Best-Selling Auto Brands
The first nine months of auto sales of 2022 are now on the books, and the effects of the ongoing chip shortage are evident — almost every major car company experienced a decline in sales versus a year earlier. The first part of the year was certainly better for some brands more than others, with positive sales trends from Chrysler, Mercedes-Benz and Genesis, while others such as Buick and Acura had considerable sales drops. What follows are the best-selling auto brands during the first nine months of 2022, except for a few outliers that have not released sales data. (Data sourced from automaker releases and goodcarbadcar.net.)

35. Fiat
Total Sales: 797
Vs. 2021: -62.2 %
Best-Selling Model: 500X
U.S. product offerings from the Fiat brand have dwindled to a single model, and with sales dropping considerably from a year earlier the future is not looking bright for the Italian brand in America. The 500X is an all-wheel-drive crossover riding on the same platform as the Jeep Renegade. Despite a sales decline, Fiat hasn’t given up — for 2022, the 500X is available with an alfresco folding fabric roof as well as a Yacht Club Capri special edition that will feature Venezia blue paint and special 18-inch sport wheels.

34. Lucid
Total Sales: 1,099
Vs. 2021: NA
Lucid Motors is a new California-based auto company that came to market this year with its first offering: the Lucid Motors Air. Engineers at Lucid Motors developed the Air’s electric drivetrain in-house and it boasts some impressive stats. The ultra-efficient permanent magnet electric motor is integrated with an inverter, transmission and differential to create a 900-volt-plus drive unit that weighs a mere 161 pounds. Each drive unit generates up to 670 horsepower and almost 3,000 lb-ft of torque. The Lucid Motors Air has the looks to match its advanced powertrain, with clean styling up front emphasized by slim headlights and a chrome strip that spans from one corner to the other. While there will be more variants of the Air coming, the current Grand Touring AWD features dual motors with a total of 819 horsepower and a range of more than 500 miles.

33. Polestar
Total Sales: 4,860
Vs. 2021: NA
Best-Selling Model: Polestar 2
One of the newest automotive companies in America, Polestar is a standalone electric performance brand from Volvo. The new brand launched in 2018 with the limited-edition high-performance hybrid Polestar 1. Last year Polestar released the more mainstream Polestar 2 electric sport sedan, a model that helped the company get established in the U.S. In the first half of 2022, the company expanded from 19 to 25 global markets with 30 more expected by the end of the year. The company is on track to reach its goal of selling 50,000 vehicles globally by the end of this year. Next year the brand will come to market with its next model, the Polestar 3 SUV.

32. Rivian
Total Sales: 7,699
Vs. 2021: NA
Best-Selling Model: R1T
Founded in 2009, Rivian is an American car company exclusively building electric vehicles. The automaker offers the R1S SUV and R1T pickup truck — deliveries of the latter began late last year with the SUV coming later this year. The Rivian R1T is an all-electric pickup available with a Quad-Motor AWD system that generates a total combined output of 835 horsepower and 908 lb-ft of torque. The R1T is available with three battery options; the standard battery has a projected range of 216 miles, while a larger pack delivers a U.S. EPA-estimated range of 314 miles. A max pack is projected to have a range of more than 400 miles.

31. Alfa Romeo
Total Sales: 9,814
Vs. 2021: -30.9%
Best-Selling Model: Stelvio
Following a hiatus of almost 40 years, Alfa Romeo returned to the U.S. in 2016 with the high-performance Giulia sedan, later joined by the Stelvio SUV. Sales peaked at around 24,000 units in 2018 and dropped the following year to around 18,000 units, where sales have remained. When the Stelvio arrived for the 2018 model year, it quickly became the brand’s best-seller and continues to hold that distinction. The front-end appearance of the Stelvio takes design cues from the Giulia sport sedan, and the overall shape of this 5-passenger SUV looks incredibly sporty. With standard full-time all-wheel drive, Stelvio is available with a choice of two powerful engines including a 2.9-liter V6 producing 505 horsepower in the top-level Quadrifoglio. Alfa anticipates a sales boost later this year with the arrival of the all-new Tonale — the first plug-in hybrid for the brand.

