Annual guide ranks and rates the latest in-vehicle technologies, including alternative fuel vehicles
The 2020 Tesla Model Y long range EV SUV earned the overall top score in the 2021 AAA Car Guide. (Tesla)
BY MARK MAYNARD
With new car sales booming post-pandemic and a shortage of new vehicles due to a shortage of microchips, shoppers need the best and latest information to make informed decisions. To help consumers navigate the marketplace, AAA created its annual AAA Car Guide. It ranks and rates the latest in-vehicle technologies, including alternative fuel vehicles.
The just-released 2021 edition of the guide includes comprehensive, easy-to-read reviews of each new vehicle focusing on 13 criteria. Among the test features are the number of advanced driver-assist safety features, braking, acceleration and fuel economy, and handling and ride comfort.
According to AAA, driver interest in advanced safety technology is high. When asked which of these systems they want in their next vehicle, two-thirds (67 percent) of drivers said automatic emergency braking, followed by reverse automatic emergency braking (63 percent) and lane-keeping assistance (61percent). A majority of new vehicle models come equipped with at least one of these systems.
The Car Guide highlights how many advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS) are included in the vehicle and other criteria and information.
The majority of the category winners for 2021 are either electric, plug-in electric hybrids or hybrids because manufacturers tend to load up these with the newest in safety technology. As an example, the 2020 Tesla Model Y Long-Range EV SUV has earned the overall top score.
In the category of Best $35,000-$50,000, the 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV Premier (electric) took top honors. (Chevrolet)
The vehicles are tested, scored and placed in one of five categories by the Automotive Research Center of the Automobile Club of Southern California, a member of the AAA federation of motor clubs.
“We know that consumers are very interested in new vehicle technology for the safety features,” said Megan McKernan, manager of the Automotive Research Center. “However, AAA research also shows that drivers don’t always understand the technical limits of these features and the AAA Car Guide is an easy-to-understand resource that can help improve their understanding.”
The 2020 Volvo S90 T8 plug-in hybrid won in the large-car group. (Volvo)
After about a year of learning to sell vehicles during a pandemic, dealers are experienced in keeping employees and customers safe. There are new protocols for cleaning and disinfecting dealership facilities and vehicles and how to safely handle sales operations.
Compared to even five years ago, today’s vehicles have many more features and systems that a driver must learn, said McKernan. There are learning curves for new vehicle technology and how the vehicle is powered — either gasoline, an alternative fuel, hybrid, plug-in hybrid or electric, she said. “The learning curve and decisions to be made can be daunting, and our evaluations in the AAA Car Guide are designed to help drivers select a safe and comfortable vehicle that meets their needs.”
Among pickups, the diesel-powered 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD Crew Cab SLT was the winner. A Denali model is shown. (GMC)
Each of the 2021 AAA Car Guide winners has numerous ADAS safety features, which generates a higher score. The highest-ranked by category are:
Overall: 2020 Tesla Model Y Long Range (electric)
Small: 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV Premier (electric)
Midsize: 2020 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
Large: 2020 Volvo S90 T8 (plug-in hybrid)
Pickup: 2020 GMC Sierra 1500 2WD Crew Cab SLT (diesel)
SUV/Minivan: 2020 Tesla Model Y Long Range (electric)
Best Under $35,000: 2020 Subaru Outback premium (gasoline)
Best $35,000-$50,000: 2020 Chevrolet Bolt EV Premier (electric)
Best Over $50,000: 2020 Tesla Model Y Long Range (electric)
The AAA Car Guide also contains a compendium of AAA’s recent research of current automotive technologies and topics. Among the highlights are advanced driver assistance systems, gasoline quality, headlight effectiveness, and how to safely transport a pet in the vehicle.
Read more about the winners, detailed evaluation criteria, vehicle reviews, and an in-depth analysis of the ADAS technology at aaa.com/carguide.
About AAA
The not-for-profit, fully tax-paying American Automobile Association has been a leader and advocate for safe mobility since 1902. Drivers can request roadside assistance, identify nearby gas prices, locate discounts, book a hotel or map a route via the AAA Mobile app. To join, visit AAA.com.
