Carly Gregg has established herself as a trusted voice in automotive journalism, delivering insightful analysis and comprehensive vehicle evaluations that resonate with both casual drivers and enthusiasts. Her 2024 car picks represent a carefully curated selection that balances performance, reliability, innovation, and value—criteria that matter most to today’s discerning buyers.
Whether you’re shopping for your next vehicle or simply curious about what industry experts are recommending, Carly Gregg’s selections offer a roadmap through the crowded automotive marketplace. This guide explores her top picks for 2024, examining what makes each vehicle stand out and how they address the evolving needs of modern drivers.
Electric Vehicle Revolution: Leading the Charge
Carly Gregg recognizes that electric vehicles represent the future of automotive technology, and her 2024 selections highlight models that have matured beyond early-adopter status. The shift toward electrification isn’t merely environmental—it’s practical, offering lower operating costs and impressive performance characteristics that rival traditional combustion engines.
The Tesla Model 3 continues to dominate Gregg’s EV recommendations, combining a 272-mile EPA-estimated range with rapid acceleration and an intuitive interface. However, she equally emphasizes the BMW i4, which delivers European engineering refinement alongside electric efficiency. The i4 offers up to 301 miles of range and features a premium interior that justifies its higher price point.
For those exploring advantages of electric vehicles, Gregg highlights the Hyundai Ioniq 6, which provides exceptional value at a lower price than competitors. With its sleek design and 361-mile range, the Ioniq 6 appeals to budget-conscious buyers who refuse to sacrifice capability. The EPA fuel economy database confirms these vehicles’ superior efficiency ratings compared to gasoline alternatives.
Gregg’s analysis extends beyond mere specifications. She examines charging infrastructure accessibility, long-term battery degradation, and the total cost of ownership over five and ten-year periods. These insights prove invaluable for buyers weighing the upfront investment against eventual savings.
Performance Sedans That Deliver Thrills
For drivers seeking exhilarating driving dynamics without sacrificing daily usability, Carly Gregg champions several standout performance sedans. The BMW M340i represents her sweet spot—a turbocharged inline-six engine producing 382 horsepower paired with responsive handling and a sophisticated interior.
The Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing emerges as Gregg’s dark-horse pick, offering a naturally-aspirated 6.2-liter V8 with 668 horsepower. This American muscle sedan delivers authentic performance credentials while maintaining surprising refinement. The manual transmission option appeals to purists who value direct mechanical engagement.
Gregg doesn’t overlook the Acura TLX Type S, which combines Japanese reliability with aggressive styling and a twin-turbocharged V6 engine. The Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system provides confidence-inspiring traction in various driving conditions. Her detailed comparison considers 0-60 acceleration times, braking distances, and lateral grip measurements that differentiate true performance vehicles from pretenders.
The Genesis G70 rounds out her sedan selections, offering luxury-brand aesthetics with Hyundai’s renowned dependability. Gregg emphasizes that performance extends beyond raw power—transmission responsiveness, steering feedback, and suspension tuning create the complete driving experience that separates excellent vehicles from forgettable ones.
Practical SUVs for Modern Families
Three-row SUVs dominate family vehicle discussions, and Carly Gregg provides clarity amid the overwhelming options. The Kia Sorento emerges as her top recommendation for value-conscious families, offering seven-passenger seating, advanced safety features, and a 180-horsepower turbocharged engine. The Sorento’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty provides peace of mind that extends beyond competitors’ coverage.
Gregg champions the Honda Pilot for families prioritizing reliability and resale value. The Pilot’s 280-horsepower V6 engine delivers adequate performance while the spacious interior accommodates growing families. Her analysis includes real-world cargo capacity comparisons and third-row accessibility assessments that matter to parents managing multiple children and equipment.
For those considering car maintenance tips for beginners, Gregg emphasizes that SUVs require consistent attention to suspension components and tire health. The Mazda CX-90 PHEV represents her recommendation for eco-conscious families seeking hybrid versatility. This plug-in hybrid combines a turbocharged engine with electric propulsion, enabling short commutes on battery power while maintaining gasoline range for longer journeys.
The Toyota Grand Highlander, redesigned for 2024, captures Gregg’s attention through its refined interior materials, advanced infotainment system, and Toyota’s legendary durability. She conducts thorough evaluations of child-safety seat installation ease, climate control zoning, and rear-passenger entertainment options that define family-friendly vehicles.
Luxury Crossovers Worth the Investment
Luxury crossovers represent the fastest-growing segment, and Carly Gregg identifies models that justify premium pricing through superior engineering and materials. The Mercedes-Benz GLE-Class commands her respect through its commanding presence, sophisticated interior appointments, and advanced driver-assistance systems. The AMG variants offer performance credentials rivaling dedicated sports cars.
Gregg emphasizes the Porsche Cayenne as a luxury crossover that refuses to compromise on driving dynamics. Despite its size, the Cayenne delivers responsive steering, composed handling, and engine options ranging from a turbocharged V6 to a twin-turbocharged V8. She details how Porsche’s sports-car heritage influences every aspect of Cayenne development, from suspension geometry to brake system engineering.
The BMW X5 completes her luxury crossover recommendations, offering a perfect balance between practicality and performance. The turbocharged inline-six and available V8 engines provide power, while the xDrive all-wheel-drive system ensures confident traction. Gregg appreciates the X5’s customization options, enabling buyers to tailor specifications to personal preferences.
The Range Rover Sport appeals to adventurous luxury buyers seeking genuine off-road capability alongside premium comfort. Gregg acknowledges that these vehicles command significant investment, making thorough research and test-driving essential. She recommends understanding car insurance coverage options before committing to luxury vehicle purchases, as repair costs significantly exceed mainstream vehicles.
