Best-Sellers of 2017
Another year of automotive sales is in the books, and although the number declined 1.7 percent from 2017, the final tally of 17,241,707 vehicles sold is still strong overall. In 2017 passenger car sales continued to trend downward — a direct result of the popularity of crossovers and SUVs. That said, for years the three best-selling vehicles in America have been pickup trucks. Several major brands had record sales last year, including Infiniti, Audi, Honda, Porsche and Subaru. General Motors continues to lead all other manufacturers in the U.S. with a 17.4 percent market share, followed by Ford Motor Company, Toyota Motor Sales and Chrysler / FCA group. Here’s a look at the best-selling models in America during 2017, according to numbers compiled from individual auto manufacturers’ sales reports and goodcarbadcar.net.
20. Hyundai Elantra
2017 Sales: 198,210
Vs. 2016: -4.9%
Since its redesign at the beginning of last year, the Elantra surged ahead to become the best-selling model in the Hyundai lineup — surprising, given the general popularity of crossovers versus passenger cars. Elantra sales were down slightly compared to a year ago, but the model made it on this top 20 list thanks to a strong December, with sales up more than 9 percent compared to a year earlier. Available as a sedan or sportier GT, the Elantra features a signature hexagonal grille that closely ties it to the current Hyundai lineup. The Elantra comes well equipped with entertainment and convenience features, and is available with the latest high-tech safety equipment.
19. Ford Fusion
2017 Sales: 209,623
Vs. 2016: -21.1%
Ford’s best-selling passenger car has experienced a sales decline over the last few months compared to a year earlier, and this continued in December with sales down 9 percent compared to the same month last year. That said, the entire Ford car lineup was down around 14 percent in 2017 versus 2016. Fusion was refreshed for the 2017 model year with subtle exterior design changes, interior improvements, new driver assistance technology and two new trim levels. Fusion remains the best-selling passenger car in the U.S. from an American brand, available with a range of powertrains that includes the fuel-efficient plug-in hybrid Fusion Energi.
18. Toyota Highlander
2017 Sales: 215,775
Vs. 2016: 12.7%
Toyota’s 7-passenger crossover has experienced impressive sales since January; although December sales were down 17 percent compared to a year ago, overall the Highlander did well in 2017. This success can likely be attributed to Highlander’s major update last year, including performance upgrades, refreshed styling and a new SE trim level. The SE stands out as a sportier version with 19-inch alloy wheels, a sport-tuned suspension, dark paint for the front grille, dark headlight housings and dark roof rails. Also new is the fuel-efficient Highlander Hybrid, which features a direct-injection 3.5-liter V6 gas engine teamed with an electric drive motor-generator to produce a total of 306 horsepower while delivering a combined 29 mpg.
17. GMC Sierra
2017 Sales: 217,943
Vs. 2016: -1.7%
The GMC Sierra full-size pickup truck had a strong showing throughout most of last year; and with a healthy 13.5 percent increase in December versus a year earlier, the big truck’s sales stayed almost even with 2016. Virtual twin to the Chevrolet Silverado, the Sierra features GMC IntelliLink with a new 7-inch touchscreen display, an available remote-locking tailgate, wireless phone charging and available Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. For those seeking a luxuriously appointed pickup truck, GMC also offers the fully-equipped Sierra Denali with leather seats, magnetic ride control, a powerful V8 engine and LED headlights.
16. Nissan Sentra
2017 Sales: 218,451
Vs. 2016: 1.7%
As with other manufacturers, Nissan experienced a general decline in passenger car sales in 2017; however, Sentra is bucking that trend. Sentra closed December with a slight decline in sales, yet had an annual increase over 2016. A member of the Nissan lineup for more than 35 years, Sentra is currently in its seventh generation. Available in a wide range of trims with two different powertrains, Sentra enters the 2018 model year with several upgrades. Most noteworthy: Automatic Emergency Braking will be standard on all Sentras (except those equipped with manual transmissions).
