Some automotive brands have such impressive portfolios that they earn awards not just for one model, but for several of them. The makes that come out on top boast solid lineups of SUVs, cars, minivans and trucks that deliver reliability, resale value, capability, comfort, innovation and fun. Here are the 10 brands that have earned the most accolades and awards from Kelley Blue Book for 2019.
#1 Honda
Having established a decades-long reputation for strong resale value and reliability, Honda’s extensive array of SUVs and cars, as well as its truck and minivan, have earned this automaker the most accolades for 2019. Other strong attributes these vehicles offer are thoughtful touches, family-friendly features, and a fun-to-drive nature. The Fit, Accord, Civic, HR-V, Odyssey, Pilot, Clarity, CR-V, and Ridgeline all earned accolades this year — including six Best Buy Awards — for an incredible 31 awards.
#2 Toyota
Another brand that’s known for legendary reliability in a family-friendly lineup, Toyota makes vehicles that combine easy-to-use interiors, a comfortable ride, and top-notch value. Tough trucks, versatile SUVs, highly efficient hybrids and excellent cars with strong 5-Year Cost to Own data and enviable resale values are a big part of why Toyota received 20 titles in 2019.
#3 Subaru
For 2019, Subaru expanded its lineup to include a 3-row model, the Ascent. Subaru’s vehicles are known for all-season confidence and are tops for value. They are popular choices for the best AWD vehicles under $30,000, and also have impressive resale value and 5-Year Cost to Own numbers. Families will be happy with the safety and practicality Subarus are known for while driving enthusiasts can look to fun favorites like the BRZ.
#4 Hyundai
Hyundai’s all-new Santa Fe, subcompact Kona, Sonata midsize sedan, new-for-2019 Veloster, fuel-sipping Ioniq, and the compact Tucson SUV all received accolades this year thanks in large part to the value proposition on which the brand was built.
#5 Lexus
Lexus has a well-rounded line of SUVs, sedans and sporty cars that are built to last. The excellent ES sedan and sporty RC were recognized in 2019, but the Lexus SUVs stole the show, with five different models including the RX receiving praise for strong resale value, low 5-Year Cost to Own numbers, or both.
#6 Chevrolet
Chevrolet cars, trucks, and SUVs earned recognition for the excellent resale value and 5-Year Cost to Own numbers – and all three sizes of Chevy trucks won Best Resale Value Awards. The full-size Impala also received praise, as did the Equinox, Tahoe and Traverse, for a total of 12 accolades.
#7 Ford
The Mustang and the F-Series have been around for decades, but Ford’s commitment to forward-thinking technology keep both vehicles relevant, popular modern-day classics. The F-150 has now been the best-selling vehicle in the USA for more than 35 years and is a 5-time Best Buy Award winner, while the Mustang Shelby GT350 boasts strong resale value and Cost to Own numbers. The Expedition and Fusion also earned official Kelley Blue Book recognition this year.
#8 Porsche
Speaking of iconic brands, Porsche has received awards for its Cayenne and Macan SUVs, and the Panamera 4-door executive car. Not only are Porsches a thrill to drive, but they excel when it comes to practical matters like resale value.
#9 Kia
Kia offers a well-crafted blend of upscale features and value for the money. That combination can be seen in everything from the company’s Soul compact hatchback to the high-performance Stinger sports sedan. Five models earned accolades this year, including a 5-Year Cost to Own Award.
#10 Volkswagen
Just because Volkswagens are practical doesn’t mean they can’t be fun, too. Consider the Atlas SUV and the Passat sedan, both of which are comfortable and spacious yet have the Euro-inspired handling that can make errand-running fun. These models earned praise in 2019, as did the Golf, GTI, Jetta and Golf Alltrack.
