10 Things To Know About The Stunning New Rivian R1T!

 

1: The R1T is a fully electric mid-size truck that is powered by 2 electric motors.

2: Rivian claims the R1T can pump out an outrageous 800 horsepower, and can sprint to 60 in only 3.0 seconds, which would beat the likes of the Tesla Cybertruck and even V-8 monsters like the Ram TRX.

3: The Rivian truck will be able to go 300 miles on a full charge, with more expensive variants able to travel 400 miles. 

4: Pricing begins at $73K.

5: Every R1T will boast All-Wheel-Drive.

6: Rivian says the truck will be able to tow 11,000 lbs.

7: The California-based start-up says the R1T has 12 cubic feet of lockable storage.

8: The electric truck will come standard with safety features such as emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

9: Rivian promises a generous 5-yr/60K mile warranty. 

10: The cabin has 3 100-volt outlets.

Top 25 Best-Selling Cars, Trucks, And SUVs For 2021

  

Recently, the sales numbers for the top selling cars, trucks, and SUVs have been released, and there are some surprises in there. The list is compiled below, with the number of units, in thousands, of each of the Top 25. Below the list are a couple things I thought were notable about the winningest vehicles in the world. Although the pandemic undeniably made a considerable impact on the auto industry, most brands powered through, and saw considerable gains through the hectic year that was 2020. Taking the throne, to nobody's surprise is the mighty Ford F-Series truck lineup. 

25 - HONDA PILOT - 76K

24 - NISSAN SENTRA - 77K

23 - CHEVROLET TRAVERSE - 83K

22 - HYUNDAI TUCSON - 83K

21 - FORD ESCAPE - 85K

20 - SUBARU OUTBACK - 87K

19 - MAZDA CX-5 - 92K

18 - SUBARU FORRESTER - 95K

17 - JEEP GRAND CHEROKEE - 107K 

16 - HONDA ACCORD - 115K

15 - FORD EXPLORER - 118K

14 - JEEP WRANGLER - 119K 

13 - CHEVROLET EQUINOX - 119K

12 - GMC SIERRA - 138K

11 - TOYOTA TACOMA - 139K 

10 - TOYOTA HIGHLANDER - 144K

9 - HONDA CIVIC - 153K

8 - TOYOTA COROLLA - 155K

7 - TOYOTA CAMRY - 177K

6 - NISSAN ROGUE - 182K

5 - HONDA CR-V - 213K 

4 - TOYOTA RAV-4 - 221K

3 - CHEVROLET SILVERADO - 286K

2 - RAM 1500 - 313K

1 - FORD F-SERIES - 362K

-----------------------------

My Thoughts:

Honda Pilot: Although the new Kia Telluride is undeniably a better 3-row SUV than the Pilot, Honda's people-hauler continues to sell well.

Hyundai Tucson: A striking new design looks to be the main reason the Korean crossover was able to hop onto this list, selling 83K units. 

Ford Escape: Although the Escape is a thoroughly boring compact crossover compared to the new Bronco, Ford is able to still sell a significant number of them. Americans love crossovers, and will buy them, even if they are terrible. 

Mazda CX-5 - Possibly the most luxurious vehicle on the list, the gorgeous CX-5 is a absolute joy to drive, while being supremely comfortable and practical. Without a question, the CX-5 deserves to sell as many units as it does, unlike some of the other cars on this list. (Toyota Corolla, I'm looking at you...)

Jeep Grand Cherokee: A confusing SUV without an obvious purpose. Not off-road capable like a Jeep should be, not lavish like a Mazda CX-5, not practical and organized like a CR-V, and not fuel-efficient like a RAV-4 hybrid. Not that the Grand Cherokee is bad, it just doesn't make a strong case for itself. 

Jeep Wrangler: A little overrated? Sure. Still, the Wrangler is an excellent off-roader that looks dope. Even if it wanders around the highway like a drunkard, it is a relatively impressive SUV.

