It may not feel like it, but the U.S. economy is getting better — slowly. Unemployment is still unacceptably high, and people may not see the pay raises they did before the Great Recession, but they are buying new cars and auto sales are rebounding nicely. Through the first half of this year, for instance, light vehicle sales were up 7.5 percent. At this pace, overall sales will top 15.5 million for the year — the highest total since 2007. With halftime numbers for 2013 in, let's count down the 20 best-sellers so far this year.
20. Ford Explorer
Sales through June: 101,243 vehicles
Percentage change: +30 percent
The Ford Explorer is the only 7-passenger vehicle on this list. That's impressive because it vies for sales against some worthy SUV competitors, including the Dodge Durango, Chevrolet Traverse and Nissan Pathfinder. We like the Explorer's surprisingly agile driving dynamics, three capable engines and expansive interior space. However, the price escalates quickly as options are chosen, so shop carefully.
Percentage change: +30 percent
The Ford Explorer is the only 7-passenger vehicle on this list. That's impressive because it vies for sales against some worthy SUV competitors, including the Dodge Durango, Chevrolet Traverse and Nissan Pathfinder. We like the Explorer's surprisingly agile driving dynamics, three capable engines and expansive interior space. However, the price escalates quickly as options are chosen, so shop carefully.
19. Toyota RAV4
Sales through June: 101,274 vehicles
Percentage change: +13.2 percent
The Toyota RAV4 has been a perennial top 20 best-seller for years, and its 2013 redesign has only helped its sales standing. Toyota dropped both the V6 engine and the cramped third-row seat, getting back to its compact crossover roots. The new model also handles better, has more space and is more efficient. It may not be as refined or sporty as its rivals, but it is more affordable, making it a wise choice for small families.
Percentage change: +13.2 percent
The Toyota RAV4 has been a perennial top 20 best-seller for years, and its 2013 redesign has only helped its sales standing. Toyota dropped both the V6 engine and the cramped third-row seat, getting back to its compact crossover roots. The new model also handles better, has more space and is more efficient. It may not be as refined or sporty as its rivals, but it is more affordable, making it a wise choice for small families.
18. Hyundai Sonata
Sales through June: 103,010 vehicles
Percentage change: -12.3 percent
The Sonata is one of six midsize cars on this list. It offers Hyundai's traditional value proposition, as well as good looks, plenty of space and fuel-efficient powertrains, including a hybrid. Nonetheless, sales are down 12.3 percent so far in 2013, possibly because this body style has been on the market for a few years and the look is no longer new. We like the quality interior and features for the dollar, but the Sonata's handling is bested by several rivals.
Percentage change: -12.3 percent
The Sonata is one of six midsize cars on this list. It offers Hyundai's traditional value proposition, as well as good looks, plenty of space and fuel-efficient powertrains, including a hybrid. Nonetheless, sales are down 12.3 percent so far in 2013, possibly because this body style has been on the market for a few years and the look is no longer new. We like the quality interior and features for the dollar, but the Sonata's handling is bested by several rivals.
17. Chevrolet Malibu
Sales through June: 111,100 vehicles
Percentage change: -21.4 percent
The redesigned 2008 Chevrolet Malibu was named North American Car of the Year by a panel of journalists, and another redesign for 2013 promised a publicity bump for Chevrolet's midsize sedan. However, poor reviews and a small rear seat have conspired to hurt sales of the new model. We like the dynamics and interior quality of the new Malibu, but the rear seat really is uncompetitive, and the mild-hybrid Malibu Eco can't match the fuel economy of rival hybrids. Chevy is responding by giving the 2014 Malibu an emergency makeover this fall.
Percentage change: -21.4 percent
The redesigned 2008 Chevrolet Malibu was named North American Car of the Year by a panel of journalists, and another redesign for 2013 promised a publicity bump for Chevrolet's midsize sedan. However, poor reviews and a small rear seat have conspired to hurt sales of the new model. We like the dynamics and interior quality of the new Malibu, but the rear seat really is uncompetitive, and the mild-hybrid Malibu Eco can't match the fuel economy of rival hybrids. Chevy is responding by giving the 2014 Malibu an emergency makeover this fall.
