Consumer Reports has released its list of its best and worst cars from the 2015 model year that includes Ford's aluminum-heavy F-150 pickup among the top models.

The publication, which is known for its independent testing and purchases vehicles to evaluate on a longer-term basis, named eight nameplates to its best list, including the Volkswagen Golf, Volkswagen GTI, F-150, Mercedes-Benz C-Class, Porsche Macan, Subaru Legacy, Kia Sorento, and Subaru Outback.

Consumer Reports called the revamped F-150 "a major evolution" with its reduction of 700 pounds by heavily incorporating aluminum into the body and said the 2.7-liter V-6 turbo is "stunning."

Mercedes-Benz also won plaudits for its C-Class redesign, saying the "opulent interior styling and rich materials" deliver a luxurious feel. The C300 is a "gratifying balance of cushy ride and agile handling."

The Legacy mid-size sedan "injects some personality into a great all-around sedan" and offers "roominess, functionality, and a reasonable price," according to Consumer Reports. The outlet singled out the Outback as "our choice for a capable winter-ready vehicle."

Consumer Reports also named four vehicles it considers the worst cars of 2015, including the Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan, Land Rover Discovery Sport compact SUV, Lexus NX 200t/300h compact SUV, and Kia Sedona minivan.

The outlet singled out the Chrysler 200 for "a raspy four-cylinder engine" among other elements. The Lexus NX includes "some interior bits [that] feel cheap." Evaluators didn't like the Sedona's "stiff, pounding ride," while the Discovery Sport offers an engine that "seems flat-footed."

Read the outlet's full report here.