Latest Car Rankings Update
They say the only constant is change, and we’re seeing plenty of it in our latest update to iBestTravel’s Ultimate Car Rankings. From Ford’s truck wins to an old favorite luxury SUV that regained its #1 status, our freshly updated rankings showcase the very best in new cars right now.
Peruse rankings to see how reality stacks up to old stereotypes about which models are top-rated across 51 segments from SUVs and luxury cars to sedans and electric cars. As Ultimate Car Rankings celebrates its fourth birthday, we’re constantly updating data from our test team, safety organizations, and thorough reviews.
Ford Truck Wins
We love the Maverick. Even before the 2025 Maverick’s updates, the original small truck captured our hearts and we’ve made the most of the one we actually bought for ourselves. While the Maverick is our #1 small truck, the updated 2024 Ford F-150 is our #1 full-sizer. The Hurricane-equipped Ram 1500 has made up ground, however. Once our #1 truck, the Ram had fallen to fourth place early in 2024. But the more we test the pickup with powerful I-6 engines, the more we like it—and it’s now in second.
After a recent comparison of midsize trucks, the Ford Ranger beat our former Truck of the Year, the Chevrolet Colorado. In rankings, it’s the same story. The Ford Ranger slipped into first place in the midsize truck segment, just ahead of the also-solid Colorado and GMC Canyon.
So although Ram claims first in both of our heavy-duty truck segments, it’s a clean sweep for Ford from small to full-size trucks.
How Did This Luxury SUV Regain First?
When a European model that earned SUV of the Year honors back in 2016 regains first ahead of newer competition, we take notice. The Volvo XC90 has always been a strong contender. Even today, despite a few faults such as aging tech, buyers who don’t want Escalade-sized 3-row SUVs still have a great option in the Volvo.
In this case, what put the Volvo ahead of the pack was a new safety award. Given the brand’s reputation for safety, the XC90’s 2024 Top Safety Pick+ is impressive.
Toyota vs. Honda: Results So Far
Toyota has momentum now. Beyond the brand’s long-time #1-ranked RAV4 Hybrid and RAV4 Prime models, the Prius was our 2024 Car of the Year and is first in its segment, too. Our first evaluations with the new 2025 Toyota Camry have made things very interesting in the midsize sedan segment.
For this update, the Camry has barely squeezed ahead of the Honda Accord in the midsize sedan segment. In the midsize hybrid sedan segment, however, the Accord maintains its lead. This is primarily because we generally prefer the top-end Accord over the feature-constrained lesser trims, with some equipped with a less powerful and less efficient non-hybrid engine.
Great Compact SUV Options
While the newly updated Nissan Rogue holds onto first place in the compact SUV segment, there are many great options available. Other high-ranking choices include the spacious Kia Sportage, the newly improved Mazda CX-50—featuring a great safety rating and smoother suspension—and the well-rounded Honda CR-V.
With the top four compact SUVs so close together, it’s anyone’s guess what will emerge on top in our next update around February.
Our New “#1 Ranked” Sections
Recognizing that people shop in different ways, iBestTravel’s Buyer’s Guide has introduced a new feature to rankings, our #1 Ranked sections. In every body style, like SUVs, you’ll see them at the top of the page: a collection of the top-ranked vehicles in different segments.
It’s a great place to start if you’re unsure where to turn.
Brands With the Most #1 Ranked Vehicles
The mainstream brands with the most #1 Ranked vehicles are a tie between Hyundai and Toyota. Hyundai shines across a diverse group of segments, including the Elantra Hybrid, Ioniq 6, Kona, Palisade, and Ioniq 5. For Toyota, its hybrids excel, from the Prius and Crown to the RAV4 Hybrid, RAV4 Prime, and Highlander Hybrid.
In luxury spaces, BMW’s SUVs carry the brand to victory. The X1 easily beats all competitors in the entry-level luxury SUV category, while the X5, iX, and X4 all pick up wins. Although rankings serve everyone, we’ve saved the best for last—the fantastic BMW 2 Series coupe is also a winner for buyers seeking a sporty two-door.
