The 10 best cars of 2019

Price as tested: $48,890

Why it's here: "The A4 is a thoroughly satisfying sports sedan with precise handling, the latest technology, and undeniable cachet," Consumer Reports said. "Its interior is quiet and decked out in high-quality materials."

"The balanced suspension provides secure handling and a taut ride that effectively smooths rough patches in the road," the publication added. "The turbocharged four-cylinder engine has superb response, with plenty of power when needed and a slick-shifting automatic transmission."

Price as tested: $68,730

Why it's here: "Redesigned for 2019, the midsized X5 is one of the best SUVs that CR has ever tested," the publication said. "It’s difficult to make an SUV both luxury-car comfortable and fun to drive, but here BMW strikes the perfect balance."

Price as tested: $52,535

Why it's here: "The F-150 continues to be King of Pickup Mountain, despite tough competition from the recently redesigned Chevrolet Silverado 1500, GMC Sierra 1500, and Ram 1500," CR said. "The 2.7-liter V6 turbo version we tested delivered brisk acceleration, effortless towing ability, and impressive fuel economy."

Price as tested: $25,025

Why it's here: "The Kona is a fun, new entry in a growing class of subcompact SUVs. It has a snazzy-looking exterior and an inviting interior," the publication said. "Despite its compact proportions, the Kona's smart design creates quite a bit of versatility thanks to its tall liftgate and split rear seats that fold down."

Price as tested: $43,867

Why it's here: "The three-row Ascent debuted at the top of CR’s midsized SUV ratings thanks to its smooth power delivery, enjoyable ride, and functional interior," the publication said. "It has a turbocharged four-cylinder engine that’s energetic in everyday traffic, with plenty of reserve power for passing."

Price as tested: $29,341

Why it's here: "The Forester is a versatile, no-nonsense vehicle that has broad appeal," Consumer Reports said. "This compact SUV’s roomy interior focuses on practicality and functionality."

"The 2019 redesign doesn’t look much different from its predecessor, but the Forester is now a more solid vehicle—quieter, with a more premium feel inside," CR added. "Its power is admittedly modest, but its fuel economy tops the class."

Price as tested: $38,643

Why it's here: "The redesigned Avalon is a smart, value-driven alternative to luxury sedans such as the Acura TLX and Lexus ES," CR said. "The spacious, richly furnished cabin has an upscale feel with soft materials and tasteful details."

Price as tested: $28,949

Why it's here: "The Camry Hybrid is a hyper-efficient car that gets 47 mpg overall in CR’s tests, and its hybrid-electric powertrain doesn’t compromise the driving experience," the publication said. "A comfortable ride and capable handling add to the appeal."

Price as tested: $27,323

Why it's here: "The Prius returns to our Top Picks list for a record 16th time," CR said. "This pioneering hybrid has long been a paragon of efficiency, with the current model achieving 52 mpg overall and a stunning 59 mpg on the highway in CR’s tests."

Price as tested: $17,570

Why it's here: "The Yaris sedan delivers an impressive degree of quality and joyful driving experience at an affordable price." the publication said. "The 2019 model gets improvements that include a new XLE trim level that adds upscale touches including automatic climate control."