Carly Gregg’s Top Car Picks: 2024 Insights

Carly Gregg has established herself as a trusted voice in automotive journalism, combining technical expertise with practical insights that resonate with both enthusiasts and everyday drivers. In 2024, her curated selections reflect a dynamic market where performance, efficiency, sustainability, and value converge in unprecedented ways. Whether you’re shopping for your next vehicle or simply curious about what industry experts recommend, understanding Carly Gregg’s top picks provides valuable perspective on the current automotive landscape.

This comprehensive guide explores the vehicles that have captured Carly’s attention this year, examining what makes each selection noteworthy and how they address diverse driver needs. From electric powertrains to traditional combustion engines, from luxury sedans to practical crossovers, these picks demonstrate the breadth of quality options available to today’s consumers. We’ll dive deep into specifications, performance metrics, and real-world applicability to help you understand why these vehicles earned their spots on the list.

Carly Gregg’s Selection Criteria

Carly Gregg approaches vehicle evaluation with a methodology that balances subjective driving experience with objective performance data. Her 2024 selections prioritize several key factors that define modern automotive excellence. Understanding these criteria helps contextualize why specific vehicles made the cut and what makes them stand out in an increasingly crowded marketplace.

First, reliability and build quality form the foundation of any recommendation from Gregg. She examines long-term durability through manufacturer warranties, historical ownership data, and third-party reliability ratings. Second, value proposition matters significantly—does the vehicle deliver performance and features commensurate with its price point? Third, technological integration receives careful scrutiny, including infotainment systems, driver assistance features, and connectivity options. Finally, real-world performance trumps theoretical specifications; how vehicles perform in varied driving conditions matters more than impressive brochure claims.

Environmental impact and efficiency metrics also influence Gregg’s selections. Whether through advanced hybrid systems, electric powertrains, or optimized conventional engines, she favors vehicles that minimize fuel consumption and emissions without sacrificing capability. Additionally, driver engagement and ergonomics play crucial roles—vehicles must feel good to operate daily, with intuitive controls and comfortable seating for extended journeys.

Premium Electric Vehicles

Electric vehicles have matured considerably, and Carly Gregg’s 2024 picks in this category reflect that evolution. The transition from novelty to genuine transportation solution is evident in the selections, which emphasize practical range, charging infrastructure compatibility, and premium interior execution.

The Tesla Model S continues to earn recognition for its combination of performance and technology. With EPA-estimated range exceeding 400 miles on the Long Range variant and acceleration figures that rival traditional performance cars, the Model S delivers both practical transportation and exhilarating driving dynamics. The minimalist interior design, massive touchscreen interface, and over-the-air update capability position it as a technology leader. However, potential buyers should review current EPA fuel economy ratings for precise efficiency metrics.

Porsche’s Taycan represents another highlight, particularly appealing to drivers seeking traditional sports car handling in an electric package. The dual-motor all-wheel-drive system delivers 402 horsepower in base configuration, with performance variants exceeding 600 horsepower. The 93-kWh battery provides approximately 287 miles of range, while Porsche’s Engineering excellence ensures responsive steering and precise body control. Gregg appreciates the Taycan’s ability to maintain performance through multiple acceleration runs, thanks to advanced thermal management systems.

The BMW iX appeals to luxury crossover shoppers seeking electric capability without compromising interior quality or technology features. Offering up to 380 miles of range and seating for five adults with genuine comfort, the iX combines practicality with premium execution. The dual-motor setup provides all-wheel-drive traction, while the spacious interior accommodates modern family needs. BMW’s iDrive 8 infotainment system represents state-of-the-art vehicle technology integration.

Performance Sedans and Coupes

Traditional performance vehicles remain compelling for drivers prioritizing engagement and dynamic capability. Carly Gregg’s selections in this segment showcase how combustion engines continue delivering visceral driving experiences while incorporating modern efficiency technologies.

The BMW M440i xDrive exemplifies the modern performance sedan philosophy. Its turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six produces 382 horsepower and 369 pound-feet of torque, delivered through an eight-speed automatic transmission and intelligent all-wheel-drive system. The M440i achieves 0-60 mph in approximately 4.6 seconds while maintaining respectable fuel economy. The adaptive suspension system adjusts damping in real-time, providing both comfort for daily driving and sportiness when exploring mountain roads. Learn more about driving techniques that maximize performance vehicle potential.

Cadillac’s CT5-V Blackwing represents American performance excellence at an exceptional value point. The supercharged 6.2-liter V8 produces 668 horsepower, enabling 0-60 mph acceleration in 3.6 seconds—faster than many six-figure supercars. The Magnetic Ride Control adaptive suspension system, combined with Brembo braking hardware and Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, creates a genuinely capable performance platform. Gregg highlights the Blackwing’s value proposition: delivering supercar-adjacent performance at roughly one-third the cost of traditional supercars.

