Top Sedans of 2024: Carly Gregg’s Picks
The sedan segment continues to evolve in 2024, blending performance, luxury, and practicality in ways that challenge conventional thinking about four-door vehicles. After extensive testing and real-world evaluation, we’ve compiled a definitive list of sedans that deserve your attention this year. Whether you’re prioritizing fuel efficiency, cutting-edge technology, or pure driving dynamics, these vehicles represent the best the segment has to offer.
At Carly Gregg’s automotive desk, we’ve spent countless hours behind the wheel, analyzing specifications, comparing performance metrics, and evaluating real-world ownership experiences. This guide reflects that dedication to helping you find the perfect sedan for your lifestyle and budget.
BMW M440i xDrive: Performance Perfection
The BMW M440i xDrive represents a masterclass in balanced performance for 2024. This four-door powerhouse delivers 382 horsepower from its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine, translating to zero-to-sixty acceleration in just 4.4 seconds. The xDrive all-wheel-drive system ensures confident handling regardless of weather conditions, while the M Sport suspension package provides the kind of responsive steering that makes daily commutes feel like track days.
What sets the M440i apart is its versatility. The rear seats offer genuinely comfortable accommodation for passengers, and the trunk provides 17.7 cubic feet of cargo space—practical for weekend getaways or business trips. The BMW ConnectedDrive technology suite integrates seamlessly with smartphones, offering navigation, climate control, and vehicle diagnostics from anywhere. The iDrive 8 infotainment system, while initially complex, becomes intuitive after a few days of use.
Fuel economy sits at approximately 24 mpg city and 33 mpg highway for the manual transmission model, respectable figures for a turbocharged performance sedan. The M440i’s starting price hovers around $65,000, positioning it as a premium option but one that delivers tangible performance benefits. For those interested in maintaining BMW vehicles properly, regular servicing at authorized dealers ensures longevity and warranty coverage.
Mercedes-AMG C63: Luxury Meets Power
The Mercedes-AMG C63 stands as a cornerstone of the luxury performance sedan market. With a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor and integrated starter-generator, the C63 produces 402 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque. The nine-speed automatic transmission delivers gear changes with surgical precision, while the AMG-tuned suspension provides a ride quality that feels both sporty and refined.
Interior craftsmanship elevates the C63 beyond mere specification sheets. Nappa leather appointments, ambient lighting with 64-color options, and the latest MBUX infotainment system create an atmosphere of understated luxury. The digital driver’s display adapts to driving modes, shifting from elegant to aggressive depending on whether you’re cruising highways or attacking mountain roads. Passenger comfort is prioritized without sacrificing performance credentials.
The C63’s estimated fuel economy reaches 23 mpg city and 31 mpg highway, competitive for its power output and weight. Pricing starts near $67,000, reflecting the engineering excellence and brand prestige Mercedes-Benz commands. The vehicle’s construction emphasizes precision manufacturing, with panel gaps measured in tenths of millimeters and every control surface engineered for tactile feedback.
According to MotorTrend’s comprehensive testing, the C63 consistently achieves sub-4-second zero-to-sixty times in real-world conditions, validating its performance credentials. The AMG Dynamic Plus package adds even more aggressive tuning for drivers seeking maximum capability.
Tesla Model 3 Long Range: Electric Excellence
The Tesla Model 3 Long Range has revolutionized sedan expectations for 2024, proving that electric propulsion can deliver performance, efficiency, and practicality simultaneously. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive system produces 358 horsepower, achieving zero-to-sixty in 4.2 seconds with remarkable consistency. The low center of gravity from floor-mounted battery packs provides handling characteristics that rival dedicated sports cars.
Range capability represents a major selling point: the Long Range variant achieves 341 miles per full charge under EPA testing conditions, alleviating range anxiety for most daily driving scenarios. The Supercharger network continues expanding, offering 10-80% charges in approximately 25 minutes on compatible hardware. Home charging via a Wall Connector provides convenient overnight replenishment, while standard Level 2 charging works with most residential electrical systems.