16. Toyota Prius
Sales through June: 120,214 vehicles
Percentage change: -5.1 percent
The Toyota Prius is the hybrid sales leader, and Toyota is capitalizing on the name by expanding the lineup. The Prius liftback is by far the most popular, but Toyota has added the Toyota Prius V wagon and, more recently, the Prius plug-in and the subcompact Toyota Prius c. Despite those additions, sales are down slightly. Our favorite of the group is the Prius V, which rides better than the others and offers far more space. All iterations deliver world-class fuel economy, but none of them is fun to drive.
Percentage change: -5.1 percent
The Toyota Prius is the hybrid sales leader, and Toyota is capitalizing on the name by expanding the lineup. The Prius liftback is by far the most popular, but Toyota has added the Toyota Prius V wagon and, more recently, the Prius plug-in and the subcompact Toyota Prius c. Despite those additions, sales are down slightly. Our favorite of the group is the Prius V, which rides better than the others and offers far more space. All iterations deliver world-class fuel economy, but none of them is fun to drive.
15. Hyundai Elantra
Sales through June: 126,244 vehicles
Percentage change: +29.1 percent
True values in the auto industry are few and far between, and the Hyundai Elantra is one of them. Buyers are recognizing that fact: Sales are up more than 29 percent since this time last year. With sedan, hatchback and coupe body styles, the Elantra offers a setup for every taste. We think the Elantra balances ride and handling better than other Hyundai models, and its good looks, coupled with a high-quality, roomy interior, make it an appealing choice in a rapidly improving segment.
Percentage change: +29.1 percent
True values in the auto industry are few and far between, and the Hyundai Elantra is one of them. Buyers are recognizing that fact: Sales are up more than 29 percent since this time last year. With sedan, hatchback and coupe body styles, the Elantra offers a setup for every taste. We think the Elantra balances ride and handling better than other Hyundai models, and its good looks, coupled with a high-quality, roomy interior, make it an appealing choice in a rapidly improving segment.
14. Chevrolet Equinox
Sales through June: 126,397 vehicles
Percentage change: +14 percent
The Chevrolet Equinox straddles the line between compact and midsize crossover. It has the space of a midsize but is priced like a compact. We like the Equinox's versatile interior. It has plenty of room for five, and its sliding rear seat lets owners maximize rear passenger space or cargo volume. The 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine goes light on gas, and the 3.6-liter V6 offers excellent power. Refinement isn't quite up to snuff, though; the Equinox is rather loud inside, and the interior materials could use an upgrade.
Percentage change: +14 percent
The Chevrolet Equinox straddles the line between compact and midsize crossover. It has the space of a midsize but is priced like a compact. We like the Equinox's versatile interior. It has plenty of room for five, and its sliding rear seat lets owners maximize rear passenger space or cargo volume. The 2.4-liter 4-cylinder engine goes light on gas, and the 3.6-liter V6 offers excellent power. Refinement isn't quite up to snuff, though; the Equinox is rather loud inside, and the interior materials could use an upgrade.
13. Chevrolet Cruze
Sales through June: 133,689 vehicles
Percentage change: +17.4 percent
For decades, Chevrolet was criticized for not building a desirable compact car. The Cruze has changed all that. Despite few changes, the Cruze is up a healthy 17.4 percent from last year. Among a fine group of compact cars, the Cruze stands out for its quietness and refinement, especially those equipped with the 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. A new diesel version adds outstanding fuel-efficiency, too. Our only complaint: Where's the hatchback?
Percentage change: +17.4 percent
For decades, Chevrolet was criticized for not building a desirable compact car. The Cruze has changed all that. Despite few changes, the Cruze is up a healthy 17.4 percent from last year. Among a fine group of compact cars, the Cruze stands out for its quietness and refinement, especially those equipped with the 1.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. A new diesel version adds outstanding fuel-efficiency, too. Our only complaint: Where's the hatchback?
