When it comes to identifying the standout vehicles of 2024, few voices in the automotive industry carry the credibility and insight of Carly Gregg. As a seasoned automotive journalist and critic, Gregg has spent countless hours behind the wheel, evaluating everything from performance metrics to real-world practicality. Her 2024 selections represent a careful balance of innovation, reliability, value, and driving experience that resonates with both enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
The automotive landscape in 2024 continues to shift dramatically, with electrification, advanced safety technology, and refined powertrains defining the year’s most compelling offerings. Whether you’re in the market for a daily commuter, a weekend performance car, or a family hauler, Carly Gregg’s expert picks provide a roadmap through an increasingly complex vehicle marketplace. This comprehensive guide breaks down her top selections across multiple categories, explaining what makes each vehicle worthy of consideration and how they stack up against their competition.
Why Carly Gregg’s Picks Matter
Carly Gregg brings a unique perspective to automotive evaluation that extends beyond spec sheets and marketing claims. Her reviews are grounded in extensive hands-on experience, covering everything from acceleration and handling to interior ergonomics and long-term reliability prospects. In an era where vehicle complexity continues to increase, her ability to distill meaningful insights helps consumers make informed decisions.
The 2024 model year presented particular challenges and opportunities for manufacturers. Supply chain stabilization allowed for more consistent production, while competitive pressures drove genuine innovation in areas like battery technology, engine efficiency, and autonomous driving capabilities. Gregg’s selections reflect vehicles that not only excel in their respective categories but also represent meaningful advancements in their segments.
Understanding car maintenance tips for beginners becomes especially important when selecting a new vehicle, as ownership costs extend far beyond the initial purchase price. Gregg’s picks factor in long-term ownership value and maintenance accessibility, ensuring her recommendations remain practical for real-world drivers.
Best Overall Vehicle: 2024 BMW M440i xDrive
The BMW M440i xDrive claims Carly Gregg’s top overall pick for 2024, representing a compelling blend of performance, luxury, and everyday usability. This four-door gran coupe delivers a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine producing 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, translating to 0-60 mph acceleration in approximately 4.1 seconds. The intelligent xDrive all-wheel-drive system provides confidence in varying weather conditions while the sport-tuned suspension delivers responsive handling without sacrificing ride quality.
What elevates the M440i beyond pure performance specifications is its cohesive package. The adaptive M suspension automatically adjusts damping rates based on road conditions and driving dynamics, while the responsive steering provides meaningful feedback to the driver. Inside, the cabin features premium leather appointments, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and BMW’s latest iDrive 8 infotainment system with gesture control and wireless smartphone integration.
The M440i achieves EPA estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg city and 30 mpg highway, respectable numbers for a performance-oriented vehicle. Gregg particularly appreciated the vehicle’s versatility, noting that it executes equally well during spirited canyon driving as it does during daily commuting. The trunk provides 17.7 cubic feet of cargo space, sufficient for weekend getaways without compromising the vehicle’s athletic proportions.
Best Electric Vehicle: 2024 Tesla Model S Plaid
Tesla’s Model S Plaid continues to dominate Gregg’s electric vehicle category, thanks to its tri-motor setup delivering an astounding 1,020 horsepower and 0-60 mph acceleration in under 2 seconds. This isn’t merely a numbers game—the Model S Plaid represents a fundamental shift in how performance vehicles can operate, combining instant electric torque delivery with virtually silent operation and minimal maintenance requirements compared to traditional combustion engines.
The 17-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen serves as the command center for virtually all vehicle functions, from climate control to entertainment to drive mode selection. Tesla’s Supercharger network remains unmatched in terms of coverage and charging speed, allowing drivers to add 200+ miles of range in under 20 minutes. The Model S Plaid achieves an EPA estimated range of 359 miles on a full charge, addressing previous concerns about electric vehicle practicality.
Gregg highlighted the Model S Plaid’s advantages of electric vehicles beyond performance metrics. The low center of gravity resulting from floor-mounted battery placement dramatically improves handling characteristics, while regenerative braking reduces wear on the friction brakes themselves. The interior features a minimalist design philosophy with premium materials throughout, and the optional yoke steering wheel provides a unique driving experience.
Safety technology comes standard, including Tesla’s Autopilot system and the company’s Full Self-Driving package (available as an add-on). The Model S Plaid includes eight cameras providing 360-degree visibility, ultrasonic sensors, and forward-facing radar for comprehensive collision avoidance capabilities.
