Every year, the automotive experts at Autotrader and Kelley Blue Book drive dozens of new cars for evaluation. Most of the job is objectively comparing vehicles, rating cars by category, and awarding accolades to the best in each. But what about the ones that had our staff yearning for more seat time? We asked the editorial team about the cars that left an impression over the past year, regardless of body type, powertrain, or price. These are our Editors’ Favorite Cars of 2022, in alphabetical order. (Yes, a few of these cars are 2023 models, but all were available for evaluation in 2022.)
- 2023 BMW i4 M50
- 2022 Cadillac Escalade-V
- 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor
- 2022 Ford Maverick
- 2022 Ford F-150 Lightning
- 2022 Genesis GV60
- 2022 Genesis GV70
- 2022 Hyundai Elantra N
- 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata
- 2022 Mercedes-AMG EQS
- 2022 Mercedes-Benz S500
- 2022 Nissan Z
- 2022 Subaru Forester
- 2023 Toyota GR Corolla
2023 BMW i4 M50
By now, we all know electric cars are the way of the future. And perhaps privately — or not so privately — some of us car lovers might admit to wondering how brands that have built their legacy on exciting combustion vehicles will fare as volts replace gasoline. If there’s one model that will ease such worries, it’s the 2023 BMW i4 sedan. Even months after testing this car, I can’t shake the smile it gave me. Though BMW’s all-electric strategy is still in its infancy, the i4 proves that you don’t need to be a startup to make an amazing EV. I’d wager it’s BMW’s eons of engineering experience that have resulted in what feels like an all-electric version of its fabled 3 Series. The model I tested was the higher-performance i40 M50, and it boasted the ability to pin me to my seat (0-60 mph in 3.7 seconds will do that) and gobble up ribbons of road with aplomb. It was a delight; I’d love to have one in my garage. See 2023 BMW i4 models for sale near you
–Matt Degen, Senior Editor
2023 Cadillac Escalade-V
Some cars stun you with their sheer opulence, and some leave you awestruck due to their unbelievable performance behind the wheel. The Escalade-V does both. Cadillac’s souped-up flagship is an exhibition in excess, from the exquisite interior to the head-snapping acceleration. GM stuffed a 6.2L supercharged V8 producing 682 horsepower and 653 lb-ft of torque into their newest generation Escy, creating the automotive equivalent of NFL linebacker Von Miller — big and fast with undeniable style. Few vehicles can lay down a 4.4-second 0-60 time while passengers in the back watch live football and drink chilled beverages from the refrigerated compartment. The Escalade-V can. Yes, it starts at a ludicrous $150K, but this is an insane vehicle for important people in a hurry (ex: Tony Soprano on Adderall). I’m neither important nor hurried, but I know awesome when I see it. See 2023 Cadillac Escalade models for sale near you
–Rob Nestora, Senior Editor
2022 Ford Bronco Raptor
After spending a weekend with the 2022 Ford Bronco Raptor, an all-new model made for rugged trails or a sandy desert, I keep reminiscing about the time spent behind the wheel. Needing some photos of the Bronco Raptor within its intended environment, I decided to drive it out to the desert, specifically Borrego Springs.
The drive out was all highway, and surprisingly the Bronco Raptor was smooth and powerful but not as loud as an off-road vehicle could be, even with a soft top. As expected, it easily handled the rocky and rutted trails leading up to the metal sculptures scattered around the area. I positioned the Bronco Raptor beneath a couple of metal raptors and snapped a few photos. It was time well spent getting to know the Bronco Raptor without going off-road. See 2022 Ford Bronco models for sale near you
–Frankie Rogers, Senior Editor
2022 Ford Maverick
A funny thing happens to your brain when you drive many cars. You grow less and less impressed with extraordinary performance cars and opulent luxuries. How hard is it to build something great when your budget is high? The retirement party for an old auto journo is always full of older, simpler, well-made cars because the critic’s brain tends to get cynical. We’re more impressed with the well-thought-out than with the extravagant. Just like your local food critic probably has a favorite hole-in-the-wall restaurant that would blow your mind, veteran automotive journalists tend to fall for the simple and fun.
(That party is also full of weird mustaches. I’ve never found an explanation for that).
With that in mind, the car that impressed me most in 2022 was the Ford Maverick.
