If you’ve ever heard anyone wax on and on about the legendary status of LA traffic, then you’ll know that the best cars for Los Angeles are the ones that are well-rounded and can survive some pretty tough environments. And, let’s be honest, LA cares about looks, too, so we aren’t talking about purely functional vehicles here. That would be a tall order under any circumstances, but factor in that epic SoCal sun, and you have yourself quite a tall order when it comes to what to drive. Fortunately, I’m here to help with my selection of the best cars for Los Angeles.
Top Pick in Best Cars for Los Angeles: Hyundai Genesis Coupe
You know what people say when they see this car? They say “whoa,” and with good reason – the Hyundai Genesis Coupe is a stunner. It has curves, clean lines, and a sleekness that was, frankly, a bit unexpected coming from Hyundai. But the sophisticated look of the car is just the beginning; this rear-wheel drive car has “true sports car DNA,” according to US News, and comes with the option of a V6 engine for added punch. For the sunny city lights of LA, why not get your flash at a more affordable price, without skimping on the kind of performance that will turn more than a few heads on Robertson Blvd. The Genesis is the automotive world’s equivalent of an ingénue, so what better lady for the pavement than a fresh-faced one with great reviews?
First Runner-Up in Best Cars for Los Angeles: Honda Insight
Considering the intensely high cost of owning a car in LA (the shoe prices have nothing on the gas prices), when you mention fuel economy to an Angelino, you are speaking the right language. The Honda Insight is a hybrid that passes the California emissions standards with flying colors, and gets an estimated 41 city/44 hwy MPG. The Insight is also a small car, meaning it stays nimble between other cars, and isn’t a gas-guzzling solution to the lack of LA public transit. As a matter of fact, the Insight is one of THE most fuel efficient cars on the market, hence it’s addition to my best cars for Los Angeles list, and, if you’re an Angelino, the one that will show you plenty of bang for that hard-earned American buck.
Second Runner-Up in Best Cars for Los Angeles: Volvo C30
The inventive styling of the Volvo C30 certainly caught my eye, but it wasn’t enough to land it on my list of best cars for Los Angeles. The glass hatch gives it a bit of a throwback styling, with classy lines that are for more than just utility, but Volvo has long been the symbol of upscale comfort, which is of paramount importance if you sit in more than two hours of traffic on your daily commute. The interior also pleases, with high-quality materials and tech options that will keep you entertained in gridlock, like Bluetooth, HD radio, USB port, and steering mounted audio controls so you never have to take your eyes off that stop-and-go traffic. Safety first!
