Confirm which specific safety features were included, as some models (like the Toyota Highlander ) had them standard while others offered them only in higher trims.

Major publications like Consumer Reports and U.S. News & World Report identified several consistent winners for 2017: Top Pick(s) Key Feature Toyota Yaris iA Agile handling and standard emergency braking. Compact Car Chevrolet Cruze

While backup cameras were becoming mandatory, 2017 saw a rise in 360-degree "surround view" cameras , moving from luxury vehicles into mainstream brands like Nissan and Chrysler. Top-Rated Models & Reliability

Check the functionality of early versions of infotainment systems , as software updates may be needed for smooth smartphone integration.

Buick was identified as the most reliable American brand, largely due to its mature, time-tested vehicle designs.

This was a pivotal year for the rollout of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto , which became standard in many new infotainment systems to bridge the gap between smartphones and vehicles.