The Porsche 911 Carrera remains the benchmark for sports car excellence. The turbocharged 3.0-liter flat-six produces 379 horsepower in base configuration, with Carrera S variants offering 443 horsepower. The seven-speed manual transmission option (discontinued after 2024 model year) appeals to driving purists, while the eight-speed PDK dual-clutch automatic serves those prioritizing convenience. The 911’s mid-engine architecture and decades of development create an incomparably refined driving experience. Prices start around $100,000, with well-equipped examples reaching $150,000 or beyond.

Family Crossovers and SUVs

Modern families require vehicles balancing practicality with driving refinement. Carly Gregg’s crossover and SUV selections prioritize spacious interiors, flexible seating arrangements, and safety technology alongside driving dynamics.

The Mazda CX-90 PHEV combines practical three-row seating with plug-in hybrid efficiency. The turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, paired with electric motor assistance, produces 323 horsepower while achieving impressive fuel economy in mixed driving. The 13.8-kWh battery provides approximately 44 miles of electric-only range, sufficient for many daily commutes. The CX-90’s refined interior execution and responsive steering make it enjoyable for extended drives, while the spacious cargo area accommodates weekend adventures. Explore our guide on car maintenance tips to keep any crossover performing optimally.

The Volvo XC90 continues earning accolades for Scandinavian minimalism combined with genuine luxury. The available Twin-Engine plug-in hybrid system pairs a turbocharged and supercharged 2.0-liter engine with electric motor assistance, producing 400 horsepower and 472 pound-feet of torque. The 18.8-kWh battery enables approximately 35 miles of electric-only driving. Volvo’s commitment to safety technology, exemplified by comprehensive suite of driver assistance systems, aligns with Gregg’s emphasis on practical protection. The spacious three-row interior seats seven adults comfortably, with genuine luxury throughout.

The Genesis GV70 represents Hyundai’s luxury brand at its finest. The available turbocharged 2.5-liter engine produces 304 horsepower, with all-wheel-drive providing confident traction. The sophisticated interior rivals established luxury brands while undercutting their pricing significantly. Genesis’s exceptional warranty coverage—10 years/100,000 miles on the powertrain—demonstrates manufacturer confidence in long-term reliability. The GV70’s combination of luxury, performance, and value makes it particularly appealing to buyers transitioning from mainstream brands.

Value-Focused Picks

Budget-conscious shoppers need not compromise on quality. Carly Gregg identifies vehicles delivering maximum value through intelligent engineering and practical feature sets rather than premium branding.

The Hyundai Sonata offers sophisticated sedan capability at mainstream pricing. The turbocharged 2.0-liter engine produces 277 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The refined interior incorporates quality materials and intuitive controls, while the comprehensive technology package includes wireless smartphone integration and available advanced driver assistance features. The Sonata’s 38 combined mpg rating reflects efficient engineering. Starting prices hover around $34,000, representing exceptional value for a modern sedan.

The Toyota Corolla remains the gold standard for practical reliability. The 2.0-liter engine produces 169 horsepower, prioritizing efficiency over raw performance. The eight-speed automatic transmission achieves 38 combined mpg. Owners consistently report minimal maintenance requirements and exceptional longevity, with many vehicles surpassing 200,000 miles with proper engine oil maintenance. The spacious interior accommodates five adults comfortably, while the trunk provides 13.1 cubic feet of cargo space. Toyota’s legendary reliability justifies the Corolla’s continued popularity among practical buyers.

The Kia Sportage delivers crossover practicality at budget-friendly pricing. The 2.0-liter turbocharged engine produces 240 horsepower, while the eight-speed automatic achieves 32 combined mpg. The spacious interior seats five adults, with 54.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats. Kia’s comprehensive warranty and improving reliability ratings make the Sportage particularly attractive to first-time crossover buyers. Pricing starts around $29,000, making it accessible to broad audiences.

Hybrid Innovation Leaders

Hybrid technology has matured beyond early-adopter stages, becoming mainstream with genuine performance and efficiency advantages. Carly Gregg’s selections highlight leaders in hybrid innovation that balance electric and conventional powertrains intelligently.

The Lexus RX 500h F Sport Performance represents hybrid technology at its most sophisticated. The twin-turbo 3.5-liter V6 engine, combined with electric motor assistance, produces 472 horsepower and 520 pound-feet of torque—surpassing many traditionally aspirated V8 engines while achieving 24 combined mpg. The sophisticated all-wheel-drive system distributes power intelligently, improving traction and handling. The luxurious interior features premium materials, adaptive seating, and cutting-edge infotainment. Lexus’s hybrid development spans decades, resulting in refined, reliable systems that inspire confidence.