Affordable Options That Don’t Compromise
Carly Gregg recognizes that exceptional value exists for budget-conscious buyers willing to research thoroughly. The Honda Civic remains her perennial recommendation for affordable reliability, offering turbocharged performance, modern infotainment, and Honda’s reputation for longevity. The 2024 redesign introduces a more sophisticated interior while maintaining reasonable pricing.
The Hyundai Elantra represents compelling value in the compact sedan category, combining modern styling, available all-wheel drive, and a comprehensive warranty. Gregg notes that Hyundai’s quality improvements over the past decade rival established Japanese manufacturers, making their vehicles increasingly attractive to value-focused buyers.
For those interested in how to change car engine oil, budget-friendly vehicles like the Toyota Corolla prove ideal platforms for learning basic maintenance. The Corolla’s simplicity, abundant parts availability, and online resources empower owners to perform routine service themselves, reducing ownership costs.
Gregg champions the Kia Forte as an underrated option offering surprising refinement at modest pricing. The Forte’s warranty coverage, fuel efficiency, and practical feature set appeal to first-time buyers and those seeking transportation without excess expense. She conducts depreciation analysis, demonstrating that certain affordable vehicles retain value better than premium competitors.
The Nissan Sentra rounds out her budget recommendations, providing straightforward transportation with adequate power and reasonable fuel economy. While not exciting, the Sentra delivers dependable service, and Gregg appreciates vehicles that fulfill their intended purpose without pretension.
Maintenance and Ownership Considerations
Beyond initial purchase decisions, Carly Gregg emphasizes that vehicle ownership extends far beyond the dealership. Her comprehensive approach includes detailed guidance on car maintenance tips for beginners, recognizing that many buyers lack mechanical knowledge.
Gregg recommends establishing relationships with trusted mechanics before problems arise. She details preventive maintenance schedules specific to each vehicle category, explaining why certain components require attention at particular intervals. Understanding transmission fluid changes, spark plug replacement, and suspension inspection prevents costly repairs.
For those operating manual transmissions, Gregg references how to drive a manual car, ensuring proper technique that maximizes component lifespan. Smooth clutch engagement, appropriate rev matching, and avoiding unnecessary strain preserve transmission health across hundreds of thousands of miles.
Gregg examines warranty coverage comprehensively, comparing basic coverage, powertrain protection, and corrosion resistance warranties across manufacturers. She explains how warranty terms influence long-term value calculations, sometimes making vehicles with stronger coverage more economical despite higher purchase prices.
Extended warranty decisions receive thorough analysis, with Gregg providing frameworks for evaluating whether protection plans justify their costs. She compares repair expenses against warranty premiums, helping buyers make informed decisions aligned with their risk tolerance and financial situations.
Insurance considerations feature prominently in Gregg’s ownership guidance. She references understanding car insurance coverage options, explaining how vehicle choice influences insurance premiums. Performance vehicles, luxury models, and those with expensive repair costs command higher insurance rates, factors that should influence purchase decisions.
Gregg emphasizes tire maintenance as a fundamental safety and longevity consideration. She details proper inflation procedures, rotation schedules, and alignment checks that extend tire life while improving fuel economy. Understanding tire ratings and seasonal considerations ensures year-round safety regardless of climate.
Fluid maintenance receives particular attention, as engine oil, transmission fluid, coolant, and brake fluid significantly impact reliability. Gregg explains why following manufacturer-recommended intervals prevents catastrophic failures and maintains warranty coverage. She demystifies service records, explaining why comprehensive documentation proves essential for resale value.
Battery maintenance, particularly for electric vehicles, represents an evolving consideration. Gregg provides guidance on battery health preservation, charging practices that maximize longevity, and understanding degradation patterns. She references fuel economy and vehicle efficiency data from authoritative sources, ensuring readers access official information.
FAQ
What makes Carly Gregg’s vehicle recommendations unique?
Carly Gregg combines technical knowledge with real-world ownership experience, providing balanced perspectives that consider multiple factors beyond specifications. Her recommendations emphasize long-term value, reliability records, and practical usability rather than marketing hype.
Should I prioritize electric vehicles based on Gregg’s recommendations?
Gregg acknowledges that electric vehicles suit specific use cases effectively—urban commuting, short-distance driving, and buyers with accessible charging infrastructure. However, she emphasizes that traditional vehicles remain appropriate for those requiring extensive towing capacity or frequent long-distance travel without charging access.
How do I evaluate whether a vehicle suits my needs?
Gregg recommends extensive test-driving across various driving conditions, researching reliability ratings from IIHS crash test data, and reviewing owner forums to understand real-world experiences. She emphasizes that specifications matter less than how vehicles perform in your specific circumstances.
What’s the best approach to vehicle financing?
Gregg advocates for thorough financial planning before shopping, determining realistic budgets and understanding total ownership costs. She recommends obtaining pre-approval from banks or credit unions before dealership negotiations, strengthening your negotiating position.
How often should vehicles receive professional maintenance?
Gregg emphasizes following manufacturer-recommended service intervals, typically documented in owner’s manuals. Most modern vehicles require oil changes every 5,000-10,000 miles, with comprehensive inspections at regular intervals. She stresses that preventive maintenance costs significantly less than emergency repairs.
Should I consider buying used vehicles from Gregg’s recommended models?
Gregg strongly supports purchasing used vehicles from manufacturers with strong reliability records. She provides guidance on evaluating vehicle history, conducting pre-purchase inspections, and understanding how mileage influences remaining lifespan. Used examples of recommended vehicles often provide exceptional value compared to newer alternatives.
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