30. MINI
Total Sales: 19,185
Vs. 2021: -13.1%
Best-Selling Model: Cooper 2-Door
Since 2015, the MINI brand had been experiencing a steady U.S. sales decline, although for 2021 the marque had a notable increase despite chip shortage issues and the ongoing pandemic. MINI also increased sales globally, with almost one-third of vehicles sold featuring an electrified powertrain, headlined by the new all-electric Cooper SE. Like its distant cousin Rolls-Royce (MINI and Rolls-Royce are part of the BMW Group), MINI expects to be offering only electric vehicles by the 2030s. For 2022 MINI introduced a rejuvenated lineup with a fresh but recognizable face, updated taillights, and a revised interior as well as a selection of special editions.

29. Infiniti
Total Sales: 33,046
Vs. 2021: -30.6%
Best-Selling Model: QX60
The luxury arm of Nissan, Infiniti had been posting strong U.S. sales and steady growth until 2017. Since that time, sales have been trending downward and 2021 recorded the lowest sales since the brand launched. Those slumping numbers continue in 2022; however, there is hope for Infiniti since the brand has been introducing new and refreshed vehicles in the last 12 months, including a redesigned QX60 3-row premium SUV, an updated full-size QX80, and the all-new sporty-looking QX55. SUVs are the future for the brand, since they outsell Infiniti passenger cars by a 3-to-1 margin.

28. Genesis
Total Sales: 40,799
Vs. 2021: 18.8 %
Best-Selling Model: GV70
Genesis launched five years ago in the U.S. as a luxury vehicle division of Hyundai, and the brand has experienced great success. One of the few brands showing a significant sales increase in 2022, this success can be attributed to the launch of multiple new models in the last year, including the GV80 and GV70 — as well as the full-electric GV60 and G80 Electric. The GV70 offers a high level of luxury and performance for a price lower than many of its European competitors, and has quickly become the brand’s best-seller with sales more than doubling in the first three quarters versus a year earlier.

27. Porsche
Total Sales: 49,110
Vs. 2021: -4.9%
Best-Selling Model: Macan
This German sports car maker has been experiencing great success with its current lineup, achieving record annual sales in 2021, even besting records set in 2019. Sales had been slowing during the first three months of 2022, with every model in the lineup posting declines except the 911 and Panamera. The Macan SUV continues as the brand’s best-seller, slightly ahead of the larger Cayenne. The all-electric Taycan continues to have success, with sales almost double of the Panamera; more than 10 percent of Porsches sold in America this year are electric.

26. Lincoln
Total Sales: 62,920
Vs. 2021: -4.6%
Best-Selling Model: Corsair
With the discontinuation of the MKZ and Continental, Ford’s luxury brand now offers only SUVs in its lineup. In 2021 overall sales were down and that trend has continued for the first nine months of 2022. Not surprisingly, the smaller Corsair has moved to the top of the Lincoln lineup in terms of sales. The Corsair may be an entry-level model, but inside it features upscale materials to create a premium feeling within the cabin. Corsair also features active noise control, and sounds that occupants do hear are chimes recorded by the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. A range of new technologies can be found in this small crossover; for example, owners can use their smartphones as keys to the Corsair. Look for an updated Corsair to arrive for the 2023 model year.

25. Mitsubishi
Total Sales: 65,054
Vs. 2021: -15.7%
Best-Selling Model: Outlander
Mitsubishi introduced an all-new Outlander for the 2022 model year and it helped the company finish 2021 with strong sales. Outlander sales continue to climb with more than double the number sold last year. The new Outlander showcases next-generation design language and features more interior room, as well as the available Super All-Wheel Control all-wheel-drive system. Built on a new platform, the reengineered 2022 Mitsubishi Outlander provides a higher quality interior, more capability and innovative technology. Outlander is also available with a plug-in hybrid powertrain.