The Toyota Prius Prime combines plug-in hybrid capability with practical four-door sedan proportions. The 2.0-liter engine, paired with dual electric motors, produces 220 horsepower while achieving an impressive 133 combined mpge (miles per gallon equivalent). The 13.6-kWh battery provides approximately 50 miles of electric-only range, sufficient for many daily commutes. The refined interior prioritizes efficiency without sacrificing comfort, while the spacious trunk accommodates weekly groceries. At approximately $40,000, the Prius Prime offers exceptional efficiency without requiring charging infrastructure, appealing to hesitant EV adopters.

The Honda Accord Hybrid delivers refined sedan efficiency with traditional gasoline reliability. The 2.0-liter Atkinson-cycle engine, combined with dual electric motors, produces 204 horsepower while achieving 50 combined mpg—among the highest for traditional sedans. The CVT transmission eliminates traditional gear shifts, providing smooth acceleration. The spacious interior seats five adults comfortably, with 16.7 cubic feet of trunk space. Honda’s hybrid engineering reputation, built through decades of development, ensures reliable long-term ownership.

Truck and Utility Excellence

Modern trucks balance work capability with refined on-road manners. Carly Gregg’s selections showcase how contemporary truck engineering serves both professional and recreational needs effectively.

The Ford F-150 Lightning represents electric truck innovation that delivers practical capability without sacrificing performance. The dual-motor setup produces 580 horsepower and 775 pound-feet of torque, enabling 0-60 mph acceleration in approximately 4.5 seconds despite its substantial mass. The 150-kWh battery provides approximately 300 miles of range, while the onboard 11-kW charger enables home charging. The innovative Mega Power Frunk provides additional storage, while the spacious cabin seats five adults. The Lightning’s ability to power jobsite tools and home backup power systems adds genuine utility beyond traditional trucks. Learn more about electric vehicle advantages that apply to truck applications.

The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 High Country appeals to buyers seeking premium truck refinement. The turbocharged 2.7-liter EcoTec engine produces 310 horsepower and 348 pound-feet of torque, paired with a ten-speed automatic transmission achieving 21 combined mpg. The sophisticated interior features genuine leather, heated and ventilated seating, and premium audio systems rivaling luxury automobiles. The adaptive suspension adjusts damping in real-time, improving comfort on rough roads while maintaining control. Pricing for well-equipped examples reaches $60,000, reflecting premium positioning within the truck segment.

The Ram 1500 Limited combines towing capability with interior luxury. The available EcoDiesel 3.0-liter engine produces 260 horsepower and 480 pound-feet of torque, enabling 12,000-pound towing capacity while achieving respectable fuel economy. The spacious crew cab seats five adults comfortably, with genuine leather and dual-zone climate control. The sophisticated suspension tuning balances off-road capability with on-road refinement. Ram’s commitment to interior quality distinguishes it within the truck segment, appealing to buyers prioritizing comfort during extended drives.

Carly Gregg’s 2024 vehicle selections reflect a market where quality, efficiency, and technology have become democratized across price points. Whether prioritizing performance, practicality, or value, discerning buyers can find vehicles that align with their priorities. The recommendations emphasize that modern automotive excellence encompasses diverse forms—electric powertrains, refined hybrids, turbocharged efficiency, and traditional reliability all have their place. Visit the Drive Pulse Daily Blog for ongoing automotive insights and analysis.

FAQ

Who is Carly Gregg in automotive journalism?

Carly Gregg is an established automotive journalist and reviewer known for combining technical expertise with practical insights. Her evaluations balance objective performance metrics with subjective driving experience, making her recommendations valuable for both enthusiasts and practical buyers seeking reliable vehicle guidance.

What makes Carly Gregg’s vehicle selections reliable?

Gregg’s methodology emphasizes manufacturer reliability data, third-party testing results, real-world ownership experiences, and long-term durability metrics. She evaluates value proposition, technological integration, and practical performance across diverse driving conditions rather than relying solely on specifications or personal preference.

Why include both electric and traditional vehicles?

Modern automotive excellence manifests across multiple powertrain types. Electric vehicles excel in efficiency and technology, traditional engines deliver proven reliability and accessibility, and hybrids balance both advantages. Gregg’s diverse selections acknowledge that different buyers have different priorities and use cases requiring different solutions.

How often does Carly Gregg update her recommendations?

Automotive technology and market dynamics evolve constantly. While 2024 selections reflect current excellence, new models, powertrain developments, and pricing changes warrant periodic reevaluation. Prospective buyers should review current specifications and pricing before making purchase decisions.

Where can I find additional automotive guidance?

Comprehensive resources include Car and Driver for performance testing, MotorTrend for detailed reviews, IIHS for safety ratings, and manufacturer websites for official specifications. Consider also reviewing car insurance information relevant to your selected vehicle.