The best selling cars in California can vary from year to year, but some cars are consistently on the top of the list.
This year, we looked at registration data from the DMV and sales data from Good Car Bad Car to find out which vehicles people were most excited about this year.
What did we find? Some expected entries, like the Honda Accord and Toyota Corolla, but plenty of surprises! Read on to learn more about the top best selling cars in California for 2016.
The following list ranks cars by total registrations in 2022.
1. Toyota Rav 4
Toyota Rav 4 is the first on the list of best selling cars in California. The Toyota Rav 4 is one of the best selling cars in California, and it’s no wonder why.
This compact crossover SUV has been consistently ranked among the top selling cars in the state since its introduction in 1994.
From its first year on the market, the Rav 4 was praised for its practicality and reliability, which have kept it in high demand over the years.
The Rav 4 is also known for its affordability, making it a great choice for budget-minded car shoppers.
With an array of trims and packages, there’s a Rav 4 to fit almost any lifestyle. From the entry-level LE model to the luxurious XLE, drivers can customize their rides according to their preferences.
Powering the Rav 4 is either a 2.5-liter four-cylinder or a 3.5-liter V6 engine, with available all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission.
With plenty of cargo space, seating for five passengers, and generous standard features, the Rav 4 provides great value in a comfortable and reliable package.
No wonder the Toyota Rav 4 continues to be one of California’s favorite vehicles.
2. Tesla Model 3
Tesla Model 3 is next on the list. The Tesla Model 3 is the clear leader in California’s best-selling cars. In 2020, this all-electric vehicle became the most popular car in the state by a wide margin, with nearly 84,000 sold during the year.
But not only does the Model 3 offer drivers an environmentally friendly option for their daily commute. But it also provides exceptional performance and safety features.
At the heart of the Model 3 lies its electric powertrain, which offers instant torque and a range of up to 322 miles on a single charge.
The dual-motor configuration ensures that the Model 3 can accelerate quickly and handle corners like a true sports car.
At the same time, its Autopilot suite of driver assistance features makes it an incredibly safe car to drive. Inside the cabin, there is plenty of space for five adults, and the simple dashboard design helps keep drivers focused on the road.
Unsurprisingly, the Tesla Model 3 has become the go-to choice for Californians looking for an efficient and enjoyable driving experience.
With its combination of performance, safety, and convenience, the Model 3 is undoubtedly one of California’s best-selling cars.
3. Tesla Model Y
The Tesla Model Y is one of the top best selling cars in California, and it’s easy to see. Not only does the car offer state-of-the-art technology and performance, but it also offers a stylish design that makes it stand out on the road.
The Model Y is equipped with advanced features like Autopilot and Adaptive Cruise Control, which give drivers more control over their ride.
It also boasts impressive range capabilities with a maximum range of 300 miles on a single charge. The interior is spacious and well-equipped with high-end materials and comfortable seating.
Safety is another important aspect of the Tesla Model Y, with standard safety features like automatic emergency braking, lane keeps assist, and eight airbags. This makes it a great choice for anyone looking for a safe, reliable vehicle.
In addition to all these features, the Tesla Model Y also has an attractive price tag. Starting at just $39,000 before tax incentives, this car is sure to be a hit with California drivers.
4. Toyota Prius
Next is the Toyota Prius on the list of best selling cars in California. The Toyota Prius is a popular choice among Californians when it comes to purchasing a new car.
The Prius is a hybrid electric car that boasts impressive fuel efficiency, which is especially attractive for Californians with long commutes or frequent road trips.
Its low emissions also make the Prius an ideal choice for California drivers concerned about its environmental impact.
The Toyota Prius is available in various trim levels, ranging from the basic LE model to the top-of-the-line Limited.
The standard LE includes features such as keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system.
The higher trims add more features like leather upholstery, an upgraded audio system, and a power moonroof.
The Prius also has excellent safety ratings, earning top marks from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The standard suite of driver-assistance technology includes adaptive cruise control, lane departure warning, and automatic emergency braking.
No matter which trims level you choose, the Toyota Prius is a great option for California drivers looking for a fuel-efficient, low-emission vehicle.
With its variety of available features, high safety ratings, and eco-friendly design, the Prius is no surprise as one of the top best selling cars in California.
5. Nissan Sentra
The Nissan Sentra has consistently been one of the best selling cars in California since its introduction in 1982.
It offers a reliable, comfortable ride and has great features that make it an excellent choice for California drivers.
With its sleek design, advanced safety features, and efficient engine, the Sentra is ideal for those looking for a reliable vehicle that won’t break the bank. The Sentra is a great value car with an affordable starting price.
Also, It offers great fuel efficiency and plenty of power, allowing drivers to enjoy a comfortable and efficient ride.
The interior of Sentra offers a roomy interior with plenty of space for passengers and cargo. It has many tech features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and voice recognition technology.
Safety is a priority for Nissan, and Sentra is no exception. It has advanced safety features such as automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and blind spot monitoring.
These features give drivers peace of mind when driving on California’s congested roads and highways.
The Nissan Sentra has been a top seller in California for years, and it’s easy to see why. It’s a reliable, affordable car with great fuel efficiency, plenty of interior space, and advanced safety features.