The Model 3’s interior embraces minimalist design philosophy, featuring a massive 15.4-inch touchscreen that controls virtually all vehicle functions. The steering yoke, available on higher trims, represents a bold departure from conventional controls but offers improved visibility and a modern aesthetic. Autopilot capability, while requiring attentive driver supervision, provides genuine assistance during highway driving and parking scenarios.
Pricing for the Long Range model starts around $47,000, making it significantly more affordable than conventional luxury sedans with comparable performance. Operating costs remain minimal—electricity costs approximately one-third the expense of gasoline, while maintenance requirements are dramatically reduced due to regenerative braking and the absence of traditional transmissions.
The EPA fuel economy ratings for the Model 3 Long Range calculate to 132 mpge (miles per gallon equivalent), a remarkable efficiency metric. For environmentally conscious buyers, the vehicle’s manufacturing carbon footprint is offset within two years of typical driving, according to lifecycle analysis studies.
Honda Accord: Practical Refinement
The Honda Accord represents the sedan segment’s practical heart, combining reliability, efficiency, and affordability in a package that appeals to mainstream buyers. The 2024 model year introduces a refreshed design with sharper styling, improved interior ergonomics, and enhanced safety technology. Two engine options serve different priorities: a 1.5-liter turbocharged three-cylinder delivering 180 horsepower, or a naturally aspirated 2.0-liter four-cylinder producing 201 horsepower.
Real-world fuel economy for the turbocharged model reaches approximately 33 mpg city and 42 mpg highway with the continuously variable transmission, among the best figures in the mid-size sedan category. The naturally aspirated variant achieves similar numbers while offering smoother power delivery and superior reliability characteristics. Both engines pair with Honda’s proven transmission technology, known for durability spanning 200,000+ miles with proper maintenance.
Interior space surpasses many competitors, with 38.3 inches of rear legroom and a 16.7 cubic-foot trunk accommodating family trips and cargo needs. The infotainment system offers Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing seamless smartphone connectivity. Safety technology includes adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, and collision mitigation braking as standard equipment across all trim levels.
Pricing starts below $35,000 for base models, making the Accord accessible to first-time sedan buyers and those prioritizing value. The vehicle’s reputation for longevity and low repair costs makes it an excellent choice for buyers planning to keep their vehicles 10+ years. Honda’s dealer network ensures convenient service availability nationwide, and parts commonality with other Honda models keeps maintenance costs minimal.
For those considering DIY maintenance projects like brake pad replacement, the Accord’s straightforward design makes such tasks accessible to owners with basic mechanical aptitude. The vehicle’s engineering emphasizes serviceability alongside performance.
Lexus ES 500: Reliability and Elegance
The Lexus ES 500 combines the luxury brand’s legendary reliability with contemporary design language and powertrain technology. A 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 produces 349 horsepower, delivering smooth acceleration without the harshness sometimes associated with turbocharged engines. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts with barely perceptible transitions, maintaining the serene driving experience Lexus customers expect.
The ES 500’s interior represents peak refinement, with quilted leather seating surfaces, wood trim options, and ambient lighting that creates an atmosphere of sophisticated luxury. The 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while not cutting-edge, prioritizes intuitive operation over flashy graphics. Climate zones allow front and rear passengers to maintain independent temperature preferences, a feature that eliminates thermostat wars on long drives.
Fuel economy estimates reach 23 mpg city and 32 mpg highway, respectable for a turbocharged V6 in a luxury sedan. The hybrid ES 350 variant achieves superior efficiency at 26 mpg city and 35 mpg highway, providing an alternative for buyers prioritizing fuel economy. Pricing for the ES 500 begins around $49,000, positioning it between the Honda Accord and premium German sport sedans.
Lexus’s reputation for reliability is well-earned, with many vehicles routinely exceeding 200,000 miles with minimal repairs beyond routine maintenance. The brand’s warranty coverage extends beyond typical industry standards, offering peace of mind for buyers. Service intervals stretch to 10,000 miles, reducing maintenance frequency compared to many competitors.
The ES 500’s appeal lies in its commitment to comfort and dependability over flashy performance or cutting-edge technology. For buyers valuing a refined driving experience, quiet cabin ambiance, and the confidence of owning a vehicle with proven longevity, the ES 500 delivers exceptional value within the luxury sedan market.
