5 Best Cars of 2016: Expert Reviews Inside Now

Remember the buzz around the new cars in 2016? It felt like every manufacturer was rolling out something exciting! But if you are looking to buy a Car from that year now, you face a different kind of challenge. So many models hit the market, each boasting new features and styles. It can feel overwhelming trying to figure out which 2016 car truly fits your needs and budget today.

Choosing a used car from a specific year, like 2016, brings up real worries. Will it have the latest safety tech? Is it reliable now that it has a few years on the road? You want a great deal, but you do not want hidden problems. We understand that confusion, and we know you want a smart purchase.

This post cuts through the noise. We will break down the best and worst of the 2016 vehicle lineup. You will learn which models stood out for reliability and which ones might cost you more in repairs down the line. By the end, you will have clear information to confidently target the perfect 2016 car for you.

Top Car 2016 Recommendations

Bestseller No. 1
duPont REGISTRY Exoctic Car 2016 Buyers Guide
  • duPont REGISTRY (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 128 Pages - 01/01/2015 (Publication Date) - duPont Publishing (Publisher)
Bestseller No. 2
Fast Car Driving Extreme 2016
  • Features:
  • Amazing Graphics
  • Realistic Car Physics
  • Incredible sounds
  • Awesome effects
Bestseller No. 4
ZOUHOE Wireless CarPlay Adapter– Android Auto Wireless Adapter, 5.8GHz Wi-Fi Plug & Play,Mini and Stable iOS 10+/Android 10+, Fast Auto-Connect for Cars 2016+ (1Pcs)
  • DUAL-SYSTEM WIRELESS ADAPTER FOR APPLE & ANDROID:Easily convert your factory-wired CarPlay and Android Auto into a completely wireless experience. Say goodbye to tangled cables and enjoy seamless control of navigation, calls, music, messages, and Siri right from your dashboard.
  • PLUG & PLAY IN 3 SECONDS – AUTO RECONNECT:Simply plug the adapter into your car’s USB port and pair it once—no app, no updates required. After the first setup, it will automatically reconnect, even if your phone is in your pocket or bag.Start your engine and enjoy zero-lag wireless CarPlay instantly.
  • 5.8GHZ WI-FI + BLUETOOTH 5.3 – ULTRA-STABLE PERFORMANCE:Equipped with advanced 5.8GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.3, and a next-gen 8A chip, this CarPlay wireless adapter delivers 5× faster speed and stronger stability than standard dongles. Enjoy smooth navigation, streaming, and clear calls—even on long drives or in extreme temperatures.
  • MINI SIZE, LIGHTWEIGHT & SIGNAL-FRIENDLY DESIGN:Made with automotive-grade polymer, it is compact and lightweight while ensuring strong wireless signal transmission, avoiding the connection issues that can occur with full metal casings. It also features both USB-C and USB-A ports for broad compatibility with a wide range of vehicles.
  • WIDE COMPATIBILITY – SUPPORTS 800+ CAR MODELS:Compatible with iPhone (iOS 10+) and Android (Android 10+), this wireless dongle supports over 800 vehicles from 2016 and newer. Only works with vehicles equipped with OEM wired CarPlay or Android Auto.
SaleBestseller No. 5
Camaro 2016: Chevrolet's Modern Performance Car
  • Hardcover Book
  • Edsall, Larry (Author)
  • English (Publication Language)
  • 160 Pages - 08/01/2016 (Publication Date) - Motorbooks (Publisher)
Bestseller No. 6
Versa Tags 2016 Oval Model Year Car Dealer Window Stickers Proudly Made in The USA Versa Oval Model Windshield Year Stickers are Red and Yellow in Color Come Twelve (12) to A Pack
  • 2016 oval model year stickers for car dealers are packaged twelve (12) in a shrink-wrapped pack, Versa model year oval window stickers hold securely and are easily removed when making a sale or delivery.
  • Versa oval 4-digit year stickers measure 5 ½ by 14 inches, The oval shape is eye-catching and the stickers are made from durable vinyl that will withstand the element
  • Versa-Tags model year windshield stickers are brightly colored and screen printed right here in the USA so you know our oval year stickers and all of our dealer supplies are American-made quality you have come to expect.
  • Versa Tags has been manufacturing auto dealer supplies in the US for over 50 years, our oval-year car stickers are no different. We focus on quality while still maintaining affordability over the others who import theirs.
  • If you are looking for a way to promote your dealership and show your pride in American-made products, Versa oval model year car dealer stickers are the way to go.
SaleBestseller No. 7
YJLUUJL Carplay Wireless Adapter for Apple iPhone - Convert Wired to Wireless Bluetooth Car Play Adapters for Cars from 2016 and iOS 10+, No Latency,Plug and Play Easy Use, Mini USB Type A Black