24. Volvo
Total Sales: 72,155
Vs. 2021: -24.3%
Best-Selling Model: XC60
Last year all three of Volvo’s SUVs — XC90, XC60 and XC40 — posted sales increases, but that positive momentum has been lost in 2022. Perhaps more telling of the company’s future is the popularity of its Recharge (EV and PHEV) models that recorded impressive sales numbers last year, representing almost 20 percent of total Volvo sales in the U.S. The XC60 crossover remained the brand’s most popular model, and for 2022 the XC60 gets styling tweaks and new powertrains. Inside is a new 12.3-inch digital driver display that pairs with a 9-inch vertical display at the center of the dash. The 2022 XC60 also features a completely new Android operating system.

23. Acura
Total Sales: 74,652
Vs. 2021: -41.2%
Best-Selling Model: MDX
On the strength of its SUV lineup, in 2021 Acura had its highest annual sales in three years. However, like others on this list, 2022 has not been a good sales year for Honda’s luxury brand. On a high note, the all-new MDX had its second-best sales ever last year, while the refreshed RDX also enjoyed a healthy year-over-year increase. Built on an all-new platform, the 2022 Acura MDX features bold styling, a spacious interior, and a wide range of high-tech features. And for those who seek more performance, Acura is offering a high-performance MDX Type S for the first time. Acura has also bolstered its lineup with the return of the sporty Integra.

22. Buick
Total Sales: 76,598
Vs. 2021: -49.3%
Best-Selling Model: Encore GX
Buick was the only General Motors division to show positive sales growth in 2021 versus 2020; however, numbers have dropped dramatically in the first nine months of 2022. Sales were driven primarily by Buick’s crossover SUVs, led by the Encore GX. Buick added the all-new GX to its Encore lineup for 2020, and the small crossover is the brand’s best-selling model by a wide margin. The GX features premium styling both inside and out, as well as a more spacious cabin and improved cargo-carrying capacity versus the standard Encore. In addition to its long list of standard equipment — which includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto — the Encore GX gets the latest in advanced safety and driver-assist technologies.

21. Chrysler
Total Sales: 87,661
Vs. 2021: 18.2%
Best-Selling Model: Pacifica
At one point it seemed as though Chrysler would be written off, but this iconic brand had a nice uptick in sales for 2021 and this trend is continuing into 2022. Instrumental in this sales increase is the Pacifica, which has climbed almost 30 percent versus the three quarters of 2021. The Pacifica received a major refresh for the 2021 model year with updated styling, new features and available all-wheel drive. At the 2022 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas, the company showcased a futuristic Chrysler Airflow concept and announced the brand will become all electric by 2028, with the first battery-electric vehicle planned for 2025. This will coincide with the end of the 300, which is now in its final year of production.

20. Cadillac
Total Sales: 95,591
Vs. 2021: -0.3%
Best-Selling Model: Escalade
Cadillac sales were down for 2021, but after the first nine months of 2022 numbers are holding steady. The company introduced a new Escalade last year, and the updated model has clearly been well received. The statement-making SUV had a stellar year in 2021 with its best sales since 2007, and is maintaining pace for 2022. Escalade has been among the best-selling luxury SUVs in America since its introduction 20 years ago. The current Cadillac Escalade is the fifth generation of this iconic SUV with fresh styling, new powertrains and a range of innovative, high-tech features. For those looking to make a bold performance statement, Cadillac has introduced the first Escalade V boasting a supercharged 682-horsepower V8 engine.

19. Audi
Total Sales: 132,821
Vs. 2021: -18.4%
Best-Selling Model: Q5
As with many manufacturers on this list, Audi’s SUVs were the driving factor behind its year-over-year sales increase last year. The Q3, Q5, and Q8 all saw bumps in combined sales effecting an increase of 17 percent, with these three models making up 73 percent of Audi’s annual sales. That trend has not carried into the 2022 model year; sales are down across the board for the brand. Outselling every other Audi by a large margin, the Q5 received an updated look for the 2021 model year. It features a slimmer and wider octagonal Singleframe grille with taller side air intakes that have sporty trapezoidal inserts. Last year Audi added its first plug-in hybrid Q5 SUV, further contributing to this premium crossover’s success.

