The Car Guide's Highest-rated Models of 2021
If you’re looking for the cream of the automotive crop, The Car Guide’s Best Buys section is a can’t-miss stop. In 26 different categories, we rank the top 3 models based on a scale of 1-5 stars.
In this photo gallery you’ll find all the highest-rated vehicles for 2021 in alphabetical order. Can you guess the only one that earned 5 stars?
2021 Audi A4/A5 – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Excellent balance, premium interior, user-friendly touchscreen, attractive design
2021 Audi Q3 – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Fun to drive, friendly interior, high build quality, plenty of features
2021 Audi Q5 – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Surefooted handling, outstanding build quality, refined interior, comfortable seats, great engine selection
2021 Chevrolet Corvette – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Sensational across the line, unbeatable bang for your buck, cutting-edge technology
2021 Ford Mustang – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Large model selection, wicked looks and performance (GT500), attractive Mach 1 model
2021 Honda Civic Type R – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Build quality, mind-blowing performance, racy looks
2021 Honda Pilot – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Powerful and reliable V6, pleasant drive, standard AWD
2021 Hyundai Palisade – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Good overall performance, smooth ride, pleasant handling, spacious and friendly interior, commendable build quality
2021 Kia Seltos – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Good value, spacious cabin and trunk, comfortable ride, powerful turbo engine option
2021 Kia Telluride – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Modern looks, class-leading driving dynamics, outstanding versatility, comfortable interior
2021 Mazda3 – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Power, torque, available AWD, fun to drive, attractive looks, superb refinement
2021 Mazda CX-5 – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Pleasant driving dynamics, lovely turbo engine option, nicely calibrated suspension, great AWD system
2021 Mazda CX-30 – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Built quality, fit and finish, pleasant driving dynamics, sexy looks, strong turbo engine option
2021 Mazda MX-5 – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Great handling, engine is a perfect match for the chassis, sharp steering, reasonable fuel economy
2021 Porsche 911 – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: World-class performance, sharp steering, flawless ergonomics and handling
2021 Porsche Panamera – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Performance and handling, large model selection, commendable hybrid variants
2021 Porsche Taycan – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Exceptional performance, excellent handling, comfortable interior, superb finish, smooth and silent ride
2021 Subaru Crosstrek – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Exceptional driving dynamics, unbeatable winter performance, build quality, reliability, high resale value
2021 Subaru Forester – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Standard AWD, space, versatility, excellent visibility, improved fuel economy
2021 Subaru Outback – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Flawless handling all year long, excellent ride, flexible turbo engine, comfortable and accommodating interior
2021 Toyota Camry – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Stellar reputation for reliability, great hybrid powertrain, AWD now available
2021 Toyota RAV4 – 4.5 stars out of 5
Highlights: Quality, reliability, space, versatility, great fuel economy (Hybrid and Prime), phenomenal Prime variant