Automobiles, or motor cars, are vehicles that run primarily on roads, seat one to eight people, have four wheels, and mainly transport passengers rather than cargo. Most modern automobiles are powered by internal-combustion engines that use a fuel such as gasoline or diesel fuel. Automotive body designs range from compact hatchbacks to SUVs to luxury sports cars. Many car manufacturers produce multiple models with similar styling and mechanical layouts. An automobile is a complex technical system with numerous subsystems that must work together in harmony for the vehicle to function safely and efficiently.
The modern automotive industry is dominated by Japanese and German brands that compete in nearly every market segment, from upscale sedans to small electric scooters. The competition is stiff, but buyers can still find value in a wide array of models. Choosing a model that matches your lifestyle and budget should be easy with a little time spent researching (our classifieds are a good place to start).
If you want the best-in-class driving experience, check out a new BMW 7 Series sedan. It’s the company’s newest and most luxurious offering, combining an opulent cabin with a class-leading ride comfort and suite of advanced driver aids. The 7 Series is also the fastest car in its class, able to reach 60 mph in just 3.2 seconds when equipped with the optional performance package.
A Volkswagen Jetta, a Honda Civic or Toyota Corolla might be cheaper options, but you won’t have the same level of refinement and performance. These are among the bestselling compact cars, and they each offer comfortable rides, plenty of space and impressive fuel efficiency. The redesigned 2022 Nissan Sentra is another standout, blending the attractive design of its Maxima and Murano stablemates with a sporty drive.
SUVs are one of the hottest segments of the automotive market. They used to mean body-on-frame construction and rugged four-wheel-drive systems, but now the term “sport utility vehicle” can encompass anything from barely lifted hatchbacks to monsters that wear Hummer badges. Regardless of the size, most SUVs are designed to tackle tough terrain, serve as family haulers and offer plenty of interior storage capacity.
A redesigned Kia K5 debuted in 2021 as a replacement for the Optima and quickly became a top pick in its class. With its chiseled exterior and sharp performance, the K5 offers excellent value and an opulent cabin, making it a worthy competitor to rivals like the Ford Fusion and Honda Accord.
No electric car is quite as quick as the Porsche Taycan, a sleek sportscar that’s as potent as it is refined. Its twin-motor setup allows it to maintain its power peak at all times, and its torque vectoring keeps the vehicle flat through corners. Even better, it’s quieter than most sportscars and offers a smooth and quiet ride that’s a pleasure to be behind the wheel.