  • Plug and Play Easy to Operate:Your ultimate driving assistant - The compatible with CarPlay wireless adapter (CP1:car--play-kits)requires no additional apps or software—just one word, one touch, and one knob to effortlessly control your Car Play. Save at least 50% of your time,powered by lightning-fast connectivity and ultra-low latency of under 1s, such as navigation, music playing, Siri assistant, phone calls, radio etc.
  • 2025 Upgraded Wireless CarPlay Adapter for iPhone: Equipped with 5.8GHz WiFi and Bluetooth 5.3,for apple carplay wireless adapter utilizes Bluetooth and WiFi wireless transmission adaptive frequency hopping technology ensures more stable,faster and lower interference, delivering clear music streaming, calls, and highly responsive navigation.This ensures a noticeably faster, more reliable, and enjoyable Car Play experience throughout your drive
  • Compact and Lightweight: 50% smaller than competitors, our mini usb carplay wireless adapter features a flame-retardant AEC-certified shell and a USB port tested for 10,000+ insertions. Built to withstand extreme car temperatures and vibrations while keeping your dashboard clutter-free
  • Universal Compatibility:This car play wireless adapter is not compatible with vehicles that do not already support wired Car Play.It supports over 800 car models, encompassing major automotive brands and popular vehicles. Only supports cars with wired carplay from 2016 onwards.(Please Note: Not supported currently BMW/Tesla/Jeep compass/Honda civic/Toyota Corolla/Nofactory wired Carplay cars.Not recommended for 2016-2020 Nissan cars.)Only Supports iPhone 6 of iOS 10 system or higher ( Not for Android phones).Does not support YouTube and Netflix video playback. Not work with heads-up display & driver screen
  • Best Gift Choice & Support: This wired to wireless carplay adapter for apple will be the great gifts choice to show your care to your families, lover, or friends on Mother's Day, Valentine's Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year, Birthday or other special occasions.Please Note:① Not supported currently for BMW/for Tesla/for Jeep compass/for Honda civic/for Toyota Corolla/No factory wired Carplay cars②2016-2020 for Nissan models require a USB Y-splitter cable. If you have any questions, our expert team is available 24/7 to assist you. Backed by our 24-months friendly customer support, get this wireless carplay adapter for car risk free
Bestseller No. 8
Car Stereo for Dodge RAM 1500 2500 3500 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 with Wireless CarPlay and Android Auto,9'' Android 13 Touch Screen Radio Replacement,2G Ram 32G ROM(Only fit Manual AC)
  • [Applicable Models]:Android Car Stereo compatible with Dodge Ram 1500 2500 3500 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018(Only fit Manual AC).Please check the year, dimensions, and shape of the center console of your vehicles before purchasing.
  • [Wireless Apple Carplay & Android Auto]:Dodge Ram 1500 radio supports Apple Carplay and Android Auto.Simply connect your phone to your Android car radio via Wifi and Bluetooth, and you'll be able to access your phone's apps directly from your car stereo. You can focus on driving while wirelessly accessing features like map navigation, answering calls, playing music and more.
  • [Bluetooth Handsfree& FM/AM Radio]:Dodge ram stereo radio supports Bluetooth voice control, just say commands such as "play music", "GPS navigation" or "make a call". You will not be distracted while driving, making the journey safer.The FM radio is preset with 18 stations, you can listen to your favorite programs at any time.(Sirius XM not supported)
  • [GPS Navigation & WiFi Connect]: Android touch screen radio have built-in offline maps and GPS online maps when connected to Wifi.Car radios can install or remove apps from the app store just like a smartphone, such as Youtube, Facebook,Maps and more.
  • [Android 12 System & EQ Adjust]:Android 12 operating system with 2GB Ram & 32GB Rom,ensures smooth operation and faster response.There are EQ adjust, you can tune into your favorite music sound mode,enjoy a superior music listening experience!

Buying Guide: Choosing Your Ideal 2016 Car

The 2016 model year brought a lot of great cars to the market. Whether you are looking for a reliable commuter, a family hauler, or something fun to drive, this guide will help you pick the right one. We focus on what matters most when buying a used 2016 vehicle.

Key Features to Look For

When checking out a 2016 car, certain features really stand out. These details can affect your daily driving experience a lot.