Chevrolet Equinox: A abject mess. One of the only vehicles on this list that saw a decline in sales, and deservedly so. It just screams mediocrity. Hot take of the day.

Honda Civic - A world-class sedan. Available in the phenomenal Type-R, Si, EX, and LX variants, the Civic just crushes the competition. The fact that is sells less than the Camry and Corolla is a testament to how questionable American's purchases are. Just sayin'. 

Nissan Rogue: Not unlike the new Hyundai Tucson, the Rogue received a major update that turned the Rogue from a average crossover to a stellar option.

Honda CR-V: 100% deserves a spot in the top 5. Handsome, efficient, practical, and brilliantly designed, the CR-V is one of those vehicles you truly can never go wrong with.

Silverado, Ram, F-Series: Americans love trucks, and the top 3 selling vehicles in the country are solid, well engineered machines that can take on any task.

3 Vehicles That Deserve To Be On This List:

Kia Telluride: Everywhere you look, you find downright competence in the Telluride. Out of nowhere, Kia made a 3-row SUV 2 years ago, and now, it has won all the honors and awards out there. Probably the most impressive "Normal" vehicle out there. Highly recommend.

Tesla Model 3: Although the Model 3, at $39K, is a little bit pricey, for what it is, it is an absolutely phenomenal car, at a reasonable price. For the first time ever, an "average" person can buy an electric car, and not be disappointed. The Model 3 is a game-changer.

Hyundai Sonata: Stylish, comfortable, efficient, and practical, the Sonata really should sell a lot more than it does. Even though it is no futuristic Tesla, the Sonata is special in its own right. 

Vehicles That Have No Place On This List:

Chevrolet Equinox: A sloppy, lazy effort from the American giant, the Chevrolet crossover leaves lots to be desired. Downright miserable compared to the Honda CR-V, Mazda CX-5, or Kia Sorento. 

Ford Escape: Hopelessly uninteresting and anonymous, the Escape is in a rut. 

Toyota Corolla: Even for something designed for point A-B travel, the Corolla is a largely forgettable car. Very unfortunate that Americans care this little about how their car drives. 

5 Things To Know About The Maserati Levante Trofeo!

 

1: Starts at $151,485. It's worth noting that competitors such as the Porsche Cayenne Turbo GT and Audi RSQ8 sticker for roughly $10 and $20K less, respectively. So, the Levante isn't necessarily a value-packed SUV.

2: Grinds out 590 horsepower.

3: Makes only 20 combined mpg. For reference, the comparable Alfa Romeo Quadrifoglio makes 23 mpg. 

4: Boasts an exceptional 32 valve V-8. 

5: Is able to reach a (bonkers) 7200 rpm.

2 Super-Fun Cars That Don't Require A Ton Of Cash

 #1 - MAZDA MIATA - $26k

   The awesome Mazda Miata was never going to miss out on a place on this list. For $10K less than the price of the average car purchase price, you can get a beautiful sports car that offers a sublime driving experience, responsive handling, and a attention to detail that rarely is applied on such inexpensive cars. Add in a phenomenal drop-top to the mix, and you have got a really world-class car. I could not recommend the Miata more highly, as the Mazda roadster is one of the only vehicles that make every trip special.

#2 - HYUNDAI VELOSTER N - $29K

    Maybe not everyone is as keen on a Hyundai sports car as I am, but the Veloster N is a downright desirable car, for me at least. Knockout styling? Yes please. Other-worldly handling? Always been a fan. Turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that pumps out 275 hp? Sign me up! The Veloster was so fun, Road&Track magazine handed the Korean hot hatch nothing less than the Performance Car Of The Year award, getting the better of a Lamborghini, Corvette, McLaren, and a Lotus, among others. The Veloster is a special car, no mistake about it. Why then, you might be asking, did the Veloster not win the #1 place? As brilliantly dynamic as it is, the Hyundai is held back by a rather cheap interior that nowhere competes with competitors like the Mazda Miata or Honda Civic Type-R. Other than that, the Veloster N is a seriously relevant option.