Best Family SUV: 2024 Honda Pilot
For families seeking a three-row SUV combining reliability, practicality, and value, the 2024 Honda Pilot earns Carly Gregg’s recommendation. This midsize SUV seats up to eight passengers across three rows, with the middle row featuring Honda’s Magic Slide second-row seats that collapse and slide forward to maximize third-row legroom. With all seats upright, cargo space totals 16.5 cubic feet, expanding to 83.9 cubic feet with rear seats folded.
The Pilot features a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 280 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with a smooth-shifting 10-speed automatic transmission. Real-time all-wheel drive with intelligent control provides confident handling on various road surfaces, while the adaptive suspension automatically adjusts to road conditions. EPA fuel economy estimates reach 20 mpg city and 27 mpg highway, respectable for a three-row SUV of this size and capability.
Honda’s reliability reputation remains well-earned, and the Pilot exemplifies this commitment to durability. The interior features high-quality materials, intuitive controls, and Honda’s latest infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. The comprehensive safety suite includes automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control as standard equipment across all trim levels.
Gregg particularly appreciated the Pilot’s versatility for different driving scenarios. Whether navigating tight parking lots with its 39.3-foot turning radius or tackling light off-road terrain thanks to its available intelligent traction management system, the Pilot adapts to its driver’s needs without requiring the fuel consumption penalties of larger body-on-frame SUVs.
Best Performance Car: 2024 Chevrolet Corvette Z06
The 2024 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 represents American performance car engineering at its finest, earning Carly Gregg’s top performance vehicle nod. This track-focused variant of the eighth-generation Corvette features a naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V8 engine producing 670 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, the most powerful naturally aspirated engine ever fitted to a production Chevrolet.
The Z06 accelerates from 0-60 mph in 2.6 seconds and reaches a top speed of 210 mph, making it one of the fastest production cars available regardless of price point. The 8-speed dual-clutch transmission delivers lightning-quick shifts with no power interruption, while the mid-engine layout provides near-perfect 50/50 weight distribution for exceptional handling balance. Carbon ceramic brakes provide fade-resistant stopping power, essential when exploring the Z06’s considerable performance envelope.
What distinguishes the Z06 from competitors isn’t merely raw power but comprehensive engineering focused on track performance. Adjustable suspension with multiple drive modes allows drivers to dial in their preferred balance between comfort and responsiveness. The available Z07 performance package adds a massive fixed wing, adjustable front splitter, and Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires specifically designed for maximum track grip.
Gregg praised the Z06’s accessibility—while undeniably a serious performance car, it remains relatively approachable for drivers of varying skill levels. The modern stability control system can be modulated through different levels, allowing progressive exploration of the vehicle’s capabilities. The interior, while driver-focused, includes amenities like a modern infotainment system and comfortable seating for extended driving sessions.
Best Value Pick: 2024 Hyundai Ioniq 6
Hyundai’s Ioniq 6 represents a paradigm shift in electric vehicle value proposition, offering compelling performance and range at a price point significantly below competitors. This sleek sedan features a distinctive fastback roofline and aerodynamic design that yields a 0.22 drag coefficient, contributing to its impressive EPA estimated range of up to 361 miles on the long-range battery.
The Ioniq 6 offers dual powertrain options: a rear-wheel-drive configuration with a single 225-horsepower motor, or an all-wheel-drive variant with dual motors producing 320 horsepower. Acceleration from 0-60 mph ranges from 6.7 seconds (rear-wheel drive) to 4.7 seconds (all-wheel drive), providing satisfying performance without the premium pricing of Tesla or other luxury EV manufacturers. The 84-kWh battery charges from 10% to 80% in just 18 minutes using a 350-kW DC fast charger.
Interior quality surprises for the price point, with a modern dashboard layout featuring a 12.3-inch touchscreen, digital instrument cluster, and supportive seating. The vehicle includes wireless charging for compatible smartphones, a panoramic sunroof on higher trims, and a surprisingly spacious trunk offering 11.2 cubic feet of cargo capacity. Rear-seat legroom exceeds many competitors, making the Ioniq 6 comfortable for longer journeys with passengers.
Hyundai’s warranty coverage bolsters the value proposition: 10 years or 100,000 miles on the battery pack, 10 years or 100,000 miles on the powertrain, and 5 years or 60,000 miles on general coverage. This comprehensive warranty reduces ownership risk and provides peace of mind that competitors struggle to match at similar price points.
