Top 7 American car manufacturers in 2022
Since the success of the mass production of the Ford Model T, many different American car manufacturers that have been born (and died). From Ford to Tesla, the amount of innovation in the American car industry has been huge. That being said, not all manufacturers are created equal, so here are the top 7 manufacturers in the American car industry.
7. Jeep
Jeep has always been well known for their box-style Wrangler, but they’ve been dipping their toes into luxury vehicles with the Grand Wagoneer.
In 1940, Jeep was initially used as a wartime vehicle. Since then, it was acquired by Chrysler from the American Motors Company (AMC) in 1987.
Why are they ranked 7 out of the American car manufacturers? Jeeps are notorious for having extensive reliability issues, from death wobble to leaking problems to malfunctions. Cosmetically, Jeeps have been known to be riddled with panel gaps — even on their six figure luxury SUV. Unless you have to money to fix it, there are better options out their in terms of reliability AND affordability.
6. Chrysler
Founded in 1928, Chrysler is one of the first American car manufacturers. They’ve changed their name throughout the past century, starting with Chrysler Corporation and landing on Chrysler Stellantis in 2022. Even though it started as a single manufacturer, Chrysler has become a conglomerate of several manufacturers — Chrysler, Dodge, Ram, Jeep, Mopar, Alfa Romeo and Fiat.
Why are they ranked 6 out of the American car manufacturers? Aside from some reliability concerns, Chryslers are known for their lack-luster quality and uninspiring design. Because of their quality, Chrysler vehicles are readily available on the used car market for affordable prices. Does that make them a good option for people looking for a car? Maybe if it’s a first car for a newly licensed driver.
5. Dodge
Dodge was founded by the Dodge brothers in Detroit in 1900 as the Dodge Brothers Company. Since then, they’ve dropped the “Brother Company” and have separated their “Ram” devision from the main brand. Dodge is a part of the Chrysler conglomerate, shifting their mission from producing all vehicles to strictly performance vehicles. The lineup consists of 3 vehicles, aside for the Ram lineup: The Charger, Challenger and Durango.
Why are they ranked 5 out of the American car manufacturers? Aside from some quality concerns, their three vehicles haven’t had a major refresh in years. They are long overdue for a new look to breathe some life back into the lineup. That being said, the performance of the vehicles is matched only by few, especially with the Challenger Hellcat Redeye making a face-ripping 885 horsepower. If it’s an unchanged American muscle platform your after, then Dodge maybe be a viable choice.
4. GMC
Formerly known as GMC Truck Company, GMC was founded in 1911. It would be later acquired by automotive giant General Motors (GM).
GMC is known for their SUV’s and trucks, as well as the now-famous Hummer EV. Moreover, they are also known for their highest vehicle trim level: Denali. The Denali package contains the most modern safety features and a very nice interior.
Why are they ranked 4 out of the American car manufacturers? GMC is an interesting manufacturer for it being recognized as an almost premium brand. The Denali packages certainly help it get there. GMC trucks are expensive, and with the way trucks maintain value, it’s just as difficult to find an affordable GMC. Along with this, their initiative into exploring electric vehicles shows that there is innovation happening within the company.
3. Cadillac
Cadillac, founded in 1902, is considered GM’s luxury brand. It was founded by the remaining members of the Henry Ford Company after Henry Ford and several other left to start Ford Motor Company.
Cadillac is known for their very recognizable design, as well as the seemingly universal choice of transportation by many celebrities, including the President.
Why are they ranked 3 out of the American car manufacturers? If someone is looking for cheap American luxury experience, then they should look no further than a used Cadillac. Cadillacs are notorious for their depreciation, making it easy to snag a deal. They’ve also have some interesting sport-ier vehicles, like the CT4 and CT5 Blackwing.
2. Chevrolet
Chevrolet was founded in 1911 in Detroit (noticing a trend?) and was created to rival Fords Model T. In 1929, Chevy successfully passed them and became the best-selling car. Today, Chevy offers the whole spectrum of vehicles spanning from compact cars to heavy duty trucks, along with offering gas, electric and hybrid vehicles.
Why are they ranked 2 out of the American car manufacturers? Given Chevrolet’s wide range of vehicle options, that also means there is widespread availability at any price point — new or used. They’re also cheap to fix given the availability of parts.
1. Ford
Ford was founded by Henry Ford in 1903 and is one of the most recognizable automobile manufacturers in the industry. The Ford versus Chevy debate seems to have been going on for decades, but it really comes down to preference. While Ford has discontinued their car space, they continue to make the Mustang along with continuing the Shelby brand. The Ford F-series also continues to dominate the U.S. marketplace as the best selling vehicle.
Why are they ranked 1 out of the American car manufacturers? While they are by no means perfect, Ford has done a great job of making innovative vehicles accessible to the public. Their Ford Mustang Mach-E is quickly becoming a regular electric vehicle to see on the streets. The Ford Maverick has made buying a new truck more affordable (assuming you buy from Ford directly) with a starting price of 21k. Besides that, the heritage of Ford makes it an easy number one on this list.