10 Things To Know About The Insane Tesla Model S Plaid!

 

1: Can sprint to 60 mph in an obscene 1.98 seconds, making the Model S Plaid the quickest car in the world. You would guess that a McLaren, Porsche, Bugatti, etc.. would hold that title, but a family car that doesn't cost millions somehow does.

2: Generates an equally mind-blowing 1020 horsepower, the record for a fully electric car.

3: Features 3 electric motors, a first for any Tesla so far.

4: The Model S Plaid can reach a unfathomable 20,000 rpm, unheard of for a family sedan that seats 5 comfortably.

5: Somehow the Plaid can reach such ridiculous performance numbers while being practical, as the super-sedan boasts an impressive 348 miles on a charge.

6: Tesla also reports a ludicrous (see what I did there) 200 mph top speed. For context, Ferrari's rapid new $225K supercar, the Roma, can do 199. 

7: Another record: the Plaid shattered the $1 million McLaren Senna's record of 0-100-0, showing that the Model S is more than just mad performance, it also has world-class brakes. 

8: The Tesla Model S Plaid sports a ultra-controversial "Yoke" steering wheel, which, to the disgust of many, is a rectangle. Yes, Elon Musk craves making his cars memes. 

9: Costs $131K, which, if you consider it, is a heck of a steal. Faster and quicker than anything in the world, for a fraction of the price of, say, a Lamborghini Aventador SV? People's minds are blown, and for good reason.

10: The Plaid wears Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires.

Why Are All Toyotas So Ugly? Addressing The Glaring Issue

    Unfortunately, in the modern era of auto design, ugly vehicles are becoming more and more common. When a brand like Toyota describes one of their cars as having a "bold" design, as they often do, more often than not, it just means a design with no cohesion, general theme, or purpose. Sometimes it just turns into a grotesque mess, which is a shame, because many ugly cars (Toyota Supra, BMW M4, Lamborghini Veneno, etc..) are actually fantastic, if you dig a little deeper. And while Toyota is an admittedly improving brand, nearly every single vehicle they sell looks less than ideal. The Toyota 86, Venza, and Rav-4 are the only ones in the fray that can claim to have an impressive design. While design is ultimately subjective, there is clearly something wrong with Toyota's sheet-metal as of late. The recent reveal of the Tundra (pictured top) is worrying, because it signals a possible return to the Japanese automaker's old ways. Even worse, key competitors such as Mazda, Kia, and Honda are making gorgeous cars, such as the Mazda 6, Kia K5, and Honda Civic Si. And while Toyota still sell millions of vehicles every year, there is still a big issue. 

 

Tesla Cybertruck: 7 Things You Need To Know

 

   1 - The Cybertruck has already accumulated 1 million reservations

 2 - It is a fully-electric truck

 3 - It starts at a smidge under $40K

 4 - It can tow an unbelievable 14,000 lbs.

 5 - The Tesla truck can go a phenomenal 500+ miles on a full charge

 6 - The stainless-steel Cybertruck can sprint to 60 in 6.5 seconds

 7 - The Cybertruck is the first truck from Tesla

BREAKING: Tesla Model S Plaid Needs Only 1.98 Seconds To 60 mph!

 

   Tesla is no stranger to ludicrously quick (see what I did there) cars and SUVs. The original 2011 Roadster sprinted to 60 in 3.7 seconds. Soon after, the Model S P100D was revealed, and it took only 2.4 seconds, seriously impressive stuff. Next, the Model X P100D SUV was able to dash to 60 in 2.9 seconds, unheard of for such a large vehicle. Of course, Science explains how a electric sedan can be quicker than a gas-powered Ferrari. Since Electric flow is instant, the moment you put pedal to the metal, the car will simply reach 60 mph in insanely low times. For a Ferrari, once you hit the gas, the engine has to "fire up", and that takes a bit of time. Tesla are clearly an innovative brand, and it is bonkers that a family car like the Model S can outdo a Bugatti or Lamborghini in performance.

