2016-Chevrolet-Impala-LTZ-front-three-quarters

Base Price: $28,175-$36,520

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: We expect the Impala to roll into its fourth year on the market without any major changes. The Impala’s LTZ trim gets renamed Premier to match the top trim of the Chevrolet Malibu and Cruze. Before an updated model arrives, we might see one or two new exterior colors, too. If you don’t care much for acceleration, the four cylinder is fine, but if you’re anything like us, spring for the 3.6-liter V-6.

Best Buy: A completely loaded Impala if the new Buick LaCrosse’s new styling isn’t for you.

Sum Up: A solid full-sizer backed by a nameplate that’s been around for decades.

Chevrolet Impala
Base Engine 2.5L/196-hp/186-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 3.6L/305-hp/264-lb-ft V-6; 3.6L/230-260-hp/218-248-lb-ft CNG-gas V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 18-22/28-30 mpg
0-60 mph 6.2-9.1 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 43%
* Estimated

2017 Chevrolet Malibu

2016 Chevrolet Malibu front three quarter in motion 03

Base Price: $23,000-$32,000*

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: All-new for 2016, the Malibu looks poised for a quiet year. We hope the rearview camera will be made standard on the base Malibu, which is much improved compared to the previous generation. The available turbocharged, 2.0-liter I-4 is noticeably quicker than the turbocharged, 1.5-liter I-4 when merging with a full load of passengers, and it’s definitely the better option if you’re frequently filling three or more of the seats.

Cool Fact: The Hybrid can hit 55 mph on all-electric power.

Sum Up: Back on track.

Chevrolet Malibu
Base Engine 1.5L/163-hp/184-ft-lb turbo I-4
Opt Engine 2.0L/250-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4; 1.8L I-4 + elec, 182 hp
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6A; 8A; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 22-48/33-45 mpg*
0-60 mph 6.2-8.5 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 45%
* Estimated

2017 Chevrolet Sonic

2017 Chevrolet Sonic hatchback 3

Base Price: $15,500-$21,000*

Body Type: Sedan, hatchback

Major: The Sonic gets a new look that bears some family resemblance to the smaller Spark and upcoming Bolt, a 7.0-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, LED lighting accents, a standard rearview camera, an available power driver’s seat, and four new exterior color options: Orange Burst Metallic, Brimstone, Cajun Red Tintcoat, and Arctic Blue Metallic.

Cool Fact: Available forward collision and lane departure systems warn you if your attention wanders.

Sum Up: Everyday usability upgrades and new looks inject the Sonic with added appeal.

Chevrolet Sonic
Base Engine 1.8L/138-hp/125-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 1.4L/138-hp/148-lb-ft turbo I-4
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 5M; 6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 24-29/33-40 mpg*
0-60 mph 8.1-9.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 48%
* Estimated

2017 Chevrolet Spark

2016 Chevrolet Spark LT front three quarter

Base Price $13,600-$26,000*

Body Type Hatchback

Unchanged: After big changes for 2016, the Spark looks to be in for a quiet year. Chevrolet might introduce and discontinue a few colors to keep things interesting, but expect the Spark to largely stay the course, which isn’t a bad thing. The Spark is a pleasant place to spend your commute, especially with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. It’s unclear if the EV will survive, but its demise isn’t confirmed yet.

Avoid: Getting into a situation where you need to make abrupt passing maneuvers—the 98-hp Spark is Slow with a capital S.

Sum Up: Great for a city car but uncomfortable for four full-size passengers.

Chevrolet Spark
Base Engine 1.4L/98-hp/94-lb-ft I-4
Opt Motor 140-hp/327-lb-ft elec
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 5M; CVT; 1A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 30-31/40 mpg*; 128/109 mpg-e
0-60 mph 8.0-10.7 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Chevrolet SS

2016 Chevrolet SS front three quarter in motion

Base Price $49,000*

Body Type Sedan

Discontinued: This is it, the end of the line for the best sedan to wear a Bow Tie for 2017 and arguably one of the most enthusiast-oriented sport sedans ever made. The 415-hp, 6.2-liter V-8 driving the rear wheels through an available slick six-speed manual transmission isn’t long for this world, as the plant making them in Australia is slated to end production this year, though GM has also said there’s no end date yet. The 415-hp, 6.2-liter V-8 driving the rear wheels through an available slick six-speed manual transmission isn’t long for this world, as the plant making them in Australia is slated to end production this year.

Driver’s Choice The SS has been heralded as the second coming of the BMW E39 M5, the legendary sport sedan.

Sum Up: Farewell?

Chevrolet SS
Base Engine 6.2L/415-hp/415-lb-ft V-8
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 14/20-22 mpg*
0-60 mph 4.5-4.6 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Chevrolet Volt

2016-Chevrolet-Volt-front-side-view1

Base Price: $34,095-38,445

Body Type: Hatchback

Minor: Chevrolet isn’t content to rest on its laurels after introducing the all-new Volt for 2016. The 2017 model adds automatic braking, adaptive cruise control, and a new exterior paint option, Citron Green Metallic. The tech-forward Volt seems like a natural standard-bearer for the latest near-autonomous tech features from Chevrolet. Depending on your commute, the Volt can stretch a tank of fuel surprising distances between fill-ups.

Best Buy The Volt is a better option than the Bolt if you plan to do any road tripping.

Sum Up: With the Cadillac ELR gone, the Volt should look nice next to that CTS-V in the garage.

Chevrolet Volt
Base Engine 149-hp/294-lb-ft elec + 1.5L/101-hp I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 42 mpg; 106 mpg-e
0-60 mph 7.5 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles

2017 Chrysler 200

2016 Chrysler 200 Limited front three quarter in motion

Base Price $22,000-$32,800*

Body Type Sedan

Unchanged: The Chrysler 200 isn’t likely to get any updates for the 2017 model year except for the possible addition of new exterior color choices and a special-edition model. FCA’s Uconnect infotainment system might receive an upgrade that could include Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. In the midsize sedan class, the 200 is also one of a select few entries available with AWD. You can only get it when you go for the 295-hp, 3.6-liter V-6, though.

Avoid Hoping for an FCA-engineered successor to the 200.

Sum Up: Slowly fading under the ever-increasing industry demand for crossovers.

Chrysler 200
Base Engine 2.4L/184-hp/173-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 3.6L/295-hp/262-lb-ft V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 9A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 18-23/29-36 mpg*
0-60 mph 6.3-8.7 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 45%
* Estimated

2017 Chrysler 300

2016 Chrysler 300 Limited front three quarter

Base Price: $33,500-$46,500*

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: The 2017 Chrysler 300 might receive the updated Uconnect multimedia interface, which now has expanded features that include Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Both the 3.6-liter V-6 and 5.7-liter V-8 should remain as the only engine choices and come paired to the same ZF-sourced eight-speed auto. In case you want a sporty full-size sedan, the 300 is available in an S trim, which can be had with either engine choice.

Look For: A successor to the 300 that might ditch the current rear-drive layout in favor of a lighter front-drive configuration.

Sum Up: Still offering great curb appeal in an affordable full-size package.

Chrysler 300
Base Engine 3.6L/292-300-hp/260-264-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine 5.7L/363-hp/394-lb-ft V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 16-19/25-31 mpg
0-60 mph 5.6-6.4 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 46%

2017 Dodge Challenger

2016 Dodge Challenger SXT front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $28,000-65,500*

Body Type: Coupe

Minor: Don’t expect any changes other than special-edition variants for the 2017 Dodge Challenger, as it remains one of Dodge’s best-selling vehicles. The Challenger is the most reminiscent of the muscle cars of the ’60s and ’70s—it offers prodigious power when equipped with the optional V-8 engines. The range-topping Challenger SRT Hellcat is billed as the most powerful muscle car available today.

Look For: Many bald sets of high-dollar performance tires if you get the 707-hp Challenger SRT Hellcat.

Sum Up: When all that matters is ridiculous power and burnouts.

Dodge Challenger
Base Engine 3.6L/305-hp/268-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine 5.7L/372-375-hp/400-410-lb-ft V-8; 6.4L/485-hp/475-lb-ft V-8; 6.2L/707-hp/650-lb-ft s’chg’d V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 6M; 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 13-19/21-30 mpg
0-60 mph 3.7-6.0 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 61%

2017 Dodge Charger

2016 Dodge Charger R/T Scat Pack

Base Price $29,000-$69,000*

Body Type Sedan

Minor: The Challenger’s four-door sibling, the Dodge Charger won’t likely receive any major updates except for new colors or special editions, but an all-new model will be arriving in a few years. No Charger variant is available with a six-speed manual, but the car is nonetheless a powerful and capable full-size sedan, and in SRT or Scat Pack guise it will blow the doors off most cars.

Driver’s Choice The 707-hp Charger SRT Hellcat is perfect if you’ve got a family and want a muscle car with insane amounts of power.

Sum Up: Your family muscle car turned up to 11.

Dodge Charger
Base Engine 3.6L/292-300-hp/260-264-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine 5.7L/370-hp/395-lb-ft V-8; 6.4L/485-hp/475-lb-ft V-8; 6.2L/707-hp/650-lb-ft s’chg’d V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 13-19/22-31 mpg
0-60 mph 3.7-6.6 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 53%

2017 Dodge Dart

2016 Dodge Dart Limited front three quarter in motion 02

Base Price: $18,000-$25,000*

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: The Dodge Dart lineup has been streamlined to three trim levels, and it likely won’t receive any changes for 2017 except for new colors. There’s a possibility that the available Uconnect multimedia interface could get updated to the newest version, which features Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Mechanical changes may not be coming, as FCA has announced that the Dart isn’t getting an FCA-engineered replacement.

Cool Fact: The Dart shares its platform with the Chrysler 200, Alfa Romeo Giulietta, and Jeep Cherokee.

Sum Up: Say goodbye to a compact that never caught on.

Dodge Dart
Base Engine 2.0L/160-hp/148-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 1.4L/160-hp/184-lb-ft turbo I-4; 2.4L/184-hp/174-lb-ft I-4
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; 6A; 6-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 22-28/31-41 mpg
0-60 mph 7.5-9.9 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 stars; IIHS: TSP
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 50%
* Estimated

2017 Dodge Viper

2017 Dodge Viper ACR with Extreme Aero package

Base Price: $92,500

Body Type: Coupe

Discontinued: The Dodge Viper says goodbye with a number of special-edition models. Learn about them here. Should you want an ultra-exclusive personalized Viper, you can opt to do so via Dodge’s 1 of 1 program, which allows you to customize any trim you’d like, including the ACR.

Avoid Waiting to get a Viper of your own, as the car has been officially discontinued. It’s going out with multiple special editions.

Sum Up: Exclusivity and track prowess wrapped into a single potent supercar.

Dodge Viper
Base Engine 8.4L/645-hp/600-lb-ft V-10
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 6M
EPA Econ City/Hwy 12/21 mpg
0-60 mph 3.3-3.5 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 53%

2017 Ferrari 488 GTB

2016-Ferrari-488-GTB-front-three-quarter-in-motion-13

Base Price $245,000-$275,000*

Body Type Coupe, convertible

Unchanged: A 488 Spider convertible variant was added for the 2016 model year and, like the 488 GTB, features a mid-mounted, 660-hp, twin-turbo V-8 powering the rear wheels. Like the outgoing 458 Spider, the 488 Spider comes with a power retractable aluminum hard top that folds neatly in a space between the driver and the car’s engine. The top unfolds and retracts in 14 seconds.

Listen For An intoxicating exhaust note from the car’s twin-turbo V-8 that only a Ferrari engine makes.

Sum Up: Beauty, power, and a symphonic engine note in one exclusive package.

Ferrari 488 GTB
Base Engine 3.9L/661-hp/561-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Mid engine, RWD
Transmission 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 16/22 mpg*
0-60 mph 2.9 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/unlimited miles
* Estimated

 


2017 Ferrari California T

2017 Ferrari California T Handling Speciale front three quarter in motion 03

Base Price $206,500*

Body Type Convertible

Minor: The biggest change for the 2017 Ferrari California T is the addition of the Handling Speciale package, which adds stiffer springs, magnetic dampers that have been reprogrammed for a sportier ride, a more aggressive Sport mode, and exhaust resonators that make the car louder by 3 decibels. The car’s seven-speed twin-clutch gearbox has also been tuned for 30 percent quicker upshifts and
40 percent quicker downshifts.

Cool Fact The California was the first V-8-powered Ferrari with the engine placed up front.

Sum Up: Ferrari’s highest-volume model gets sharper.

Ferrari California T
Base Engine 3.9L/553-hp/557-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 16/23 mpg*
0-60 mph 3.6 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/unlimited miles
* Estimated

2017 Ferrari F12 Berlinetta

Ferrari-F12-Berlinetta-front-three-quarters

Base Price: $350,000*

Body Type: Coupe

Minor: A limited-production model called the F12tdf was released with only 799 units made. Compared to the standard F12 Berlinetta, the F12tdf has an upgraded V-12 engine packing 770 hp and 520 lb-ft of torque, and it comes with a quicker seven-speed twin-clutch gearbox with shorter ratios. The car also gets a wider track, larger wheels, brakes lifted out of the LaFerrari, and four-wheel steering.

Cool Fact: The F12 Berlinetta is one of the last Ferraris to be powered by a high-revving naturally aspirated engine.

Sum Up: Packed with a screaming V-12 for devouring the open road.

Ferrari F12 Berlinetta
Base Engine 6.3L/731-hp/509-lb-ft V-12
Opt Engine 6.3L/770-hp/520-lb-ft V-12
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 11-12/15-17 mpg
0-60 mph 2.9-3.6 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/unlimited miles
* Estimated

2017 Ferrari GTC4Lusso

2017 Ferrari GTC4Lusso front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $310,000*

Body Type: Hatchback

Major: Formerly known as the FF, the Ferrari GTC4Lusso features a hatchback and four individual seats for improved practicality. The 6.3-liter V-12 remains, but it’s been massaged to make 681 hp and 514 lb-ft of torque and has one of the highest compression ratios of any engine produced. There’s a new 10.3-inch touchscreen with an improved infotainment system for better connectivity.

Cool Fact The GTC4Lusso name pays homage to three classic Ferraris, the 330 GTC, 330 GT and 250 GT Berlinetta Lusso.

Sum Up: The more practical, all-weather Ferrari.