Choosing Your Perfect Sedan
Selecting the ideal sedan requires evaluating your priorities across multiple dimensions: performance capability, fuel efficiency, technology integration, luxury level, and long-term ownership costs. The BMW M440i xDrive excels for drivers prioritizing dynamic handling and turbocharged power, while the Mercedes-AMG C63 appeals to those seeking maximum luxury appointments alongside performance.
For environmentally conscious buyers or those minimizing fuel costs, the Tesla Model 3 Long Range offers unmatched efficiency and operating economy. The Honda Accord serves buyers valuing practicality, reliability, and affordability without compromise. The Lexus ES 500 satisfies those seeking refined luxury with proven dependability.
Consider your typical driving patterns: highway commutes favor efficiency-focused models, while spirited driving benefits from performance-oriented vehicles. Family needs might prioritize rear seat space and cargo capacity, while solo drivers can prioritize sportiness. Budget constraints naturally influence your selection, though the range from $35,000 to $67,000 ensures options across financial parameters.
Test driving multiple vehicles before committing to a purchase is essential. Each sedan presents distinct characteristics in handling, acceleration, comfort, and cabin atmosphere that specifications alone cannot convey. Spend at least 30 minutes behind the wheel on both highway and local roads, evaluating visibility, control responsiveness, and overall driving impression.
For comprehensive insurance considerations and cost planning, understanding insurance coverage options helps establish realistic ownership budgets. Insurance premiums vary significantly between vehicles, with luxury and performance models typically commanding higher rates than mainstream options.
Visit the Drive Pulse Daily Blog for additional sedan reviews, comparisons, and automotive insights that inform purchasing decisions. Our comprehensive coverage examines ownership experiences, reliability data, and real-world performance metrics beyond manufacturer specifications.
FAQ
Which 2024 sedan offers the best fuel economy?
The Honda Accord with turbocharged engine and CVT transmission achieves approximately 42 mpg highway, among the best in the segment. The Tesla Model 3 Long Range surpasses this in efficiency metrics, achieving 132 mpge equivalent, though electricity costs differ from gasoline. The Lexus ES hybrid variant also delivers superior efficiency at 35 mpg highway.
What sedan provides the most performance for the price?
The BMW M440i xDrive delivers 382 horsepower and 4.4-second zero-to-sixty acceleration at approximately $65,000, offering exceptional performance value. The Tesla Model 3 Long Range provides comparable acceleration at a lower price point but emphasizes efficiency over traditional performance metrics. The Mercedes-AMG C63 commands a premium for its luxury appointments and performance combination.
Which sedan is most reliable long-term?
The Lexus ES 500 and Honda Accord both carry reputations for exceptional longevity, with many vehicles surpassing 200,000 miles with proper maintenance. Lexus’s warranty coverage extends beyond typical industry standards, while Honda’s parts availability and dealer network ensure convenient service. BMW and Mercedes vehicles require more specialized maintenance at authorized dealers, potentially increasing long-term costs.
Do 2024 sedans include advanced safety technology?
All vehicles discussed include modern safety features: adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assistance, and collision mitigation braking are standard across trim levels. The Tesla Model 3’s Autopilot system provides additional assistance features, though driver attention remains required. IIHS safety ratings provide independent evaluations of crashworthiness and collision avoidance capabilities across all models.
What is the typical ownership cost for these sedans?
The Honda Accord and Tesla Model 3 offer the lowest ownership costs, with the Accord minimizing maintenance expenses and the Model 3 reducing fuel and service requirements. BMW and Mercedes vehicles command higher maintenance costs due to specialized service requirements and premium parts pricing. Lexus vehicles balance luxury with reasonable operating costs, falling between mainstream and premium brands.
Can I get a 2024 sedan with all-wheel drive?
Yes, all vehicles discussed offer all-wheel-drive options: BMW M440i xDrive comes standard with xDrive, Mercedes-AMG C63 features AMG all-wheel drive, Tesla Model 3 Long Range includes dual-motor all-wheel drive, and Honda Accord offers optional all-wheel drive. Lexus ES 500 provides all-wheel-drive capability on select trims. All-wheel drive improves traction in adverse weather but slightly reduces fuel economy.