2022 Honda Civic Overview: Better Than Anyone Expected

 

   The new Honda Civic is here, and it has really blown away the car industry in more ways than one. Honda didn’t need to fully refresh the Civic, as it was already the best in it’s class. However, they did, and somehow managed to make it even more ridiculously good. They dumbed down it's exterior design, which many found as overdone, while transforming the interior to almost luxury car levels. It still has the terrific handling of the previous generation, while the excellent fuel economy and cargo space hasn't disappeared either. The 11th gen of the Civic, as many have noted, almost like a junior-Accord, in that it has more mature looks, Audi-esque tech, and a mind-boggling value. It starts at $21.7K, the Sport costs $24.9, and the EX comes in at $26.3K. While the former two options are phenomenal in their own right, the EX is the one that deserves the accolades. It drives, looks, and performs like a more expensive car, and, crazy as it sounds, this Civic is no worse than, say, an Audi A4 in many regards. And that's a success for Honda, which has had a heck of a lot of wins recently. If the "normal" Civic is this good, just wait for the Si and Type-R. Exciting stuff from easily the best brand in Japan. Chill, Toyota fanboys....

Ford Lightning: 7 Things You Need To Know

 

1 - Starts at $42K

2 - Is fully electric, powered by 2 electric motors

3- Will offer 230 miles in Standard Range, Extended Range will go 300 miles

4- AWD is standard on every Lightning

5- Will be able to tow an ridiculous 10,000 lbs, likely to be best in class at time of production

6- Standard Range and Extended Range grind out 426 and 563 horsepower, respectively.

7- Features a front trunk (Frunk) that helps the Lightning reach the best-in-class cargo.

BUYER'S GUIDE - PERFORMANCE COUPES

 #1 - PORSCHE 911 TURBO

    The Porsche 911 is good at a lot of things: It is one of the most enjoyable cars to drive, it is one of the most beautiful sports cars, it has some of the most impressive performance numbers out there, it is one of the most luxurious sports cars, and it is  arguably the best engineered vehicle in it's class. Although the 911 stays true to the original 1959 model, it still is one of the most innovative cars out there, and features bleeding-edge technology. These reasons are why I put the 911 Turbo into the #1 slot.

#2 - CHEVROLET CORVETTE STINGRAY

     Although you wouldn't expect a home-bred American icon like the Corvette to be similar to a German coupe like the 911, there are a lot of shared traits between the two. They both are ludicrously fast, dazzlingly good-looking, and incredibly engaging. However, the 'Vette costs a meagre (For something that dashes to 60 in under 3 seconds) $59,995, compared to the 911 Turbo's $101K. While the Porsche undeniably is a caliber above in terms of refinement, American sports cars are not known for their refinement. The Stingray is loud, fast, and fun, and you really can't ask for more than that. The most recent Corvette is a riot, in a good way. 

#3 - JAGUAR F-TYPE

First things first: the Jaguar F-Type is absolutely gorgeous. The Porsche and Chevrolet look great, but if you look hard, there are some undesirable lines and surfaces. Not on the Jaguar. Especially in the "Sorento Yellow" the F-Type looks like a million bucks, even though it costs only $61K. Also attractive is the Jaguar's handling. Every turn is a joy for the F-Type, and every straight is a invitation to thrash the British sports car. The F-Type is a great car, and it lands the #3 slot.

#4 - TOYOYA SUPRA

   The Toyota Supra is, in essence, a bargain Jaguar F-Type. While it looks nowhere as good, it has superior handling and driver engagement levels. It also has a base price roughly $15K less than the Jaguar. As is common these days, Toyota needed to spark something, so they revived a legendary nameplate. The iconic Supra was a (relatively) affordable car, and one that could be fun if desired. The new Supra is just that, and it lands in on #4.