With its great value and wide range of features, the Sentra is an excellent choice for California drivers.
6. The Toyota Camry
Toyota Camry is next on the list of best selling cars in California. The Camry provides a comfortable driving experience thanks to its advanced features like adaptive cruise control and lane departure warning.
The engine is also powerful and efficient, giving you plenty of power while providing excellent fuel economy.
And, of course, the car is incredibly safe with a full suite of safety features that help protect you in the event of an accident.
The biggest draw of the Camry is its affordability. With an affordable base price, you can get a great car that will last many years without breaking the bank.
Plus, plenty of financing options are available, so you can get your Camry without worrying about draining your wallet.
The Toyota Camry should be at the top of your list if you’re looking for an affordable, reliable, and comfortable sedan in California.
It’s consistently one of the top selling cars in the state and is a popular choice for many Californians.
7. The Honda Civic
Honda Civic is next on the list of best selling cars in California. If you’re in the market for a car, chances are you’ve heard of the Honda Civic. It’s one of the most popular cars in California, and for a good reason.
With its stylish design, fuel efficiency, and excellent safety ratings, the Civic is a great choice for any driver.
The Civic is available in various models, from coupes to sedans to SUVs, giving you plenty of options.
It also offers a variety of powertrains ranging from the efficient hybrid model to the powerful Si model. You can even get the Civic with advanced features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The Honda Civic has something to offer, no matter what you want in a car. With its attractive styling and reliable performance, it’s no wonder it’s one of the best selling cars in California.
The Honda Civic is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a reliable, stylish car.
8. The Toyota Corolla
Toyota Corolla is next on the list of best selling cars in California. The Corolla has been around since 1966 and has always been a reliable and affordable option for Californians.
It offers a comfortable interior with plenty of room for passengers, a powerful engine with excellent fuel economy, and Toyota’s well-known reliability.
The Corolla also has advanced safety features, such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking.
All these features combine to make the Corolla an attractive choice for drivers of all ages. The Corolla is available in various models, from the base to the sporty XSE and eco-friendly Hybrid models.
With a wide selection of colors and trim levels, there’s sure to be a Corolla that fits any Californian’s taste and budget.
The Toyota Corolla should definitely be on your shortlist if you’re looking for a dependable and stylish vehicle.
With its great looks, impressive performance, and competitive price point, it’s easy to see why this car has become such a hit in California.
9. The Honda Accord
Honda Accord is the next best selling car in California. The 2021 Honda Accord offers an impressive selection of features and amenities.
Standard features on the 2021 model include LED headlights, an 8-inch touch-screen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Honda Sensing safety technology. Additional options include heated leather seats, navigation, a power moonroof, and more.
The 2021 Honda Accord is powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine that produces 192 horsepower and 192 lb-ft of torque.
It’s paired with either a continuously variable transmission (CVT) or a 10-speed automatic transmission, depending on the trim level.
The hybrid version of the Accord is powered by a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine and two electric motors that generate 212 horsepower. When it comes to value, the Honda Accord is hard to beat.
With excellent fuel economy ratings and plenty of features for the money, the Honda Accord is an ideal choice for those looking for a reliable and well-equipped sedan.
Whether you’re looking for a comfortable daily driver or a car that can handle some weekend adventures, the Honda Accord will get the job done.
10. The Nissan Altima
The Altima has a sleek exterior that stands out from the crowd and comes with various features that make it appealing to drivers of all kinds.
It has a comfortable interior with supportive seats, a powerful engine that delivers excellent performance, and an advanced safety system that helps keep passengers safe on the road.
It also offers good fuel economy and low emissions, making it an eco-friendly option for California drivers. What makes the Nissan Altima such a popular car?
First, it’s excellent value for money. This vehicle offers features like satellite radio, USB ports, dual-zone climate control, blind spot monitoring, and more at an affordable price.
The Altima also has good resale value, meaning it will still retain a large portion of its original purchase price when you sell it.
11. The Ford Fusion
Next on the list is Ford Fusion. Regarding the best selling cars in California, the Ford Fusion stands out as one of the most popular vehicles.
The Fusion has been a staple in the automotive industry for many years, and its popularity shows no signs of slowing down.
The Fusion is renowned for its stylish design and modern features. Its sleek exterior and comfortable interior make it a great choice for commuters looking for an efficient and dependable vehicle.
Additionally, the Fusion offers a variety of engine options, allowing drivers to customize their ride with more power or better fuel economy.
Ford also prioritizes safety, and the Fusion offers a range of advanced safety technologies, including forward collision warning, lane-keeping assist, and automated emergency braking. These features can help keep you and your passengers safe on the road.
12. The Chevrolet Malibu
Chevrolet Malibu is next on the list of best selling cars in California. The Malibu’s 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine provides solid acceleration and great fuel efficiency.
It also has various advanced safety features, such as lane departure warnings, forward collision alerts, and pedestrian detection.
With all these features, the Malibu is an excellent option for those looking for a reliable vehicle that offers great value for money.
