Recently, the narrative surrounding the auto industry’s top stock picks has focused on which company can perfect the electric car. That question may be the wrong one to focus on for investors, however. Discussing electric car companies alongside traditional automakers is like comparing luxury restaurants to grocery stores. Customers can get food at both, but grocery stores are a more sustainable option for the vast majority of people.

The correct answer for picking automotive stocks lies in companies that provide the most value to the most consumers. Though that answer may not be as exciting as the electric car industry, it does provide for more affordable investing.

To truly classify a car stock as a top pick, its market performance should be as reliable as its products. Here are three automotive industry top stock picks rooted in accessibility and customer satisfaction to help round out your portfolio.

Honda Motor (HMC)

Through diversification and commitment to quality, Honda Motor (NYSE:HMC) has become one of the most reputable car brands in the world. This reputation usually comes with a lower price tag than competing brands with similar offerings. Unlike more classically luxurious brands, its commitment to durability has helped its vehicles stay viable for over 200,000 miles after being built, on average.

Yet, it’s not just that these cars last for a long time, it’s that they do so while being relatively inexpensive to maintain. The reason for this stems from Honda’s design simplicity and part commonalities that allow for replacement part mass production. By keeping production costs low, Honda prices the car more reasonably than competitors while offering plenty of features.

Its 5% market share of consumer vehicles worldwide, paired with substantial motorcycle sales has made Honda stock a strong contender. Thanks to this approach, Honda enjoys stable financial performance and a Moderate Buy rating.

BMW (BMWYY)

While value can sometimes be subjective, the sheer money BMW (OTCMKTS:BMWYY) devotes to driver experience defines its approach to value. Though not considered affordable to own and maintain, BMWs hold a reputation for delivering superb vehicle performance. BMW knows this and caters to the types of drivers who care about enjoying their driving more than cost-effectiveness.

That focus on the luxury market has taken BMW from a high-quality German import to a continuously innovating pure luxury brand. Customers and investors alike can observe this in the way the company has shaped itself as a brand. Gone are the days of high-speed racing cars, as BMWs now represent the height of luxury.

Furthermore, BMW has committed to at least half of newly manufactured vehicles being electric by 2030. By focusing on constantly progressing the driving experience, BMW remains a Moderate Buy and one of the top stock picks among car companies.

Toyota Motor (TM)

The Rise of Toyota: A Driving Force in the Stock Market

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Toyota Motor Corporation (NYSE:TM) is driving into the future with a fleet of the fastest-selling car models worldwide. Toyota’s domination in passenger vehicle sales not only highlights its market supremacy but also underscores the ceaseless evolution of its designs and offerings, setting the standard for quality and overall customer appeal.

Driving into the Future

Toyota has recently announced the launch of its new 2025 Camry model, emphasizing the company’s emphasis on hybrid-electric vehicles and signaling a promising trajectory for the company’s stock. The latest Camry incorporates enhancements that underscore Toyota’s commitment to hybrid-electric technology, charting a bright future for the company’s stock. This is evident in the Toyota Hybrid System 5, which integrates top-notch electric motor performance while maintaining practicality.

Paving the Way for Success

By prioritizing functionality and competitive pricing, Toyota maintains its position as a top stock pick in the automotive industry. Whether aspiring car owners seek a new vehicle or investors seek a promising stock, Toyota stands out as a compelling option.

On the date of publication, Viktor Zarev did not hold (either directly or indirectly) any positions in the securities mentioned in this article. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer, subject to the InvestorPlace.com Publishing Guidelines.