Ford Maverick First Look: Competence, At Only $21K

        It's no secret that Ford are up to great things: First came the outstanding, fiery Mustang GT500. Soon after, the legendary Bronco returned, sporting an outstanding retro design. Around 1 month ago, Ford revived the Lightning moniker, and put it on a outrageously innovative version of the best selling vehicle in the country, the F-150. Now, Ford are making a truck for only $21K. Looking at the lush interior, I couldn't have imagined such a well-appointed truck going for so little. Although the front end doesn't particularly impress me, the rest of the vehicle screams "Bargain!" Glancing at the market, it seems the Maverick is aimed squarely at the Toyota Tacoma. Although the Tacoma is roughly the same size as the Maverick, and features a similarly powered engine, the Ford somehow is able to undercut the price of the 'Yota by $4K. Even though not much is known of the Mav at this point, it is shaping up to be a heck of a bargain, in all the ways possible. It admittedly isn't a show-stopper like the Ford Lightning, Tesla Cybertruck, or Rivian R1T, but is almost guaranteed to sell like crazy. The Ford Maverick is definitely one to watch going into the 2022 model year.

BUYER'S GUIDE - LARGE SUVS

 #1 - KIA TELLURIDE 🏆

      The Kia Telluride is the best SUV in the world. That's not even a hot take, it's just plain obvious. People are noticing too, as a Telluride barely rolls off the transport truck before someone snatches it up. What is the reason for all of the madness surrounding Kia's new 8-seater? Because it is superb at everything a large SUV should do. Whether it be everyday functionality, Land Rover-esque style, sumptuous luxury, incredible value, or well-tuned handling, nothing else comes remotely close. The excellent Telluride is joined by a very select group of cars I would recommend to family or friends, and an even equally selective group of vehicles that have earned 10/10 ratings from the highly credible Car&Driver magazine. It's peers? Oh, only some Porsches, McLarens, and the legendary Jeep Wrangler, Honda Accord, and Volkswagen Golf. Kia has made something special here, clearly.

     Since it burst onto the scene in 2019, it has blown away all the major publications, as evidenced by it's MotorTrend  SUV Of the Year Award, 2 consecutive years in Car&Driver's 10Best, NACOTY's Car Of The Year, and ALG's Innovative Design Of The Year, to name a few. It's just that good. Not to mention the value aspect: the Kia is only $31K. That is outrageously inexpensive for something so ridiculously luxurious. I kid you not when I say the Telluride has an interior that is just as good, if not better, as the ones you will find on a Lincoln, Lexus, Jaguar, BMW, etc... If you want an insanely competent, luxurious, attractive SUV, but didn't buy Crypto in 2009, the Kia Telluride (Yes, Kias are competent, so get over any pre-conceived notions you might have) is for you. 

#2 - HYUNDAI PALISADE

  Mechanically identical to the Telluride, the Palisade showcases the same competence as its brother, although it has several small issues that land it in second place. If you can get over the questionable fascia, a slighter higher price, and a loud cabin, then the Hyundai Palisade will surely satisfy you and your needs. Like the Kia, the Hyundai boasts a lavish cockpit, ornamented with beautiful wood and leather, both organically sourced. The big Palisade makes a respectable 24 combined mpg, which ranks higher than competitors such as the Honda Pilot. Although the Hyundai is a phenomenal SUV, it is so similar to the Kia, there really is no reason to buy it over the admittedly superior Telluride.

#3 - MAZDA CX-9

    Although the handsome Mazda CX-9 is by no means better than the Kia Telluride, it is probably more fun than the Kia, and that alone interests a lot of people. The CX-9, despite being a respectable option, comes down to this: It looks great, it drives great, but fails where competitors succeed. There is no excuse for a 3-row crossover having a lack of space. Also not impressive is its subpar transmission, it's overall lack of value, or it's uncomfortable cabin. 

      Still, it is a beautiful SUV, it has a beautiful interior, and it drives like a Miata, albeit after putting on some pounds during the pandemic. If you absolutely need to go fast in your 8-seater, go for it. 

