The first practical, reliable, and mass-produced car rolled off the assembly line in the United States in 1901. This car set buyers back a cool $650. Today the cars may cost a bit more, but one thing has stayed the same. You can depend on the best American cars to provide you with impressive performance, dependability, and high quality.
Keep reading to find out the best American branded and American made cars on the market today.
1. Ford Explorer ST
The Explorer we know and love has gotten a whole new look for the 2020 model. There is a whole new rear-wheel-drive platform and an impressive V6 400 horsepower twin-turbo engine under the hood.
The ST model is on the upper end of the trim lineup for the Explorer, and well worth the extra cost. You’ll get the sport-oriented trim package, tow package, sport-tuned suspension, and cool black detailing on the exterior.
Several features are also included to make your life easier. These include rear brake assist, active park assist for perpendicular and parallel parking.
There is a ton of cargo space in the Explorer. There are 18.2 cubic feet behind the third-row seats. Fold down the third row, and there are 47.9 cubic feet behind the second row.
Fold down all of the rear seats, and there are an impressive 87.8 cubic feet of cargo space.
2. Ram 1500
This impressive truck has quickly climbed the ranks as one of the best trucks available on the market. Ram offers a little something for everyone with upscale interiors, hybrid drivetrains, and industry-leading technology.
One of the most notable additions for the 2020 model is the optional EcoDiesel V6 improvements. This makes the engine lighter, more powerful, and more energy-efficient.
Inside the truck, you’ll feel more like you’re sitting wrapped in luxury and less like a work truck. There are several creature comforts available such as heated and ventilated seats, panoramic sunroof, leather detailing, and genuine wood accenting.
Another unique feature is the split-folding tailgate that gives you complete freedom in how you use the bed of your truck.
When it comes to safety, the Ram 1500 has earned itself solid ratings with both the IIHS and the NHTSA.
3. Dodge Charger Widebody
The 2020 edition of the Dodge Charger is getting a serious shake-up with the introduction of the widebody models. A new addition to the lineup is the Scat Pack Widebody package.
This trim package adds bolder fenders, wider tires and wheels, and larger Brembo brakes. Plus, there are additional packages that add adaptive suspension for even more impressive performance.
If you’re looking for serious speed and performance, then you need to look at the SRT Hellcat Widebody. This is the top of the lineup for the Charger and comes with an impressive engine under the hood. You’ll find a V8 6.2-liter engine that pumps out a head-spinning 707 horsepower.
4. Ford Mustang Shelby GT500
Ford has impressed with the Shelby GT for years, but they’ve really stepped their game up with the 2020 model. You can expect to see a supercharged V8 5.2-liter engine with a dual-clutch transmission.
With this design, Ford claims the Shelby can power through multiple shifts in less than 100 milliseconds. Then pair that with the selectable drive modes for a totally custom driving experience. Available modes are normal, slippery, sport, drag, and track.
With the right driver behind the wheel, you can accomplish the quarter-mile in fewer than 11 seconds.
On the interior, Ford continued the aggressive attitude of the Mustang. Everything is driver-focused. There is also a heavy focus on technology.
To keep a balanced interior that won’t become overwhelming, Ford added in luxury materials like carbon fiber accents and suede upholstery.
The technology abounds with the Ford SYNC 3 infotainment system and an 8-inch touchscreen display. The system is then paired with a 12 speaker Bang & Olufsen audio system.
For safety, you can expect to see all of the industry-standard features. These include rear cross-traffic alert, automatic emergency braking, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, blind-spot monitoring, and rain-sensing windshield wipers.
If you’re looking to put a Shelby GT500 in your garage, you can search here.
5. Chevrolet Corvette
This classic all American muscle car is from a car manufacturing dynasty and built in Bowling Green, Kentucky. This timeless exotic sports car has enchanted enthusiasts since production began in 1962.
The 2020 model is sure to impress. One thing you’ll immediately notice is the brand new shape and curves that Chevy gave the Corvette. The new model is much more aerodynamic and jet fighter inspired in the lines and exterior styling.
Say goodbye to the signature long hood of the Corvette. This new model has a much shorter and more sculpted front end. The V8 engine is now visible through a large window in the rear of the car.
When it comes to performance, the Corvette doesn’t let you down with the base model coming with a V8 6.2-liter small-block engine that pumps out 495 horsepower.
The models at the upper end of the trim lineup are much more powerful. The Z51 package will launch your Corvette off the line doing zero to sixty in less than three seconds.
Shop the Best American Cars
So now that you’ve read about some of the best American cars that are available on the market, which one is right for you? Do you need something that can take you off-road like the Ram 1500?
Or maybe you’re looking for something that can carry the whole family like the Ford Explorer. Then there are the sports cars that compete for your attention.
Check out our auto reviews for more guidance when shopping for your next vehicle.