The Chevrolet Malibu is an excellent choice for California drivers looking for an efficient yet stylish vehicle.
With its impressive performance, safety features, and fuel economy, the Malibu is a great option for those seeking an affordable car that will stand the test of time.
13. Ford Mustang
Next on the list is Ford Mustang. Regarding best selling cars in California, the Ford Mustang is at the top of the list.
This classic American muscle car has been a favorite among drivers for decades, and its popularity shows no sign of waning.
The Mustang has always been known for its raw power, and its style and performance have only improved over the years.
Whether you’re looking for a daily driver or a weekend warrior, the Ford Mustang is the perfect choice for California drivers.
The Mustang comes in many different models, all offering plenty of power under the hood. From the GT V8 engine to the EcoBoost 4-cylinder, you can find the perfect combination of performance and economy in any Mustang model.
And with features like Track Apps and Sync 3 technology, you can stay connected while enjoying the ride.
The Mustang also offers plenty of styles, thanks to its sleek design and wide range of color options. With options like Ruby Red Metallic and Grabber Blue, you can be sure to stand out from the crowd.
And with advanced safety features like Pre-Collision Assist, you can rest assured that you’ll be safe wherever the road takes you.
The Ford Mustang should definitely be on your shortlist if you’re looking for a powerful car ready to go.
From its incredible performance to its stylish design, the Mustang is the perfect choice for California drivers.
14. Hyundai Sonata
The Hyundai Sonata has been one of the best selling cars in California for years, and it’s not hard to see why. It’s a reliable and affordable car that packs a lot of features into its sleek design.
The Sonata is powered by a 2.4L 4-cylinder engine, giving it plenty of power for even the most demanding driver.
The Sonata also offers a variety of safety features, such as blind spot monitoring and adaptive cruise control.
With its comfortable interior, long list of amenities, and impressive fuel economy, it’s no wonder why the Hyundai Sonata is so popular in California.
Whether you’re looking for an everyday commuter car or something more stylish, the Sonata will meet your needs. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a dependable car without breaking the bank.
Check out the Hyundai Sonata today and experience why it’s one of California’s top best-selling cars.
15. Kia Optima
The Kia Optima is one of the top best selling cars in California, and it’s easy to see why. It boasts a great combination of style, comfort, performance, and value.
The Optima has an impressive list of features, including an 8-inch color touch-screen display, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera system, blind spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. It also has a powerful 2.4L engine that provides plenty of power for city driving.
Inside, the Optima is designed for maximum comfort with high-quality materials and plenty of room for passengers.
The Kia Optima is perfect for families looking for a reliable and stylish car that won’t break the bank.
16. Nissan Versa
The Nissan Versa is one of the best selling cars in California. With a spacious interior and reliable performance.
And a surprisingly low price tag, it’s easy to see why so many people choose this car as their go-to vehicle.
It’s one of the most popular cars on the roads today, and it offers an array of features that make it an attractive option for California drivers.
The Nissan Versa is powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine that produces 109 horsepower and 107 pound-feet of torque. It’s mated to either a five-speed manual transmission or an available continuously variable automatic transmission.
The Versa also has great fuel economy, earning up to 36 mpg on the highway and 27 mpg in the city.
Inside, the Nissan Versa provides plenty of space for passengers and cargo alike. The cabin is roomy enough for five adults, while the trunk offers 14.9 cubic feet of storage.
The interior also features tech features like Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth connectivity, and a USB port.
The Versa also has standard safety features such as blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and a rearview camera.
The Nissan Versa is a great option if you’re looking for a reliable car that won’t break the bank. With its spacious interior, tech features, and fuel efficiency, it’s no wonder why it’s one of the best selling cars in California.
17. Hyundai Elantra
Lastly, among the best selling cars in California, the Hyundai Elantra is near the top of the list. This midsize sedan offers plenty of features and dependable performance, making it a great choice for California drivers.
With a comfortable cabin, peppy powertrain, and impressive fuel efficiency, the Elantra has all the features you need for your daily commute.
The Elantra’s exterior design is attractive and sleek, making it stand out from the crowd. Inside the cabin, there’s plenty of room for five adults, and even with a full load of passengers, there’s still plenty of cargo space available.
The interior features high-quality materials and easy-to-use controls, making driving enjoyable. When it comes to performance, the Elantra delivers a satisfying ride.
Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine produces 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, giving it plenty of zip around town.
Regarding fuel economy, the Elantra is one of the most efficient cars in its class, returning an EPA-estimated 32 mpg in combined city and highway driving.
Overall, the Hyundai Elantra is one of the most popular best selling cars in California for a reason. Its combination of style, comfort, performance, and fuel efficiency make it an ideal choice for commuters and families alike.
Whether you’re looking for a reliable daily driver or a stylish sedan for weekend trips, the Elantra is an excellent option.
Conclusion
California leads the nation in car sales and total vehicle registrations. So it makes sense that the Golden State’s top best-selling cars also rank among the most popular cars across America.
In fact, more than 60% of these models are also found in the country’s top best-selling cars list, meaning California residents have excellent taste in automobiles!
Here’s the rundown of best selling cars in California. Ranked from most to least popular…
