The automotive industry in the United States closed 2024 with impressive figures, revealing consumer preferences in a market dominated by pickup trucks, SUVs, and a growing demand for affordable and efficient models. The Ford F-Series led the ranking with 765,649 units sold, solidifying its position as the country’s most popular vehicle, while the Toyota RAV4, with 475,193 units, retained its title as the best-selling SUV. However, the list of the 20 top-selling cars brought surprises, such as the rise of electric models and the decline of traditional icons like the Ram Pickup. Based on official data and recent analyses, this overview highlights the trends that shaped the year and what they indicate for the future of the sector.
Unlike Brazil, where compact hatchbacks and economical sedans still hold a strong presence, the U.S. market reflects a passion for robust and versatile vehicles. Pickup trucks like the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra ranked among the best-sellers, while compact SUVs, such as the Honda CR-V and Tesla Model Y, gained ground with remarkable numbers. Japanese brands like Toyota and Honda remain strong, but the rise of South Korean models, such as the Hyundai Tucson, and the performance of electrics signal a diversification in consumer tastes.
The year 2024 also presented challenges for some automakers. Jeep, for instance, faced an overall sales decline, while Nissan, despite financial struggles, kept the Rogue in the top 10. Drawing from recent research, the following text details the 20 best-selling cars, exploring the reasons behind their successes and setbacks, and offering a clear picture of what drove the U.S. automotive market.
Pickups dominate, but SUVs gain ground at the top
The Ford F-Series left no doubt about its supremacy in 2024, reaching 765,649 units sold and a 2% growth compared to the previous year. The lineup, which includes the popular F-150, underwent a recent facelift, introducing visual and technological updates that pleased consumers. Meanwhile, the Chevrolet Silverado, with 542,517 units, took second place, though its less-than-1% increase suggests stagnation compared to Ford’s rival performance. The GMC Sierra, another General Motors pickup, secured the seventh spot with 322,946 units, boosted by a modern design and powerful engine options, like the 6.2-liter V8.
While pickups maintain their historical strength, SUVs have solidified their place among the favorites. The Toyota RAV4, with 475,193 units and a 9.3% increase, led the category thanks to the versatility of its 13 versions, including plug-in hybrids that appeal to those seeking efficiency without sacrificing comfort. The Honda CR-V, fifth in the ranking with 402,791 units, also impressed with an 11.4% jump, benefiting from its sixth generation launched in 2023, which combines reliability and a competitive price of around $30,000. These figures show that compact SUVs are becoming the ideal choice for families and urban drivers.
A standout surprise was the Tesla Model Y, fourth in line with an estimated 416,000 units sold in the U.S. Though Tesla doesn’t release country-specific sales data, the electric crossover has held global leadership since 2019 and remains strong in the American market, even without major recent updates. A refreshed version is expected in the coming months, potentially boosting its numbers further.
Affordable models surprise in sales
The U.S. market in 2024 also made room for more budget-friendly vehicles, reflecting a demand for cost-effective options. The Chevrolet Trax, 15th with 200,689 units, was a highlight, boasting an impressive 84% growth over 2023. Equipped with a 1.2-liter turbo engine delivering 137 hp and redesigned in 2022, the subcompact became an accessible alternative in a segment dominated by larger SUVs. Another example is the Toyota Corolla, which climbed to 11th place with 232,908 units, aided by a starting price of $23,460 and hybrid versions offering up to 53 mpg on the highway.
The Honda Civic, tenth with 242,005 units, also shone among compact sedans, with a 20% sales increase. Named the “Best Car of 2024” in the U.S., its hybrid variant offers fuel efficiency and a driving experience that appeals to those seeking fun behind the wheel without breaking the bank. These numbers reinforce a trend: even in a market favoring pickups and SUVs, smaller, economical cars still hold significant appeal.
