10 Top-Rated vs. 10 Lowest-Rated American Cars

1. Tesla Model S (Top-Rated)

The Tesla Model S continues to redefine what’s possible for electric vehicles. With its impressive range, lightning-fast acceleration, and a cabin packed with the latest tech, it’s a favorite among both critics and drivers.
Its advanced autopilot capabilities and over-the-air software updates set it apart from traditional sedans.
Praised by sources like Car and Driver, the Model S consistently outpaces rivals, making it a benchmark for innovation and performance in the electric luxury sedan segment.

2. Chevrolet Corvette (Top-Rated)

The Chevrolet Corvette is renowned for offering supercar-level performance without the sky-high price tag. Its mid-engine design and powerful V8 engine deliver exhilarating speed and precise handling, making it a true driver’s car.
Frequently hailed as an icon, the Corvette often outshines its European counterparts in performance tests. It’s a regular recipient of accolades and glowing reviews, including from MotorTrend, cementing its reputation as America’s premier sports car.

3. Ford F-150 (Top-Rated)

The Ford F-150 stands as a benchmark in the full-size truck segment, prized for its versatility and capability. Available with multiple powertrains—including efficient hybrid options—it delivers impressive towing and payload ratings.
Drivers and critics alike appreciate its innovative features and comfortable cabin. It consistently ranks at the top in reliability and owner satisfaction surveys, helping it maintain its status as America’s best-selling vehicle year after year.

4. Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing (Top-Rated)

The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing combines a breathtaking 668-hp supercharged V8 with track-worthy handling, making it a favorite among driving enthusiasts.
Its refined interior and advanced technology suite elevate the experience, blending luxury with raw performance.
Reviewers from outlets like Car and Driver praise its ability to rival—and often surpass—European luxury sports sedans. This model showcases American engineering excellence in both power and sophistication.

5. Lincoln Navigator (Top-Rated)

The Lincoln Navigator stands out in the luxury SUV market with its sumptuous interior and exceptionally smooth ride.
Powered by a robust turbocharged V6, it combines strength with refinement, while advanced driver-assist features enhance every journey. Reviewers from Edmunds highlight its spaciousness and cutting-edge technology, making it a top pick for families and executives alike. The Navigator competes confidently with top imported rivals, solidifying its status as a favorite among American luxury SUVs.

6. Chevrolet Bolt EV (Top-Rated)

The Chevrolet Bolt EV impresses with its affordability, practical electric range, and agile handling, making it a top pick for budget-conscious drivers.
Consumer Reports and other experts praise its strong reliability, low maintenance costs, and user-friendly design. Compared to other electric vehicles in its price segment, the Bolt EV stands out for delivering exceptional value without sacrificing daily usability. For those seeking a dependable and efficient EV, the Bolt is a highly recommended option.

7. Ford Mustang Mach-E (Top-Rated)

The Ford Mustang Mach-E breathes new life into the Mustang legacy by blending classic design cues with cutting-edge electric performance.
Reviewers highlight its brisk acceleration, roomy interior, and intuitive tech features, making it a strong competitor in the EV market. Experts from CNET Roadshow often compare it favorably to the Tesla Model Y. With a balance of driving excitement and everyday practicality, the Mach-E stands out among American electric crossovers.

8. Ram 1500 (Top-Rated)

The Ram 1500 sets itself apart in the full-size truck segment with its exceptionally smooth ride and luxurious interior appointments.
Offering a range of robust engine options, it delivers both impressive towing power and everyday comfort. Reviewers at Kelley Blue Book consistently rank it at the top for its innovative features and refined driving experience. Whether used for daily commuting or tough jobs, the Ram 1500 is widely regarded as one of the best trucks on the market.

9. Tesla Model 3 (Top-Rated)

The Tesla Model 3 stands out for its zippy acceleration, impressive safety ratings, and accessible pricing in the crowded EV market.
Critics at Edmunds praise its minimalist interior, extended electric range, and constantly evolving software. As a compact electric sedan, it appeals to a diverse range of drivers, from tech enthusiasts to eco-conscious commuters. The Model 3’s blend of performance and innovation has helped solidify its position as a leader in its class.

10. Chevrolet Tahoe (Top-Rated)

The Chevrolet Tahoe stands tall in the large SUV segment, thanks to its spacious cabin, powerful towing capacity, and refined ride quality.
It’s a top pick for bigger families and anyone needing plenty of room and utility. Reviews from Car and Driver highlight its advanced technology, comfort, and flexible cargo space. The Tahoe’s well-rounded package consistently makes it a class leader among American full-size SUVs.

