Autotrader names its Best New Cars for 2019 award winners

(April 29, 2019) ATLANTA — Finding your perfect automobile match can be difficult, and everyone is searching for that one vehicle that checks all the boxes. With more than 300 vehicle models available, this becomes a daunting task that leaves consumers with more questions than answers. The options are endless, examining vehicle technology, safety features, driving condition options, style, make, model and trim level.

Autotrader can help narrow down that shopping list. After spending the past year testing nearly every model on the market, the experts at Autotrader have decided on a list of 12 vehicles that are the best of the best.

"Not only are consumers often overwhelmed by the sheer number of vehicles on the market, but they also get lost in the frenzy of constantly changing technology, features and vehicle capabilities," said Brian Moody, executive editor of Autotrader. "Our team selected a diverse group of vehicles that will benefit car shoppers with a variety of needs and lifestyles. These vehicles are good looking and handle well, plus they have features everyone will love."

The Autotrader 2019 Best New Cars were chosen on a wide-ranging set of criteria, including interior comfort and materials, build quality, available features and ride quality. Each vehicle was agreed upon unanimously by the entire editorial and data team at Autotrader.

To be considered, a vehicle must be of the current or next model-year and available for purchase at the time of the awards announcement. We also capped the price at $75,000, meaning the cars and trucks on our list offer a significant value for the asking price. Not only was value a top priority, vehicles were also judged on available technology and a rewarding or dynamic driving experience.

These models truly have something unique that separates them from their competition. The variety of award-winning models below are weighted equally and are unranked. Vehicles are listed in alphabetical order.

Autotrader's 2019 Best New Cars

2019 Acura RDX

The new Acura RDX is a full-fledged luxury/sport utility vehicle on par with Europe's best. Its turbocharged engine is quick, responsive and efficient, averaging 28 miles per gallon. For drivers that love to blast music, they will love the optional ELS sound system – it's one of the best available in any new car on the market.

2019 Ford Ranger

Ford has resurrected the Ranger name for 2019 and this version is not stuck in the 90s. This Ranger is a competent and agile little brother to the well-established Ford F-150. As the right combination of work-ready and everyday-useful, the 2019 Ford Ranger is perfect for the needs of most Americans.

2019 Genesis G70

The Genesis G70 had the editors at Autotrader uttering a series of "inconceivable" proclamations every time they got behind the wheel. And this time, it does mean what they think it means. The G70 packs a lot of fun into a tidy package and does it for a reasonable price. The interior is a highlight that rivals cars costing tens of thousands of dollars more, but at this price, it's a no brainer the G70 made the Best New Cars for 2019 list.

2019 GMC Sierra 1500

The Sierra is staking out its own territory in the full-size pickup world. With unique features and a traditional but modern look, the Sierra is a great truck in the full-size pickup world. GMC's Multi-Pro tailgate is more than just a parlor trick; it gives a wow factor to a feature that that has been taken for granted for years.

2019 Honda Passport

Finally, "sport" and "utility" tangibly make sense together when describing the Honda Passport. Move over Pilot, the Passport's rugged look is the newer, hotter version in town.

2019 Jaguar I-Pace

If car shoppers are suddenly going to start buying electric cars based on things like attractiveness, fun and a rewarding driving experience, the I-Pace is the EV to get them there. Tesla started the luxury electric car revolution, but Jaguar takes it to a whole new level.

2020 Mercedes-Benz GLE 450

The GLE 450 is a luxury SUV that pulls no punches. The GLE 450 offers drivers the best of both worlds: off-road capabilities yet serene on the road. Equipped with forward-thinking technology, this luxury SUV is arguably the world's most perfect car.

2019 Nissan Altima

Debuting innovative features, the Nissan Altima keeps the overall look of the car similar to previous models. Some highlights are the new high-tech turbo engine, all-wheel drive option and driver assist features that landed this vehicle on the list. And we couldn't forget Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

2019 RAM 1500

Combining brute strength with class-leading luxury, the RAM 1500 easily pushes other trucks to the side. A few distinguishable features include a high-end audio system, super soft leather and a large touch screen – it all equals a really plush cab, added to an available 12,750-lb towing capacity.

2019 Subaru Ascent

Surprise, the new Ascent isn't really a surprise. Instead, the Subaru Ascent is exactly what Subaru owners have wanted for years: a three-row SUV that allows growing families to stay in the Subaru family.

2019 Toyota RAV4

Not just redesigned, but the reinvented Toyota RAV4 is more dramatic and masculine look changes the character of the vehicle. If taken off-road, drivers will feel how engineers intentionally fused fun into the RAV4 formula. Roomy inside and reasonably priced, the RAV4 is an excellent compact SUV.

2019 Volvo XC40

The XC40 is a rolling playbook on how to take a luxury brand down-market while still holding your head high. The interior and driving dynamics are unique, making the vehicle feel more premium than its under-$40,000 price. An added bonus – you can get this car on a subscription plan, extending the Volvo vibe on the entire purchasing, owning and exchanging experience.