12. Ford Focus
Sales through June: 134,785 vehicles
Percentage change: +2.6 percent
The Ford Focus is at the forefront of a renaissance in the compact-car segment. Along with the Chevrolet Cruze, Hyundai Elantra, Honda Civic, Dodge Dart and Mazda3, the Focus has raised the level of quality in a traditionally uninspiring class. Even among that group, the Focus stands out for its European-inspired balance of ride and handling. The price can get high and the rear seat is tight, but the Focus is the compact car we'd most like to drive on a daily basis.
Percentage change: +2.6 percent
The Ford Focus is at the forefront of a renaissance in the compact-car segment. Along with the Chevrolet Cruze, Hyundai Elantra, Honda Civic, Dodge Dart and Mazda3, the Focus has raised the level of quality in a traditionally uninspiring class. Even among that group, the Focus stands out for its European-inspired balance of ride and handling. The price can get high and the rear seat is tight, but the Focus is the compact car we'd most like to drive on a daily basis.
11. Honda CR-V
Sales through June: 145,763 vehicles
Percentage change: -0.6 percent
The Honda CR-V received a sizable sales bump last year in the wake of its 2012 redesign, and it is holding steady this year with sales down just a tick. Solid, fuel-efficient and roomy, the CR-V compact SUV has been a wise choice for more than a decade, but it doesn't have the power or handling flair of rivals such as the Ford Escape and Mazda CX-5. Still, Honda's reputation for reliability and top-notch resale values will continue to make the CR-V appealing to buyers.
Percentage change: -0.6 percent
The Honda CR-V received a sizable sales bump last year in the wake of its 2012 redesign, and it is holding steady this year with sales down just a tick. Solid, fuel-efficient and roomy, the CR-V compact SUV has been a wise choice for more than a decade, but it doesn't have the power or handling flair of rivals such as the Ford Escape and Mazda CX-5. Still, Honda's reputation for reliability and top-notch resale values will continue to make the CR-V appealing to buyers.
10. Ford Escape
Sales through June: 156,626 vehicles
Percentage change: +23.2 percent
Even though it was old and outdated, the previous generation of the Ford Escape sold well right until the end. The 2013 model is a far more modern take on the compact crossover, with much improved fuel economy, interior space and driving dynamics. Even though the price can reach into the upper-$30,000 range, buyers have responded positively. Sales are up more than 23 percent, and the Escape has surpassed the traditional leaders in the segment, the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The Escape proves that if you make a good product, buyers will seek it out.
Percentage change: +23.2 percent
Even though it was old and outdated, the previous generation of the Ford Escape sold well right until the end. The 2013 model is a far more modern take on the compact crossover, with much improved fuel economy, interior space and driving dynamics. Even though the price can reach into the upper-$30,000 range, buyers have responded positively. Sales are up more than 23 percent, and the Escape has surpassed the traditional leaders in the segment, the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4. The Escape proves that if you make a good product, buyers will seek it out.
9. Honda Civic
Sales through June: 158,704 vehicles
Percentage change: -2.4 percent
The Honda Civic has earned a reputation as a high-quality, reliable choice in the compact-car segment. An underwhelming 2012 redesign began to erode that reputation, but Honda responded by updating the car once again for 2013 with better interior materials and a sleeker design. Nonetheless, that 2012 model sold well and the new one is down slightly from last year. Still, we think Honda will reap the long-term benefits of keeping the Civic fully competitive in an improving compact class.
Percentage change: -2.4 percent
The Honda Civic has earned a reputation as a high-quality, reliable choice in the compact-car segment. An underwhelming 2012 redesign began to erode that reputation, but Honda responded by updating the car once again for 2013 with better interior materials and a sleeker design. Nonetheless, that 2012 model sold well and the new one is down slightly from last year. Still, we think Honda will reap the long-term benefits of keeping the Civic fully competitive in an improving compact class.