Ferrari GTC4Lusso
Base Engine 681-hp/514-lb-ft 6.2-liter V-12
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, AWD
Transmission 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 11/16-17 mpg*
0-60 mph 3.4 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/unlimited miles
* Estimated

2017 Fiat 124 Spider

2017 Fiat 124 Spider Lusso front three quarter in motion 01

Base Price: $25,990-$29,190

Body Type: Convertible

All-New: After more than 30 years, the Fiat 124 Spider is back, and it now shares its chassis with the venerable Mazda MX-5 Miata. Powered by the same 1.4-liter turbo-four found in the 500 Abarth, the Fiat 124 Spider offers slightly more power and different suspension tuning than its Japanese platform mate.

Driver’s Choice: The 124 Spider Abarth gets an upgraded suspension with Bilstein shocks, a front strut tower brace, a mechanical limited-slip differential, and a 4-hp bump over the 124 Spider Classica and Lusso trims.

Sum Up: A classic roadster returns to spice up our lives.

Fiat 124 Spider
Base Engine 1.4L/160-164-hp/184-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 25-26/35-36 mpg
0-60 mph 6.3-6.5 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Fiat 500

2016 Fiat 500 front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $17,000-$27,000*

Body Type: Hatchback, convertible

Minor: At 10 years old worldwide, the Fiat 500 is now a super senior citizen. Despite its age, its exterior styling has stood the test of time. For 2017, expect the 500 lineup to receive a host of cosmetic changes, including LED daytime running lights and restyled front and rear fascias. An infotainment upgrade to FCA’s 7.0-inch Uconnect interface could also be in the cards.

Driver’s Choice: The Fiat 500 Abarth with a 160-hp, turbocharged I-4 is a small hot hatch that’s fun to drive and provides a glorious exhaust note.

Sum Up: Still looking good, but we’re ready for the next act.

Fiat 500
Base Engine 1.4L/101-hp/97-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 1.4L/135-160-hp/150-183-lb-ft turbo I-4; 111-hp/147-lb-ft electric
Drivetrain Front engine/motor, FWD
Transmission 5M; 6A; 1A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 24-31/32-40 mpg; 121/103 mpg-e
0-60 mph 6.7-11.6 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 4 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 43%

2017 Fiat 500L

2016-Fiat-500L-Trekking-front-three-quarter-in-motion

Base Price: $20,500*

Body Type: Hatchback

Unchanged: The polarizing Fiat 500L mini-minivan hasn’t held up as well as its smaller hatchback sibling, and last year the automaker replaced the six-speed dual-clutch automatic with a more conventional six-speed torque-converter unit on higher trim levels. A new version of FCA’s excellent Uconnect infotainment system with a larger touchscreen could be in the cards for 2017, as could an exterior design refresh.

Cool Fact The 500L’s maximum cargo capacity of 68 cubic feet is more than that of many compact crossovers.

Sum Up: Good for those who binge shop at Ikea but don’t want something with a large footprint.

Fiat 500L
Base Engine 1.4L/160-hp/184-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; 6A; 6-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 22-25/30-33 mpg
0-60 mph 8.6-8.8 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 41%
* Estimated

2017 Ford C-Max

2016 Ford C Max Hybrid front three quarter

Base Price: $25,000-$32,500*

Body Type: Hatchback

Unchanged: A replacement for the C-Max is rumored to be in the works within the next two years. That’s a good thing, too, as both the Toyota Prius and the Chevrolet Volt have seen major updates. The C-Max is offered as a hybrid and Energi plug-in hybrid, which has an EPA-estimated 20 miles of all-electric range. With the right commute, you could reap the benefits of driving an EV without the range anxiety.

Cool Fact Rebates and cash incentives can help make the Energi a great deal, depending on where you live.

Sum Up: Updates can’t come soon enough.

Ford C-Max
Base Engine 2.0L I-4 + elec, 188-hp
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 42/37 mpg; 95/81 mpg-e
0-60 mph 8.1-8.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 4 stars; IIHS: TSP
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 43%
* Estimated

2017 Ford Fiesta

2016 Ford Fiesta front three quarter in motion 02

Base Price: $15,000-$22,000*

Body Type: Sedan, hatchback

Unchanged: We expect the Ford Fiesta to gain a standard rearview camera but to stay the course otherwise. (A federal mandate requires all new vehicles weighing less than 10,000 pounds to have a rearview camera by 2018.) The Fiesta is still easily the most fun hatchback in the subcompact segment, especially when fitted with one of the available turbocharged engines.

Cool Fact: If you’re craving more power from your ST, the Mountune MP215 kit adds power (up to 215 hp/236 lb-ft of torque) without affecting the factory warranty.

Sum Up: The base models are a little plain, but add a turbo for the most fun.

Ford Fiesta
Base Engine 1.6L/120-hp/112-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 1.0L/123-hp/148-lb-ft turbo I-3; 1.6L/197-hp/202-lb-ft turbo I-4
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 5M; 6M; 6-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 26-31/33-43 mpg
0-60 mph 6.4-9.5 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 4 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 49%

2017 Ford Focus

2016 Ford Focus ST front three quarter in motion 02

Base Price: $18,100-$37,000*

Body Type: Sedan, hatchback

Major: The Focus RS is finally here. It’s powerful and precise, and it’s the first RS to land on our shores despite multiple generations overseas. We don’t anticipate many changes to the rest of the lineup beyond the addition of a standard rearview camera. All models in the Focus family are competent handlers, though non-performance models are a bit more pedestrian in their acceleration.

Cool Fact: The Ford Focus RS comes with a “drift mode,” which sends the majority of the power to the rear wheels for big, smoky donuts.

Sum Up: AWD and a drift mode? The Focus doesn’t get better than the RS.

Ford Focus
Base Engine 2.0L/160-hp/146-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 1.0L/123-hp/125-lb-ft turbo I-3; 2.0L/252-hp/270-lb-ft turbo I-4; 143-hp/184-lb-ft electric; 2.3L/350-hp/350-lb-ft turbo I-4
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 5M; 6M; 6-sp twin-cl auto; 1A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 19-30/25-42 mpg; 110/99 mpg-e
0-60 mph 4.7-8.4 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 stars; IIHS: TSP
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 50%

2017 Ford Fusion

2017 Ford Fusion Hybrid front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $22,995-$39,995

Body Type: Sedan

Major: We think the Fusion Sport SHOuld have had a different name, but we’re excited nonetheless about the all-wheel-drive car’s twin-turbo V-6 with 325 hp and 380-lb-ft. A new Platinum model gets Cocoa and Venetian leathers inside, a unique grille, and unique 19-inch wheels. The Fusion’s engine lineup includes turbo 1.5- and 2.0-liter I-4s, plus the hybrid, Energi plug-in hybrid, and the new six-cylinder Sport.

Cool Fact: The Fusion Sport’s pothole detection system adjusts the shocks to reduce impact severity when a sudden drop is detected.

Sum Up: Attractive midsizer enters 2017 with more options than ever before.

Ford Fusion
Base Engine 2.5L/175-hp/175-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 1.5L/181-hp/185-lb-ft turbo I-4: 2.0L/245-hp/275-lb-ft turbo I-4; 2.0L I-4 + elec, 188-hp; 2.7L/325-hp/380-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 6A; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 17-43/26-41 mpg*; 104/91 mpg-e
0-60 mph 6.8-9.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 49%
* Estimated
2017 Ford Fusion Energi front three quarter in motion 2017 Ford Fusion Energi front front three quarter 2017 Ford Fusion Energi rear three quarter 2017 Ford Fusion Platinum rear three quarter in motion 2017 Ford Fusion interior front illuminating light 1 2017 Ford Fusion interior passenger side 1 2017 Ford Fusion Platinum passenger side 1 2017 Ford Fusion Sport interior passenger side 1

2017 Ford GT

Ford GT front three quarter

Base Price: $400,000*

Body Type: Coupe

All-New: The Ford GT has been reborn, and it’s packing a new 3.5-liter, twin-turbo EcoBoost V-6 and seven-speed twin-clutch gearbox. Like the GT350R, the Ford GT will be available with carbon- fiber wheels instead of the standard aluminum alloy for reduced weight. You’ll also be able to choose among four interior themes, including two-tone upholsteries in your choice of three contrasting colors.

Avoid: Putting off your application. There’s already a huge line, and Ford will only make 250 units annually.

Sum Up: The American Ferrari killer returns.

Ford GT
Base Engine 3.5L/600-hp/600-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6*
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Mid engine, RWD
Transmission 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 15/23 mpg*
0-60 mph 3.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Ford Mustang

2016-Ford-Mustang-GT-Black-Package-burnout

Base Price: $25,545-$63,995

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Unchanged: Barring the surprise introduction of the next GT500, the Mustang seems content to sit back with the incredible Shelby GT350 and GT350R and see how the Chevrolet Camaro will respond. Elsewhere in the Mustang line, the EcoBoost was crowned the victor in a comparison against a four-cylinder Camaro, the convertibles are still fun, and the base-model V-6 remains a balanced performer.

Cool Fact: The carbon-fiber wheels of the GT350R weigh just 18 pounds each and retail for more than $3,500 apiece.

Sum Up: With the GT350, the exhaust note is as good as the handling.

Ford Mustang
Base Engine 3.7L/300-hp/280-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine 2.3L/310-hp/320-lb-ft turbo I-4; 5.0L/435-hp/400-lb-ft V-8; 5.2L/526-hp/429-lb-ft V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 14-22/21-32 mpg
0-60 mph 3.9-6.3 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 63%

2017 Ford Taurus

2016 Ford Taurus SEL front three quarter

Base Price $28,000-$41,500*

Body Type Sedan

Unchanged: The Taurus will soldier on another year without significant changes, but we think it deserves a major update and face-lift to look a little more like the Ford Fusion, a look we saw previewed in the new Chinese-market Taurus. When the Taurus gets the twin-turbo, 2.7-liter V-6 from the new Ford Fusion Sport, that should keep the SHO around a bit longer. An increased wheelbase would remedy some of the interior space complaints on the current generation.

Cool Fact Check out the Chinese-spec Ford Taurus HERE.

Sum Up: Let’s hope we don’t have to wait much longer for meaningful updates.

Ford Taurus
Base Engine 3.5L/288-hp/254-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine 2.0L/240-hp/270-lb-ft turbo I-4; 3.5L/365-hp/350-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 16-20/24-29 mpg
0-60 mph 5.2-7.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 43%
* Estimated

 

2017 Genesis G80

2017 Genesis G80 front three quarter 02

Base Price: $42,350-$55,500

Body Type: Sedan

Major: The birth of Hyundai’s Genesis luxury brand means that the Genesis sedan is now renamed the G80. The 311-hp V-6 and 420-hp V-8 engine options are likely to remain as before, but don’t be surprised to see the 365-hp, 3.3-liter, twin-turbo V-6, which is making its debut in the Genesis G90 full-sizer, reach the G80 lineup before long. It’s already offered in the Korean-spec G80. For 2017, the Genesis G80 sees a big price hike, but also more standard equipment including a full suite of active safety tech including adaptive cruise control that can handle stop-and-go traffic, automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and more.

Cool Fact: The eight-speed automatic used in the G80 is built and designed in-house by Hyundai and Kia.

Sum Up: A solid luxury sedan gets a new name.

Genesis G80
Base Engine 3.8L/311-hp/293-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine 5.0L/420-hp/383-lb-ft V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 15-18/23-28 mpg
0-60 mph 5.2-6.3 sec
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+

2017 Genesis G90

2017 Genesis G90 front three quarters in motion

Base Price: $60,000-$70,000*

Body Type: Sedan

All-New: The first model for Hyundai’s Genesis luxury division, the G90 is an Equus-replacing full-size luxury sedan designed to compete against the likes of the BMW 7 Series. A 365-hp, 3.3-liter, twin-turbo V-6 is standard and is available with AWD. The Genesis Adaptive Control Suspension should help improve the car’s dynamics without sacrificing ride quality.

Look For: A suite of active safety features such as adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and pedestrian detection to find their way into the Genesis G90.

Sum Up: The Equus has evolved.

Genesis G90
Base Engine 3.3L/365-hp/376-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Opt Engine 5.0L/420-hp/383-lb-ft V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 15-17/23-24 mpg
0-60 mph 5.5-6.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Honda Accord

2017 Honda Accord Hybrid front three quarter in motion

Base Price $23,100-$36,000*

Body Type: Sedan, coupe

Major: The Honda Accord Hybrid is back this year, and it’s sporting a 212-hp I-4 and electric motor combination that will boast a class-leading 49 mpg rating in the city. The interior will no doubt carry the latest infotainment system with support for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Elsewhere in the Accord lineup, most buyers will opt for the naturally aspirated, 2.4-liter I-4, and a powerful six-cylinder engine is available.

Look For: The coupe with a V-6 and a manual transmission if you want to smoke a few base Mustangs at the drag races.

Sum Up: Whether you want practicality, sport, or efficiency, the Accord has you covered.

Honda Accord
Base Engine 2.4L/185-189-hp/181-182-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 3.5L/278-hp/251-252-lb-ft V-6; 2.0L I-4 + elec, 212 hp
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; 6A; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 18-49/28-47 mpg
0-60 mph 5.4-7.6 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 53%
* Estimated

2017 Honda Civic

2017 Honda Civic Hatchback Front Three Quarters

Base Price: $19,500-$26,500*

Body Type: Sedan, coupe, hatch

Major: A hatchback body style will be added to the 2017 Honda Civic lineup’s coupe and sedan options, and the optional 1.5-liter, turbocharged I-4 can now be paired with the six-speed manual, giving us the transmission/engine combo we’ve pined for since the turbo-four was announced. The Si variant should launch in the coming months as a 2017 model and could have a detuned version of the 2.0-liter, turbocharged I-4 that will be used in the range-topping Civic Type R.

Look For: The Civic Type R to arrive in the U.S. as a hatchback in 2017.

Sum Up: The Civic is the class leader with a flavor for even the most discerning drivers.

Honda Civic
Base Engine 2.0L/158-hp/138-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 1.5L/174-hp/162-lb-ft turbo I-4; 2.0L/230-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4*
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 26-31/38-42 mpg*
0-60 mph 7.2-8.6 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars (2016); IIHS: TSP+ (2016)
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 53%
* Estimated

2017 Honda Clarity

2017 Honda Clarity Fuel Cell front side view in red

Base Price: $60,000*

Body Type: Sedan

All-New: The Honda Clarity is the second generation of the automaker’s hydrogen fuel cell vehicle, which was originally named the FCX Clarity. In one tank, the Clarity is expected to be able to travel 300 miles, which is about the same as its chief competitor, the Toyota Mirai. The Clarity, however, features a more conventional exterior design that eschews the eccentricities of most alternative fuel vehicles.

