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Best-Selling Vehicles of 2016: Top Models Across All Categories

May. 19,2025

Discover the top-selling vehicles of 2016 across all categories, including subcompact cars like the Honda Fit, compact vehicles such as the Subaru Impreza, mid-size sedans like the Toyota Camry, and luxury SUVs like the Lexus RX. This comprehensive guide provides insights into the features that made these models market leaders, combining performance, efficiency, and style to meet diverse consumer needs and preferences across the automotive landscape.

Best-Selling Vehicles of 2016: Top Models Across All Categories

Best-Selling Vehicles of 2016: Top Models Across All Categories

Every year, the automotive industry witnesses the launch of numerous new vehicle models, each aiming to capture consumer interest through innovative features, improved performance, and stylish designs. However, not all models succeed equally in the competitive market. Certain vehicles stand out by achieving remarkable sales figures, resonating with a broad range of consumers seeking reliability, efficiency, and value. In 2016, several standout models across different vehicle categories proved to be favorites among buyers, setting trends and earning top spots in sales charts.

Understanding the preferences for various vehicle segments helps consumers and enthusiasts grasp which models offered the best combination of features, performance, and affordability during that year. Below is an in-depth overview of the top-selling vehicles in 2016, categorized by their segment, along with key features that contributed to their popularity.

Subcompact Cars: Honda Fit

The Honda Fit topped the subcompact segment with its impressive blend of affordability, fuel efficiency, and versatile interior space. Priced at around $20,000, the Fit has become a popular choice for city dwellers, young professionals, and small families looking for a reliable, economical vehicle. One of its notable strengths is its fuel economy, achieving approximately 33 miles per gallon (mpg) combined, making it an efficient option for daily commuting and long drives alike. Despite its small footprint, the Honda Fit is renowned for its surprisingly spacious interior, with innovative seat configurations that maximize cargo capacity and passenger comfort.

The vehicle’s sporty handling, nimble maneuverability, and reputation for dependability have bolstered its popularity among budget-conscious consumers seeking practicality without sacrificing driving enjoyment. Its compact size also makes parking and navigating tight urban streets a breeze, contributing further to its widespread appeal.

Compact Vehicles: Subaru Impreza

The Subaru Impreza cemented its position as a leading compact car with its stylish design, exceptional comfort, and safety features. Valued for its practicality and reliability, the Impreza appeals to urban commuters, families, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. It offers a spacious interior with ample legroom and cargo capacity, along with a user-friendly control layout that enhances the driving experience.

The Impreza’s safety credentials are among the best in its class, boasting excellent crash safety ratings. Fuel efficiency is also notable, with the vehicle delivering around 26-27 mpg combined, making it an economical choice for everyday use. Its standard all-wheel-drive system, a hallmark of Subaru vehicles, provides enhanced stability and control across various terrains and weather conditions, further increasing its appeal among drivers in diverse environments.

Mid-Size Vehicles: Toyota Camry

The Toyota Camry has historically been a best-seller in the mid-size segment, and 2016 was no exception. Evolving beyond its reputation for reliability, the 2016 Camry was redesigned with a sleek, sophisticated appearance that appealed to a more style-conscious audience. Its upscale interior features high-quality materials, advanced infotainment options, and a comfortable ride that appeals to family drivers and professionals alike.

With a focus on performance, the Camry has improved handling and acceleration, making driving more enjoyable without compromising comfort or fuel economy. Its safety features include state-of-the-art driver-assistance systems, contributing to its high safety ratings. The vehicle provides approximately 28-30 mpg highway, making it an efficient choice for daily commutes and long trips, further boosting its popularity.

Small SUV: Subaru Forester

The Subaru Forester continues to lead the small SUV segment thanks to its versatility, excellent visibility, and capable handling. With a combined fuel economy of about 26 mpg, the Forester is suited for city driving and outdoor adventures, making it a perfect SUV for active lifestyles. Its elevated seating position offers drivers a commanding view of the road, enhancing safety and confidence behind the wheel.

The Forester’s ride quality remains comfortable across different terrains, and its symmetrical all-wheel-drive system ensures optimal traction and stability. Its spacious interior features smart storage solutions, making it ideal for family outings, camping trips, or daily errands. The vehicle’s reputation for durability and strong resale value further cements its status as a top choice in its category.

Luxury SUV: Lexus RX

In the premium SUV category, the Lexus RX continued to impress buyers with its sophisticated design and luxurious features. The redesigns introduced in 2016 included a bold new grille and a sleeker profile that enhanced its visual appeal. The RX balances luxury with performance, offering a smooth, comfortable ride combined with agile handling and responsive steering.

Fuel economy varies with different trims but generally ranges between 22 and 29 mpg combined, reflecting an efficient yet powerful engine lineup. The Lexus RX is equipped with advanced safety systems, premium interior materials, and cutting-edge infotainment options, making it a favorite among those seeking a high-end family vehicle that performs reliably on every journey.

Large Vehicles: Chevrolet Impala

The Chevrolet Impala stood out in the full-size sedan category with its sleek, commanding design and impressive performance capabilities. Known for its spacious interior, the Impala offers comfort for both drivers and passengers, with ample legroom and advanced technological features. Its responsive handling and accessible interface enhance the driving experience, making it a desirable choice for families, executives, and fleet operators.

Safety is a priority in the Impala, which comes equipped with comprehensive safety systems, including collision alerts and lane departure warnings. Its engine options provide a good balance of power and fuel efficiency, with some trims offering up to 30 mpg highway. The vehicle’s elegant styling and dependability have contributed to its continued popularity throughout 2016.

Other notable models from 2016 include the Mazda MX-5 Miata in the sports car segment, Kia Sorento among midsize SUVs, Ford F-150 in the pickup truck category, and Toyota Sienna in the minivan segment, highlighting the diverse preferences of vehicle buyers during that year.