8. Toyota Corolla / Toyota Matrix
Sales through June: 158,972 vehicles
Percentage change: +4.8 percent
Toyota reports Corolla and Matrix sales together, but the Corolla is the bigger seller. A renaissance in the compact-car market in recent years has left the Corolla outclassed by several competitors. Still, it's the best-selling vehicle in its class due to Toyota's reputation for quality and dependability. A much more exciting redesigned model is due soon, so this time next year the Corolla may increase its sales lead.
Percentage change: +4.8 percent
Toyota reports Corolla and Matrix sales together, but the Corolla is the bigger seller. A renaissance in the compact-car market in recent years has left the Corolla outclassed by several competitors. Still, it's the best-selling vehicle in its class due to Toyota's reputation for quality and dependability. A much more exciting redesigned model is due soon, so this time next year the Corolla may increase its sales lead.
7. Ford Fusion
Sales through June: 161,146 vehicles
Percentage change: +17.8 percent
The 2012 Fusion sold quite well, but the redesigned 2013 model is doing even better. The new looks add beautiful styling to a class traditionally known for conservative design, and the new turbocharged engines balance power with fuel economy. The Fusion is a worthy competitor, but it doesn't handle quite as well as the Honda Accord, and its interior is a bit tight in rear legroom and overall hip room.
Percentage change: +17.8 percent
The 2012 Fusion sold quite well, but the redesigned 2013 model is doing even better. The new looks add beautiful styling to a class traditionally known for conservative design, and the new turbocharged engines balance power with fuel economy. The Fusion is a worthy competitor, but it doesn't handle quite as well as the Honda Accord, and its interior is a bit tight in rear legroom and overall hip room.
6. Nissan Altima
Sales through June: 167,787 vehicles
Percentage change: +6.8 percent
Midsize cars are the best-selling segment in America. With so much on the line, it's no surprise that automakers give their all to build competitive family sedans. Nissan is one of three automakers on this list to redesign their midsize car for 2013, and the competitors aren't that old, either. The new Altima is among the most fuel-efficient in the class, and it also offers well-controlled handling, a quality interior and comfortable seats. A sedan and coupe are offered, but the coupe makes up only a small percentage of sales.
Percentage change: +6.8 percent
Midsize cars are the best-selling segment in America. With so much on the line, it's no surprise that automakers give their all to build competitive family sedans. Nissan is one of three automakers on this list to redesign their midsize car for 2013, and the competitors aren't that old, either. The new Altima is among the most fuel-efficient in the class, and it also offers well-controlled handling, a quality interior and comfortable seats. A sedan and coupe are offered, but the coupe makes up only a small percentage of sales.
5. Ram 1500
Sales through June: 170,319 vehicles
Percentage change: +22.9 percent
With its 2013 redesign, the Ram 1500 has entered the argument for the best pickup on the market. It is unmatched for interior refinement, bolstered by its 8.4-inch Uconnect Touch infotainment system. The new 8-speed automatic transmission helps make its V6 the most efficient truck engine, and the coil-spring rear suspension gives it the best ride. Ultimate capability isn't a match for the class leaders Ford F-150 and Chevy Silverado, but the Ram excels as an everyday driver.
Percentage change: +22.9 percent
With its 2013 redesign, the Ram 1500 has entered the argument for the best pickup on the market. It is unmatched for interior refinement, bolstered by its 8.4-inch Uconnect Touch infotainment system. The new 8-speed automatic transmission helps make its V6 the most efficient truck engine, and the coil-spring rear suspension gives it the best ride. Ultimate capability isn't a match for the class leaders Ford F-150 and Chevy Silverado, but the Ram excels as an everyday driver.
4. Honda Accord
Sales through June: 186,860 vehicles
Percentage change: +20.4 percent
Up more than 20 percent from this time last year, the Honda Accord is knocking at the door of the Toyota Camry for sales leadership in the midsize-car segment. Excellent use of space, fuel-efficient engines, controlled handling and a reputation for reliability make the Accord our choice for the best family sedan. The available coupe also aids a bit of design flair and sportiness in a more exciting package.