Look For: Additional members of the Clarity family, which includes a new plug-in hybrid and a battery-electric vehicle.

Sum Up: Honda’s environmentally friendly vehicle family begins to take shape.

Honda Clarity
Base Engine 170-hp/220-lb-ft electric*
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front motor, FWD
Transmission 1A
EPA Econ City/Hwy Not Yet Rated
0-60 mph 8.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
* Estimated

Honda CR-Z (discontinued)

2016 Honda CR Z front three quarter in motion

Discontinued: Honda gave the CR-Z a refresh for 2016, but the car is gone for 2017, and it’s unclear whether it will have a successor once the current one goes out of production. CR-Zs equipped with the six-speed manual could be had with the HPD performance kit, which included suspension upgrades, a limited-slip differential, and a supercharger that bumped output to 197 hp and 176 lb-ft.

Cool Fact: The CR-Z was the only hybrid available in the U.S. with a six-speed manual transmission.

Sum Up: Will Honda’s forgotten but sporty hybrid hatch live to a second generation?

Honda CR-Z
Base Engine 1.5L I-4 + elec, 130 hp/127-140 lb-ft
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 31-36/38-39 mpg
0-60 mph 8.3-8.8 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 4 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 45%

2017 Honda Fit

2016 Honda Fit front three quarter

Base Price: $17,000-$21,000*

Body Type: Hatchback

Unchanged: The Honda Fit does not change much this year before an upcoming refresh. The versatile subcompact has acceleration that can be called adequate when fitted with the CVT, but it’s a bit more engaging with the six-speed manual. The HondaLink Next Generation is Honda’s answer to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It allows users to connect their smartphones and control their media and phone calls from the Fit’s infotainment system and in-car controls.

Best Buy: The Fit is one of the most spacious subcompacts around.

Sum Up: Basic transportation at its best.

Honda Fit
Base Engine 1.5L/130-hp/114-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 29-33/37-41 mpg
0-60 mph 7.9-8.9 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 stars; IIHS: TSP (2016)
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 60%

2017 Hyundai Accent

2016 Hyundai Accent front three quarters

Base Price: $16,000-$17,500*

Body Type: Sedan, hatchback

Unchanged: Despite its age, the Hyundai Accent is unlikely to get any updates for the 2017 model year, as a redesigned model is coming within the next year or two. Expect the same 137-hp, 1.6-liter I-4 paired to a six-speed manual or automatic transmission to remain as the only powertrain choice. Available in sedan and four-door hatchback forms, the Accent is likely to remain as an SE in both body styles and a line-topping Sport on the hatch.

Avoid: Looking for a modern infotainment system or navigation option.

Sum Up: Ready for a redesigned replacement.

Hyundai Accent
Base Engine 1.6L/137-hp/123-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 26-27/36-37 mpg
0-60 mph 7.8-9.0 sec
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
Safety 4 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 48%

2017 Hyundai Azera

2016-Hyundai-Azera-front-three-quarter-in-motion-02

Base Price: $35,000*

Body Type Sedan

Unchanged: Before a full redesign, no changes are expected for the front-drive Hyundai Azera. Both of the Azera’s trims come generously equipped with features such as a navigation system with an 8.0-inch touchscreen and a 14-speaker Infinity audio system as standard. A 293-hp, 3.3-liter V-6 paired to a six-speed automatic should remain as the only powertrain option available.

Look For: With the Genesis sedan becoming the Genesis G80, a new Azera could become the Hyundai brand’s flagship sedan.

Sum Up: A solid big sedan packed with plenty of value.

Hyundai Azera
Base Engine 3.3L/293-hp/255-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 20/29 mpg*
0-60 mph 6.4 sec
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 45%
* Estimated

2017 Hyundai Elantra

2017 Hyundai Elantra Sport front three quarters 2

Base Price: $17,985-$27,585

Body Type: Sedan, hatchback

All-New: More conservatively designed than its predecessor, the 2017 Elantra offers a full suite of active safety tech and an available 8.0-inch touchscreen. The last-gen hatch continues alongside the newer sedan before a redesign in 2017. An Eco model uses a 1.4-liter turbo-four and a seven-speed dual-clutch auto to bump EPA-rated fuel economy to 32/40 mpg city/highway.

Driver’s Choice: The upcoming Elantra Sport offers more power and better handling thanks to a unique suspension layout that includes a multilink setup in the rear.

Sum Up: Hyundai’s best-selling compact has grown up.

Hyundai Elantra
Base Engine 2.0L/147-hp/132-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 1.4L/128-hp/156-lb-ft turbo I-4; 2.0L/173-hp/154-lb-ft I-4; 1.6L/201-hp/195-lb-ft turbo I-4*
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; 6A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 24-32/32-40 mpg
0-60 mph 8.0-9.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 52%
* Estimated

Hyundai Genesis Coupe (discontinued)

2016 Hyundai Genesis coupe front three quarter

Discontinued: The Hyundai Genesis Coupe is gone, but expect a more premium rear-drive coupe option in the new Genesis-brand lineup over the next few years.

Sum Up: A rear-drive sports coupe that’s transitioning out of the mainstream in a few years.

Hyundai Genesis Coupe
Base Engine 3.8L/348-hp/295-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 6M; 8A
0-60 mph 5.0-5.4 sec*
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 49%
* Estimated

2017 Hyundai Ioniq

2017 Hyundai Ioniq Hybrid front three quarter in motion 07

Base Price: $24,000-$34,000*

Body Type: Hatchback

All-New: Hyundai will take the fight straight to the Prius with the Ioniq range. Available as a standard hybrid, plug-in hybrid, and an EV, the Ioniq will offer three approaches to environmentally friendly driving. The Ioniq PHEV is said to have an EV-mode range of 25 miles thanks to a larger battery pack. Unlike other gas-electric hybrid vehicles, the Ioniq hybrid and PHEV come with a six-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox instead of a CVT.

Look For: An estimated range of 110 miles per charge on the fully electric Ioniq model.

Sum Up: Hyundai’s three-pronged approach to sustainable motoring.

Hyundai Ioniq
Base Engine 1.6-liter I-4 + elec, 139 hp*
Opt Motor 120-hp/215-lb-ft electric
Drivetrain Front engine/motor, FWD
Transmission 6-sp twin-cl auto; 1A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 50/48 mpg*; 125/95 mpg-e*
0-60 mph 8.0-10.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Hyundai Sonata

2017 Hyundai Sonata Sport 20T side profile

Base Price: $23,000-$39,500*

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: The Sonata lineup gained a hybrid and plug-in hybrid variant last year, and the PHEV can travel more than 20 miles in EV mode. For 2017, the Sonata offers headlights that help see around corners and there are packaging changes across the model range, which includes five engine variants including a hybrid and plug-in hybrid.

Best Buy: The Sonata Hybrid offers a good blend of power, fuel efficiency, and space in a mainstream-focused package.

Sum Up: Hyundai’s expansive midsize sedan lineup.

Hyundai Sonata
Base Engine 2.4L/185-hp/178-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 1.6L/178-hp/195-lb-ft turbo I-4; 2.0L/245-hp/260-lb-ft turbo I-4; 2.0L I-4 + elec 193-202-hp
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 21-39/30-45 mpg
0-60 mph 7.6-9.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 49%
* Estimated

2017 Hyundai Veloster

2016 Hyundai Veloster Turbo front three quarter

Base Price: $19,000*

Body Type: Hatchback

Minor: The Hyundai Veloster was refreshed in 2016, and not much is expected for 2017 other than possibly another special-edition model. A seven-speed twin-clutch automatic transmission replaced the six-speed automatic in the 2016 model year, giving it a boost in fuel economy and performance. It’s unclear if we’ll ever see a second generation of the asymmetrical little hatchback.

Best Buy The 201-hp Veloster Turbo offers the best blend of power, fuel economy, and quirkiness in the lineup.

Sum Up: Affordable quirkiness.

Hyundai Veloster
Base Engine 1.6L/132-hp/120-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 1.6L/201-hp/195-lb-ft turbo I-4
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; 6-sp twin-cl auto; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 25-28/33-36 mpg
0-60 mph 6.9-8.8 sec
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 46%

2017 Infiniti Q50

2016 Infiniti Q50 30t front three quarter

Base Price $35,000-$51,000*

Body Type Sedan

Minor: Refreshed last year, the 2017 Q50 adds new Sport models for the 2.0t and 2.0t AWD variants, with 19-inch alloys, summer performance run-flat tires, magnesium paddle shifters, aluminum-trimmed pedals, upgraded brakes, sportier seats, and more. A new Design package on V-6 Sport models adds Graphite or Havana semi-aniline leather with contrasting stitching, Natural Maple Wood accents, black headliner and pillar trim, and dark chrome interior trim. Those who want the 400-hp Red Sport 400 model may appreciate the brake calipers’ new red color. The Q50 base model now includes as standard auto-dimming rearview mirrors, rain-sensing wipers, and a HomeLink transceiver.

Driver’s Choice The Q50 Red Sport is the closest thing we’re going to get to the Eau Rouge, a Q50 with an engine from the Nissan GT-R.

Sum Up: A for effort in an expanded luxury sport sedan lineup.

Infiniti Q50
Base Engine 2.0L/208-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 3.0L/300-400-hp/295-350-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6; 3.5L V-6 + elec, 360 hp
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 7A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 19-28/26-34 mpg
0-60 mph 4.7-6.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/60,000 mile
* Estimated

2017 Infiniti Q60

2017 Infiniti Q60 Coupe front three quarter

Base Price $43,000-$63,000*

Body Type: Coupe

All-New: The Infiniti Q60 returns this year, and it’s sporting much of the technology that has made the ambitious Q50 so controversial, including the updated controversial Direct Adaptive Steering. Inside, the interior features deeply bolstered leather seats and a modern dual-screen infotainment system. We expect it to sport the same base turbocharged, 2.0-liter I-4 and 300- and 400-hp versions of the twin-turbo, 3.0-liter V-6 as the Q50.

Cool Fact: There are 336 different ways to personalize the Q60’s handling.

Sum Up: We’re always happy when a beautiful concept begets a good-looking production car.

Infiniti Q60
Base Engine 2.0L/208-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4*
Opt Engine 3.0L/300-400-hp/295-350-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 7A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 19-23/26-31 mpg*
0-60 mph 4.6-5.8 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/60,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Infiniti Q70

2016-Infiniti-Q70-Premium-Select-Edition-front-three-quarter

Base Price: $51,000-$68,000*

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: If you’re looking for a luxury sedan that straddles the BMW 5 and 7 Series in size, the Q70L might fit the bill nicely. This year, the Premium Select model introduced last year can now be had on long-wheelbase models. The Q70 offers a V-6, V-6 hybrid, and V-8, the non-hybrids both with regular and long-wheelbase variants.

Cool Fact: If you want an Infiniti with a V-8 and don’t want an SUV, the Q70 is the only game in town.

Sum Up: The long-wheelbase variant helps justify the Q70 against newer competition.

Infiniti Q70
Base Engine 3.7L/330-hp/270-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine 3.5L V-6 + elec, 360 hp; 5.6L/416-420-hp/414-417-lb-ft V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 7A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 16-29/23-34 mpg*
0-60 mph 4.6-5.5 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/60,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 46%
* Estimated

2017 Jaguar F-Type

2016-Jaguar-F-Type-V6-Manual-front-three-quarter-in-motion-021

Base Price: $62,395-$129,795

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Minor: A new range-topping model, the F-Type SVR, packs more power and torque. Convertibles have had their trunks reconfigured, giving them more capacity at 7.3 cubic feet. Jaguar has also added a new entry-level model, which drops the F-Type’s starting price for both body styles. An entry-level model with a turbo I-4 from the Ingenium engine family could be added as Jaguar’s answer to Porsche’s 718 family.

Cool Fact: The 575-hp F-Type SVR has the most powerful version of Jaguar Land Rover’s 5.0-liter, supercharged V-8.

Sum Up: Jaguar’s potent and seductive answer to German performance cars.

Jaguar F-Type
Base Engine 3.0L/340-hp/332-lb-ft s’chg’d V-6
Opt Engine 3.0L/380-hp/339-lb-ft s’chg’d V-6; 5.0L/550-575/502-516-lb-ft s’chg’d V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 6M; 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 15-20/23-28 mpg
0-60 mph 3.3-4.4 sec
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 47%

2017 Jaguar XE

2017 Jaguar XE AWD front three quarter in motion 02

Base Price: $35,895-$45,195

Body Type: Sedan

All-New: Jaguar’s answer to the BMW 3 Series promises exceptional driving dynamics in a compact package. Three engine choices include a diesel from Jaguar Land Rover’s Ingenium family, a turbo-four, and the range-topping 340-hp, supercharged V-6 that’s also used in the F-Type sports car.

Cool Fact: The available Adaptive Dynamics system uses electronically controlled dampers to provide the best balance of ride quality and handling by analyzing acceleration, cornering, throttle, braking, and transmission activity.

Sum Up: Jaguar’s compact sport sedan is surprisingly good.

Jaguar XE
Base Engine 2.0-liter/240-hp/251-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 2.0-liter/180-hp/318-lb-ft t-diesel I-4; 3.0-liter/340-hp/332-lb-ft s’chg’d V-6
Drivetrain Front engine RWD/AWD
Transmission 6M*; 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 20-26/29-35 mpg*
0-60 mph 5.1-7.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Jaguar XF

2016-Jaguar-XF-S-front-three-quarters-in-motion1

Base Price $48,445-$66,695

Body Type Sedan

Major: A new turbodiesel four-cylinder engine should offer the best fuel economy compared to the more powerful supercharged V-6. There are four new wheel styles and a new rotary shifter along with three additional paint colors. A new base trim now slots below the Premium trim. The V-6 is offered in 340- and 380-hp forms, and every powertrain can drive either the rear wheels or all four.

Look For: A high-performance XFR variant with a 550-hp, supercharged V-8 as Jaguar’s answer to the BMW M5.

Sum Up: Evolutionary, sexy, and agile, just like a large predator.

Jaguar XF
Base Engine 2.0L/180-hp/318-lb-ft t-diesel I-4
Opt Engine 3.0L/340-380-hp/332-339-lb-ft s’chg’d V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 20-26/28-35 mpg*
0-60 mph 5.0-8.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Jaguar XJ

2016-Jaguar-XJR-front-three-quarter-motion1

Base Price: $75,500-$122,500*

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: After undergoing a mild refresh for 2016, the 2017 Jaguar XJ isn’t expected to receive major updates. However, the car could receive the newest version of Jaguar Land Rover’s InControl multimedia interface, which is available on the 2016 XF and comes with a larger 10.2-inch touchscreen and additional connectivity features via an app suite.

