On Independence Day, it's only fitting to be proud of the car you're driving, especially if it was made or manufacturated in the USA. CBS News has picked 5 of the best cars made in the U.S., and Ford and Cadillac models are among the top picks.
While German and Japanese companies have U.S. assembly plants, and Toyota and Honda make parts here, Made in America buyers argue that profits still go back to the foreign companies. Associate professor Frank DuBois of American University's Kogod School of Business, an expert on the global supply chain, argues that "his index gives the fullest picture of an American-made vehicle."
Chevrolet Sonic has been part of a wave of successful cars from Detroit companies with 26 MPG in city driving and 35 on the highway. Sharp handling, smooth transmission make it a popular choice, along with its roominess in the back seat and affordable price, ranging from $14,185 to $21,470 for a fully loaded model.
Toyota Camry is made in plants in Kentucky and Indiana, ranking second for American content in a compilation done by Cars.com. Camry is one of the best-selling cars in America, with its high reliability ratings, comfortable seats and choice between a four-cylinder engine and an optional V-6. Its safety options like blind-spot monitoring also make it a popular pick, and its fairly affordable with a base starting at $22,235 and ranging up to $30,465 for the V-6 version.
Chevrolet Equinox has some of the best fuel economy with its base four-cylinder engine that rates at 22 MPG in city and 32 in highway driving. The optional V-6 engine has mileage rated at 17 MPG in the city and 24 on the highway, and reviewers like its smooth-shifting automatic transition and comfortable feel. Prices range from $24,225 for the base model to $32,735.
Cadillac ATS competes with BMW's 3 Series sport sedans, and reviewers like its power and handling, though suggest opting for a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder (22 MPG city, 33 highway) or the V-6 with power that rivals competition. The ATS costs less than most BMW versions, starting at $33,095 and ranging up to $47,795.
Ford F-150 pickup trucks offer V-6 engines at its base with a 17 MPG in the city and 23 on the highway. An optional turbocharged Ecoboost V-6 and V-8 option provides more power for towing and hauling, and reviewers like its comfortable front seating and roomy back seat. Prices range from $23,995 for the base model to $53,185 for near-luxury versions.
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