Automotive Features

Our Automotive Features Center is your comprehensive guide to the U.S. News Car Rankings.  Check back often for articles tailored to your interests and explanations of our rankings.  Whether you're looking for the best car for a road trip, your daily commute or for your teen, you'll find our expert advice here.

Best and Worst Lists

Best Cars for Where You Live - September 22, 2008
No matter where you live, we've got a ride for you.

Best Cars for the Outdoors - September 8, 2008
Whether you're skiing, off-roading or surfing, these cars are made to come along for the ride.

Best New Cars for Summer 2008 - August 4, 2008
From hatchbacks to crossovers, check out how the newest cars fare in our rankings.

Best and Worst Hybrid Cars - June 2, 2008
Check out how hybrid cars stack up in our rankings.

Best and Worst Hybrid SUVs - June 2, 2008
Looking for a fuel-efficient SUV? Our hybrid SUV rankings will help you decide.

Best and Worst Affordable Midsize SUVs - May 13, 2008
Take a look at the midsize SUVs that shine, those that don't, and a few that are worth a second glance.

Best Cars for Your Body Type - May 6, 2008
Whether you're long of limb or short of leg, there's a car to fit any shape and size.

Best Sports Cars You Can Afford - March 21, 2008
Feel the wind in your hair this summer with these roadsters and sports cars under $35,000.

Best and Worst Upscale Cars - March 21, 2008
Though the upscale class has its share of winners and losers, most live up to their premium price tags.

Best and Worst Midsize Cars - March 19, 2008
Good ol' four-door sedans are still the top-selling cars in the country, and the U.S. News analysis shows some popular models are also among the reviewers' favorites.

Best Cars for Young People - March 11, 2008
Check out 10 safe and practical cars that your teen or 20-something will actually want to drive. 

Best and Worst Affordable Compact SUVs - March 10, 2008
In the competitive affordable compact SUV class, it's easy to find a cute 'ute that offers practicality, decent fuel economy and nice styling.

Best and Worst Cars for Your Commute - March 10, 2008
Check out a few cars that will get you to work in a good mood -- and some that may make you want to take the bus. 

Best Cars for Road Trips - March 6, 2008
Before you hit the road this summer, do your research. There's no need to let your ride ruin your trip.

Best and Worst Affordable Small Cars - Feb. 29, 2008
Want a cheap car that doesn't feel cheap? Our small car rankings will help you find a winner. 

Finance

Best Times of Year to Buy a Car - September 30, 2008
Just going to the dealership at the right time of year can get you a significant discount on a new car.

Best Car Deals - September 5, 2008
Here's how to score a great deal on a new model. Check back each month for the latest offers.

Is Driving Worth It? - August 12, 2008
With the rising cost of gas, does driving still make sense for your commute?

Should You Lease a Car or Buy New? - July 31, 2008
Check out our advice for buying a car in the changing automotive market.

Best and Worst New Cars Under $13K - June 20, 2008
Want to make sure you get a great value on a new car? Check out our list of winners and losers.

Hot Cars for Lean Times - Jan. 15, 2008
The economy may be down, but the car you drive doesn't have to be.  

Affordability and Practicality

Why an SUV Might Make Sense for You - October 17, 2008
Who says the SUV is dead? For some needs, only a true sport-utility truck will do.

What to Drive When You Retire - September 2, 2008
These cars will perfectly fit your employment-free lifestyle.

What to Drive as You Age - August 12, 2008
Are you tired of a sore back and confusing controls when you drive? Check out our picks for affordable, retirement-friendly cars. 

8 Safe Cars Your Kid Will Want to Drive - August 8, 2008
We put and end to your teen or twenty-something's complaining with this list of kid- and parent-friendly vehicles.

Finding a Small Car with Lots of Room - August 8, 2008
Just because you don't want an SUV doesn't mean you have to give up cargo and passenger space.

Sport Without Sacrifice - July 3, 2008
These sedans offer seating for four, reasonable cargo space and a fun ride. 

Camry Killers for Dad - June 6, 2008
Just because Dad has to cart the kids around doesn't mean he can't have a little fun.

Great Convertibles Under $25K - May 6, 2008
These affordable drop-tops will break the heat -- but not your budget.

Great Cars for Lousy Weather - Feb. 26, 2008
These cars will keep you safe when the weather goes south.

The Thrifty Fifty - Jan. 16, 2008
These models offer the best mix of value, performance, and curb appeal.

Surprise! Great Cars You Might Overlook - Nov. 6, 2007
Check out these misunderstood models that reviewers love -- and that could be a steal for you.

Gas Mileage

8 Electric Cars You Could Drive in the Future - September 3, 2008
Forget fuel efficiency!  These innovative vehicles don't even run on gasoline -- and they're coming soon.

The 10 Most Fuel-Efficient Cars - August 29, 2008
These fuel savers are where it's at.

How to Convert Your Car to a Hybrid - August 22, 2008
These innovative aftermarket systems can turn your car into a fuel-sipper in no time.

Where Gas is 12 Cents a Gallon - July 23, 2008
Compared to the U.S., gas prices could be a lot worse -- or better.

Surprising Gas Guzzlers and Savers - May 29, 2008
You'll realize you shouldn't judge a car by its cover with this list.  

Is Going Green Worth It? - May 28, 2008
Does it really make financial sense to buy a high-priced hybrid instead of its gasoline-only counterpart? 

Luxury Cars with the Best Gas Mileage - May 27, 2008
With these upscale beauties, you'll get luxury and decent fuel economy. 

10 Easy Ways to Save Over a Grand on Gas - May 7, 2008
Gas prices may be climbing, but that doesn't mean you have to stand by. Check out our money-saving tips. 

Cars with the Most Muscle Per Gallon - April 22, 2008
Good fuel economy doesn't have to mean giving up a fun ride.

Popular Culture

Best Cars for Tailgate Parties - October 3, 2008
Party in style this football season with our tailgate picks.

Six Cars That Could Save the Big Three - August 22, 2008
These small, efficient vehicles could restore GM, Ford and Chrysler to thier glory days.

Top 7 Cars You Can't Buy in the U.S. - August 19, 2008
Check out these great cars that aren't offered on U.S. shores.

Which Way Does Your Car Vote? - July 24, 2007
The car you drive can say a lot about your political preferences.

Coolest New Car Features - July 17, 2008
It's a hi-tech list of innovations that will knock your socks off.

Funky Cars You Love to Hate - June 30, 2008
These cars may be weird-looking at first glance, but their real beauty is on the inside.

American Idols: Patriotic Cars You Can Own - June 27, 2008
These American beauties have become shorthand for our culture. 

Celebrity Cars You Can Afford - June 16, 2008
These celebrity-approved autos are hot and affordable enough for the average person.

Is Your Car a Republican or Democrat? - March 26, 2008
Which way does your ride vote?