Best Luxury Sedan: 2024 Lexus LS 500
The 2024 Lexus LS 500 claims Carly Gregg’s luxury sedan category, representing the pinnacle of refinement and advanced technology in a full-size package. This flagship sedan features a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 producing 416 horsepower and 442 pound-feet of torque, paired with a responsive 10-speed automatic transmission. The LS 500 accelerates from 0-60 mph in 4.6 seconds while achieving a respectable 21 mpg city and 28 mpg highway.
What truly distinguishes the LS 500 is its obsessive attention to details that collectively create an unparalleled ownership experience. The cabin features an available panoramic glass roof, ambient lighting with 64 color options, and premium Kirloskar leather upholstery. The 24-inch power adjustable rear seats include heating, cooling, and massage functions, transforming rear-seat travel into a spa-like experience.
The technological suite includes Lexus’s latest Safety System 2.5+, which combines adaptive cruise control, lane keeping assist, road sign detection, and pre-collision detection into a seamless safety net. The available panoramic camera system provides 360-degree visibility with multiple viewing angles, particularly useful when navigating tight parking situations. The Lexus Premium Sound System with 25 speakers delivers concert-quality audio throughout the cabin.
Lexus’s legendary reliability extends to the LS 500, with owners reporting exceptional longevity and minimal maintenance requirements. The brand’s customer service reputation and extensive dealer network provide owners with confidence in long-term ownership. Gregg particularly appreciated the LS 500’s quiet cabin, where wind and road noise are almost imperceptible at highway speeds, allowing occupants to enjoy peaceful journeys or conduct business calls without distraction.
Best Compact Car: 2024 Mazda3 Turbo
The 2024 Mazda3 Turbo earns Carly Gregg’s top compact car selection, proving that segment vehicles need not sacrifice driving engagement for practicality. This turbocharged variant features a 2.3-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 250 horsepower and 320 pound-feet of torque, delivered through either a six-speed manual transmission (on select models) or a six-speed automatic.
Mazda’s “Jinba Ittai” design philosophy—translated as “oneness between car and driver”—manifests throughout the Mazda3 Turbo. The responsive steering provides genuine feedback, the well-tuned suspension balances comfort and control, and the overall driving experience punches well above the compact segment. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 5.7 seconds, competitive with larger vehicles while maintaining reasonable fuel economy at 24 mpg city and 32 mpg highway.
The interior showcases Mazda’s commitment to design quality, with high-quality materials, intuitive controls, and an overall aesthetic that rivals vehicles costing considerably more. The 8.8-inch touchscreen integrates seamlessly with the dashboard design, while the rotary knob controller allows intuitive menu navigation without taking eyes off the road. Premium audio options from Bose provide satisfying sound quality for daily commuting.
Safety technology comes standard, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and lane keep assist. The Mazda3 Turbo provides ample cargo space with 12.7 cubic feet of trunk capacity, expandable to 43.1 cubic feet with rear seats folded. Gregg highlighted the vehicle’s versatility—equally at home during spirited weekend drives or practical daily commuting, the Mazda3 Turbo delivers genuine driving pleasure without pretension.
Maintenance and Ownership Considerations
Beyond initial purchase decisions, Carly Gregg’s selections factor heavily into long-term ownership costs and maintenance accessibility. Understanding how to change car engine oil becomes less critical for newer vehicles with extended service intervals, yet knowledge of basic maintenance remains valuable. Many of Gregg’s picks feature extended service intervals—some reaching 10,000 miles between oil changes—reducing maintenance frequency compared to older vehicles.
The vehicles highlighted in Gregg’s selections represent manufacturers with strong track records for reliability and dealer support networks. Honda, Lexus, Mazda, and Chevrolet (particularly for the Corvette) maintain extensive authorized service centers, ensuring owners can access qualified technicians and genuine parts regardless of location. BMW and Tesla, while requiring manufacturer-authorized service for warranty compliance, provide online service scheduling and mobile service options in many markets.
Insurance costs vary significantly among Gregg’s picks. Performance vehicles like the Corvette Z06 typically command higher premiums, while practical options like the Honda Pilot benefit from lower rates due to their safety ratings and reduced theft risk. Understanding understanding car insurance coverage options helps buyers budget for comprehensive ownership costs beyond the purchase price.