Driver’s Choice For the driving enthusiast, the 550-hp XJR offers mind-boggling performance and handling and is available in standard- or long-wheelbase models.

Sum Up: Belies its size with impressive agility.

Jaguar XJ
Base Engine 3.0L/340-hp/332-lb-ft s’chg’d V-6
Opt Engine 5.0L/470-550-hp/424-502-lb-ft s’chg’d V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 15-18/ 23-27 mpg*
0-60 mph 3.7-5.4 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 40%
* Estimated

2017 Kia Cadenza

2017 Kia Cadenza front three quarter in motion

Base Price $33,500*

Body Type Sedan

All-New: Redesigned for 2017, the Kia Cadenza is more upscale and will come with semi-autonomous driving technologies, including radar cruise control with a stop-and-go function. The new Cadenza also gains a new eight-speed automatic transmission that replaces the old six-speed unit. Upscale touches such as quilted Nappa leather upholstery, a head-up display, LED headlights, and a smart trunk will be offered.

Cool Fact: Designed by Kia’s California design studio, the 2017 Cadenza is manufactured in South Korea.

Sum Up: One step higher toward true luxury.

Kia Cadenza
Base Engine 3.3L/290-hp/253-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 20/29 mpg*
0-60 mph 6.3 sec*
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Kia Forte

2017 kia forte sedan front three quarters

Base Price: $17,000-$23,000*

Body Type: Sedan, hatch, coupe

Major: Kia refreshed the Forte for 2017 and has ditched the old 1.8-liter I-4 for a new 2.0-liter unit as the standard engine. The Forte also gains a host of available active safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, forward collision warning, and blind-spot warning. A new S trim level for the sedan comes with a sport-tuned suspension for improved handling.

Driver’s Choice: The SX trim on the hatchback comes with a 201-hp turbo-four, a six-speed manual, and a sport-tuned suspension.

Sum Up: More technology and performance have finally arrived.

Kia Forte
Base Engine 2.0L/147-hp/132-lb-ft I-4*
Opt Engine 2.0L/160-173-hp/149-154-lb-ft I-4*; 1.6L/201-hp/195-lb-ft turbo I-4*
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6A; 6M; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 22-29/29-38 mpg*
0-60 mph 6.6-9.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 4-5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 47%
* Estimated

2017 Kia K900

2016 Kia K900 front three quarters

Base Price: $50,000-$63,000*

Body Type: Sedan

Minor: Kia added a 311-hp, 3.8-liter V-6 to the K900 last year, giving it a new base engine slotting below the 420-hp, 5.0-liter V-8. Expect the K900 to receive a host of new technology upgrades, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration and Kia’s updated UVO infotainment system. Active safety features are optional on the base car or standard on the higher trim levels. Quilted Nappa leather is optional on V-8 models.

Avoid Trying to drive the K900 enthusiastically; the car is at its best cruising the open roads in a leisurely manner.

Sum Up: Loves to coddle passengers in comfort, not take corners enthusiastically.

Kia K900
Base Engine 3.8L/311-hp/293-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine 5.0L/420-hp/376-lb-ft V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 15-17/23-25 mpg
0-60 mph 5.5-6.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Kia Niro

2017 Kia Niro Hybrid front three quarters in motion

Base Price: $24,000-$35,000*

Body Type: Wagon

All-New: The Kia Niro is the Korean automaker’s first dedicated hybrid vehicle, and although it might look like an SUV, it’s actually a wagon. Unlike most hybrid vehicles, the Niro bucks the trend by using a six-speed twin-clutch transmission instead of the more common CVT found in some competitors. The 1.6-liter I-4 and the electric motor produce a total system output of 146 hp and 195 lb-ft of torque.

Look For A projected 50-mpg combined EPA fuel economy rating, which should put the Niro on par with most midsize hybrid sedans.

Sum Up: An efficient, crossoverlike, FWD competitor for the Prius and C-Max.

Kia Niro
Base Engine 1.6-liter I-4 + elec, 146-hp/195-lb-ft
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 52/48 mpg*
0-60 mph 8.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Kia Optima

2016-Kia-Optima-SX-fornt-three-quarter-in-motion

Base Price: $23,000-$37,000*

Body Type: Sedan

Major: All-new last year, Kia has added two new members to the Optima lineup in the form of the Optima Hybrid and Plug-In Hybrid. Powered by a 2.0-liter I-4 mated to an electric motor, the Optima Hybrid has a total system output of 193 hp; the Plug-In is rated at 202 hp thanks to a more powerful electric motor. Expect the plug-in model to travel at least 20 miles on electric power alone.

Look For: Hybrid-specific gauges and meters on the hybrid and plug-in hybrid variants of the Optima.

Sum Up: The midsizer that stretches from plug-in to near-luxury.

Kia Optima
Base Engine 2.4L/185-hp/178-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 1.6L/178-hp/195-lb-ft turbo I-4; 2.0L/245-hp/260-lb-ft turbo I-4; 2.0L I-4 + elec, 193-202 hp
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6A; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 22-40/32-44 mpg*; 99 mpg-e*
0-60 mph 7.2-8.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 51%
* Estimated

2017 Kia Rio

2016-Kia-Rio-SX-5-Door-front-three-quarter-in-motion-011

Base Price $15,500*

Body Type: Sedan, hatchback

Unchanged: No changes are planned for the Rio lineup. You’ll still be able to pick between a sedan or the more practical hatchback body styles. Under the hood is a 138-hp, 1.6-liter I-4 that can be paired to a six-speed manual or automatic transmission, but the manual is likely only available in the base trim. An Eco trim with an engine stop-start feature is available, but it doesn’t add any meaningful change to fuel economy ratings.

Look For :An all-new Rio with a sportier GT variant and the latest multimedia and safety technologies sometime in 2017.

Sum Up: One last hurrah for Kia’s smallest vehicle.

Kia Rio
Base Engine 1.6L/138-hp/123-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 27/36 mpg
0-60 mph 8.0-9.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 4 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 46%
* Estimated

2017 Kia Soul

2016-Kia-Soul-front-three-quarter-05

Base Price: $17,000-$33,000*

Body Type: Hatchback

Major: A substantial mid-cycle refresh is expected for the 2017 Kia Soul, which should include a refreshed exterior and an infusion of new technology updates, possibly including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Kia’s updated UVO3 infotainment system should also find its way to the refreshed Soul. A turbocharged, 1.6-liter I-4 is expected to be added as a new engine option that could be paired to a seven-speed twin-clutch automatic.

Avoid: Looking for an AWD option. It won’t come until the next-generation Soul.

Sum Up: Helps you funk your life up.

Kia Soul
Base Engine 1.6L/130-hp/118-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine/Motor 2.0L/164-hp/151-lb-ft I-4; 109-hp/210-lb-ft AC electric motor; 1.6L/178-hp/195-lb-ft turbo I-4*
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; 6A; 1A; 7-sp twin-cl auto*
EPA Econ City/Hwy 24/30-31 mpg; 120/92 mpg-e*
0-60 mph 8.4-12.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
Safety 52%
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value NHTSA: 5 Stars (2016); IIHS: TSP (2016)
* Estimated

 

2017 Lamborghini Aventador

2015 Lamborghini Aventador LP750 4 SV front three quarter 03

Base Price: $406,695-$543,495

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Minor: The Aventador is not expected to change this year; coupe and roadster versions of the newer Superveloce model will remain available. The Centenario LP 770-4, which is loosely based on the Aventador, is worth mentioning. The car packs the most powerful V-12 Lamborghini has ever made—759 hp—and has completely outlandish (but all Lambo) looks, and all 40 units, 20 coupe and 20 roadsters, have been pre-sold.

Cool Fact: The Centenario is a tribute to Ferruccio Lamborghini, the founder of the exotic automaker.

Sum Up: Bet you didn’t know there was a middle ground between an Aventador SV and a Veneno.

Lamborghini Aventador
Base Engine 6.5L/691-hp/509-lb-ft V-12
Opt Engine 6.5L/740-759-hp/507-lb-ft V-12
Drivetrain Mid engine, AWD
Transmission 7-sp auto-cl manual
EPA Econ City/Hwy 10-11/17-18 mpg
0-60 mph 2.6-2.9 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/unlimited miles

2017 Lamborghini Huracán

2016 Lamborghini Huracan Spyder front three quarter in motion 17 2

Base Price: $204,595-$267,695

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Major: When you see the words “rear-wheel-drive Huracán” you should also associate them with power oversteer. Yep, you can drift the new LP 580-2, and it’s a riot. We hit 60 mph in 2.8 seconds with an AWD LP 610-4 Huracán (Lambo says 3.2 seconds), so we expect the RWD LP 580-2 will hit 60 in about 3.0 seconds in the real world. Also added this year is a convertible Huracán Spyder, which is the best way to sample the aural pleasures of the V-10.

Cool Fact: The top will open or close in just 17 seconds at up to 31 mph.

Sum Up: DRIFTborghini

Lamborghini Huracán
Base Engine 5.2L/571-602-hp/398-413-lb-ft V-10
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Mid engine, AWD/RWD
Transmission 7-sp auto-cl manual
EPA Econ City/Hwy 14/20-21 mpg*
0-60 mph 2.8-3.3 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/unlimited miles
* Estimated

 


2017 Lexus CT

2016-Lexus-CT-200h-side1

Base Price: $32,200*

Body Type: Hatchback

Unchanged: The sleek entry-level hybrid from Lexus continues on without major changes, but it makes a few adjustments to exterior color availability. Atomic Silver, Caviar, and Autumn Shimmer replace Silver Lining Metallic, Obsidian, and Fire Agate, respectively, on base models (Obsidian is still available on F Sport models), and Blue Vortex Metallic replaces Ultrasonic Blue Mica on F Sport and base models.

Best Buy: The Lexus CT is a great choice if you want great mileage from your entry-level luxury car.

Sum Up: If you want a luxurious little ride and stellar fuel economy, look no further.

Lexus CT
Base Engine 1.8L I-4 + elec, 134 hp
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 43/40 mpg
0-60 mph 10.1 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 55%
* Estimated

2017 Lexus ES

2016 Lexus ES 350 front three quarter 04

Base Price: $39,000-$42,000*

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: The Lexus ES adds a back button to the Remote Touch interface, makes the Lexus suite of active safety technology standard equipment, and adds Scout GPS Link to the Display Audio infotainment system. Scout GPS uses the data connection of your compatible smartphone to provide phone-based turn-by-turn directions, more accurate traffic information and commute-based directions, and internet-powered search.

Cool Fact: The ES is the bread and butter of the Lexus lineup but lacks an F Sport trim.

Sum Up: Vanilla looks but generous helpings of luxury, roominess, and comfort.

Lexus ES
Base Engine 3.5L/268-hp/248-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine 2.5L I-4 + elec, 200 hp
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6A; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 21-40/31-39 mpg
0-60 mph 6.0-7.6 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 54%

2017 Lexus GS

2016 Lexus GS F front three quarter in motion 07

Base Price: $46,500-$85,000*

Body Type: Sedan

Minor: The rear-drive GS 350 F Sport gets an optional limited-slip differential, the Lexus Safety System+ suite of active safety tech becomes standard equipment, and Smokey Granite Mica replaces Nebula Gray Pearl as an exterior color option. The GS F gets an optional head-up display, an adaptive variable suspension system, standard painted forged wheels, and an option for a polished version of the same wheels.

Driver’s Choice The GS F is equally at home on the morning commute or a racetrack, unlike the more brash RC F.

Sum Up: Who says Japanese luxury cars can’t be fun?

Audi A8
Base Engine 2.0L/241-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 3.5L/311-hp/280-lb-ft V-6; 3.5L V-6 + elec, 338 hp; 5.0L/467-hp/389-lb-ft V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 6A; 8A; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 16-29/24-34 mpg
0-60 mph 4.4-6.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 44%
* Estimated

2017 Lexus IS

2017 Lexus IS Chinese Spec front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $38,500-$47,000*

Body Type: Sedan

Major: The Lexus IS gets a refresh this year. It gains a revised front fascia without foglamps, standard LED headlights and taillights, a rear diffuser, and a unique rear bumper for the F Sport model. The interior sports a new cupholder design, revised steering wheel switches, and a few new interior color options on various models. The Lexus Safety System+ becomes standard, giving every car the suite of safety tech.

Best Buy: An IS 300 if you want AWD but don’t want to spend the extra money for the IS 350 AWD.

Sum Up: A new look goes nicely with the engines added last year.

Lexus IS
Base Engine 2.0L/241-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 3.5L/255-306-hp/236-277-lb-ft V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 6A; 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 19-22/26-33 mpg
0-60 mph 5.3-7.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 60%
* Estimated

2017 Lexus LC

Lexus LC 500h front three quarter

Base Price: $90,000*

Body Type: Coupe

All-New: The incredibly bold LC 500 made its debut in full production form at the 2016 Detroit auto show. We found a prototype version of the car entertaining at the track, and the car should be a fitting flagship coupe for the brand. With an adaptive variable suspension, the LC should get owners to work in the comfort expected of a Lexus while being able to tear up the local track or back road like a sport coupe.

Look For: A hybrid LC 500h to roll into dealerships after the LC 500 and possibly even an LC F down the road.

Sum Up: The relentless pursuit of performance.

Lexus LC
Base Engine 5.0L/468-hp/391-lb-ft V-8
Opt Engine 3.5L V-6 + elec, 354 hp
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 4A; 10A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 17/26 mpg*
0-60 mph 4.3-4.9 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Lexus LS

2016 Lexus LS 460 front three quarter

Base Price: $73,500-$129,000*

Body Type: Sedan

Minor: Lexus adds two new special editions for 2017, neither with official names (yet). The more luxurious model arrives in the fall, and an F Sport edition arrives in the spring. Dark colors are the name of the game. Both get a darker exterior color (Nightfall Mica for the luxury one, and Caviar for the sporty one), Shimamoku Espresso Wood trim inside, unique 19-inch wheels, and grille inserts with unique black accents. The LS 600h L flagship model has been discontinued.

Look For The next-generation LS to possibly take cues from the LF-FC concept car.

Sum Up: Lexus will need a bold successor to get the attention of class leaders.

Lexus LS
Base Engine 4.6L/360-386-hp/347-367-lb-ft V-8
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 8A; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 16/23-24 mpg
0-60 mph 5.6-5.7 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 47%

2017 Lexus RC

2016 Lexus RC 350 F Sport front three quarter

Base Price: $41,000-$64,000*

Body Type: Coupe

Minor: Triple-beam LED headlights are available on more models, and the RC 350 RWD gets Yamaha performance dampers. Caviar is added as an exterior color option. There are new 18- and 19-inch wheel finishes, and the infotainment adds Scout GPS Link, adding smartphone compatibility to improve directions and traffic info and provide internet-powered search via the phone.

