We asked our USA TODAY Cars newsletter subscribers their opinion on the best car ever last weekend, and the responses were surprising. Instead of expensive luxury models, most of our readers chose affordable and popular mainstream cars. One reader even suggested a minivan should be in the running for the title.
Here are the top picks for the best car ever, sourced from our readers. Join in on the conversation by subscribing to our newsletter and interacting with our team of expert car reviewers, journalists and auto enthusiasts.
The Toyota Corolla makes a strong case for best car ever
One reader responded to my claim of the Honda Civic being the undisputed best car ever with "the Honda Civic is not
a bad choice. But what about the Toyota Corolla?" This reader's alternative speaks to an age-old rivalry between the affordable Japanese car brands, and the Corolla isn't a bad choice either.
Toyota's Corolla nameplate is available as a hatchback or four-door sedan and it has consistently been one of the most affordable cars on the market since its American arrival in 1968. Decades later, the Corolla remains a top choice in its segment, and is now offered as a hybrid with tons of available features.
Honda's midsize sedan could be the best car ever
The Honda Accord is another Japanese sedan that readers submitted for the title of Best Car Ever. The Accord is a popular midsize car that regularly competes with the Toyota Camry.
Accord models have roomy interiors and they're sporty. There are also plenty of aftermarket parts available for auto enthusiasts, and the midsize sedan can stand the test of time. In terms of driving verve, the Accord certainly has the edge over the Corolla and is a better family vehicle because of its superior cabin and cargo space.
The Honda Odyssey is the only van pick from readers
A minivan may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the best cars ever made, but the Honda Odyssey was one of the models mentioned by readers responding to our newsletter. The Odyssey debuted in America as a 1995 model year and it has remained a staple in the brand's portfolio for more than three decades.
Drivers love the Odyssey because it has a strong base engine, plenty of cargo space and its seats are easy to stow. It's an affordable family minivan that can last for over 15 years with regular maintenance.
Lexus' ES is a best car ever contender, says our audience
The first Lexus ES (or Executive Sedan) generation debuted in America in 1989 as a luxury sedan. The ES is known for its smooth ride, solid gas mileage and reliability. It's one of the few luxury models our readers suggested would be worthy of the Best Car Ever title.
Lexus no longer makes gas ES models, but still offers a hybrid ES and an electric version of the sedan. Fans of the nameplate can find plenty of used gas Lexus ES models on sites like CarMax for affordable prices with relatively low mileage.
The Toyota MR2 made a huge impact before its discontinuation
Toyota's MR2 was introduced to the American market in 1985 and was discontinued after the 2005 model year. It may not have lasted as long as other Toyota nameplates on this list of best cars ever, but it made a huge splash in its 20-year run.
It's a two-seater mid-engine rear-wheel drive sports car that was fun to drive because of its great handling and lightweight body. Toyota never made a direct replacement of the MR2, but the automaker still makes plenty of affordable sports cars for driving enthusiasts like the GR86 and GR Supra.
Toyota doesn't just make reliable cars, it also makes fun tuners and daily drivers.
The Lexus LS is the most expensive car suggested by readers
The Lexus LS hit the American market in 1989 and was recently discontinued for the 2026 model year. Its 2025 model year started at $80,335.
Lexus' first four LS generations all featured a powerful V8 engine. The LS is also known for its quiet ride, great value and enjoyable performance. In terms of raw power and style, the LS is one of the most worthy models on our list of potential best cars ever.
Our next big question to readers
We can't give away everything coming in our next USA TODAY Cars newsletter, but we can tease one of the main questions we'll pose to our readers. What is your first or favorite car that you've ever owned? Feel free to send us your submissions along with pics of your most cherished ride to be featured in our next story.
Charles Singh is an Autos Connect Reporter for The Tennessean, part of the USA TODAY Network. Contact him at CSingh@Gannett.com.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: We asked our readers which car is the best ever