Why? Because Ford pushed back against the worst trends in the automotive industry in designing the Mav. By the end of 2022, the average new car had cost over $48,000. You could get two Maverick trucks for that price.
Trucks have been growing for decades — literally. The Maverick is the first genuinely small truck built by a domestic automaker in a decade — it almost fits in the footprint of a Toyota Camry.
Trucks have grown increasingly feature-filled and complex in that time, too. But Ford went simple with the Maverick. They don’t even load it with storage nooks. They let owners do that. Its cabin has mounting points for accessories, and Ford gives owners access to files they can use to 3D-print cup holders, phone mounts, and other accessories to customize their cabin.
The Maverick is pushing back against every excess of the truck market. Did Ford help create those trends? Sure, but they’re breaking free of them, too, with a reasonably-sized, affordable truck that I’d drive in urban environments. I drove my fair share of 6-figure vehicles this year, but I don’t expect to see them at Rob Nestora’s retirement party. I might show up in a Maverick. It’s the great taco truck of the automotive world. (Don’t count on me for weird whiskers, though). See 2022 Ford Maverick models for sale near you
–Sean Tucker, Senior Editor
2022 Ford F-150 Lightning
I expected the Ford Lightning to be pretty OK. I didn’t expect to love it absolutely. And one of the best parts about it is that it’s just a truck. It feels like any other F-150 — minus the fact you have 775 lb-ft of torque on tap, and the crush into your seat happens quietly!
The seats are supremely comfortable. The sound system works well and isn’t fighting against engine noise. And did I mention all that incredible power?
You can use it as a mobile workstation, power your house in the event of an outage, or cruise around in what is quietly one of the best options in the entire Ford lineup. See 2023 Ford F-150 Lightning models for sale near you
–Jeff Glucker, Video Editor
2023 Genesis GV60
My favorite car in 2022 was the Genesis GV60. I could see myself driving it every day, even though the practical side of me prefers a cheaper vehicle since now it does not qualify for the federal tax credit. Outside, it was curvy and sleek, with excellent design detail in the headlights. Inside, I liked that it excited the senses, from the speedy “boost” button to the sharp, modern, and minimalistic interior. Another feast for the eyes: the console gear shifter “orb” that rotates when you start the SUV. With an estimated EPA range of up to 248 miles, it will only get better with time, so it can take you the distance. See 2022 Genesis GV60 models for sale near you
–Renee Valdes, Senior Editor
2022 Genesis GV70
The coolest car I drove in 2022 is pretty much any Genesis vehicle. The combination of luxury and driving fun is something only European brands got right once upon a time. The one model that stands out is the Genesis GV70. When paired with the 375 hp, 3.5-liter turbo V6, the GV70 accelerates with urgency yet is as smooth and quiet as a Mercedes-Benz. Yes, seriously, it’s got 375 hp. However, the smaller, less expensive turbo-4 engine is just as smooth and quiet and makes a still impressive 300 hp. The V6 is the one to get, but you won’t feel like you lost something by getting the 2.5T version.
Versus the larger GV80, the GV70 also feels nimbler and more capable in braking and handling. And the exterior look backs that up. The prominent grille and the sculpted exhaust openings out back are all very attractive. Genesis has some of the best-looking wheels I’ve seen in quite some time.
Inside, there’s a simplicity that adds to the luxury vibe. The cabin contains textures, curved shapes, and other visual delights, like a 14.5-inch infotainment screen and customizable gauges.
Finally, I love how Genesis created its interior environment with thoughtful colors, graphics, and comfort features. The icon-based touchscreen interface communicates a sense of uniqueness I like. The 360-degree parking camera has a view that looks like there’s a drone hovering above, sending back real-time images. Plus, you can use that camera system to give you live snapshots on your phone while you’re away from the car. The car will also remember your preferences using your unique fingerprint or facial recognition technology.
The GV70 is excellent all around and makes quite an impression. It’s a luxury SUV I wish I had in my everyday life. See 2022 Genesis GV70 models for sale near you
–Brian Moody, Executive Editor
2022 Hyundai Elantra N
The car that made the biggest impression on me in 2022? Easy: the Hyundai Elantra N.
In short, this high-performance version of the Elantra is the real deal.