Among affordable SUVs, the Subaru Crosstrek made its mark at 18th place, with 181,811 units and a 14.2% growth. The introduction of the Wilderness version, featuring higher ground clearance and a 182-hp engine, helped attract new buyers. Meanwhile, the Hyundai Tucson, the only South Korean model in the top 20, landed at 14th with 206,126 units, despite a slight 2% drop following a redesign in late 2023.
Notable declines and automaker challenges
Not all models celebrated victories in 2024. The Ram Pickup, traditionally among the top-selling pickups, dropped from the top five to sixth place, with 373,120 units and a 16% decline. Replacing the classic Hemi V8 with the new twin-turbo Hurricane I-6, though more powerful, disappointed some consumers, sparking heated debates among brand enthusiasts. The Toyota Tacoma also faced struggles, falling from 11th to 17th place with 192,813 units and a 17.9% reduction. The launch of an all-new model early in the year led to a slow start, and the second-half recovery couldn’t offset the losses.
Jeep, another iconic brand, saw its Grand Cherokee hold the 12th spot with 216,148 units but suffered a 12% sales drop. The automaker faces a tough scenario, with a 6% decline in global sales, raising questions about its strategy in an increasingly competitive market. The Nissan Rogue, ninth with 245,724 units, weathered a 9.5% drop, supported by an affordable price point and the new Rock Creek edition, which added visual appeal to the crossover.
Subaru, on the other hand, had a positive year with three models on the list. The Outback (20th, 168,771 units), Forester (19th, 175,521 units), and Crosstrek (18th, 181,811 units) underscore the brand’s strength in the SUV segment, with consistent growth and updates keeping the vehicles relevant.
Key trends in the 2024 market
The performance of the 20 best-selling cars in the U.S. in 2024 reveals clear patterns in consumer behavior. Here are some observed trends:
- Pickup dominance: Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, and GMC Sierra claimed three of the top seven spots, confirming the preference for large, rugged vehicles.
- Rise of electrics: The Tesla Model Y stands out as the only fully electric model in the top 20, signaling gradual acceptance of this technology.
- Focus on efficiency: Hybrid models like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic gained traction, meeting the demand for fuel savings.
- Affordability on the rise: Cars like the Chevrolet Trax and Toyota Corolla show that competitive pricing is a deciding factor.
These trends suggest that automakers will need to balance innovation, such as electrification, with maintaining traditional features that still attract American buyers.
Timeline of launches that impacted sales
Several models benefited from strategic updates in 2024. Check out the key moments:
- Early 2024: Ford Explorer and Toyota Tacoma received facelifts and new trims, influencing their sales throughout the year.
- Mid-2024: Toyota Camry launched its 2025 version, boosting the sedan’s numbers past 300,000 units.
- Late 2023: Hyundai Tucson and Chevrolet Equinox underwent redesigns, with varying impacts in 2024.
These launches highlight how the timing of updates can be critical to market success.
What the numbers say about the future
The 765,649 registrations of the Ford F-Series reinforce that pickups remain the heart of the U.S. market, but the rise of SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V points to a gradual shift in priorities. The Tesla Model Y’s presence in the top four, with an estimated 416,000 units, suggests electrics are gaining ground, even in a landscape dominated by combustion engines. Brands like Subaru and Chevrolet, with models like the Trax, also prove that betting on affordable vehicles can be a winning strategy.
Among sedans, the Toyota Camry (309,876 units) and Honda Civic (242,005 units) show the segment still holds strong, especially with hybrid options. Meanwhile, the declines of the Ram Pickup and Toyota Tacoma serve as warnings about the risks of poorly received changes or mistimed launches. The 2024 market makes it clear that versatility, price, and efficiency are increasingly valued by consumers.
The diversity of the list, featuring pickups, SUVs, sedans, and electrics, reflects a market in transition. While giants like Ford and Toyota remain steadfast, smaller brands like Subaru and innovators like Tesla are gaining ground, pointing to a 2025 that promises even more competition and innovation in the U.S. automotive sector.

