An Automotive Year to Remember – Cheers to 2022!

Another year has come and gone and what an interesting year this one proved to be. Since this is going to be my last blog post for the year, I would like to take the time to thank those of you who have been along for the ride and showed your support continuously. No matter if you are new or have been around for the little while the site has been live, it means a lot to have you all as dedicated readers. So without further ado, let’s get into the last blog post of the year!

I figured the best way to close out the year would be to create a post about the best cars of 2022. Now, fair warning this list is LONG so I will create an edited version of the top 10, 5 for each category according to J.D Power. To start, there are three cars that were named the best cars of 2022, which received top rankings for both quality and overall appeal. I just have to say I’m super happy that one of my current favourite cars (Lexus IS) made the list. They are:

• 2022 Genesis G80 – Top ranked in the Upper Midsize Premium Car segment 
• 2022 Lexus IS – Top ranked in the Compact Premium Car segment 
• 2022 Mini Cooper – Top ranked in the Compact Sporty Car segment 

Top Ranking in Quality

The following 5 cars are listed in alphabetical order and have no influence on whether one is better than the other in this category. 

1. 2022 BMW 2 Series 

The 2 Series vehicles from BMW was first released in 2014 and to have this model make the best cars list of 2022 is quite impressive. It took this title for the Small Premium Car category. This ranking includes both the second-generation 2 Series Coupe and the 2 Series Gran Coupe. The Gran Coupe is an entirely different car but it does share some features (more than just the name) with the Coupe. 

The redesigned 2 Series Coupe comes in 2 options, Rear Wheel Drive and All Wheel Drive nad in 2 trim levels, 230i and M240i. The 2 Series Gran Coupe on the other hand is a 4 door coupe coming available in Front Wheel Drive or All Wheel Drive. It comes in 2 different trims as well, 228i and M235i. All 2022 BMW 2 series vehicles have a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. 

2. 2022 BMW 7 Series 

This car takes the the title of the highest quality ranking for the Large Premium Car of 2022. It is also one of the best luxury cars of 2022, simply because it is BMW’s flagship model. It is a full size sedan that comes available with 3 different engine choices; turbocharged 6-cylinder, V8, and V12. It also comes in a plug-in hybrid power plant that allows for up to 17 miles of driving range running on electricity alone. AWD is standard across nearly all the cars in this lineup and yet there’s still more. The 7 Series also comes with a spacious cabin for your passengers, never ending comfort, an infotainment system, and safety features. 

3. 2022 Chevrolet Corvette 

The 2022 Chevrolet Corvette was given the ranking of highest quality Premium Sporty Car of 2022. Corvette is known for being the highest-quality model in the automotive industry, making it one of the best sports cars you can buy. The 8th generation was introduced 2 years ago with a distinctive look and mid engine drivetrain layout, and owners are satisfied with the latest design. For the 2022 model, Chevrolet made the Corvette available in 2 options, a 2 door coupe or convertible. Each is equipped with a 6.2-liter V8 engine and 8 speed automatic transmission sending power to the rear wheels. A C8.R Edition was introduced for 2022, paying tribute to Corvette’s racing heritage.

4. 2022 Chevrolet Malibu 

The highest quality Midsize Car of 2022 is the Chevrolet Malibu. The Malibu is a 4 door family sedan that comes in 4 trim levels: LS, RS, LT, and Premier. The LS, RS, and LT have a turbocharged 4 cylinder engine reaching 160 horsepower, while the Malibu Premier comes sporting a 250 horsepower, 2.0 liter turbocharged 4 cylinder. The power comes from a small engine that flows to the front wheels through a CVT (continuously variable transmission). A CVT is an automatic transmission that can change smoothly through a continuous range of gears while the car is being driven. The Premier on the other hand, comes with a traditional 9 speed automatic transmission. 

5. 2022 Genesis G80

The Genesis G80 takes the highest quality title in the Upper Midsize Premium Car of 2022 category. Genesis is all about luxury, and this sedan makes no exception. It sports a carefully crafted design inside and out and comes available with a 300 horsepower turbochagred 4 cylinder engine (2.5T) or a 375 horsepower tubroharged V6 (3.5T). The 2.5T comes in 2 options, RWD or AWD, whereas with the 3.5T comes in AWD only. It is worth noting that the Genesis G80 owners gave this a top score for overall appeal, meeting both requirements of making the vehicle one of the best luxury cars of 2022.  

Top Ranking in Overall Appeal

The following 5 cars are listed in alphabetical order and have no influence on whether one is better than the other in this category. 

1. 2022 Kia Carnival 

The Kia Carnival was first introduced into the market in 2002 and 20 years later it was named the most appealing Minivan of 2022. The Carnival replaced the Sedona as Kia’s family hauler, impressively gaining this title in only it’s first year. It has a very distinct look that goes perfectly with its 290 horsepower V6 engine. Not to mention the kid and family friendly features, a bunch of safety and infotainment technology, and stunning crash test scores.

2. 2022 Kia K5 

For the Midsize Car for 2022 category, the Kia K5 takes the most appealing award. Up until 2006, the Kia Optima was sold, however, although it is still in production today, it was replaced (namesake) in 2021. Kia dropped the “Optima” name altogether, renaming the model in the United States to feature the same name carried in South Korea, “K5”. Just to be clear the Optima is still in production, just under a different name. 

The K5 continues to build its own reputation as a more stylish family sedan with its sharp looks, a roomy cabin, and a comprehensive package of technology and safety features, some of which are newly standard for 2022. The K5 sports a turbocharged 4 cylinder engine under the hood, available in four trim levels; LX, LXS, GT-Line, and EX and makes 180 horsepower. The GT-Line is a sports tuned car that carries a turbocharged 4 cylinder engine and makes 290 horsepower. Most K5s come in the Front Wheel Drive option, but All Wheel Drive is selectively available. 

3. 2022 Lexus IS

The most appealing Compact Premium Car of 2022 goes to the Lexus IS. I actually can’t say I’m surprised simply because Lexus makes some pretty incredible looking cars (if I do say so myself). This model also ranks highest in the quality category. When it comes to design, performance, and the interior layout and comfort, this Lexus satisfies the owners better than other of the other luxury models in the segment. The IS 500 F Sport Performance model is the newest edition for 2022 and contributes to owner satisfaction.   

4. 2022 Mercedes Benz EQS

It is no surprise that Mercedes made this list. For the Large Premium Car of 2022 category, the Mercedes Benz EQS took the title. The EQS is the first modern electric car from Mercedes which also qualifies it as one of the best electric cars. The design of the vehicle is quite impressive and the EQS features a glamorous interior and jaw dropping technology, helping it to land the top APEAL ranking in the segment. It also comes in two other finishes; EQS450+ (with its 329 horsepower RWD electric drivetrain setup) and the EQS580 4Matic (making 516 horsepower with its AWD powertrain). Both offer up to 350 miles of range/charge according to Mercedes. 

5. 2022 Mini Cooper Clubman 

The most appealing Compact Car of 2022 is the Mini Clubman. Picture a Mini Cooper Hardtop 4 door, stretched out in length and equipped with a side hinged barn style cargo set of doors – that’s what a Clubman is. The car comes with 2 engine options; a 189 horsepower turbocharged 4 cylinder (Cooper S) and a 301 horsepower 4 cylinder (John Cooper Works). The Mini’s All4 AWD system comes option with the Cooper S Clubman and standard in the John Cooper Works. 

This brings us to the end of the shortened list. Many of the names on this list were a little surprising to me but it goes to show that with a little persistence, anything is possible. Merry Christmas and Happy Hannukah to those celebrating and I’ll see you all in the New Year.