Driver’s Choice: The new adaptive suspension should take the edge off the sometimes-harsh Lexus RC F.

Sum Up: The least expensive and a very enjoyable way to get an F model from Lexus

Lexus RC
Base Engine 2.0L/241-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 3.5L/255-306-hp/236-277-lb-ft V-6; 5.0L/467-hp/389-lb-ft V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 16-22/25-32 mpg
0-60 mph 4.3-6.2 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 56%
* Estimated

2017 Lincoln Continental

2017 Lincoln Continental front three quarter in motion 04

Base Price: $45,485-$60,105

Body Type: Sedan

All-New: An available Lincoln-exclusive twin-turbo V-6 powers the big sedan, all-wheel drive is available, and the styling doesn’t stray too far from the attractive concept car. Inside, Perfect Position Seats promise 30-way adjustability, heating, ventilation, and massage functions. The new Continental touts acoustic laminated glass and active noise cancellation in an effort to make this the quietest Lincoln yet.

Cool Fact: The rear seat features the same heating, cooling, and massage features as the front seats.

Sum Up: The return of an icon.

Lincoln Continental
Base Engine 3.7L/304-hp/279-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine 2.7L/335-hp/380-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6; 3.0L/400-hp/400-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy Not Yet Rated
0-60 mph 5.2-7.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Lincoln MKZ

2017 lincoln mkz front three quarters in motion

Base Price: $35,935-$43,575

Body Type: Sedan

Major: The most noticeable change to the MKZ is the Continental-inspired front fascia. Under the hood, a twin-turbo V-6 makes
400 hp and 400 lb-ft of torque in AWD models (350 hp for FWD models). The interior gets a new look; a number of the formerly capacitive buttons have been replaced with more traditional switches and dials that have been carefully tuned for sound and feel.

Cool Fact The panoramic glass roof is still available and provides the largest open-air roof available on any new sedan.

Sum Up: A new family resemblance and attention to problem areas make the MKZ relevant.

Lincoln MKZ
Base Engine 2.0L/240-hp/270-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 2.0L I-4 + elec, 188 hp; 3.7L/300-hp/277-lb-ft V-6; 3.0L/350-400-hp/400-lb-ft turbo V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 6A; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 20-41/28-38 mpg
0-60 mph 6.5-8.8 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 42%

2017 Lotus Evora 400

2016-lotus-evora-400-front-three-quarters-022

Base Price: $91,350

Body Type: Coupe

Unchanged:  Last year, Lotus returned to U.S. shores with the Evora 400, a lighter, more powerful version of the automaker’s larger sports car. As its name suggests, the Evora 400 sports a 400-hp, supercharged, 3.5-liter V-6 that can be paired to your choice of a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. You can also opt to remove the car’s rear seats and turn the Evora into a strict two-seat sports car instead of a 2+2.

Avoid: Trying to fit people in the Evora’s rear seats—they’re best for carrying bags, not humans.

Sum Up: A sign of life at the struggling British automaker.

Lotus Evora 400
Base Engine 3.5L/400-hp/302-lb-ft s’chg’d V-6
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Mid engine, RWD
Transmission 6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 17-19/26-28 mpg*
0-60 mph 4.1 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Maserati Ghibli

2015 Maserati Ghibli front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $73,000-$80,000*

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: Last year, Maserati added a rear-drive version of the Ghibli S, which features a more powerful version of the 3.0-liter, twin-turbo V-6 making 404 hp and 406 lb-ft of torque. Once the Ghibli is refreshed, the car could receive the updated infotainment system that made its debut in the Levante, Maserati’s first SUV. The Zegna edition’s silk upholsteries should remain available on the 2017 Ghibli.

Driver’s Choice: The Ghibli’s intoxicating exhaust note will get you noticed the moment you hit the throttle.

Sum Up: For the driver tired of the usual German midsize luxury sport sedans.

Maserati Ghibli
Base Engine 3.0L/345-hp/369-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Opt Engine 3.0L/404-hp/406-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 16-17/24 mpg*
0-60 mph 4.6-5.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
* Estimated

Maserati GranTurismo

2015-Maserati-GranTurismo-front-three-quarter-in-motion

Base Price: $130,000-$180,000*

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Unchanged: Still looking as though it made its debut recently, the Maserati GranTurismo is Italian grand touring at its finest thanks to a soaring V-8 engine note and a sexy exterior design. Now that the car is nearing the end of production, the GranTurismo will likely carry over to 2017 unchanged, with the possible exception of a new special edition. The GranTurismo coupe has a top speed of 185 mph, and the convertible tops out at 177 mph.

Look For: A successor to arrive in the next year or two, possibly with a new engine.

Sum Up: Timeless design, Italian style.

Maserati GranTurismo
Base Engine 4.7L/444-hp/376-lb-ft V-8
Opt Engine 4.7L/454-hp/384-lb-ft V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 13/20-21 mpg
0-60 mph 4.6-5.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Maserati Quattroporte

2017 Maserati Quattroporte GTS GranSport front three quarter 13

Base Price: $105,000-$145,000*

Body Type: Sedan

Minor: Maserati’s flagship, the Quattroporte, receives a face-lift, including new bumpers, side skirts, an air quality sensor, and an electrically adjustable air shutter for improved cooling and aerodynamics. A new infotainment system with an 8.4-inch touchscreen and Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration is now standard, as is a rotary knob for volume and multimedia controls.

Driver’s Choice: The 523-hp Quattroporte GTS comes standard with rear-wheel drive and the willingness to go sideways all day, every day.

Sum Up: A full-size sedan with soul and plenty of quirks.

Maserati Quattroporte
Base Engine 3.0L/404-hp/406-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Opt Engine 3.8L/523-hp/524-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 15-16/22-23 mpg*
0-60 mph 4.2-4.4 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Mazda3

2017 Mazda3 front end

Base Price: $19,000-$28,000*

Body Type: Sedan, hatchback

Minor: The refreshed 2017 Mazda3 gets subtly updated styling, with G-Vectoring Control to help make driving more fun and interior improvements, from an available heated steering wheel from the newly introduced CX-9 to improved instrument cluster and head-up display graphics.

Cool Fact: Both engine variants are available with a six-speed manual transmission.

Sum Up: Proof that your daily driver doesn’t have to be an appliance.

Mazda3
Base Engine 2.0L/155-hp/150-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 2.5L/184-hp/185-lb-ft I-4
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 25-30/35-41 mpg*
0-60 mph 7.3-8.2 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 55%
* Estimated

2017 Mazda6

2017 Mazda6 front three quarter in motion 02

Base Price: $22,500-$32,500*

Body Type: Sedan

Minor: After a cosmetic refresh that included a redesigned dash and some changes to the car’s exterior appearance in 2016, the 2017 Mazda6 has a few more changes. The automaker’s new G-Vectoring Control system to increase driving enjoyment is standard, and the car is a little quieter, as well. An electronic parking brake is new, as is the option of heated rear seats.

Avoid: Waiting for the diesel powertrain; it’s been put on indefinite hold.

Sum Up: The midsize sedan for those who care about driving.

Mazda6
Base Engine 2.5L/184-hp/185-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 24-27/34-35 mpg
0-60 mph 7.4-7.9 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 52%
* Estimated

2017 Mazda MX-5 Miata

2017 Mazda MX 5 Miata RF front side view top down light background

Base Price: $26,000-$33,500*

Body Style: Convertible

Major: Mazda has added a second variant, the RF, or retractable fastback, to the MX-5 Miata lineup. Available only in Club or Grand Touring trims, the MX-5 RF is positioned as more upscale with features such as Nappa leather upholstery and a 4.6-inch TFT cluster display. Additional standard equipment for the MX-5 RF includes blind-spot warning and rear cross-traffic alert. The soft-top variant of the MX-5 is expected to continue unchanged.

Cool Fact: The MX-5 RF’s roof doesn’t eat into the 4.6-cubic-foot trunk.

Sum Up: Pure driving pleasure for the masses.

Mazda MX-5 Miata
Base Engine 2.0L/155-hp/148-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 27/34-36 mpg*
0-60 mph 5.8-6.8 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 57%
* Estimated

 

2017 McLaren 570S/570GT

2017 McLaren 570GT and McLaren 570S 02

Base Price $188,000-$201,500*

Body Type Coupe, conv

Major: Strip away the fancy active aerodynamics, cut the price, and what do you get? The 570S. The “entry-level” offering from McLaren sports a twin-turbo V-8 behind the driver, an astonishingly low curb weight (claimed 2,900 pounds), and some of the best steering in the business. The 570GT will take all that, add more leather, and soften some of the dynamics to add a touring car to the McLaren portfolio.

Look For: A 570 Spider variant to make its debut in 2017, promising top-down fun with a McLaren twist.

Sum Up: “Entry level” never looked so good.

McLaren 570S/570GT
Base Engine 3.8L/562-hp/443-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Mid engine, RWD
Transmission 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 16/23 mpg*
0-60 mph 3.1 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/unlimited miles
* Estimated

2017 McLaren 650S

2015-Mclaren-650S-Spider-front-three-quarter-in-motion-04

Base Price $275,000-$290,000*

Body Type Coupe, conv

Unchanged: With lots of news at the more affordable end of its lineup, McLaren is content to let the 650S stay the course. With a 641-hp, twin-turbo V-8, styling that screams “supercar,” and a ride that’s well suited for whatever driving you prefer, that course is pretty good. The convertible 650S is just 90 pounds heavier than the coupe but isn’t compromised, as it was designed without a roof from the beginning.

Look For: A 675LT on the secondhand market if you still want one. The limited run is now sold out.

Sum Up: A supercar you can race at the track and drive home.

McLaren 650S
Base Engine 3.8L/641-hp/500-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Mid engine, RWD
Transmission 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 16/22 mpg*
0-60 mph 3.0 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/unlimited miles
* Estimated

2017 Mercedes-AMG GT

2018 Mercedes AMG GT R front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $130,000-$200,000

Body Type: Coupe

Major: The AMG GT S is at once luxuriously finished and incredibly capable, which is part of the reason why we named it Motor Trend’s 2015 Best Driver’s Car. The twin-turbo V-8, its turbos nestled inside the V, not only produces prodigious power at low engine speeds but also creates incredible sounds. All this and it can still schlep along comfortably.

Look For: The even higher-performance GT R, which made its debut at the Goodwood Festival of Speed. With more power and more grip, it definitely costs more money.

Sum Up: World, take note. This is how you do sports cars.

Mercedes-AMG-GT
Base Engine 4.0L/456-hp/443-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Opt Engine 4.0L/503-hp/479-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8; 4.0L/577-hp/550-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8*
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 16/22 mpg*
0-60 mph 3.1-3.9 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 48%
* Estimated

2017 Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive

2014 Mercedes Benz B Class Electric Drive front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $42,500*

Body Type: Hatchback

Unchanged: The unassuming Mercedes-Benz B-Class EV is expected to soldier on without major changes, providing the marketplace foil to the BMW i3, which is far more ostentatious in its approach to zero-emissions driving. If you like the idea of an EV but don’t want to make as big a statement—and wouldn’t be caught dead in a Chevrolet or Nissan—then the EPA-estimated 87-mile range of the B-Class would be a solid choice.

Avoid: The B-Class if you need frequent fast charging. It lacks a DC fast charger.

Sum Up: Not bad, but it’s not class-leading.

Mercedes-Benz B-Class Electric Drive
Base Motor 177-hp/251-lb-ft electric
Opt Motor None
Drivetrain Front motor, FWD
Transmission 1A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 85/82 mpg-e*
0-60 mph 6.5 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value
* Estimated

2017 Mercedes-Benz C-Class

2017-Mercedes-Benz-C300-Coupe-promo

Base Price $40,500-$78,000*

Body Type: Sedan, coupe, conv

Major: The Mercedes-Benz C-Class adds a coupe and convertible to the lineup this year. Both body styles start in the C300 trim but also have three AMG levels: C43, C63, and C63 S, ranked from “plenty” to “far too much” on the power scale. The convertible will come with Airscarf, which blows warm air on your neck when the top is down, no doubt helping make it one of the more desirable entry-level luxury convertibles around.

Driver’s Choice: The AMG C63 S Coupe is the only vehicle in the segment to rock a pair of turbos and a V-8.

Sum Up: With the AMG C63 S Coupe on the way, watch out, M4 owners.

Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Base Engine 2.0L/241-hp/273-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 2.0L turbo I-4 + elec, 275 hp; 3.0L/362-hp/384-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6; 4.0L 469-503-hp/479-516-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 7A; 9A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 18-25/25-29 mpg*
0-60 mph 4.0-6.5 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 49%
* Estimated

2017 Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class

2017 Mercedes Benz CLA Class front three quarter

Base Price $33,500-$51,000*

Body Type Sedan

Minor: The CLA-Class gets a new front bumper, a revised rear bumper that integrates the exhaust pipes, optional high-performance LED headlights, and new wheel designs. Inside, new standard equipment includes an 8.0-inch slim-line infotainment screen, a rearview camera, collision prevention tech, and two new trims for the AMG and non-AMG models. Lunar Blue Metallic is added as an exterior color option.

Driver’s Choice: The AMG CLA45 is high on style and performance. You’ll have a good time.

Sum Up: Subtle changes to an agreeable car.

Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class
Base Engine 2.0L/208-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 2.0L/375-hp/350-lb-ft turbo I-4
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 23-26/31-38 mpg*
0-60 mph 4.2-6.3 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 50%
* Estimated

2017 Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class

2015-Mercedes-Benz-CLS63AMG-front-three-quarter-in-motion

Base Price $68,000-$109,000*

Body Type Sedan

Unchanged: The CLS-Class coupe-like four-door started the slope-roof craze years ago. Now, Mercedes has the smaller CLA in its lineup beside the E-Class-based CLS. We don’t expect the CLS to change significantly this year, so the same buying recommendations still stand. If you just want style, go for the CLS400, but if you want to get serious about performance, look for the three magic letters “AMG.”

Avoid: The back seat if you’re vertically gifted. That sloping roofline doesn’t allow for much headroom.

Sum Up: The original is still good but getting old.