#4 - SUBARU ASCENT

    If I had to describe the enormous Subaru Ascent in one woird, it would be "Unremarkable". If you look at the definition of the word, "Not particularly interesting" then you will see an accurate description of the Ascent. Besides the fact that the Subie has 19 cupholders, the Ascent is a very uneventful experience. Solid, reliable, and competent, but not a very exciting vehicle. Unlike the Mazda, Kia, and Hyundai, the Ascent does not make a compelling case for itself, subsequently falling to the #4 place. 

#5 - VOLKSWAGEN ATLAS

   The Volkswagen Atlas is a big (literally and figuratively) success from the German giant. Although it most definitely is not the best in the segment, it does represent a considerable step forward. It sold close to 200K units over the last 3 years, which makes it, on the face of it, a very valuable part of the VW lineup. While I wouldn't necessarily recommend the Atlas, I absolutely wouldn't criticize those who buy it. Not everything is world class, but the Atlas is solid enough. 

#6 - HONDA PILOT

Not unlike the Toyota below, the Honda Pilot is relatively good, bar from sorry driving dynamics. On top of that, the transmission is also a trip to the dealer for service waiting to happen. Unfortunate, as Honda have been getting a lot right as of late.

#7 - TOYOTA HIGHLANDER

Although it looks relatively good, it's super-safe, and it's efficient, a tight cabin and lazy driving dynamics hold the Highlander back from a higher spot. Still, for last place, it really isn’t horrible at all.

2021 BUYER'S GUIDE - HATCHBACKS

 #1 - HONDA CIVIC TYPE-R

Let's not beat around the bush: The Honda Civic Type-R is an absolutely phenomenal  performance hatchback. Honda took no shortcuts on the way to upping the already impressive driving experience of the Civic. Put pedal to the metal, and you will be instantly be met with volcanic acceleration that will zip you to 60 in 4.9 seconds, and, should you decide to fly through a back road, the Type-R will show incredible handling that can make mincemeat of even professional tracks, such as the Nurburgring, where it set a blistering time of 7 minutes, 43 seconds, smashing the previous record for a FWD car, set by a VW Golf. Though the Type-R seems to be a heck of a racer, it doesn't sacrifice practicality. It has probably the best shifter in the world, as it provides several different modes, such as Comfort, Race, and Sport. Gas mileage is decent, and there is plenty of cargo space. Also, it only costs $37K, a bargain compared to, say, a Renault Megane, which starts at $50K.  All things considered, the Civic Type-R is the best hatchback out there, and one I'd buy with my own money.

#2 - HYUNDAI VELOSTER N

To be completely honest, the dazzling Hyundai Veloster has a strong case to take the #1 spot: It is a whopping $10K cheaper than the Civic, boasts comparable driving dynamics, and looks far better. However, sub-par interior materials that looks straight-out cheap hold it back from greatness. Although it costs significantly less than the Honda, you still can't excuse the mediocrity of the infotainment system, the uncomfortable seats, and clearly inexpensive materials. Fix that, and you've got a winner. It truly is a wonderful driving machine, and a beautiful one also. 

#3 - VOLKSWAGEN GOLF GTI

Given the low amount of hatchbacks Americans buy, the segment is surprisingly loaded with undeniably great cars. The Volkswagen Golf, although not as exciting as the Civic or Hyundai, is excellent regardless. Unlike the Honda and Hyundai hatchback's wild designs, the Volkswagen has a elegant, business-like appearance. Though it doesn't look nearly as quick as it's competitors, the Golf can keep up with anyone, thanks to it's phenomenal 2.0L Turbocharged engine that pulls it to 60 in a admittedly average 5.7 seconds. Not that the Golf is average, by no means. Where the Veloster fails (Cheap interior) , the Golf boasts the nicest interior in the market. Where the Civic fails (Overdone styling), the VW possesses an unmistakably attractive look. Even though the Civic Type-R and the Veloster N are more fun, the Golf is a great option, and should be considered among anyone interested in a thoroughly well-done hatchback. 