Infotainment and Connectivity

  • Touchscreen Size: Larger screens (usually 7 inches or more) are easier to use. Check if it supports Apple CarPlay or Android Auto; this lets you use your phone safely through the car’s screen.
  • Bluetooth: Ensure Bluetooth connects easily for hands-free calls.

Safety Technology

Safety features were becoming very common in 2016. Look for cars equipped with:

  • Backup Camera: A backup camera is a must-have for easier parking.
  • Blind Spot Monitoring: This system warns you if a car is hidden in your side mirror blind spots.
  • Forward Collision Warning: Some higher trims included systems that warned the driver if a crash seemed likely.

Engine Performance and Fuel Economy

Decide if you need power or savings. Some 2016 models offer turbocharged four-cylinder engines for better gas mileage. Others have V6 engines for quicker acceleration. Always check the EPA fuel economy ratings for the specific engine in the car you are viewing.

Important Materials and Build Quality

The materials inside and outside the car tell you a lot about how long it will last and how nice it feels.

Interior Materials

  • Cloth vs. Leather: Cloth seats are durable and easier to clean if spills happen. Leather seats look nicer but can crack if not maintained. Check for rips or heavy wear on both.
  • Plastics: Feel the dashboard and door panels. Hard, cheap-feeling plastics often mean the interior quality is lower. Softer-touch materials generally signal a better-built cabin.

Exterior Durability

Examine the paint. Strong, deep paint jobs usually mean the car was cared for. Look closely at the metal panels underneath the car (the frame) for excessive rust, especially if the car came from a snowy region.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

A car’s history greatly impacts its current condition.

Quality Boosters

  • Maintenance Records: A complete history showing regular oil changes and scheduled services significantly improves the car’s quality score.
  • One Owner: Cars owned by only one person often show more consistent care.

Quality Reducers

  • Flood Damage: Never buy a car that has been in a major flood. This damage is often hidden and causes electrical problems later.
  • Heavy Wear and Tear: Excessive brake dust, deeply stained carpets, or many small dents show the previous owner did not take good care of the vehicle.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about how you plan to use the car every day.

Commuting and City Driving

For city drivers, maneuverability is key. Smaller SUVs or compact sedans from 2016 are great. They offer good visibility and are easy to parallel park. Fuel economy should be a top priority here.

Family Use

If you carry kids, look at the back seat space. Can you fit two large car seats comfortably? Does the trunk hold strollers easily? Minivans and mid-size SUVs were excellent choices in 2016 for families.

Road Trips and Performance

If you drive long distances, you need comfort. Look for cars with supportive seats and quiet cabins. Powerful engines are useful for passing on the highway. Test drive the car at highway speeds to check for excessive road noise.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Buying a 2016 Car

Q: What is the average expected lifespan left for a 2016 model?

A: If properly maintained, most 2016 cars should easily last another 8 to 10 years, or around 100,000 to 150,000 more miles.

Q: Should I worry about the transmission on a 2016 model?

A: Check the transmission fluid condition during inspection. If it feels jerky or hesitates when shifting gears, the transmission might need repair soon.

Q: Which 2016 vehicles are known for the best reliability?

A: Generally, models from Honda, Toyota, and Mazda from the 2016 year often score very high in long-term reliability ratings.

Q: Are the infotainment systems in 2016 cars slow compared to new cars?

A: Yes, they can feel slower. The processors were less powerful than today’s technology, so expect slightly longer loading times when using navigation or Bluetooth.

Q: What is a good price range to expect for a popular 2016 sedan?

A: Pricing varies greatly by mileage and condition, but generally, a well-kept 2016 mid-size sedan might cost between $12,000 and $18,000.

Q: Do 2016 cars have mandatory backup cameras?

A: Yes, the US government required all new cars sold in 2018 to have backup cameras. Many 2016 models already included them as standard or optional equipment.

Q: How important is checking the timing belt on a 2016 engine?

A: If the car has a timing chain, you usually do not need to worry about replacement. If it uses a timing belt, check the service history to see if it was replaced around 90,000 to 100,000 miles.

Q: Should I buy a 2016 model or wait for a newer used car?

A: Buying a 2016 model saves you significant money on depreciation. If the maintenance history is clean, it offers great value over a much newer car.

Q: What is the typical mileage I should expect on a 2016 model today?

A: Since the car is about 8 years old, average mileage is usually between 80,000 and 110,000 miles. Lower mileage is always better.

Q: Are there any known major recalls for 2016 vehicles?

A: Recalls vary by manufacturer (like specific airbag issues or ignition switch problems). Always check the specific Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) on the NHTSA website to see if any recalls affect that exact car.

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