18. Dodge
Total Sales: 144,517
Vs. 2021: -17.6%
Best-Selling Model: Charger
The Dodge lineup is down to three vehicles — Charger, Challenger and Durango — and all three posted sales increases versus the third quarter of 2021. Dodge refreshed Durango last year with updated styling and a range of new features. Charger remains the most popular Dodge model. In keeping with tradition, Charger has powerful engine choices including the R/T Scat Pack with a 485-horsepower 6.4-liter HEMI V8, or the latest entry: the SRT Jailbreak with a supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 producing a mind-blowing 807 horsepower. With a top speed of more than 200 mph, the Jailbreak is one of the most powerful mass-produced sedans in the world.

17. Lexus
Total Sales: 198,612
Vs. 2021: -16.8%
Best-Selling Model: RX
Lexus had a very good year in 2021 — not only did the brand experience a 10 percent increase in overall sales, almost every model in the lineup also had a year-over-year sales increase (the RC was the only exception). Hit hard by the chip shortage, Lexus sales have turned downward so far in 2022. The popular RX continues to top the Lexus charts, boasting sales considerably higher than all other models in the luxury brand’s lineup. This trend should continue as Lexus comes to market with an all-new RX for the 2023 model year. With updated features and fresh styling, the RX is available with multiple powertrains including the new RX 500h high-performance hybrid.

16. Mazda
Total Sales: 215,392
Vs. 2021: -19.9%
Best-Selling Model: CX-5
In 2021 Mazda delivered its best sales year since 1994, with every model achieving double-digit year-over-year sales increases. Standout performances came from the CX-30, CX-5 and CX-9, all of which had best-ever sales years; however, all are experiencing declines so far in 2022. Hoping to turn this trend around, the Japanese brand introduced the MX-30 — the company’s first battery-electric vehicle — and the CX-50, which is the first vehicle built at Mazda’s new manufacturing plant in Alabama. Making up almost half of Mazda’s annual sales, the CX-5 continues its run as the brand’s most popular model. Last year the stylish crossover added a new Carbon Edition that includes Polymetal Gray paint, gloss-black door mirrors, 19-inch black metallic aluminum alloy wheels, and red leather seats.

15. BMW
Total Sales: 230,650
Vs. 2021: -5.3%
Best-Selling Model: X5
With strong sales results led by the X3, X5, and 3 Series, BMW experienced a year-over-year sales increase for 2021; however, sales remain down slightly thus far in 2022. BMW has also started delivering the first of its new range of electric vehicles — the iX Sports Activity Vehicle and i4 Gran Coupe. The German marque also introduced an all-new 7 Series, which will be available for the first time as a full-electric model in the i7 as well as a high-performance variant of the iX, the 2023 BMW iX M60. With more than 600 horsepower on tap, the iX M60 fittingly showcases the future of BMW M performance.

14. Volkswagen
Total Sales: 232,099
Vs. 2021: -20.1%
Best-Selling Model: Tiguan
Many of Volkswagen’s current models had flat or declining sales in 2021, a trend that continues into 2022. It’s not yet VW’s best-seller — it still has a ways to go to get ahead of the popular Tiguan — but the most newsworthy model in the VW lineup is the brand’s first electric crossover, the ID.4. According to VW, more than two-thirds of ID.4 buyers are new to the brand. The ID.4 is available in two trim levels: Pro and Pro S, powered by a rear-mounted AC permanent-magnet synchronous motor producing 201 horsepower and 228 lb-ft of torque. The ID.4 Pro and Pro S are also available in an all-wheel-drive configuration with a second front-mounted motor producing 107 horsepower and 119 lb-ft of torque for a total combined output of 295 horsepower and 330 lb-ft of torque.

13. Mercedes-Benz
Total Sales: 262,456
Vs. 2021: 3.5%
Best-Selling Model: GLC
One of a handful of major car brands reporting positive sales for the first nine months of 2022, Mercedes-Benz posted a 23 percent increase in sales for the third quarter vs. a year ago. This upward trend should continue now that the German brand has introduced several new vehicles including an all-new S-Class and a refreshed E-Class, while the company had already introduced new 2022 models with the all-new AMG SL and all-electric EQS. More electric models are joining the lineup shortly, with the EQE and EQS SUV coming to market shortly. With a 45 percent increase in sales so far this year, the GLC is the brand’s best-seller, available as a standard SUV or an SUV Coupe.