Let me explain: Any manufacturer can throw a bunch of high-performance parts on a model and pass it off as a true sports sedan. But don’t be surprised if it has a jarring ride and runs out of brakes after a few hot laps on the track. It might even overheat, too.
In contrast, the Elantra N, though firm, is a remarkably refined everyday sport sedan that relishes hot laps at the track. You can lap it for long stints without overheating the engine and brakes or destroying the tires. In addition to excellent grip and cornering balance, the Elantra N powers out of corners like few other front-drive cars, aided by abundant low-end torque and an electronic limited-slip differential that minimizes inside front wheelspin while putting a big grin on your face.
Hyundai tells us they tuned the Elantra N at racetracks such as the famed Nürburgring in Germany. It shows. Not just in how well the car works on the track, mind you, but also in the presence of specially developed parts like trick front drive axles that combine the shaft, hub, and bearing into one unit. These lightweight axles, inspired by those used in the World Rally Championship, are built to handle the extreme cornering loads generated by the Elantra N. A rear chassis brace and specially designed motor mounts further improve chassis response.
Given the Elantra N’s impressively high levels of engineering and development, it’s easy to see how this Hyundai made such a big impression on me in 2022. See 2022 Hyundai Elantra N models for sale near you
–Andy Bornhop, Senior Editor
2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata
Some cars beg for a particular type of terrain. Jeep 4x4s want rock crawling and ruts. The Challenger screams for a drag strip. Then there’s the Miata. If you aren’t picturing one on a twisty road near the ocean, you and I have different opinions on this Mazda’s natural habitat. (OK, they’re also great for SCCA and Spec racing.) What makes the Miata outstanding in both settings are its terrific balance, communicative steering, superb handling, and one of the best manual shifters out there. Nope. Strike that. I think it’s the best.
I spent a long, sunny summer day driving the 2022 MX-5 RF on Pacific Coast Highway, turning off to explore the canyon roads around Malibu. The entire day was like a reunion with an old friend. I was on roads I drove in high school and college, in the newest version of the car I’ve wanted since I first read about it in 1989. The Miata felt similar to what I recalled from the last time I drove one, but it was somehow even better. It has more horsepower, a higher redline than before, and a new system that uses braking to reduce body roll. The Grand Touring I drove also had a limited-slip differential and sport suspension. And the beautiful Terra Cotta interior. Yes, the RF is slightly heavier than the Roadster, but it’s also significantly quieter.
It isn’t easy to drive the Miata without grinning. It isn’t a car that’s about top speeds. It isn’t a supercar. It’s downright affordable. And it’s reliable. And fuel-efficient. At freeway speeds, it’s easy to pass someone without downshifting. If someone does something stupid, one quick move and you’re out of harm’s way.
Since the start, Mazda designed the Miata for the feeling that you and it are connected. In its fourth generation, it is still true to the “Jinba-Ittai” philosophy: the oneness between horse and rider. This car is so easy to drive and have fun with, so easy to control, so intuitive, and so easy to love. I was so smitten with this car I bought one. See 2022 Mazda MX-5 Miata models for sale near you
–Allyson Harwood, Senior Editor
2022 Mercedes-AMG EQS
The car I drove in 2022 that stuck with me the most was the Mercedes-AMG EQS Sedan. I spent some time with it in and around Denver, Colorado, and the instant acceleration from the 700-lb-ft torque rating was quite a thrill. I was also impressed with the sharp handling despite the nearly 3-ton curb weight thanks to 4-wheel steering. But the technology in this EV made a more significant impression on me than the performance.
