Yearly Test Drives of Over 50 New Car Models: An Expert's 15-Year Perspective on Personal Purchases
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In the world of cars, Shari Prymak, the host of Car Help Corner, is a trusted voice with 15 years of experience testing and reviewing new vehicles. Her recommendations are based on reliability, value, and driving enjoyment, as she evaluates over 50 new car models every year. Here are her top picks for 2022.
Best Compact Car: Mazda 3
The Mazda 3 stands out for its sporty feel and reliability, powered by a 2.5L 4-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission. Rare mechanical problems and a durable drivetrain make it a high-quality, affordable choice in a time when cars are expensive. With turbo, AWD, and manual transmission options available, in both hatchback and sedan styles, the Mazda 3 offers versatility and value.
Best Mid-Sized Car: Toyota Camry
The Toyota Camry, a historically reliable and no-nonsense vehicle, shines with its highly reliable and fuel-efficient hybrid system. Under the hood, you'll find a powerful 232 hp engine, close to the output of older V6s. Offering unbeatable value, the Camry is a top choice for those seeking reliability and efficiency.
Best Small SUV: Mazda CX-5
The Mazda CX-5 impresses with its stylish design, sportiness, and strong reliability reputation. Using a well-proven 2.5L 4-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission, the CX-5 is often less expensive than comparable Honda CR-V or Toyota RAV4 models, making it a better used car buy.
For those seeking a luxury and stylish car, the host would consider the Lexus IS, praising its performance, cost-effectiveness, and proven reliability.
Best Truck: Honda Ridgeline
Bucking the trend of traditional body-on-frame style trucks, the Honda Ridgeline stands out with its spacious interior, a sizable bed with a lockable storage area, and a dual-action tailgate.
Best Affordable Sports Car: Mazda MX5
The Mazda MX5 is the host's pick for the best affordable sports car, offering a fun driving experience without breaking the bank.
Best Electric Vehicle: BMW i4
The BMW i4, a regular BMW 4 Series that is electric, is the host's top pick for an electric vehicle.
Best Minivan: Toyota Sienna
Despite high demand causing waiting periods of several months to over a year, the Toyota Sienna is the host's pick for the best minivan. Its roominess, AWD and hybrid drivetrain, and fuel efficiency make it a top choice for families.
Best Luxury and Stylish Car: Lexus LC500
For those seeking a luxury and stylish car, the Lexus LC500 is the host's preferred choice, with its V8 engine and cost-effectiveness compared to other luxury brands.
Best Compact Car (Alternative Pick): Toyota Corolla
While not mentioned specifically, the Toyota Corolla, with its reliability, fuel efficiency, and value, could serve as an alternative pick for the best compact car.
Best Not-So-Affordable Sports Car: Porsche 718 GTS 4.0
For those with a larger budget, the Porsche 718 GTS 4.0 is the host's choice for a high-performance sports car, offering an analog feel for an unforgettable driving experience.
Timothy Boyer, the automotive reporter who covers new and used cars, including EVs, with a focus on DIY mechanics, tool use, and other automotive repair topics, can be found on Twitter, Facebook, and his blog, "Zen and the Art of DIY Car Repair." His work often includes articles on new car owner reviews, such as the 2025 Pilot Elite, 2025 RAV4 PHEV, and 2025 Corolla SE 2.0L.
[1] Prymak, Shari. (2022). Car Help Corner. Retrieved from www.carhelpcorner.com
[2] Boyer, Timothy. (2022). Zen and the Art of DIY Car Repair. Retrieved from www.diycarrepair.com
In the sphere of vehicles, discussional matters revolving around sports are likely to be covered by Timothy Boyer, an automotive reporter who often delves into articles on high-performance sports cars. The Mazda MX5, celebrated for its exhilarating driving experience, remains a focal point in the sports car realm.
