Top Picks 2008
The best models for 2008

This year’s Top Picks in 10 categories include four new models. For the first time since 2005, a U.S. model, the redesigned
Chevrolet Silverado, made the list as our choice in pickup trucks. And for the first time ever, a South Korean automaker is
represented: The Hyundai Elantra SE and Santa Fe are our top small sedan and midsized SUV, respectively.
The fourth new entry is the Lexus LS 460L, the highest-scoring vehicle we’ve tested and best among luxury sedans.


Our Top Picks are the most well-rounded models in their categories. Each must meet stringent requirements,
including ESC (electronic stability control) as standard..

   
Toyota Prius
Green car
The gas/electric Prius hybrid retains its lock on this category for the fifth straight year. Despite a wave of new hybrid models,
the Prius’ 44 mpg overall is still the best we’ve measured in any five-passenger car. The interior is roomy and versatile, and the
Prius has been very reliable.
 
Hyundai Elantra SE
Small sedan
Redesigned for 2007, the Elantra is a well-rounded small car. It provides good fuel economy, a comfortable ride, and an interior
that’s quiet, roomy, and well equipped. It also has standard electronic stability control, a proven safety feature that’s absent on
many other small cars. The Honda Civic EX and Mazda3 are more fun to drive, but lack ESC on more affordable versions.
 
Honda Accord
Family sedan
Redesigned for 2008, the Accord is a well-rounded, roomy sedan with a comfortable ride, agile handling, and smooth,
refined powertrains. Electronic stability control is standard on all models, and crash-test results are impressive.
Although the Nissan Altima edged out the Accord in our Ratings, most versions of the Altima lack ESC, a requirement to
be a Top Pick. The Accord is priced at about $22,000 to $31,000.
 
Infiniti G35
Upscale sedan
One of the highest-rated sedans we’ve tested, the G35 successfully blends sportiness and luxury to offer an inviting overall
package. Available in rear- or all-wheel drive, it has an exuberant powertrain, agile handling, and a well-crafted interior.

Lexus LS 460
Luxury sedan
With a score of 99 out of 100 in our road test, the LS is our highest-rated vehicle. It provides a no-compromise environment
of comfort and roominess, coupled with an isolating quietness. It also delivers quick acceleration and relatively good fuel economy.
This car is brimming with electronic amenities, but the controls are easy to use.

Mazda MX-5 Miata
Fun to drive
With its balanced handling, quick and precise steering, and crisp-shifting six-speed manual transmission, the Miata is a true sports
car. It virtually tied the Porsche Boxster in our test scoring, but at about US$27,000, it’s roughly half the price. The manual top can easily
be lowered or raised with one hand from the driver’s seat. If you want an affordable, fun-to-drive car with the practicality of a four-door
hatchback, consider the Mazdaspeed3.
 
Toyota RAV4
Small SUV
The impressive RAV4 is versatile, comfortable, and roomy enough for a small third-row seat. The spirited V6 version accelerates
quickly (the same as a Mazda Miata from 0 to 60 mph), yet delivers an excellent 22 mpg overall. The four-cylinder version gets 23
mpg, the best of any nonhybrid SUV we’ve tested.

Hyundai Santa Fe
Midsized SUV
Redesigned for 2007, the much-improved Santa Fe edged out the Honda Pilot in our tests. It provides a quiet and roomy interior,
excellent fit and finish, a refined powertrain, a relatively good ride, and an optional third-row seat.
Standard ESC helps provide secure handling.
 
Toyota Sienna
Minivan
The Sienna is our pick for the second year in a row. Its spacious, quiet, and refined interior is on par with some luxury sedans.
And its V6 engine is powerful and fuel efficient. It is also the only minivan available with all-wheel drive. The Honda Odyssey,
on the other hand, is more agile and, dare we say, fun to drive for a minivan.

Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Crew Cab
Pickup truck
The redesigned Silverado is considerably improved. It achieves a nice balance between work attributes and livability,
including a generous payload rating, a comfortable ride, improved interior quality and steering feel, and easy access.
ESC is standard on all crew-cab models. Price: $27,000 to $39,000. The GMC Sierra is virtually identical to the Silverado.
The redesigned Toyota Tundra outscored the Silverado in our tests, but first-year reliability of the 4WD, V8 version was
below average.