12. GMC
Total Sales: 374,004
Vs. 2021: -2.0%
Best-Selling Model: Sierra
Sales of GMC products seem to be making a comeback for the 2022 model year, with positive sales numbers reported for the Canyon, Savana, Terrain and Sierra HD versus a year ago. The Sierra pickup truck continues to lead the pack, responsible for almost half of the brand’s annual sales. Sierra is available with a range of configurations and engine/transmission options, including a new 2.7-liter turbo and a new turbodiesel powertrain. Earlier this year, GMC added the Sierra Denali Ultimate — the most luxurious Sierra the company has ever offered. Also new is the off-road-ready Sierra AT4X.

11. Tesla
Total Sales: 396,000 (estimate)
Vs. 2021: 77.4%
Best-Selling Model: Model Y
Tesla posted impressive growth in 2021, almost doubling its sales worldwide via the popularity of the Model 3 and Model Y, and sales continue to increase in 2022. This American car company has made great strides in taking the electric car mainstream, and demand for these powerful and efficient models does not appear to be waning. Smaller than Model X, Model Y offers optional third-row seating that enables the vehicle to carry up to seven occupants. The dual-motor system provides torque to both the front and rear axles for full-time all-wheel-drive capability.

10. Subaru
Total Sales: 401,115
Vs. 2021: -13.3%
Best-Selling Model: Crosstrek
After 10 years of record sales, Subaru sales began declining at the beginning of the pandemic and have continued that trend. Over the last year, the company has introduced multiple new and refreshed models that should help Subaru return to positive sales once the automaker can build enough vehicles to meet demand. New products continue into 2022, with the introduction of the brand-new 2023 Solterra, Subaru’s first electric vehicle. The Subaru Crosstrek remains a bright spot for the first nine months of 2022, with sales up more than 14 percent compared with 2021.

9. Ram
Total Sales: 415,321
Vs. 2021: -16.2 %
Best-Selling Model: Pickup
Ram continues to have strong sales, with 2021 as the brand’s second-best year ever; however sales in 2022 have not been able to keep pace. Even so, the Ram Pickup holds its own as the third-best-selling model in America. The Ram truck features bold exterior styling, and the interior is one of the nicest on the market. Multiple trim levels are available, as well as a new lineup of powertrains that includes a potent diesel and eventually a hybrid system. The Ram Heavy Duty boasts a diesel with 1,075 lb-ft of torque providing a 37,100-pound towing capacity. Ram offers a wide range of trim levels with different capabilities, including the high-performance 702-horsepower TRX, designed for tackling off-road terrain at high speeds.

8. Nissan
Total Sales: 505,292
Vs. 2021: -31.3%
Best-Selling Model: Rogue
After three years of declining sales, Nissan posted a healthy increase for 2021. That was the best year ever for the Nissan Kicks entry-level crossover. However, the success has been short-lived given the general sales decline in the first three quarters of 2022. The exceptions to this are the popular Altima sedan, Pathfinder SUV and Frontier pickup, all of which were either refreshed or all new last year. Nissan has more exciting models arriving in 2022, including the battery-electric Ariya and the high-performance Nissan Z.

7. Kia
Total Sales: 518,148
Vs. 2021: -6.7%
Best-Selling Model: Sportage
One of the best-performing major car brands in America, Kia sold more than 700,000 vehicles in the U.S. last year for the first time in its history, and while sales are down slightly for 2022, the brand just reported its best-ever third-quarter sales. The brand’s SUVs are driving these numbers — the Sportage, Sorento and Telluride all show positive sales growth so far this year. Kia has plenty of new and refreshed models coming to market this year including an updated Telluride, refreshed Sportage and all-new Niro, which is still available as a hybrid, PHEV or full-electric model. Kia also offers the all-electric EV6, with the high-performance EV6 GT coming later this year.