11. Chrysler 200 (Lowest-Rated)

The Chrysler 200 faced persistent criticism for its problematic transmission, cramped rear seats, and disappointing reliability.
Owners and reviewers alike pointed out its lackluster performance and uncomfortable ride, especially when compared to segment leaders like the Honda Accord. These shortcomings contributed to consistently low satisfaction scores and, ultimately, the model’s discontinuation. According to Consumer Reports, the 200 often found itself at the bottom of rankings for midsize sedans.

12. Dodge Journey (Lowest-Rated)

The Dodge Journey struggled to keep up with evolving market standards, hampered by its outdated design, unimpressive safety ratings, and sluggish engine options.
Reviewers frequently noted its lack of modern technology and consistently low reliability scores, especially when compared to newer crossovers. Despite its affordable price, the Journey’s shortcomings led to poor sales and eventual discontinuation. According to Edmunds, it routinely ranked near the bottom in its class for several years.

13. Ford EcoSport (Lowest-Rated)

The Ford EcoSport repeatedly lands low on critics’ lists due to its underpowered engines, cramped interior, and rough ride quality.
Reviews often highlight its disappointing crash-test results and lackluster value, especially compared to competitors like the Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-30. Despite its compact footprint, the EcoSport struggles to meet the expectations of subcompact SUV buyers. According to Cars.com, it is among the least recommended vehicles in its segment.

14. Chevrolet Spark (Lowest-Rated)

The Chevrolet Spark is one of the most affordable cars on the market, but that low price comes with notable drawbacks.
Critics frequently mention its weak engine, noisy interior, and lack of essential safety features as major concerns. Compared to other small cars, the Spark offers less comfort and overall value, leaving many buyers disappointed after real-world use. As Consumer Reports notes, its budget appeal isn’t enough to offset its significant shortcomings.

15. Jeep Compass (Lowest-Rated)

The Jeep Compass often receives criticism for its lackluster engine performance, noisy ride, and ongoing reliability issues.
Reviewers note that rivals from Toyota and Honda deliver a more refined driving experience and superior comfort. The Compass’s inconsistent build quality further dampens its appeal, placing it behind class leaders in the compact SUV segment. According to Edmunds, these persistent shortcomings keep the Compass near the bottom of expert and owner rankings.

16. Ford Fiesta (Lowest-Rated)

The Ford Fiesta is frequently marked down for its poor reliability, particularly with its problematic automatic transmission.
Owners and critics alike have reported frequent mechanical troubles and discomfort due to its cramped seating. Compared to competitors like the Honda Fit, the Fiesta falls short in quality and long-term owner satisfaction. As detailed by CarComplaints.com, these persistent issues have kept the Fiesta near the bottom of subcompact car rankings.

17. Chevrolet Trax (Lowest-Rated)

The Chevrolet Trax consistently receives low marks for its sluggish acceleration, low-grade interior materials, and disappointing safety ratings.
Critics point out that its outdated technology and lack of comfort leave it trailing behind more refined subcompact SUV competitors. Reviewers from Kelley Blue Book often recommend other options in the segment, as the Trax struggles to meet modern expectations for quality and value.

18. Dodge Grand Caravan (Lowest-Rated)

The Dodge Grand Caravan, once a trailblazer in the minivan world, eventually lagged behind its rivals due to a dated design, subpar crash-test ratings, and declining reliability.
Compared to newer minivans, it lacks many advanced safety and tech features that today’s families expect. Consumer Reports notes its appeal diminished significantly in recent years, as buyers shifted toward more modern and capable alternatives. These factors contributed to its reputation as one of the lowest-rated minivans on the market.

19. Jeep Patriot (Lowest-Rated)

The Jeep Patriot routinely earned low marks for its underpowered engines, lackluster ride quality, and dated interior design.
Reliability issues and poor crash-test ratings further hurt its standing among compact SUVs. Reviewers from Edmunds frequently placed the Patriot at the bottom of its class, noting that it failed to keep up with more modern competitors. Its persistent shortcomings made it one of the least recommended vehicles in its segment.

20. Buick Encore (Lowest-Rated)

The Buick Encore closes out our list of lowest-rated American cars, plagued by a small, underpowered engine and a notably stiff ride.
Despite its premium branding, the Encore struggled to match competitors like the Mazda CX-30 in comfort, value, and refinement. Critics from Car and Driver also point out its limited cargo space and a cabin prone to road noise.

Whether shopping for a top-rated standout or avoiding a disappointing model, staying informed can help you make a decision you’ll love for years to come.