The augmented reality in the AMG EQS is wild. Graphics on the head-up display look like they’re projected on the road itself when the navigation is on. Additionally, the 56-inch Hyperscreen uses the cameras in the front of the car to show you the road ahead, but with big arrows superimposed on the road leading you where to turn. Driving an electric Mercedes with augmented reality is like playing a video game, and it’s a game that I didn’t want to put down. See 2022 Mercedes-AMG EQS models for sale near you
–Eric Brandt, Senior Editor
2022 Mercedes-Benz S 500
I’m not a sedan guy, and I’m certainly not a luxury car guy. But I found myself enchanted by the 2022 Mercedes-Benz S 500 4Matic Sedan. Not only is it a gorgeous, elegant 4-door, but it is also classy beyond belief. Unlike the full-zoot Mercedes-Maybach version or the V8-equipped S 580, the S 500 is understated and just right with its more than ample turbocharged 3.0-liter inline 6-cylinder engine, 9-speed automatic, all-wheel drive (AWD), and EQ boost mild-hybrid setup. The S 500 would be the car I’d choose if I could afford a driver because I’d sit in the back and solve the world’s problems on my way to the office, as comfortable as I would be in my private jet. On my driver’s day off, I’d be happy driving my S 500 to the club or to the dog park to watch my dogs romp with their personal exercise trainers (my dogs are rich in this scenario, too). See 2022 Mercedes-Benz S 500 models for sale near you
–Jason Fogelson, Senior Editor
2022 Nissan Z
I had the privilege of photographing and driving many cars in 2022. One of my favorites this year was the Nissan Z that I had the chance to drive on the Tail of the Dragon in Tennessee and the streets of Atlanta for a few days. I love that it comes with a manual transmission, a dying option among newer cars. The bright yellow paint job took a minute to grow on me, but it makes sense for this car once you drive it. The shade is loud but not obnoxious and a great color for a sports car — it had just the right amount of pop. I love the retro taillights, a great homage to earlier models. The Z has a 400-hp twin-turbocharged V6, so there’s a lot of power under the hood. You must be careful when accelerating around turns, especially in wet conditions, which can be a good time or a terrifying experience. Overall, this was a fun car to drive both in the mountains and the city! See 2022 Nissan Z models for sale near you
–Nick McElroy, Content Producer
2022 Subaru Forester
Right up front, I admit my bias for the 2022 Subaru Forester as I own one. Is it fast? Nope. Is it sexy? Not really. Is it practical, comfortable, affordable, safe, and reliable? Absolutely. And that’s what makes it my choice. The Forester is the perfect vehicle for singles, small families, and people who generally don’t get excited about cars until reaching their final monthly payment.
In the Forester, you’ll find a roomy SUV that can easily accommodate NBA-sized adults and still have room for an oversized moonroof. Its tall side windows offer superior outward visibility, and its long rear doors swing nearly 90 degrees, a blessing for anyone struggling to quickly strap in a rear-facing child safety seat. The standard all-wheel drive will get you through winter’s worst, with the Wilderness trim including an upgraded all-wheel-drive system giving it credible off-road ability. The Forester’s cabin is simple, its seats supremely comfortable, its ride smooth, and its dash devoid of the all-encompassing touchscreen slowly working its way into every Subaru offering.
With six trims from which to choose, the Forester offers something for everyone, except speed freaks who won’t be happy with its 9-second 0-60 mph time (but hey, it also gets 33 mpg on the highway, which isn’t bad for a non-hybrid, AWD SUV). Bonus for Boomers and Gen X: The Forester still comes standard with a CD player.
As 2023 looks to be the final year for the current model, you may want to move quickly if anything I’ve written above piques your interest. See 2022 Subaru Forester models for sale near you
–Joe Tralongo, Senior Editor
2023 Toyota GR Corolla
Last year my dance card filled up, but if I had the chance to take someone home, it would be the 2023 Toyota GR Corolla Circuit Edition. Its G16E-GTS 1.6-liter 3-cylinder turbocharged moneymaker squeezes out 300 hp and 273 lb-ft of torque. That power and its nugget size (3300 pounds) make excellent bedfellows. Toyota smashed a jet piston cooling system, large diameter exhaust, and high-pressure fuel injection, making that canary sing for a long time and in tune. A limited-slip differential on the Circuit Edition helps you turn corners quickly as heads at a Serena Williams match on center court. Sturdy brakes, a well-sorted suspension with a MacPherson strut front end and double wishbone rear, and all the creature comforts on the interior make the ride a delight. Then you add in Toyota’s GR-FOUR AWD setup that allows the driver to shift torque distribution from 60:40 to 50:50 to 30:70, depending on your plans, and you’ve got yourself a barn burner. Did I mention you row the gears yourself? For my fake money, I’m spending right now; thank you, dealers, for markups making this unobtanium; the 2022 Toyota GR Corolla is a proper bit of kit. See 2023 Toyota Corolla models for sale near you
–Lyn Woodward, Video Editor