Mercedes-Benz CLS-Class
Base Engine 3.0L/329-hp/354-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Opt Engine 4.7L/402-hp/443-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8; 5.5L/577-hp/590-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 7A; 9A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 16-20/22-30 mpg*
0-60 mph 3.4-5.4 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 45%
* Estimated

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe/Cabriolet

2014-Mercedes-Benz-E-Class-Coupe-front-right-view-22

Base Price: $55,500-$70,000*

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Unchanged:The current Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet will be produced for one more year before their successor arrives. Engines include a 329-hp, twin-turbo V-6 on the E400 or a 402-hp, twin-turbo V-8 on the E550 model. AWD is available only on the E400 Coupe. With the C-Class Cabriolet arriving in dealers, the E-Class Cabriolet is no longer Mercedes’ least expensive four-seat drop-top.

Cool Fact The B-Class and E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet are the only Mercedes-Benz vehicles without AMG variants.

Sum Up: Best used for cruising and road trips, not carving twisty roads.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Coupe/Cabriolet
Base Engine 3.0L/329-hp/354-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Opt Engine 4.7L/402-hp/443-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 7A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 17-20/26-29 mpg*
0-60 mph 4.4-6.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 48%
* Estimated

2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan/Wagon

2017 Mercedes Benz E300 4Matic front three quarter in motion 06

Base Price: $53,100-$107,000*

Body Type: Sedan, wagon

All-New: The new Mercedes-Benz E-Class’ Drive Pilot promises to nearly drive the car the whole time for you, remote parking pilot lets you park it from outside, and a Car-to-X communication system will allow the E-Class to communicate in real time. The E-Class has a longer wheelbase and wider track than the previous model. The wagon returns with a folding third-row seat in E400 and E63 S forms.

Cool Fact: Touch-sensitive controls on the steering wheel and infotainment system mimic smartphone commands.

Sum Up: New and improved.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class Sedan/Wagon
Base Engine 2.0L/241-hp/273-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 3.0L/329-396-hp/354-384-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 9A
EPA Econ City/Hwy Not Yet Rated
0-60 mph 3.4-6.3 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 49%
* Estimated

2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class

2017-Mercedes-Benz-S550-Cabriolet-front-three-quarters-in-motion-021

Base Price: $97,000-$250,600*

Body Type: Sedan, coupe, conv

Major: The iconic Mercedes-Benz S-Class adds Cabriolet models. This isn’t the first time Mercedes-Benz has offered four seats and a drop top, but with the S65 Cabriolet, it’s the first time you can get that combination with a twin-turbo V-12. The S63 Cabriolet is actually quicker, as it’s more than 150 pounds lighter than the S65. The S-Class sedan offers a six-cylinder plug-in hybrid at the same base price as the standard V-8 model.

Cool Fact: The S65 exists not because it’s logical but because it can.

Sum Up: When you’ve really made it but don’t want a Flying Spur.

Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Base Engine 4.7L/449-455-hp/516-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Opt Engine 5.5L/577-hp/664-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8; 6.0L/621-hp/738-lb-ft twin-turbo V-12; 3.0L twin-turbo V-6 + elec, 436 hp
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 7A; 9A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 12-17/20-26 mpg*
0-60 mph 3.8-4.7 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 39%
* Estimated

2017 Mercedes-Benz SL-Class

2017 Mercedes Benz SL Class Roadster front three quarter in motion

Base Price $87,975-$222,475

Body Type: Convertible

Major: The long-running SL-Class roadster gets some serious updates this year, starting with the same handsome diamond grille pattern found across the lineup and headlights that draw more inspiration from the AMG GT. The SL450 replaces the SL400 as the entry-level trim but adds more power and gets a nine-speed automatic along with the SL550.

Cool Fact: The SL-Class gets Apple CarPlay and a Smartphone Integration package that lets drivers enjoy a more seamless integration of their iPhone.

Sum Up: Emphasizes the grand part of touring without crowding the AMG GT.

Mercedes-Benz SL-Class
Base Engine 3.0L/362-hp/369-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Opt Engine 4.7L/449-hp/516-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8; 5.5L/577-hp/664-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8; 6.0L/621-hp/738-lb-ft twin-turbo V-12
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 7A; 9A
EPA Econ City/Hwy Not Yet Rated
0-60 mph 3.9-4.9 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 47%
* Estimated

2017 Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class

2017 Mercedes Benz SLC300 front three quarter in motion 02

Base Price: $48,875-$61,225

Body Type: Convertible

Major: The languishing SLK-Class has been refreshed and renamed the SLC-Class. The revamp adds revised exterior styling, LED headlights and taillights, a new turbocharged V-6 engine, and a nine-speed automatic. Inside, Saddle Brown and Platinum White upholstery colors are now offered. New exterior colors include Solar Red, Polar Blue, and Polar White.

Cool Fact The AMG SLC43 is the first AMG model to sport a six-cylinder engine since the SLK32 AMG of the early 2000s.

Sum Up: A new name and a round of updates breathes new life into Mercedes’ smaller roadster.

Mercedes-Benz SLC-Class
Base Engine 2.0L/241-hp/273-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 3.0L/362-hp/384-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 9A
EPA Econ City/Hwy Not Yet Rated
0-60 mph 4.6-5.8 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Mini Clubman

2016 Mini Clubman front three quarter in motion 04

Base Price $25,000-38,000*

Body Type Wagon

Minor: Currently the largest Mini model available, the Mini Clubman was new for 2016 and is now available with AWD. For 2017 major changes aren’t expected, but Mini could release a JCW variant powered by the same 228-hp, 2.0-liter turbo I-4 found in the JCW Hardtop and Convertible. Unlike the smaller JCW models, the JCW Clubman could come with a performance-tuned version of Mini’s AWD system.

Avoid: Going crazy with the options list because the Clubman will easily crest $35,000 if you’re not careful with the configurator.

Sum Up: The Mini of wagons, not a Mini in size.

Mini Clubman
Base Engine 1.5L/134-hp/162-lb-ft turbo I-3
Opt Engine 2.0L/189-hp/207-lb-ft turbo I-4; 2.0L/228-hp/236 lb-ft turbo I-4*
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 6M; 6A; 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 21-25/30-35 mpg*
0-60 mph 6.6-8.2 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Mini Hardtop/Convertible

2015-Mini-Cooper-Hardtop-4-Door-front-side-view-s-curves

Base Price: $21,800-$36,450

Body Type: Hatch, convertible

Minor: Mini recently added the Convertible variant with the same engine and transmission choices as the Hardtop models. A refresh, which could add new multimedia and connectivity features, won’t be due for another year or two, but expect the Hardtop 2-Door and 4-Door to receive them first. The new Mini Seven special edition will be available in Cooper or Cooper S trims of the Hardtop models.

Best Buy: The Cooper S trim provides a good balance of power, fuel economy, ride, and handling for its size.

Sum Up: It isn’t mini anymore, but the Hardtop and Convertible retain their quirky charms.

Mini Hardtop/Convertible
Base Engine 1.5L/134-hp/162-lb-ft turbo I-3
Opt Engine 2.0L/189-hp/207-lb-ft turbo I-4; 2.0L/228-hp/236-lb-ft turbo I-4
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 22-29/31-39 mpg*
0-60 mph 5.9-8.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 4 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 53%
* Estimated

2017 Mitsubishi i-MiEV

2014 i-MiEV Silver

Base Price $23,845

Body Type: Hatchback

Unchanged: The Mitsubishi i-MiEV remains unchanged for 2017 but retains the crown as the least expensive EV for sale, and it still has an EPA-estimated range of 59 miles and seats four people. Despite the modest range (revised for the 2017 model year), the Mitsubishi has a CHAdeMO DC quick charge port, which allows drivers to charge the i-MiEV to 80 percent in just 30 minutes. We’ve tested a 2012 model hitting 60 mph in 13.4 seconds.

Avoid: The i-MiEV if you’re acutely sensitive to range anxiety.

Sum Up: A low-range EV at a cheaper-than-a-hybrid price.

Mitsubishi i-MiEV
Base Motor 66-hp/145-lb-ft electric
Opt Motor None
Drivetrain Rear motor, RWD
Transmission 1A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 121/102 mpg-e
0-60 mph 13.4 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 4 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 19%

2017 Mitsubishi Lancer

2017 Mitsubishi Lancer front three quarter 08

Base Price: $18,500-$23,500*

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: Last year, the compact Mitsubishi sedan gained a new front fascia, an updated interior, more technology, and even more standard equipment. The Lancer isn’t a terrible sedan, but there are better models that deliver more for the money in the segment. The bigger news in the Mitsubishi sedan lineup is with the newly available Mirage G4, an entry-level four-door subcompact that’s also offered as a hatch.

Avoid The Lancer if you have memories of the Evolution and its turbocharged I-4. It’ll only make you sad.

Sum Up: A dated option with a generous warranty, aggressive styling, and available AWD.

Mitsubishi Lancer
Base Engine 2.0L/148-hp/145-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 2.4L/168-hp/167-lb-ft I-4
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 5M; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 22-27/31-35 mpg*
0-60 mph 7.3-8.3 sec*
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 4 Stars; IIHS: TSP
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 47%
* Estimated

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage

2017 Mitsubishi Mirage G4 front three quarter

Base Price: $13,830-$17,830

Body Type: Sedan, hatchback

Major: The Mitsubishi Mirage gets new front and rear fascias, a new hood, HID headlights, LED taillights, a revised interior with new seat fabrics, an infotainment system that supports Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, 4 more hp, and a new sedan version called the Mirage G4. The sedan will follow the same formula for success as the Mirage (low price, lots of options). Two new exterior colors are added: Wine Red and Sunrise Orange.

Cool Fact: The Mirage’s low price makes it an alternative to used cars.

Sum Up: With just 78 hp, it’s one of the most efficient cars on the road for a reason.

Mitsubishi Mirage
Base Engine 1.2L/78-hp/74-lb-ft I-3
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 5M; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 33-37/40-43 mpg
0-60 mph 11.0-12.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 5 years/60,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 4 Stars
* Estimated

 

2017 Nissan 370Z

2017 Nissan 370Z coupe front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $30,825-$48,935

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Unchanged: No changes were added to the 2017 Nissan 370Z except for the addition of the Chicane Yellow exterior color. The 3.7-liter V-6 can be paired to a six-speed manual with an automatic rev-matching feature or a seven-speed automatic transmission. All 370Z trims are available with performance accessories, including the NISMO model’s exhaust system.

Driver’s Choice: The 370Z NISMO comes with a more aggressive suspension setup, slightly more power, unique alloy wheels, and performance seats.

Sum Up: Aging and in need of a successor.

Nissan 370Z
Base Engine 3.7L/332-hp/270-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine 3.7L/350-hp/276-lb-ft V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 6M; 7A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 17-19/24-26 mpg
0-60 mph 4.9 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 53%
* Estimated

2017 Nissan Altima

2016-Nissan-Altima-SR-front-three-quarter-view

Base Price: $24,000-$34,000*

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: For 2016, the Nissan Altima received an extensive refresh, which included new front and rear fascias and a sporty SR trim that added paddle shifters to the I-4 and a sport-tuned suspension, among other things. Active safety features such as forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking are available as part of an optional package on the range-topping SL grade.

Look For: A base model with a generous list of standard features, including Bluetooth and a 4.3-inch TFT display between the main gauges.

Sum Up: A sensible midsize sedan often lost in the shuffle of a competitive class.

Nissan Altima
Base Engine 2.5L/182-hp/180-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 3.5L/270-hp/251-lb-ft V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 22-27/32-39 mpg*
0-60 mph 5.9-7.4 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 46%
* Estimated

2017 Nissan GT-R

2017 Nissan GT R front three quarter in motion 09 2

Base Price $111,600-$160,000*

Body Type: Coupe

Major: In addition to a major exterior design refresh, the 2017 Nissan GT-R gains more power and now has 565 hp and 467 lb-ft of torque. The six-speed twin-clutch automatic has been smoothed out for better daily usability. Inside, the GT-R gets more sound-deadening, a new steering wheel, a redesigned center stack and dash layout, and a simplified infotainment system with knob controls complementing the larger 8.0-inch touchscreen.

Driver’s Choice: The GT-R NISMO is ready to take the supercar world by storm once more.

Sum Up: Godzilla continues to live one refresh at a time.

Nissan GT-R
Base Engine 3.8L/565-hp/467-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Opt Engine 3.8L/600-hp/481-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, AWD
Transmission 6-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 16/22 mpg
0-60 mph 56%
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 56%

2017 Nissan Leaf

2016 Nissan Leaf EV front three quarter 02

Base Price: $30,000-$38,000*

Body Type: Hatchback

Unchanged: For 2016, Nissan added a larger 30-kW-hr lithium-ion battery option for the Leaf EV, which comes standard on the SV and SL trims and an estimated range of 107 miles per charge. Base S models retain the smaller 24-kW-hr unit and a range (for 2016 models) of 84 miles per charge. Last year, the SV and SL grades got a new infotainment system with a 7.0-inch touchscreen as standard.

Best Buy: SV and SL trims offer the most value with more range and features, such as an available Around View Monitor.

Sum Up: Still a solid EV despite its age.

Nissan Leaf
Base Motor 107-hp/187-lb-ft electric
Opt Motor None
Drivetrain Front motor, FWD
Transmission 1A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 124-126/101 mpg-e*
0-60 mph 9.6 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 4 Stars
* Estimated

 


Nissan Maxima

2017 Nissan Maxima front three quarter in motion 01

Base Price: $33,395-$40,825

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: New for 2016, the Nissan Maxima gained a more polarizing exterior design. A 300-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 paired to a CVT remains the only powertrain combination available, and all Maximas come with a generous list of standard equipment, and the 2017 model year also gets Apple CarPlay as standard. A Midnight Edition adds a black spoiler, black 19-inch alloy wheels, and Charcoal leather on the SR trim.

Driver’s Choice: The SR trim comes with a unique suspension setup, paddle shifters, and torque vectoring.

Sum Up: A sporty four-door sedan.

Nissan Maxima
Base Engine 3.5L/300-hp/261-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 21/30 mpg
0-60 mph 5.8 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 46%

2017 Nissan Sentra

2016 Nissan Sentra SL front three quarter

Base Price: $18,000-$23,500*

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: Nissan gave the Sentra a major refresh last year, which included a new front fascia with restyled headlights and the brand’s V-Motion grille. Active safety features such as automatic emergency braking and forward collision warning are available on higher trim levels. No major changes are expected for 2017 other than possibly new exterior colors.

Driver’s Choice Any other compact over any Sentra with the standard engine; its lack of pep puts it at a driving-dynamics disadvantage.

Sum Up: Quieter than before but still no class leader.

