Best Cars of 2017: Where Are They Now?
Featured Insight
Seven years after their awards, several 2017 winners have become modern classics, while others faded into obscurity. We examine which vehicles stood the test of time.
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The Awards That Defined a Automotive Year
2017 marked a pivotal year in automotive history, with the industry balancing traditional powertrains against emerging electrification. The MotorVero Best Of awards recognized vehicles that excelled in three key criteria: quality, innovation, and value. Today, we revisit these winners with the benefit of hindsight.
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Best of 2017
2017 Chrysler Pacifica
Legacy: Revolutionized minivan segment with hybrid option
Today: Still in production with evolutionary updates
Resale Value: 35% better than segment average
2017 Kia Sportage
Pioneered Kia's design transformation
Current gen remains competitive
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2017 Genesis G90
Marked Genesis as serious luxury contender
Now a benchmark for value luxury
Best Pickup Truck of 2017
2017 Honda Ridgeline
Innovation: Unibody design challenged norms
Today: Niche but loyal following
MPG: Still best in class for midsize trucks
2017 Ford F-150 Raptor
Redefined performance trucks
Current model remains segment king
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2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro
Set standard for off-road midsizers
Still top choice for overlanders
Eco-Friendly Car of the Year
2017 Chevrolet Bolt EV
Range: 238 miles was class-leading
Today: Discontinued after 2023 model year
Legacy: Proved affordable long-range EVs possible
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2017 Toyota Prius
Hybrid benchmark
2025 model remains efficiency leader
2017 Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid
Attempt to mainstream hybrid sedans
Discontinued as market shifted to SUVs
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How the Winners Have Aged: 2024 Perspective
| Vehicle | Reliability | Resale Value | Current Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chrysler Pacifica | Above average | 42% after 5 years | Still in production |
| Honda Ridgeline | Excellent | 48% after 5 years | Still in production |
| Chevrolet Bolt EV | Very good | 35% after 5 years | Discontinued |
| Genesis G90 | Excellent | 39% after 5 years | Redesigned for 2023 |
Most Improved Since 2017
Several nominees evolved remarkably:
- Kia Sportage: Current gen is class leader
- BMW X1: Became sales powerhouse
- Subaru Outback: Refined into premium alternative
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Lessons From the 2017 Award Winners
What Stood the Test of Time
- True innovation lasts: Pacifica's hybrid system still unique
- Segment-definers endure: Ridgeline's approach still relevant
- Quality shows long-term: Genesis G90 established brand credibility
What Didn't Age Well
- Sedans struggled: Malibu Hybrid couldn't fight SUV tide
- Early EVs became obsolete: Bolt's tech quickly surpassed
- Niche players faded: Fiat 124 Spider discontinued
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MotorVero's Verdict
The 2017 award winners reveal how true excellence in automotive design can transcend temporary trends. While some vehicles succumbed to market shifts, those that solved fundamental consumer needs - like the Pacifica's family-friendly innovation or the Ridgeline's practical truck solution - remain relevant years later. As we evaluate today's crop of new vehicles, these 2017 standouts provide valuable lessons about what really constitutes award-worthy automotive excellence.
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