6. Hyundai
Total Sales: 528,298
Vs. 2021: -9.8%
Best-Selling Model: Tucson
Hyundai achieved its third-best sales year in 2021, with record numbers recorded by Venue, Kona, Tucson, Palisade and the fuel-cell-powered Nexo. While these popular models helped Hyundai to this impressive result, the company also introduced the Santa Cruz — the brand’s first pickup truck — as well as the all-new IONIQ 5 electric car. Hyundai has added plenty more models in 2022, including the all-new Tucson (with hybrid and PHEV variants) as well as high-performance N versions of the Kona and Elantra that join the Veloster N.

5. Jeep
Total Sales: 541,297
Vs. 2021: -10.5%
Best-Selling Model: Grand Cherokee
Although Jeep’s overall sales were down slightly for 2021, the brand had some clear successes last year with the return of the Wagoneer as well as the introduction of the all-new Grand Cherokee and Grand Cherokee L. The new Grand Cherokee L is 15 inches longer than the standard Grand Cherokee and offers a third-row seat for the first time. Like the Grand Cherokee L, the updated two-row 2022 Grand Cherokee features slim LED headlights, a smaller forward-leaning 7-slot grille, a roof that tapers to the rear spoiler, and slim wraparound taillights. Jeep also offers the Grand Cherokee 4xe plug-in hybrid, continuing the brand’s move towards electrification.

4. Honda
Total Sales: 653,605
Vs. 2021: -37.9%
Best-Selling Model: CR-V
Despite the challenges of the chip shortage and ongoing pandemic, last year Honda reported sales increases for almost every model in its extensive lineup, but that trend did not carry through to 2022. Compared with last year, only Ridgeline reported positive sales for the year thus far. The CR-V remains the best-selling model in the Honda lineup. All new for the 2023 model year, the CR-V sports a more rugged look and comes in four trims: EX, EX-L, Sport, and Sport Touring. The EX and EX-L are powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine producing 190 horsepower and 179 lb-ft of torque. Real-time AWD is standard on the Sport Touring and optional for all other trims. The CR-V Sport and Sport Touring draw power from a new fourth-generation, two-motor hybrid-electric system that combines a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine with two electric motors for a total system output of 204 horsepower.

3. Chevrolet
Total Sales: 1,104,488
Vs. 2021: -3.9%
Best-Selling Model: Silverado
Sales for GM’s most popular brand are still down for the year, although some models are bucking that trend. The Colorado pickup and Malibu sedan both had impressive sales increases during the first nine months of 2022, as did the Silverado HD. Even though the iconic model does not contribute huge numbers to the brand’s bottom line, it’s worth noting that Chevy Corvette sales are up 2.6 percent so far this year following its best annual sales since 2015. Silverado remains the best-seller in the lineup by a wide margin, and the popular truck’s success should continue with the introduction of the Silverado EV later this year.

2. Ford
Total Sales: 1,317,574
Vs. 2021: -1.0%
Best-Selling Model: F-Series
Ford’s overall sales are down slightly this year, but the F-Series continues its reign as the best-selling vehicle in America. The company’s newest models continue their success with strong sales increases from Mach-E, Bronco, Bronco Sport, and Maverick. With more than 28,000 Mach-Es sold so far in 2022, Ford has established itself with one of the best-selling battery electric cars in America. But the F-Series pickup remains as the brand’s perennial best-seller, available in a range of configurations and powertrains including a hybrid and full-electric Lightning.

1. Toyota
Total Sales: 1,373,102
Vs. 2021: -15.2%
Best-Selling Model: RAV4
The Japan-based brand has experienced a sales decrease so far in 2022, but Toyota still holds onto its title as the top-selling brand in America in the first nine months of 2022. Almost every nameplate in the Toyota lineup has decreased sales so far this year (the only exception is the Tundra, which received a major update for the 2022 model year). Toyota boasts three of the top 10 best-selling new vehicles in America, with the RAV4 leading all crossovers and the Camry still maintaining its place as the best-selling passenger car in America. The popular brand also continues to concentrate on electrified vehicles, which made up more than a quarter of its sales thus far in 2022.

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