Nissan Maxima
Base Engine 1.8L/130-hp/128-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 27-30/36-40 mpg*
0-60 mph 9.8-10.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 4 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
* Estimated

2017 Nissan Versa

2016 Nissan Sentra SL front three quarter

Base Price: $13,000-$20,000*

Body Type: Sedan, hatchback

Unchanged: Having been on the market for a little more than four years, the Nissan Versa and its hatchback counterpart, the Versa Note, offer plenty of space despite diminutive dimensions. Before a full redesign arrives in a few years, an updated multimedia interface could trickle down to the Versa and Versa Note to replace the current unit and its tiny touchscreen.

Cool Fact You can personalize the Versa Note hatchback via Nissan’s Color Studio program to add a splash of style and color.

Sum Up: Still one of the cheapest cars you can buy new in the U.S.

Nissan Versa
Base Engine 1.6L/109-hp/107-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 5M; 4A; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 26-31/35-40 mpg*
0-60 mph 9.8-10.3 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 4 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 52%
* Estimated

 

2017 Porsche 718 Boxster/Cayman

2017 Porsche 718 Cayman front three quarter in motion 03 1

Base Price: $54,950-$69,450

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Major: The 718 encompasses the Boxster and Cayman mid-engine models from Porsche but with a major twist—a pair of turbocharged flat-4 engines provide the motivation. The sheetmetal has been subtly reworked on both cars, which are tempting alternatives to the more expensive models in the automaker’s stable.

Cool Fact: Hitting the Sport Response button sharpens transmission/throttle responses for 20 seconds, plenty of time for a spirited passing maneuver.

Sum Up: Turbo flat-four: approved.

Porsche 718 Boxster/Cayman
Base Engine 2.0L/300-hp/280-lb-ft turbo flat-4
Opt Engine 2.5L/350-hp/309-lb-ft turbo flat-4
Drivetrain Mid engine, RWD
Transmission 6M; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy Not Yet Rated
0-60 mph 4.0-4.9 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles

2017 Porsche 911

2017 Porsche 911 Carrera S front three quarter in motion 06

Base Price: $90,450-$201,450

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Major: Porsche made a big move by making almost every 911 turbocharged. The only exceptions are the extra sporty variants such as the 911 R and the GT3 RS. Power is up across the board, and the external styling stays faithful to the 911 silhouette. The infotainment system has also been improved with Google Earth and Street View images and real-time traffic.

Cool Fact: The entry-level 911 Carrera is an appealing car in its own right, not just a superfluous step on the way to the “real” 911s.

Sum Up: The icon adapts to the times and loses none of its specialness.

Porsche 911
Base Engine 3.0L/370-hp/331-lb-ft twin-turbo flat-6
Opt Engine 3.0L/420-hp/368-lb-ft twin-turbo flat-6; 3.8L/540-580-hp/486-516-lb-ft twin-turbo flat-6; 4.0L/500-hp/338-lb-ft flat-6
Drivetrain Rear engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 6M; 7M; 7-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 14-22/20-30 mpg
0-60 mph 2.5-4.6 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 53%
* Estimated

2017 Porsche Panamera

2017 Porsche Panamera Turbo front three quarter 03 1

Base Price: $80,000-$200,000*

Body Type: Hatchback

All-New: The next-generation Panamera has debuted, sporting significant changes and styling to give it a sleeker look, not to mention a rear end that’s less boatlike. Get the full story on the new 2017 Porsche Panamera HERE.

Look For: A Panamera Shooting Brake (wagon) to make its debut within a few years in some markets.

Sum Up: Plenty of sport when the party is plus-three instead of plus-one.

Porsche Panamera
Base Engine 2.9L/440-hp/405-lb-ft twin-turbo V-6
Opt Engine 4.0L/550-hp/567-lb-ft twin-turbo V-8
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD/AWD
Transmission 8-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 15-18/24/28 mpg*
0-60 mph 3.4-4.2 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 50%
* Estimated

 

2017 Rolls-Royce Dawn/Wraith

2017 Rolls-Royce Dawn front three quarter view with top up

Base Price: $320,000-$380,000*

Body Type: Coupe, convertible

Unchanged: The Rolls-Royce Wraith recently gained a convertible counterpart called the Dawn, and it also gets a blacked-out
Black Badge special-edition model with a black Spirit of Ecstasy. For 2017, the Wraith and Dawn should remain unchanged but could add a special edition with unique touches to highlight how customizable they are. Like the Ghost, the Wraith lets you opt for a two-tone exterior color scheme.

Cool Fact: The Wraith is the most powerful Rolls-Royce currently available.

Sum Up: An exciting convertible for the newly rich.

Rolls-Royce Dawn/Wraith
Base Engine 6.6L/563-624-hp/575-590-lb-ft twin-turbo V-12
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 12-13/19-21 mpg
0-60 mph 4.1-4.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/unlimited miles
* Estimated

2017 Rolls-Royce Ghost

2015-Rolls-Royce-Ghost-Series-II-front-three-quarter-07

Base Price: $305,000-$335,000*

Body Type Sedan

Unchanged: Updated for 2014, the Rolls-Royce Ghost gained a long-wheelbase version. A special-edition model with a bespoke interior design, a special exterior color, and a unique Spirit of Ecstasy hood ornament could be added for the 2017 Ghost. A 563-hp, twin-turbo V-12 provides enough power for you to make quick getaways from the paparazzi.

Look For: The ability to customize your Rolls-Royce Ghost exactly how you’d like it with the Bespoke service, allowing you to personalize the car’s exterior colors, cabin upholsteries, and veneers.

Sum Up: Smaller than a Phantom but just as luxurious.

Roll-Royce Ghost
Base Engine 6.6L/563-hp/575-lb-ft twin-turbo V-12
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 13/21 mpg*
0-60 mph 4.4 sec
Basic Warranty 4 years/unlimited miles
* Estimated

2017 Rolls-Royce Phantom

Rolls-Royce-Phantom-Limelight-Collection-front-three-quarters1

Base Price: $425,000-$500,000

Body Type: Sedan, coupe, conv

Minor: Rolls-Royce will discontinue the Phantom Coupe and Drophead Coupe after the 2017 model year, leaving only the sedan to continue on. To commemorate the end of production, Rolls-Royce is building a total of 50 Zenith Edition Coupes and Drophead Coupes with unique touches such as laser-etched armrests depicting the cars’ original launch locations and a unique Spirit of Ecstasy ornament.

Look For: A new generation of the Phantom sedan to make its debut in 2018 with new powertrains and a lighter curb weight.

Sum Up: One of the most luxurious vehicles ever produced.

Roll-Royce Phantom
Base Engine 6.7L/453-hp/531-lb-ft V-12
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 11/19 mpg
0-60 mph 5.5-6.2 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/unlimited miles
* Estimated

 

2017 Smart Fortwo

2017 Smart For Two with BRABUS Sport Package

Base Price: $15,500-$18,500

Body Type: Hatchback, conv

Major: The big change for the Fortwo this year: a topless version. Also, there’s a new $1,900 Brabus Sport package for coupes and convertibles that adds 16-inch alloys in front and 17s in back, both finished in matte gray paint. In addition to summer performance tires, the package also includes matte gray rear diffuser and a Brabus body kit with a Brabus steering wheel.

Driver’s Choice: The five-speed manual is the weapon of choice, giving some semblance of sport to the tiny car and its sub-100-hp engine.

Sum Up: Smart for some but not for everyone.

Smart Fortwo
Base Engine 0.9L/89-hp/100-lb-ft turbo I-3
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Rear engine, RWD
Transmission 5M; 6-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 32-34/39 mpg*
0-60 mph 10.1-10.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 42%
* Estimated

 

2017 Subaru BRZ

2017 Subaru BRZ front three quarter in motion 03

Base Price: $26,500*

Body Type: Coupe

Major: Like its twin, the Toyota 86, the 2017 Subaru BRZ receives a refresh that includes revised styling, the addition of full LED headlights, a revised suspension, and an updated manual transmission. The car’s 2.0-liter flat-four gets a power bump to 205 hp and 156 lb-ft of torque with the manual. A Performance package with Brembo brakes, Sachs shock absorbers, and 17-inch black alloy wheels will be available later in 2017.

Avoid Looking for a navigation system—there isn’t one available in the 2017 Subaru BRZ.

Sum Up: Exceptional balance and handling in a lightweight package.

Subaru BRZ
Base Engine 2.0L/200-205-hp/151-156-lb-ft flat-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 21-24/28-32 mpg
0-60 mph 6.3-7.7 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 55%
* Estimated

2017 Subaru Impreza

2017 Subaru Impreza Sport 20i front three quarter

Base Price: $19,500-$36,000*

Body Type: Sedan, hatchback

All-New: Riding on the new Subaru Global Platform, the new Impreza is longer and wider than the car it replaces. Under the hood is an updated 2.0-liter flat-four, which now has direct injection for a slight improvement in power and better fuel economy. The WRX and WRX STI carry over from the last generation with more standard equipment, such as leather upholstery, a moonroof, and eight-way power seats.

Cool Fact Subaru will build the 2017 Impreza in the U.S. at its Indiana assembly plant alongside the Legacy and Outback.

Sum Up: Safe, functional, and sensible.

Subaru Impreza
Base Engine 2.0L/152-hp/150 lb-ft flat-4*
Opt Engine 2.0L/268-hp/258-lb-ft turbo flat-4; 2.5L/305-hp/290-lb-ft turbo flat-4
Drivetrain Front engine, AWD
Transmission 5M*; 6M; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 17-30/23-40 mpg*
0-60 mph 4.6-9.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 61%
* Estimated

2017 Subaru Legacy

2017 Subaru Legacy front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $22,815-$32,460

Body Type: Sedan

Minor: The 2017 Subaru Legacy’s new Sport trim adds a dark gray front grille, foglights with gloss black housings, 18-inch alloy wheels, and chrome-accented rocker trim. Inside, the Sport trim adds two-tone gray/black cloth seats; blue stitching on the seats, door panels, and steering wheel; and a carbon-fiber pattern trim. The Starlink infotainment system with a 7.0-inch touchscreen is also standard on the Sport.

Cool Fact: Reverse automatic braking and high-beam assist have been added to the EyeSight safety suite.

Sum Up: Inoffensive and safe.

Subaru Legacy
Base Engine 2.5L/175-hp/174-lb-ft flat-4
Opt Engine 3.6L/256-hp/247-lb-ft flat-6
Drivetrain Front engine, AWD
Transmission CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 20-25/28-34 mpg
0-60 mph 7.0-8.8 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 58%

2017 Tesla Model 3

2017 Tesla Model 3 front three quarter 03

Base Price: $35,000*

Body Type: Sedan

All-New: The Model 3 promises a range of at least 200 miles, a 0-60 time of less than
6.0 seconds, and Supercharger compatibility. Although we doubt most buyers will go for a base model at its $35,000 base price, a somewhat affordable EV with serious range and curb appeal should help expand electric-car interest to a wider audience once it goes on sale, currently slated for the end of 2017.

Cool Fact: The Model 3 has a solid piece of glass that stretches from cowl to trunk across the passengers’ heads.

Sum Up: An affordable EV with a 200+ mile range? Apparently not too good to be true.

Tesla Model 3
Base Motor 235-hp electric*
Opt Motor 325-hp dual electric*
Drivetrain RWD/AWD
Transmission 1A
EPA Econ City/Hwy Not Yet Rated
0-60 mph 5.9 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Tesla Model S

2017 Tesla Model S front side view

Base Price: $73,000-$111,000*

Body Type: Hatchback

Major: Elon Musk doesn’t rest on his laurels, and neither does the Model S, which got a face-lift this year to bring it more in line with the new Model X crossover and the forthcoming Model 3, a bigger 90-kW-hr battery, a Ludicrous Speed optional upgrade (0-60 mph in just 2.6 seconds), Autopilot (a semi-autonomous mode), and the Summon feature, which can park and retrieve the car. The 85-kW-hr battery option has been discontinued, and Tesla has announced plans for a P100D Ludicrous model with 0-60 mph acceleration in 2.5 seconds.

Cool Fact: Drivers experience 1.1 g’s through 14 mph when launching the Model S in Ludicrous mode.

Sum Up: Just when we thought the groundbreaking Model S couldn’t surprise us anymore.

Tesla Model S
Base Motor 315-hp electric
Opt Motor 328-hp dual electric; 417-hp dual electric; 463-532-hp dual electric
Drivetrain RWD/AWD
Transmission 1A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 89-102/90-107 mpg-e*
0-60 mph 2.5-5.5 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
* Estimated

2017 Toyota 86

2017 Toyota 86 front three quarter 1

Base Price: $26,500*

Body Type: Coupe

Major: Scion’s death led to Toyota inheriting the FR-S, which has been renamed the 86. The rear-drive sports car is now rated at 205 hp and 156 lb-ft of torque when equipped with the manual gearbox. Additionally, the suspension and transmission tuning have been tweaked to improve the car’s handling and drivability. Steering wheel-mounted controls and hill-start assist now come standard. The 86 is only available in a single spec.

Driver’s Choice: The manual-equipped 86 offers the most fun behind the wheel.

Sum Up: The Toyota brand finally gets a sports car.

Toyota 86
Base Engine 2.0L/200-205-hp/151-156-lb-ft flat-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, RWD
Transmission 6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 21-24/28-32 mpg
0-60 mph 6.3-7.7 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 52%
* Estimated

2017 Toyota Avalon

2017 Toyota Avalon Limited front three quarters

Base Price: $34,000-$43,000*

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: No major changes are expected for the 2017 Avalon, as it received a refresh last year. As Toyota rolls out active safety tech features across its lineup, expect some new safety tech to be offered on most or all trims. The 268-hp, 3.5-liter V-6 paired to a six-speed automatic and the 200-hp hybrid should return as the only two available powertrain choices for the Avalon.

Driver’s Choice A Touring trim with a more athletic look was added for 2016, offering sportier driving dynamics thanks to its unique suspension tuning.

Sum Up: Toyota’s flagship has a flavor for everyone.

Toyota Avalon
Base Engine 3.5L/268-hp/248-lb-ft V-6
Opt Engine 2.5L I-4 + elec, 200 hp
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6A; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 21-40/31-39 mpg*
0-60 mph 6.2-7.4 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 48%
* Estimated

2017 Toyota Camry

2017 Toyota Camry front three quarter in motion 02

Base Price: $23,905-$30,975

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: The 2017 Toyota Camry gets a new exterior color, Blue Streak Metallic, which replaces Blue Crush Metallic. XLE and XSE trims now come equipped with an upgraded version of Toyota’s Entune multimedia interface featuring a JBL audio system and navigation. A wireless phone charging system has been added to the XSE and
XLE trims.