The automotive industry in the United States closed 2024 with impressive figures, revealing consumer preferences in a market dominated by pickup trucks, SUVs, and a growing demand for affordable and efficient models. The Ford F-Series led the ranking with 765,649 units sold, solidifying its position as the country’s most popular vehicle, while the Toyota RAV4, with 475,193 units, retained its title as the best-selling SUV. However, the list of the 20 top-selling cars brought surprises, such as the rise of electric models and the decline of traditional icons like the Ram Pickup. Based on official data and recent analyses, this overview highlights the trends that shaped the year and what they indicate for the future of the sector.
Unlike Brazil, where compact hatchbacks and economical sedans still hold a strong presence, the U.S. market reflects a passion for robust and versatile vehicles. Pickup trucks like the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra ranked among the best-sellers, while compact SUVs, such as the Honda CR-V and Tesla Model Y, gained ground with remarkable numbers. Japanese brands like Toyota and Honda remain strong, but the rise of South Korean models, such as the Hyundai Tucson, and the performance of electrics signal a diversification in consumer tastes.
The year 2024 also presented challenges for some automakers. Jeep, for instance, faced an overall sales decline, while Nissan, despite financial struggles, kept the Rogue in the top 10. Drawing from recent research, the following text details the 20 best-selling cars, exploring the reasons behind their successes and setbacks, and offering a clear picture of what drove the U.S. automotive market.
Pickups dominate, but SUVs gain ground at the top
The Ford F-Series left no doubt about its supremacy in 2024, reaching 765,649 units sold and a 2% growth compared to the previous year. The lineup, which includes the popular F-150, underwent a recent facelift, introducing visual and technological updates that pleased consumers. Meanwhile, the Chevrolet Silverado, with 542,517 units, took second place, though its less-than-1% increase suggests stagnation compared to Ford’s rival performance. The GMC Sierra, another General Motors pickup, secured the seventh spot with 322,946 units, boosted by a modern design and powerful engine options, like the 6.2-liter V8.
While pickups maintain their historical strength, SUVs have solidified their place among the favorites. The Toyota RAV4, with 475,193 units and a 9.3% increase, led the category thanks to the versatility of its 13 versions, including plug-in hybrids that appeal to those seeking efficiency without sacrificing comfort. The Honda CR-V, fifth in the ranking with 402,791 units, also impressed with an 11.4% jump, benefiting from its sixth generation launched in 2023, which combines reliability and a competitive price of around $30,000. These figures show that compact SUVs are becoming the ideal choice for families and urban drivers.
A standout surprise was the Tesla Model Y, fourth in line with an estimated 416,000 units sold in the U.S. Though Tesla doesn’t release country-specific sales data, the electric crossover has held global leadership since 2019 and remains strong in the American market, even without major recent updates. A refreshed version is expected in the coming months, potentially boosting its numbers further.
Affordable models surprise in sales
The U.S. market in 2024 also made room for more budget-friendly vehicles, reflecting a demand for cost-effective options. The Chevrolet Trax, 15th with 200,689 units, was a highlight, boasting an impressive 84% growth over 2023. Equipped with a 1.2-liter turbo engine delivering 137 hp and redesigned in 2022, the subcompact became an accessible alternative in a segment dominated by larger SUVs. Another example is the Toyota Corolla, which climbed to 11th place with 232,908 units, aided by a starting price of $23,460 and hybrid versions offering up to 53 mpg on the highway.
The Honda Civic, tenth with 242,005 units, also shone among compact sedans, with a 20% sales increase. Named the “Best Car of 2024” in the U.S., its hybrid variant offers fuel efficiency and a driving experience that appeals to those seeking fun behind the wheel without breaking the bank. These numbers reinforce a trend: even in a market favoring pickups and SUVs, smaller, economical cars still hold significant appeal.
Among affordable SUVs, the Subaru Crosstrek made its mark at 18th place, with 181,811 units and a 14.2% growth. The introduction of the Wilderness version, featuring higher ground clearance and a 182-hp engine, helped attract new buyers. Meanwhile, the Hyundai Tucson, the only South Korean model in the top 20, landed at 14th with 206,126 units, despite a slight 2% drop following a redesign in late 2023.