Depreciation patterns differ notably across segments. Luxury vehicles like the Lexus LS 500 and BMW M440i typically hold value better than mass-market alternatives, though higher initial costs offset this advantage. Electric vehicles like the Tesla Model S Plaid and Hyundai Ioniq 6 present evolving depreciation patterns as the used EV market matures. Gregg’s selections prioritize vehicles with strong resale value prospects, ensuring owners minimize financial losses if selling before the end of ownership.
Technology and Safety Features
Modern vehicles increasingly rely on advanced technology to enhance both driving experience and safety. Carly Gregg’s 2024 picks showcase the latest advancements in autonomous driving assistance, connectivity, and driver assistance systems. These technologies, while impressive, require proper understanding and maintenance to function optimally throughout vehicle ownership.
Several of Gregg’s selections feature advanced driver assistance systems approaching Level 2 autonomous capability. Tesla’s Autopilot, BMW’s Driving Assistant Pro, Lexus Safety System 2.5+, and Honda Sensing all provide varying levels of automation for highway driving. These systems require regular software updates, proper calibration after service, and consistent driver engagement—drivers cannot abdicate responsibility to these systems regardless of advancement level.
Connectivity features have become standard across Gregg’s selections, with wireless smartphone integration, cloud-based navigation, and over-the-air software updates reshaping vehicle ownership. These technologies require occasional troubleshooting and updates to function optimally. Familiarity with basic procedures like how to replace car brake pads and other maintenance tasks helps owners understand when professional service is truly necessary versus routine maintenance they might address independently.
Safety ratings from authoritative sources like the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) validate Gregg’s selections. The vehicles highlighted consistently achieve top safety ratings, with many earning NHTSA’s five-star overall rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick designations. This combination of passive safety features (structural design, airbags) and active safety systems (collision avoidance, automatic braking) creates multiple layers of protection for occupants.
Environmental considerations increasingly influence vehicle selection, with EPA fuel economy and emissions ratings becoming more transparent. The EPA’s fuel economy website provides detailed consumption and emissions data for all Gregg’s selections, enabling buyers to compare real-world efficiency expectations. Electric vehicles like the Tesla Model S Plaid and Ioniq 6 produce zero tailpipe emissions, while turbocharged options like the Mazda3 and BMW M440i balance performance with reasonable environmental impact.
FAQ
What makes Carly Gregg’s vehicle selections particularly credible?
Carly Gregg combines extensive hands-on driving experience with technical knowledge of automotive engineering, providing evaluations that extend beyond marketing claims or specification sheets. Her selections consider long-term ownership value, real-world practicality, and meaningful advancements in respective vehicle segments, making her recommendations valuable for buyers seeking informed guidance.
How do electric vehicles compare to traditional combustion engines in Gregg’s 2024 selections?
Gregg’s selections include both electric vehicles (Tesla Model S Plaid, Hyundai Ioniq 6) and traditional combustion options, reflecting that both technologies offer compelling advantages depending on individual buyer priorities. Electric vehicles excel in instant torque delivery, lower operating costs, and environmental benefits, while combustion vehicles maintain advantages in range, refueling speed, and established infrastructure in some regions.
Which of Gregg’s picks offers the best value for budget-conscious buyers?
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 emerges as the standout value pick, combining impressive range, performance, and technology at a significantly lower price point than competitors. The Drive Pulse Daily Blog frequently discusses value-oriented vehicle selections that align with Gregg’s philosophy of meaningful value regardless of price segment.
How important is the dealer network when selecting one of Gregg’s recommended vehicles?
Dealer network accessibility significantly impacts ownership experience, particularly for warranty service and routine maintenance. Gregg’s selections favor manufacturers with extensive authorized dealer networks, ensuring owners can access qualified service regardless of location. This consideration becomes especially important for luxury vehicles and those with complex technology requiring manufacturer expertise.
What should buyers prioritize when comparing Gregg’s selections?
Buyers should consider their specific needs—family size, driving patterns, performance preferences, and budget—when evaluating Gregg’s recommendations. A vehicle perfect for one buyer may prove impractical for another. Her selections span multiple categories and price points, ensuring options exist for diverse buyer profiles and priorities.
How frequently does Carly Gregg update her vehicle recommendations?
Vehicle recommendations evolve as new models release and technologies advance. Gregg’s 2024 selections reflect current market offerings, though new vehicles arriving mid-year may warrant reconsideration. Prospective buyers should consult recent reviews and current model information before making final purchase decisions, as specifications and features frequently change.