Cool Fact: The available 3.5-liter V-6 is also shared with other Toyota products, including the larger Avalon sedan and the Sienna minivan.

Sum Up: Still the most popular midsize sedan in the U.S.

Toyota Camry
Base Engine 2.5L/178-hp/170-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 3.5L/268-hp/248-lb-ft V-6; 2.5L I-4 + elec, 200 hp
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6A; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 21-43/30-39 mpg*
0-60 mph 5.8-8.1 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value
* Estimated

Toyota Corolla

2017 Toyota Corolla 50th Anniversary Special Edition front side view

Base Price $18,000-$25,000*

Body Type Sedan

Major: Toyota refreshed the Corolla for 2017, and because it’s the car’s 50th anniversary, Toyota also released a special edition. Bi-LED headlights are standard on the L and LE grades, and higher trim levels get complex LED headlights. The Toyota Safety Sense-P suite of active safety features is now available, and the Entune infotainment system gets a larger 7.0-inch touchscreen as standard.

Look For A slightly tweaked lower front fascia with a redesigned grille and lower foglight housings.

Sum Up: Still not as fun to drive as it looks.

Toyota Corolla
Base Engine 1.8L/132-hp/128-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine 1.8L/140-hp/126-lb-ft I-4
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; 4A; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 27-30/36-42 mpg*
0-60 mph 9.0-10.2 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 55%
* Estimated

 


2017 Toyota Corolla iM

2017 Toyota Corolla iM side static

Base Price: $20,000*

Body Type: Hatchback

Unchanged:All-new last year under Toyota’s departed Scion brand, the iM (pictured) transitions to the Toyota brand as part of the Corolla lineup. There are no changes for the Corolla iM except for the Scion badges being replaced by Toyota ones. The 137-hp, 1.8-liter I-4 can be paired to a six-speed manual or a CVT. The car comes with a generous list of standard equipment.

Cool Fact: Unlike the Corolla sedan, the Corolla iM features a multilink rear suspension for improved ride and handling characteristics.

Sum Up: The more refined member of the Corolla family.

Toyota Corolla iM
Base Engine .8L/137-hp/126-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 27-28/36-37 mpg*
0-60 mph 8.9-9.9 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 64%
* Estimated

2017 Toyota Mirai

2016-Toyota-Mirai-front-end-in-motion

Base Price: $58,500*

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged:New last year, the Toyota Mirai is the automaker’s first dedicated hydrogen fuel vehicle, which can travel more than 300 miles on a single tank. No changes are expected for the 2017 Mirai, whose availability is limited to only a number of states. The car comes with a long list of standard features, including Toyota’s Entune infotainment system with navigation and a JBL audio system.

Look For A front fascia that looks like an automotive version of a particular dark lord to strike fear into people’s hearts.

Sum Up: Environmental friendliness with an angry face.

Toyota Mirai
Base Motor 157-hp/247-lb-ft elec
Opt Motor None
Drivetrain Front motor, FWD
Transmission 1A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 67/67 mpg-e*
0-60 mph 8.9 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
* Estimated

2017 Toyota Prius

2017 Toyota Prius Prime front three quarters

Base Price: $25,500*

Body Type: Hatchback

Major: A plug-in variant called the Prius Prime joins the 2017 Toyota Prius lineup, and it has an EV range of more than 22 miles thanks to a larger 8.8-kW-hr lithium-ion battery. Unlike the standard Prius, the Prius Prime has a different front fascia and a unique rear end treatment that distinguishes it as a plug-in variant. Inside, you’ll find an updated version of Toyota’s Entune multimedia interface with a larger 11.6-inch touchscreen.

Best Buy: The Prius Eco trim offers increased fuel economy, up to 58/53 mpg city/highway in 2016 EPA ratings.

Sum Up: Toyota’s popular hybrid is more efficient and bolder than ever before.

Toyota Prius
Base Engine 1.8L I-4 + elec, 121 hp
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 54-58/50-53 mpg*, 120 mpg-e comb*
0-60 mph 9.4-9.7 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 56%
* Estimated

2017 Toyota Prius C

2016 Toyota Prius C front three quarter 03

Base Price: $21,000*

Body Type: Hatchback

Unchanged: Available with a range of bright, eye-catching colors, the Toyota Prius C is the urban warrior’s hybrid. No changes are expected for the smallest member of the Prius family except for potentially some minor updates in the car’s exterior color choices. An updated version of Toyota’s Entune infotainment system is also possible, as the Prius C still uses an older version with a smaller touchscreen.

Look For: Tiny dimensions to help you squeeze into any parking space when traversing the urban jungle.

Sum Up: A Prius for those that just can’t get enough of the city.

Toyota Prius C
Base Engine 1.5L I-4 + elec, 99 hp
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 53/46 mpg*
0-60 mph 10.2 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 53%
* Estimated

2017 Toyota Prius V

2017 Toyota Prius V front three quarters 02

Base Price: $27,510

Body Type: Hatchback

Unchanged: The 2017 Toyota Prius V gets a new exterior color called Galactic Aqua Mica, and the Entune infotainment system gets upgraded with voice recognition and Siri Eyes Free. Compared to the standard Prius, the Prius V offers more space thanks to its taller roofline, extra length, and wider body. Although that extra utility does come with a hit in fuel economy, the Prius V still offers better gas mileage than most alternatives.

Look For: An expansive interior that’s larger than many crossovers.

Sum Up: The Prius for the crossover-averse.

Toyota Prius V
Base Engine 1.8L I-4 + elec, 134 hp
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission CVT
EPA Econ City/Hwy 43/39 mpg
0-60 mph 10.1 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 53%

2017 Toyota Yaris

2016-Toyota-Yaris-front-three-quarters

Base Price: $16,000-$18,000*

Body Type: Hatchback

Unchanged:We’d be surprised to see much change for the 2017 Yaris, though with the automaker’s push toward active safety tech, a basic package of such features could be offered. The aging 106-hp, 1.5-liter I-4 should remain as the only engine choice, and it’ll still be mated to a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission in two- and four-door hatchback forms. Go for the four-door’s SE trim, and you’ll get a retuned suspension, 16-inch alloys, and rear disc brakes.

Cool Fact: In Europe, Toyota offers the Yaris as a hybrid.

Sum Up: Surprisingly practical basic transportation.

Toyota Yaris
Base Engine 1.5L/106-hp/103-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 5M; 4A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 30/36-37 mpg*
0-60 mph 8.7-10.9 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 4 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 54%
* Estimated

2017 Toyota Yaris iA

2017 Toyota Yaris iA front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $16,500*

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: The Yaris iA was one of three former Scion models that moved to the Toyota brand (Scion iA pictured). Based on the Mazda2 sedan, the Yaris iA offers nimble handling and excellent fuel economy thanks to its light weight and efficiency-minded powertrain. The only engine is a 106-hp, 1.5-liter I-4 that can be paired to either a six-speed manual or automatic transmission. A low-speed forward emergency braking feature is standard.

Cool Fact: The Toyota Yaris iA is manufactured alongside the Mazda2 in Mazda’s Mexico facility.

Sum Up: Toyota’s smallest sedan is nimble and efficient.

Toyota Yaris iA
Base Engine 1.5L/106-hp/103-lb-ft I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; 6A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 31-33/41-42 mpg*
0-60 mph 8.9-11.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 61%
* Estimated

 

2017 Volkswagen Beetle

2017 Volkswagen PinkBeetle 1

Base Price: $21,000-$32,500*

Body Type: Hatchback, convertible

Minor: A special edition called the #PinkBeetle, which was originally a concept, has been added to the lineup as a hatch or convertible. Additional equipment in the #PinkBeetle includes a 6.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, bi-xenon headlights, pink plaid cloth seats, and either 17-inch alloy wheels for the hatch or 18-inch ones for the convertible.

Cool Fact: The Baja Bug-inspired Beetle Dune is 0.6 inch wider and 0.4 inch taller than normal Beetles.

Sum Up: Still quirky and recognizable as a Beetle, especially in pink.

Volkswagen Beetle
Base Engine 1.8L/170-hp/184-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 2.0L/210-hp/207-lb-ft turbo I-4
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6M; 6A; 6-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 23-25/31-34 mpg*
0-60 mph 6.3-8.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 50%
* Estimated

Volkswagen CC 2016 Volkswagen CC front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $33,000-$45,500*

Body Type: Sedan

Unchanged: No major changes are expected for the 2017 Volkswagen CC, as it received an updated infotainment system last year with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. A more upscale successor using the Volkswagen Group’s MQB platform, which also underpins the Golf family and Audi A3 and TT,
should be coming before long.

Avoid:  Looking for a V-6 model, as the Executive trim on which it was standard has been discontinued.

Sum Up: The people’s coupelike four-door soldiers on.

Volkswagen CC
Base Engine 2.0L/200-hp/207-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine None
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 6M; 6-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 21-22/31-32 mpg*
0-60 mph 6.3-6.7 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
IntelliChoice 5-Year Retained Value 43%
* Estimated

2017 Volkswagen Golf

2016 Volkswagen Golf GTI front three quarter in motion

Base Price: $19,500-$37,000*

Body Type: Hatchback, wagon

Minor: The Golf enters 2017 with a new Wolfsburg edition above the S model, including leatherette seats, hands-free keyless access with push-button start, heated front seats, rain-sensing windshield wipers, 16-inch alloy wheels, badging, and a suite of active safety tech. For 2017, the SE and SEL trims are now order-only on the four-door model. On the GTI, a new Sport model includes the Performance package plus brakes from the Golf R as well as a limited-slip differential, HID headlights, and 18-inch alloys.

Best Buy: The GTI provides an excellent balance of power, handling, fuel economy, comfort, and practicality.

Sum Up: A compact family car with a version for every taste.

Volkswagen Golf
Base Engine 1.8L/170-hp/184-199-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 2.0L/210-220-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4; 2.0L/292-hp/280-lb-ft turbo I-4; 115-hp/199-lb-ft electric
Drivetrain Front engine/motor, FWD/AWD
Transmission 5M; 6M; 6A; 6-sp twin-cl auto; 1A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 22-25/30-37 mpg*; 126/105 mpg-e*
0-60 mph 4.5-9.1 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 54%
* Estimated

2017 Volkswagen Jetta

2016-Volkswagen-Jetta-SEL-front-three-quarter-in-motion-03

Base Price: $19,000-$32,500*

Body Type: Sedan

Minor: After a significant infotainment update last year that added compatability with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, the 2017 Jetta has a simplified lineup. The GLI is only offered in an SE trim (with 18-inch alloys, navigation, Park Distance Control, the Fender sound system, and blind spot monitoring). A rearview camera is now standard on all Jettas and the hybrid has been discontinued. The SEL trim a suite of active safety tech as standard equipment.

Look For: An all-new Jetta underpinned by Volkswagen’s MQB platform to make its debut in the near future.

Sum Up: Germany’s answer to the Civic and Corolla.

Volkswagen Jetta
Base Engine 1.4L/150-hp/184-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 1.8L/170-hp/184-lb-ft turbo I-4
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 5M; 6M; 6A; 6-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 23-28/33-40 mpg
0-60 mph 6.3-8.4 sec*
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 57%
* Estimated

2017 Volkswagen Passat

2016-Volkswagen-Passat-front-three-quarter-05

Base Price: $24,000-$38,000*

Body Type: Sedan

Minor: The Volkswagen Passat received a significant refresh for the 2016 model year, which included a new multimedia interface, with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility and a slightly redesigned exterior. For 2017, the Passat adds a basic active safety tech package as standard on every model. The SE model now has as standard hands-free keyless access with push-button start.

Cool Fact: The standard turbocharged, 1.8-liter I-4 in the Passat is also available in the Golf, Jetta, and Beetle.

Sum Up: The German family sedan built specifically for American tastes.

Volkswagen Passat
Base Engine 1.8L/170-hp/184-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 3.6L/280-hp/258-lb-ft V-6
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD
Transmission 6A; 6-sp twin-cl auto
EPA Econ City/Hwy 20-25/28-38 mpg*
0-60 mph 5.7-7.7 sec
Basic Warranty 3 years/36,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 43%
* Estimated

 

2017 Volvo S60/V60

2016 Volvo S60 front three quarters

Base Price $35,500-$62,500*

Body Type Sedan, wagon

Major: Volvo has discontinued the 2.5-liter turbo-five and the 3.0-liter turbo-six in the S60 sedan and V60 wagon and has added an AWD option to vehicles with the 240-hp, 2.0-liter turbo-four and eight-speed automatic. The S60 and V60 Polestar return with a more potent version of the supercharged and turbocharged, 2.0-liter I-4 tuned for 362 hp and 347 lb-ft of torque and paired to a performance-tuned eight-speed automatic.

Driver’s Choice The V60 Polestar is the ultimate Volvo wagon. It can haul the family and haul on the track.

Sum Up: Sweden’s take on hot sport sedans and wagons.

Volvo S60/V60
Base Engine 2.0L/240-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 2.0L/302-hp/295-lb-ft s’chg’d and turbo I-4; 2.0L/362-hp/347-lb-ft s’chg’d and turbo I-4
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 19-25/28-36 mpg*
0-60 mph 4.4-6.3 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
Safety NHTSA: 5 Stars; IIHS: TSP+
IntelliChoice 5-Yr Retained Value 48%
* Estimated

2017 Volvo S90/V90

2017 Volvo S90 side in motion

Base Price: $48,000-$75,000*

Body Type: Sedan, wagon

All-New: Volvo’s S90 sedan and V90 wagon are the final additions to the 90 Series of cars, replacing the aging S80 and European-market V70. The XC90 SUV’s powertrain choices, including a plug-in hybrid model rated at 400 hp and 472 lb-ft of torque, carry over to the S90 and V90. An eight-speed automatic will be the only gearbox available across the range.

Look For: A Cross Country variant of the V90 to replace the XC70, which is an Outback-style raised wagon made to look rugged with additional body cladding and standard AWD.

Sum Up: Volvo returns to its Swedish roots.

Volvo S90/V90
Base Engine 2.0L/250-hp/258-lb-ft turbo I-4
Opt Engine 2.0L/316-hp/295-lb-ft s’chg’d and turbo I-4; 2.0L s’chg’d and turbo I-4 + elec, 400 hp
Drivetrain Front engine, FWD/AWD
Transmission 8A
EPA Econ City/Hwy 22-23/31-34 mpg*; 60 mpg-e comb*
0-60 mph 5.7-7.0 sec*
Basic Warranty 4 years/50,000 miles
* Estimated

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