2021 BUYERS GUIDE - SEDANS

 #1 - HONDA ACCORD

    Comfortable, efficient, safe, stylish, practical, and also well-handling, the Honda Accord has been the best family car in the world for the better part of a century. The Hybrid impresses with nearly 50 mpg, the Sport wows with its snazzy engine, and the Touring has credible luxury and refinement. Whatever Accord you choose, you can be sure that you'll be purchasing nothing less than the golden standard of competency, starting at $24K.

#2 - HYUNDAI SONATA

   Hyundai vehicles are underrated. There's no way around it: People just don't buy enough Hyundais, or even Genesis or Kia cars, which are also produced by Hyundai. The Sonata is only the most recent success by the Korean brand. It shines in every area a sedan should: Sporty tuning, comfortable inside, attractive styling, good fuel economy, and clever space-management.   Some facts about the Sonata: It has an impressive 33 combined Mpg, the N-Line performance variant pumps out 290 horsepower, and the base model will cost you $23K. Though the Sonata is a tremendous effort, there is a reason it wasn't able to take the #1 slot: It needs more power! Unless you opt for the pricier N-Line, the Sonata will take it's time accelerating. Not a big issue, and Hyundai definitely has a relevant car to offer the world in the Sonata.

#3 - KIA K5

    Mechanically similar to the Hyundai, the Kia K5 is the replacement for the admittedly fine Optima. However, as you might have heard, Kia are done with fine. In the Telluride, Soul, Stinger, Sorento, and Rio, Kia have some of the best cars in the world, no less. The new K5 is on the upward trajectory that the whole of the brand is on, thanks to a remarkable engine, stunning looks, and a luxurious interior that has no place on a $23,490 sedan. It is propelled by a world-class 180 horsepower 1.6 L turbocharged 4-cylinder, and has a little mean streak that make the K5 one of the most enjoyable cars you can buy at such a low price. Gone is the anonymous styling of Kias of old, as the K5 boasts a undeniably hot design. With those funky headlights, chic red bucket seats, and black trim, the K5 is easily one of the best sedans out there. While it cannot compete with the all-round excellence of the Honda Accord, the Kia is a lot more fun, and a lot cooler, so you have to weigh all the factors. 

#4 - TOYOTA CAMRY

   Toyota, for decades, was an enthusiast-driven brand. However, in the last decade or so, Toyota have not had an interesting car to offer. Fortunately, the Japanese firm have had a change in priorities, and realized that, to compete with the up-and-coming Kia, Hyundai, Volvo, Genesis, etc... , there would have to be some exciting things coming out of the Nagoya Toyota factory in east Japan. Soon after this revelation, the legendary Supra made it's return, along with a 302 horsepower RAV-4. They also make the 86 sports car, which, to be honest, is absolutely fire. In 2020, the Camry was overdue for a redesign, and boy did they redesign it. It is nothing like the previous generation, which had no personality. Boasting hot new sheetmetal, exotic-looking tires, striking red bucket-seats, and even a rear wing, the Camry finally has some much needed life in its bones. While it is a massive step forward for Toyota, the Camry still has some shortcomings that land it in 4th. For one, it is not as fast as it looks, with sub-par acceleration a noticeable flaw. It also is a tad expensive, landing at $26,040, more than $2000 more than the next-priciest, the Honda Accord. All things considered though, the Camry is a big success, and should be considered by anyone looking for a efficient, comfortable, and reasonably stylish sedan. 

#5 - MAZDA 6

   Though it looks and drives like it is a lot more expensive than $24K, the handsome Mazda 6 only goes as far as it's unimpressive engine takes it. Powered by a turbo 2.5L Inline-4 engine that is neither powerful nor efficient, the Mazda 6 is a letdown by a brand that has gotten a reputation for making lively cars and SUVs.