15. Jeep Grand Cherokee
2017 Sales: 240,696
Vs. 2016: 13.4%
The Jeep brand had considerable success last year, largely due to America’s love affair with the SUV. The flagship Grand Cherokee leads the Jeep procession with its best annual sales since 2000. The SUV continues its tradition of offering impressive off-road capability in an attractive package. Available with several 4WD systems and trim levels, the Grand Cherokee line added the off-road-focused Trailhawk and the luxurious Summit to the lineup to bolster sales momentum. Jeep now brings the high-performance Trackhawk into the lineup— with a staggering 707 horsepower as its calling card.
14. Nissan Altima
2017 Sales: 254,996
Vs. 2016: -17%
Once Nissan’s best-selling model, the Altima experienced a decline over the last two years, allowing the hot-selling Rogue to claim its position as the top-selling Nissan in America. This sales dip is part of an overall decline in the popularity of passenger cars — Nissan passenger car sales are down around 11 percent compared to last year. However, Altima is still one of the best-selling passenger cars in the U.S., and is holding its own thanks to a roomy interior as well as enhanced technology and connectivity. For 2018 all Nissan Altimas will come standard with Automatic Emergency Braking and Forward Collision Warning.
13. Ford Explorer
2017 Sales: 271,131
Vs. 2016: 9.1%
The Ford Explorer remains a fixture on this best-sellers list with best annual sales since 2005. This family-sized SUV offers many high-tech convenience and safety features including the latest version of SYNC, Ford’s voice-activated infotainment system. Two EcoBoost engines are available, including a powerful 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 that makes 365 horsepower. Note: Explorer figures include sales of the Explorer-based Police Interceptor Utility, which is reportedly the most popular vehicle for law enforcement officers; current sales of the Interceptor are slightly above last year’s figures.
12. Chevrolet Equinox
2017 Sales: 290,458
Vs. 2016: 19.9%
Chevrolet introduced an all-new Equinox last year, and sales numbers indicate that this refreshed crossover is a big hit. In December 2017, sales of the Equinox were up more than 20 percent compared to December of 2016, helping solidify the SUV’s position as one of Chevrolet’s best-selling models. In addition to its updated styling and comfortable interior, the new Equinox is equipped with the latest in high-tech safety features and now offers the option of a fuel-efficient diesel powertrain.
11. Ford Escape
2017 Sales: 308,296
Vs. 2016 0.4%
This small 5-passenger crossover from Ford has been the best-selling American-brand SUV for a long time. Although sales had been down earlier this year, the Escape turned in strong numbers over the last few months, helping the popular SUV achieve its best sales year ever in 2017. Ford introduced a redesigned Escape last year featuring a new exterior look, updated interior, new fuel-efficient engines and advanced safety technology. The most obvious change is the new raised trapezoidal grille that ties Escape’s look more closely to other Ford SUVs.
10. Honda Accord
2017 Sales: 322,655
Vs. 2016: -6.5 %
Honda introduced an all-new Accord late last year, and it’s better than the previous generation in nearly every way. Early 2017 sales had been in decline over the first few months, and December underscored that trend compared to 2016. With this new Accord coming to market, we fully expect sales figures to start recovering in 2018. The new model features fresh styling, an updated interior, a suite of high-tech safety features as well as a lineup of new engines. Honda recently announced the new Accord 2.0T, which gives this family sedan a turbocharged 252-horsepower engine.
9. Toyota Corolla
2017 Sales: 329,196
Vs. 2016: -13%
Corolla is one of the most time-honored names in the Toyota lineup — appropriate, since the name connotes longevity. Sales of the compact sedan have declined in the last few months, allowing the Corolla’s direct competitor — the Honda Civic — to overtake it. Although sales were down in 2017 compared to the previous year, the Corolla is still selling well, likely due in part to its impressive fuel economy, roomy interior and extensive list of standard features.
8. Honda Civic
2017 Sales: 377,286
Vs. 2016: 2.81%
Demand for the all-new Civic had its ups and downs in 2017, and ultimately this small Honda was unable to hold onto the best-selling car crown. The tenth generation of this popular car premiered early last year and features fresh styling, improved aerodynamics, new vehicle architecture, a more spacious interior and two new engines. Fuel economy is also impressive — rated as high as 42 mpg with a new turbocharged powerplant. Civic has a lot of buzz thanks to new high-performance variants: the Civic Type R and Civic Si.