Notable declines and automaker challenges
Not all models celebrated victories in 2024. The Ram Pickup, traditionally among the top-selling pickups, dropped from the top five to sixth place, with 373,120 units and a 16% decline. Replacing the classic Hemi V8 with the new twin-turbo Hurricane I-6, though more powerful, disappointed some consumers, sparking heated debates among brand enthusiasts. The Toyota Tacoma also faced struggles, falling from 11th to 17th place with 192,813 units and a 17.9% reduction. The launch of an all-new model early in the year led to a slow start, and the second-half recovery couldn’t offset the losses.
Jeep, another iconic brand, saw its Grand Cherokee hold the 12th spot with 216,148 units but suffered a 12% sales drop. The automaker faces a tough scenario, with a 6% decline in global sales, raising questions about its strategy in an increasingly competitive market. The Nissan Rogue, ninth with 245,724 units, weathered a 9.5% drop, supported by an affordable price point and the new Rock Creek edition, which added visual appeal to the crossover.
Subaru, on the other hand, had a positive year with three models on the list. The Outback (20th, 168,771 units), Forester (19th, 175,521 units), and Crosstrek (18th, 181,811 units) underscore the brand’s strength in the SUV segment, with consistent growth and updates keeping the vehicles relevant.
Key trends in the 2024 market
The performance of the 20 best-selling cars in the U.S. in 2024 reveals clear patterns in consumer behavior. Here are some observed trends:
- Pickup dominance: Ford F-Series, Chevrolet Silverado, and GMC Sierra claimed three of the top seven spots, confirming the preference for large, rugged vehicles.
- Rise of electrics: The Tesla Model Y stands out as the only fully electric model in the top 20, signaling gradual acceptance of this technology.
- Focus on efficiency: Hybrid models like the Toyota Corolla and Honda Civic gained traction, meeting the demand for fuel savings.
- Affordability on the rise: Cars like the Chevrolet Trax and Toyota Corolla show that competitive pricing is a deciding factor.
These trends suggest that automakers will need to balance innovation, such as electrification, with maintaining traditional features that still attract American buyers.
Timeline of launches that impacted sales
Several models benefited from strategic updates in 2024. Check out the key moments:
- Early 2024: Ford Explorer and Toyota Tacoma received facelifts and new trims, influencing their sales throughout the year.
- Mid-2024: Toyota Camry launched its 2025 version, boosting the sedan’s numbers past 300,000 units.
- Late 2023: Hyundai Tucson and Chevrolet Equinox underwent redesigns, with varying impacts in 2024.
These launches highlight how the timing of updates can be critical to market success.
What the numbers say about the future
The 765,649 registrations of the Ford F-Series reinforce that pickups remain the heart of the U.S. market, but the rise of SUVs like the Toyota RAV4 and Honda CR-V points to a gradual shift in priorities. The Tesla Model Y’s presence in the top four, with an estimated 416,000 units, suggests electrics are gaining ground, even in a landscape dominated by combustion engines. Brands like Subaru and Chevrolet, with models like the Trax, also prove that betting on affordable vehicles can be a winning strategy.
Among sedans, the Toyota Camry (309,876 units) and Honda Civic (242,005 units) show the segment still holds strong, especially with hybrid options. Meanwhile, the declines of the Ram Pickup and Toyota Tacoma serve as warnings about the risks of poorly received changes or mistimed launches. The 2024 market makes it clear that versatility, price, and efficiency are increasingly valued by consumers.
The diversity of the list, featuring pickups, SUVs, sedans, and electrics, reflects a market in transition. While giants like Ford and Toyota remain steadfast, smaller brands like Subaru and innovators like Tesla are gaining ground, pointing to a 2025 that promises even more competition and innovation in the U.S. automotive sector.