Percentage change: +20.4 percent
Up more than 20 percent from this time last year, the Honda Accord is knocking at the door of the Toyota Camry for sales leadership in the midsize-car segment. Excellent use of space, fuel-efficient engines, controlled handling and a reputation for reliability make the Accord our choice for the best family sedan. The available coupe also aids a bit of design flair and sportiness in a more exciting package.
3. Toyota Camry
Sales through June: 207,626 vehicles
Percentage change: -2.9 percent
The Toyota Camry is down slightly in this up market, but it continues to be the best-selling car in America. While it's still on pace to top 400,000 vehicles in 2013, the Camry isn't the runaway leader in the segment, due to stiff competition from successful redesigns of the Honda Accord, Ford Fusion and Nissan Altima. The Camry continues to appeal as a reliable and comfortable family sedan, but many of its competitors are more fun to drive.
Percentage change: -2.9 percent
The Toyota Camry is down slightly in this up market, but it continues to be the best-selling car in America. While it's still on pace to top 400,000 vehicles in 2013, the Camry isn't the runaway leader in the segment, due to stiff competition from successful redesigns of the Honda Accord, Ford Fusion and Nissan Altima. The Camry continues to appeal as a reliable and comfortable family sedan, but many of its competitors are more fun to drive.
2. Chevrolet Silverado
Sales through June: 242,586 vehicles
Percentage change: +24.7 percent
A vehicle at the end of its life cycle shouldn't sell that well, but Chevrolet put significant incentives on the hood of the 2013 Silverado and then released a much more refined 2014 model. The new model is improved, with fuel-efficient new engines, state-of-the-art connectivity and class-leading towing capability. While the last model was growing long in the tooth, the 2014 redesign makes the Silverado fully competitive with the Ford F-Series, and that should mean more sales as the year progresses.
Percentage change: +24.7 percent
A vehicle at the end of its life cycle shouldn't sell that well, but Chevrolet put significant incentives on the hood of the 2013 Silverado and then released a much more refined 2014 model. The new model is improved, with fuel-efficient new engines, state-of-the-art connectivity and class-leading towing capability. While the last model was growing long in the tooth, the 2014 redesign makes the Silverado fully competitive with the Ford F-Series, and that should mean more sales as the year progresses.
1. Ford F-Series
Sales through June: 367,486
Percentage change: +22
The Ford F-Series is on track to be America's best-selling pickup for 37 straight years and the best-selling vehicle overall for 32 years. Despite increasingly stiff competition from a redesigned Chevy Silverado and a very well-received Ram 1500, the F-Series is up 22 percent so far during 2013. We can't blame the buyers. The Ford F-Series, which includes the half-ton F-150 and the 3/4- and 1-ton Ford F-Series Super Duty, boasts powerful and efficient engines, workhorse towing and hauling capabilities, and well-controlled handling.
Kirk Bell has served as the associate publisher for Consumer Guide Automotive and editor of Scale Auto Enthusiast magazine. A Midwest native, Bell brings 18 years of automotive journalism experience to MSN, andcurrently contributes to JDPower.com and Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com.
Percentage change: +22
The Ford F-Series is on track to be America's best-selling pickup for 37 straight years and the best-selling vehicle overall for 32 years. Despite increasingly stiff competition from a redesigned Chevy Silverado and a very well-received Ram 1500, the F-Series is up 22 percent so far during 2013. We can't blame the buyers. The Ford F-Series, which includes the half-ton F-150 and the 3/4- and 1-ton Ford F-Series Super Duty, boasts powerful and efficient engines, workhorse towing and hauling capabilities, and well-controlled handling.
Kirk Bell has served as the associate publisher for Consumer Guide Automotive and editor of Scale Auto Enthusiast magazine. A Midwest native, Bell brings 18 years of automotive journalism experience to MSN, andcurrently contributes to JDPower.com and Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com.
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