7. Honda CR-V
2017 Sales: 377,895
Vs. 2016: 5.8%
All new for the 2017 model year, the redesigned Honda CR-V has been successful thanks to strong sales thus far. Sales in November 2017 were down slightly, but the small crossover ended the year posting its best numbers ever, making it Honda’s best-selling model. The CR-V’s success lies in its ability to offer consumers a comfortable, small crossover with great utility and excellent fuel economy. In fact, CR-V’s 2.4-liter 185-horsepower engine teamed with a new continuously variable transmission makes it one of the most fuel-efficient crossovers on the market.
6. Toyota Camry
2017 Sales: 387,081
Vs. 2016: -0.4%
Camry has held the title of best-selling passenger car in America for 15 years, and with a strong push in December the popular Toyota retained its crown. Sales in December were up almost 30 percent compared to year ago, thanks to the arrival of the all-new eighth generation. Lower and wider than the previous generation, the new Camry has an updated front grille, integrated headlights and sculpted lines to give the sedan a more engaging presence, as well as a completely new interior and choice of fuel-efficient, powerful engines. This also is the first Camry ever offered with more than 300 horsepower.
5. Nissan Rogue
2017 Sales: 403,465
Vs. 2016: 22.3%
Small crossovers are clearly among the most popular vehicles with American shoppers, and Nissan has capitalized on this with the versatile Rogue. A strong showing over the last several months has helped Rogue become Nissan’s best-selling model for the first time. In the latter part of 2016, Nissan introduced an updated 2017 Rogue with fresh styling and new features. The Rogue has a 170-horsepower 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with an advanced Xtronic transmission with Eco mode, boasting an EPA fuel economy rating as high as 33 mpg. The 2017 Rogue is also available as a hybrid and as a smaller model called Rogue Sport. Coincidentally, last year also happened to be Rogue’s best sales year ever.
4. Toyota RAV4
2017 Sales: 407,594
Vs. 2016: 15.7%
Toyota’s RAV4 crossover experienced impressive sales in 2016, and with a redesigned model that trend continued into 2017. Even though sales were down slightly in December 2017, the small crossover ended up having its best sales year on record, making RAV4 the best-selling SUV in America. The RAV4 features edgy styling and is available in several trim levels. Also available with front- or all-wheel drive, the RAV4 can be powered by a 2.5-liter gas engine or a more powerful and efficient hybrid powertrain.
3. Ram Truck
2017 Sales: 500,723
Vs. 2016: 2.3%
Ram continues to take advantage of America’s love affair with the pickup truck, posting record sales for the second year in a row. Sales were down slightly in December 2017 compared to a year earlier, but good enough to keep this full-size truck on the podium with a third-place finish. Featuring many body styles and available powertrains, Ram continues to iterate special editions that keep customers returning to the brand. The latest to join the Ram lineup is the Limited Tungsten Edition, billed as the most luxurious Ram pickup ever. Look for an all-new 2019 Ram to roll out early next year.
2. Chevrolet Silverado
2017 Sales: 585,864
Vs. 2016: 1.9 %
The perennial runner-up to the Ford F-Series, Chevrolet’s Silverado rounded out a strong sales year with a 25 percent increase in December 2017 versus a year ago. Silverado is available in many configurations with different cab and trim-level options, ranging from a basic work truck to the ultra-luxurious High Country. Chevrolet also offers many special-edition packages on the Silverado, including the Black Out Edition, Special Ops Edition and Texas Edition.
1. Ford F-Series
2017 Sales: 896,764
Vs. 2016: 9.3%
The Ford F-Series pickup truck has been the best-selling vehicle in America for 36 years, and 2017 marked its 41st year as America’s best-selling pickup truck. The F-Series shows no signs of slowing, finishing 2017 with its best overall sales since 2005. For some perspective on this sales leader, there were more F-Series trucks sold last year than the two top-selling SUVs combined. Another contributing factor to the 2017 F-Series sales juggernaut was the arrival of an all-new Super Duty, boasting plenty of innovative features and impressive capability. Adding to the truck’s success is an updated 2018 F-150, which is on sale now.
Data: Automaker sales releases, goodcarbadcar.net
