Remember the buzz around new cars back in 2016? It felt like every month brought a fresh, exciting model to the showroom floor. But with so many great options available then, how could anyone truly pick the “Car of the Year”? For anyone looking back now—whether you are buying used or just feeling nostalgic—the sheer volume of choices can still be overwhelming. Deciding which 2016 model truly stood out for its blend of style, performance, and value is tougher than it looks.
The automotive landscape in 2016 was packed with innovation, from sleek new SUVs to game-changing electric vehicles. Navigating the reviews, comparing fuel economy figures, and figuring out which car truly delivered the best overall package can feel like a headache. You want to know which vehicle truly earned the crown and why it mattered.
In this deep dive, we will cut through the noise. We reveal the top contenders that defined 2016 and explain exactly what made the eventual winner so special. Get ready to discover the car that truly set the standard for its time. Let’s explore the best of 2016 and see which machine truly deserves the title!
Top Car Of 2016 Recommendations
- duPont REGISTRY (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 128 Pages - 01/01/2015 (Publication Date) - duPont Publishing (Publisher)
- Features:
- Amazing Graphics
- Realistic Car Physics
- Incredible sounds
- Awesome effects
- Hardcover Book
- Edsall, Larry (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 160 Pages - 08/01/2016 (Publication Date) - Motorbooks (Publisher)
- 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.
- This Street Racing Cars 2016 game consist of 3 games:
- 1) Street Racing Cars 2016 Memory game
- 2) Street Racing Cars 2016 Puzzle game
- 3) Street Racing Cars 2016 Block game
- English (Publication Language)
- 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.
The Ultimate Buying Guide for the 2016 Model Year Car
Buying a used car from 2016 can be a smart move. These vehicles often offer a great balance of modern features and lower prices than brand new models. This guide will help you find the best 2016 car for your needs.
Key Features to Look For in a 2016 Vehicle
When you look at a 2016 model, certain features make a big difference in your driving life. Think about what you need most in a car.
Infotainment and Connectivity
- Touchscreen Systems: Many 2016 cars have basic touchscreen radios. Check if they support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto. This lets you use your phone safely in the car.
- Bluetooth: Make sure the Bluetooth connects easily. Test making a call and playing music.
Safety Technology
Safety is very important. Look for these available features:
- Backup Camera: A backup camera became standard or widely available in 2016. It helps you see behind the car when parking.
- Blind Spot Monitoring (BSM): This feature warns you if a car is hidden in your blind spot. It is great for highway driving.
- Advanced Airbags: Check the car’s safety rating. More airbags mean better protection.
Performance and Engine
Consider the engine size. Do you drive mostly in the city or on long trips?
- Fuel Economy: Look up the EPA gas mileage ratings for that specific model. Better MPG saves you money.
- Transmission Smoothness: Test drive the car. The automatic transmission should shift gears smoothly, without jerking.
Important Materials and Build Quality
The materials inside and outside show how well the car was built. Good materials last longer.
Interior Components
- Seat Fabric: Check cloth seats for rips or heavy stains. Leather seats should not have major cracks. Excessive wear on the driver’s seat shows high mileage.
- Dashboard Plastics: Push gently on the plastic parts of the dashboard. If they feel flimsy or make rattling noises, the quality might be lower.
Exterior Durability
- Paint Condition: Look closely at the paint in bright sunlight. Deep scratches or mismatched paint panels suggest past accidents.
- Rust Spots: Check wheel wells and the bottom edges of doors. Rust severely reduces the car’s value and safety over time.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
A car’s history greatly affects its current quality. A well-cared-for 2016 car drives much better than a neglected one.
Quality Boosters (Good Signs)
- Complete Service Records: If the seller has detailed receipts for oil changes and scheduled maintenance, this is a huge plus. It proves the owner took care of the car.
- One Owner: Often, cars with only one previous owner are better maintained.
Quality Reducers (Warning Signs)
- Salvage Title: Never buy a car with a salvage title unless you are an expert mechanic. This means the car was severely damaged before.
- Smell: Strong smells like smoke or mildew indicate deep cleaning might be needed or there could be water damage.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use the 2016 car matters when making your choice.
Commuting and City Driving
For daily trips to work, you want a smaller, fuel-efficient car. Compact SUVs or sedans from 2016 are perfect. They park easily and sip less gas.
Family Use and Road Trips
If you carry kids or luggage, look at mid-size SUVs or minivans. Make sure the back seats offer enough legroom. Test the cargo area space by loading a couple of suitcases.
Fun Driving
If you enjoy driving, look for models known for good handling, like certain sporty sedans. Test how responsive the steering feels during your test drive.
10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Buying a 2016 Car
Q: What is a good mileage range for a 2016 car?
A: Most 2016 cars should have between 50,000 and 90,000 miles. If it has fewer miles, that is excellent, but expect to pay more.
Q: Are 2016 model cars reliable?
A: Yes, many 2016 models from major brands are known for strong reliability. Check specific reliability ratings for the model you are interested in.
Q: Should I get a mechanic to inspect the car?
A: Absolutely. Always pay an independent mechanic to perform a Pre-Purchase Inspection (PPI). They catch hidden problems.
Q: How important is the original warranty?
A: Most factory warranties from 2016 have expired. You might find some powertrain warranties remaining, but assume you are buying “as-is.”
Q: What common recalls should I check for on 2016 cars?
A: You must check the VIN (Vehicle Identification Number) against the NHTSA website for open recalls. Common issues often involve Takata airbags in older cars.
Q: Is the technology in a 2016 car outdated?
A: The basic features are usually fine. While they might lack the newest giant screens, connectivity like Bluetooth and basic navigation systems work well.
Q: How much should I negotiate the price down?
A: A good starting point is to look at the Kelley Blue Book (KBB) value for your area. Negotiate 5% to 10% below the asking price based on condition.
Q: What kind of maintenance should I do right after buying a 2016 car?
A: Change the oil, check all fluids (coolant, brake fluid), and replace the air filters immediately. This resets the maintenance clock to zero for you.
Q: Are parts easy to find for a 2016 model?
A: Yes. Parts are very easy to find for 2016 models because they share many components with newer cars. Repairs are generally affordable.
Q: Should I prefer a sedan or an SUV from 2016?
A: That depends on your life. Sedans usually have better gas mileage. SUVs offer more height, better visibility, and more cargo flexibility.