3 Nameplates Just BEGGING To Be Brought Back

 Chevrolet Bel Air:

For decades, the Chevrolet Bel Air was an American favorite. Available in coupe, sedan, and convertible form, it was the perfect choice for the average American worker. The model pictured is from 1955, yet still looks gorgeous today. If Chevy could bring it back, perhaps even as an electric, there would surely be customers. To be honest, Detroit doesn't offer a single impressive sedan under 30K. The likes of the Malibu, Cruze, MKZ, and the Continental, not to mention the discontinued Chrysler 300 and 200 cars, are all very aging cars, and simply not on the same level as, say, the Honda Civic and Accord. A new for 2022 Bel Air would be a game-changer for Chevrolet.

Ford Thunderbird:

Resurrecting the Thunderbird would be a very similar situation: Giving the American people back a legendary car, from a company that has not a single competent sedan to offer. You might even argue that the Thunderbird nameplate holds more significance and legacy than the Bel Air. Even better, the Thunderbird took on many forms in its life, making it very easy for Ford to stick the name onto a product. Ford recently reintroduced the iconic Bronco and Lightning names, why not do it with the Thunderbird?

Honda S2000:

Though not as ancient as the American icons previously discussed, the S2000, discontinued in 2009, is a favorite among car enthusiasts. Very similar to the Mazda MX-5 Miata, the Honda packed plenty of fun in a little package. Barring some hot-hatches, Honda doesn't really offer an affordable sports car. Toyota has the 86 and Supra. Mazda, the Miata. Ford and Chevy have the Mustang and Camaro. Nissan will sell you the Z. If Honda brought back the S2000, gave it some of the flair you find in a Civic Type-R, a effortlessly beautiful design like the red model pictured, if would be a absolute home-run.

Greatest Car From Every Brand!

                                                    ACURA: INTEGRA GSR TYPE-R

                                          ALFA ROMEO: GIULA QF  

                                            ASTON MARTIN: DB11

                                                AUDI: R8 V10

                                          BENTLEY: CONTINENTAL

                                              BMW: M5

                                             BUGATTI: VEYRON 

                                              BUICK: CENTURY

                                             CADILLAC: CTS-V

                                   CHEVROLET: CORVETTE STINGRAY

                                            CHRYSLER: LHS

                                                 CITROEN: C4

                                             DODGE: VIPER

                                               FERRARI: F40

                                           FIAT: 124 ABARTH

                                           FORD: SHELBY COBRA

                                               GENESIS: G70

                                                HONDA: NSX

                                                 HUMMER: H3

                                           HYUNDAI: VELOSTER N 

                                               INFINITI: Q60

                                            JAGUAR: F-TYPE R

                                            JEEP: WRANGLER

                                             KIA: TELLURIDE

                                              

                             LAMBORGHINI: HURACAN PERFORMANTE

                                        LAND ROVER: DEFENDER

LEXUS: LFA

LINCOLN: NAVIGATOR

LOTUS: EXIGE

MASERATI: GRANCABRIO

                                          MAZDA: MX-5 MIATA

 

                                               MCLAREN: F1

                                      MERCEDES-BENZ: S-CLASS

                                           MINI: COOPER GP

                                              NISSAN: GT-R

 

                                          PAGANI: ZONDA R

                                              POLESTAR: 1

                                        PORSCHE: 911 TURBO S

                                              RAM: 1500 TRX

                                    RENAULT: MEGANE TROPHY RS

                                      ROLLS-ROYCE: PHANTOM

SUBARU: BRZ

TESLA: MODEL S 

TOYOTA: SUPRA GR

VOLKSWAGEN: GOLF R

VOLVO: S60

NOTES:

Obviously, this was a lengthy project, and I might pick a different Porsche, Lamborghini, Jaguar, Honda, etc.., if you asked me tomorrow. For the most part, however, I think I'm right on with my picks. Do you agree or not? Please comment down below, I always love to hear your opinion!