These cars made the list of best for the money

The annual Best Cars for the Money list was released last month and expanded to 20 categories to include more electrified and fuel-efficient segments as buyers chase value.

Presented by U.S. News & World Report this year’s additions reflect a wider range of hybrid, plug‑in hybrid and battery electric choices. The Hyundai Elantra Hybrid won the first Best Compact Hybrid Car for the Money award, the Chevrolet Equinox EV was named Best Compact EV SUV for the Money, the Toyota Camry took Best Mid‑size Hybrid Car for the Money, and the Mazda CX‑90 PHEV earned Best Mid‑size Plug‑in Hybrid SUV for the Money, with judges citing strong value alongside a refined cabin and efficient electric range.

Two categories returned to the lineup. The Toyota GR86 captured Best Sports Car for the Money for its engaging performance and accessible price, while the Ford Expedition was chosen Best Large SUV for the Money for space, family-focused tech and towing performance.

Kia led all brands with seven wins. The Kia Niro was named Best Subcompact Hybrid SUV for the Money. The Kia Sportage Hybrid and Sportage Plug‑in Hybrid won the compact hybrid and plug‑in hybrid SUV categories. The Kia K4 was awarded Best Compact Car for the Money. The Kia EV9 took Best Mid‑size EV SUV for the Money. In the mid‑size SUV ranks, the Kia Sorento was named Best Mid‑size three‑row SUV for the Money and the Sorento Hybrid won Best Mid‑size Hybrid SUV for the Money.

Honda and Hyundai also posted repeat success. The Honda Odyssey extended its streak as Best Minivan for the Money to six straight years, and the Honda Accord again earned Best Mid‑size Car for the Money. Hyundai collected two wins, including the Hyundai Tucson, which took Best Compact SUV for the Money for a third consecutive year and fifth time overall.

Nissan received two honours, with the Nissan Murano named Best Mid‑size two‑row SUV for the Money and the Nissan Kicks earning Best Subcompact SUV for the Money.

In trucks, the Toyota Tacoma repeated as Best Mid‑size Pickup Truck for the Money, while the Ford F‑150 won Best Full‑size Pickup Truck for the Money, with both recognized for versatility and broad powertrain choice.