10) Mercedes-Benz
Average Interior Score: 8.18/10
I’m sure it comes as no surprise that the venerable German brand Mercedes-Benz made this list. Offering an expansive portfolio of luxury cars, sports cars, and SUVs, Mercedes knows how to deliver enjoyable driving dynamics in a luxury package. But with an extensive lineup, you’re bound to get a few duds. The low-ranking CLA, which earned an interior score of 6.7 out of 10, is one example of why Mercedes isn’t ranked higher on this list.
However, the S-Class proves that when Mercedes gets it right, they get it really right. The S-Class earned an interior score of 9.3 out of 10 and is ranked No. 2 among super luxury cars. It has, arguably, the most attractive cabin in the class and comes standard with various high-tech features (like Mercedes-Benz Mbrace Connect, which allows you to control certain vehicle functions from your phone).
9) Hyundai
Average Interior Score: 8.2/10
Hyundai offers a wide range of cars, SUVs, and hybrids – and their interior scores range from 7.5 to 8.6 out of 10. At the top of list is the Hyundai Elantra. Overall, it ranks fourth among compact cars, but its interior score is tied for first with the top-ranking Kia Soul.
The Elantra is offered in sedan and hatchback variants. Both body styles come standard with cloth upholstery, a six-speaker audio system, and Bluetooth connectivity. Although cloth and plastic materials are standard throughout, the Elantra features an attractive cabin design. The interior materials may be less expensive, but they are by no means cheap.
8) Porsche
Average Interior Score: 8.29/10
Porsche is known for offering the best-of-the-best luxury sports cars and luxury SUVs. They’re fun to drive and offer an identifiable exterior aesthetic. However, their refined interiors are also worth a mention.
All of Porsche’s interiors score at least an 8.0 out of 10. The Boxster and Panamera come out on top, each earning an 8.6 out of 10. Both vehicles are ranked No. 1 in their respective classes (luxury sports cars and super luxury cars). They each offer leather upholstery, 14-way power seats, and touch-screen infotainment systems. Additionally, their interiors reflect iconic Porsche styling, which helps them stand out in their competitive classes.
6) Volvo (tie)
Average Interior Score: 8.38/10
Although Volvo doesn’t offer as many vehicles in their lineup as some other luxury manufacturers, their position in this ranking proves that they value quality over quantity.
The S90 is one of Volvo’s highest-ranking vehicles, when analyzing interior scores. It earned an interior score of 8.8 out of 10 because it features a stunning design, quality materials, and top-of-the-line tech.
The XC90 has the same interior score as the S90. That high interior score reflects its equally impressive interior design, top-notch materials, and roomy cabin.
6) Honda (tie)
Average Interior Score: 8.38/10
Honda may not come to mind when you think “nice interiors,” but a majority of their vehicles are high-ranking and their interiors reflect that.
With the addition of the Chrysler Pacifica to the minivan segment, the redesigned Honda Odyssey had a lot to prove when it burst onto the scene this year. However, it does not disappoint – especially where the interior is concerned. The Odyssey earned a 9.0 out of 10 for its interior, making it the minivan with the nicest interior in the class. It’s appointed in soft-touch materials, and the dashboard is efficiently laid out. It also offers family-friendly features like Magic Slide, which allows the second-row seats to slide laterally, backward, and forward to customize seating options.
5) Kia
Average Interior Score: 8.39/10
Kia offers a wide range of cars and SUVs in their lineup. And although Kia is known for affordability and reliability, they also stand out in terms of interior refinement and interior features.
The Optima, Optima Hybrid, and Soul earn the best interior scores (8.6 out of 10). The Optima Hybrid and Optima, which are essentially identical inside, set themselves apart with their spacious interior and attractive interior details (like double stitching on the dashboard).
The Kia Soul offers one thing many other compact cars don’t: as much cargo space as some compact SUVs. Its unique box shape also allows plenty of headroom for passengers to spread out. Additionally, it offers a competitive list of standard features, like Bluetooth connectivity and a USB port.
4) Chrysler
Average Interior Score: 8.43/10
Although Chrysler only offers the 300 and Pacifica (and the hybrid variant of the Pacifica, which we rank separately), each of their interiors stand out in their respective classes. The Chrysler 300 earns an interior score of 8.5 out of 10, tied for the second-best interior score in the large car class. But the Pacifica is what sets Chrysler apart.
Earning an interior score of 8.9 out of 10, the Pacifica’s interior only falls short of the Honda Odyssey’s. The Pacifica’s interior is spacious, comfortable, comes with a long list of family-friendly tech features, and offers unique storage options. It comes standard with a 7-inch touch-screen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluetooth, and Uconnect Access, not to mention one of Chrysler’s most noteworthy features: the Stow ‘n Go seating system, which allows the second-row seats to fold into the floor so you won’t have to remove them when hauling large items.
3) GMC
Average Interior Score: 8.46/10
GMC features three SUVs and two pickup trucks in their lineup, and although their entire lineup technically consists of “utilitarian” vehicles, they offer the nicest interiors among all affordable brands.
GMC’s full-size pickup truck, the Sierra 1500, earns the highest interior score, an 8.8 out of 10. The base trim is attractive, well-built, and spacious. You’ll get an array of standard tech features, including a six-speaker sound system, a USB port, and a 7-inch touch-screen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Move up to higher trims and the interior is borderline luxurious.
2) Audi
Average Interior Score: 8.5/10
Audi makes several luxury cars and SUVs that top our rankings. The A4 and A5 earn the highest interior scores – 9.1 and 9.0, respectively.
The A4 comes standard with leather upholstery, eight-way power front seats, and heated front seats. The front seats are very spacious, and there is plenty of room for two adults in the back. The A4 also features plenty of infotainment tech. A 7-inch touch screen, Apple Carplay and Android Auto, two USB ports, and the MMI infotainment system are just a few of the standard features.
1) Genesis
Average Interior Score: 8.7/10
Hyundai’s luxury brand, Genesis, tops our rankings for the brand with the best interior. Although the brand only boasts two cars, the G90 and G80, their interiors are top-notch. The G80 earns an impressive interior score of 8.7 out of 10, and the G90’s score is even higher. The G90’s interior score of 9.3 out of 10 reflects its luxurious and spacious cabin.
The G90’s cabin is appointed with standard Nappa leather and wood trim. It’s quite spacious, with plenty of room for passengers in the front and back. In regards to infotainment tech, the G90 doesn’t disappoint. A 17-speaker Lexicon surround system, wireless device charging, a full-color head-up display, and a 12.3-inch touch screen are just a few of the standard features.
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These Brands Have the Nicest Interiors in U.S. News Rankings
Recently, U.S News ranked the Best Brands on the market right now. We compared all of the vehicles in our rankings and analyzed which brands offer the best cars, SUVs, and trucks. However, if you’re a shopper who prioritizes the look, feel, and functionality of a car’s interior, then this ranking will help you narrow down which brand is right for you.
If you’re in the market for a luxury vehicle, our No. 1-ranked brand with the best interior offers a good mix of refinement and functionality. Perhaps a more affordable vehicle is the right fit for you. Both Chrysler and GMC rank near the top and offer comfortable interiors and affordable price tags.
No matter your price range, if a nice interior is important to you, start by finding a brand that meets your needs. Read on to see which brands have the nicest interiors.