Carly Gregg: Top Car Picks for 2024
Carly Gregg has established herself as a trusted voice in automotive journalism, consistently delivering insightful reviews and recommendations that resonate with both enthusiasts and everyday drivers. Her 2024 car picks reflect a comprehensive understanding of the current market, balancing performance, reliability, value, and emerging technologies that define this year’s automotive landscape. Whether you’re shopping for your first vehicle or upgrading your current ride, Gregg’s selections offer something for every budget and driving preference.
The 2024 model year brings significant innovations across multiple segments, from electrification initiatives to refined traditional powertrains. Carly Gregg’s curated list showcases vehicles that represent the best of what manufacturers have to offer, combining practical engineering with genuine driving enjoyment. This guide explores her top recommendations while providing the context you need to make an informed purchase decision.
Luxury Sedans That Define 2024
Carly Gregg’s luxury sedan recommendations showcase the pinnacle of automotive refinement and technology. The 2024 BMW 7 Series leads this category with its revolutionary iDrive 8 infotainment system, adaptive air suspension, and available M Sport packages that blend comfort with athletic handling. The sedan delivers exceptional build quality, with hand-stitched leather interiors and panoramic glass roofs that create an airy cabin atmosphere. Performance figures include up to 523 horsepower from the twin-turbocharged engine, enabling 0-60 mph in approximately 3.9 seconds for the M760i xDrive variant.
The Mercedes-Benz S-Class maintains its position as the segment benchmark, offering unmatched interior spaciousness and the latest MBUX Hyperscreen technology spanning the entire dashboard. With available air suspension that automatically adjusts ride height and damping, the S-Class delivers a floating sensation on any road surface. The 4.0-liter twin-turbo engine produces 503 horsepower, while the S580 reaches 60 mph in just 3.8 seconds. Gregg particularly appreciates the sedan’s comprehensive safety suite, which includes predictive active suspension that reads road conditions ahead.
The Lexus LS rounds out her luxury picks, representing Japanese precision engineering and legendary reliability. Unlike competitors, the LS prioritizes serenity over outright performance, featuring a 3.5-liter V6 hybrid powertrain generating 354 combined horsepower. The sedan’s focus on sound isolation and suspension tuning creates an exceptionally quiet cabin—Lexus measures interior noise at just 60 decibels during highway driving. This approach appeals to buyers seeking prestige without sacrificing long-term dependability, with Lexus vehicles historically maintaining strong resale values.
Performance Vehicles for Enthusiasts
For driving enthusiasts, Carly Gregg highlights several standout performers that deliver genuine thrills without breaking the bank. The Chevrolet Corvette C8 represents American performance at its finest, featuring a mid-mounted 6.2-liter V8 producing 495 horsepower and 470 lb-ft of torque. This layout provides near-perfect weight distribution, enabling the Corvette to achieve 0-60 mph in 2.8 seconds and lap times rivaling six-figure supercars. The available Z06 variant with its flat-plane crankshaft engine elevates performance further, delivering 670 horsepower and an 8,400 RPM redline that screams with mechanical authenticity.
The BMW M440i xDrive offers turbocharged four-cylinder performance in a practical sedan package, producing 382 horsepower through its 3.0-liter engine. All-wheel drive provides confident traction in various conditions, while the adaptive M suspension allows drivers to customize handling characteristics through multiple driving modes. Zero to sixty arrives in 4.0 seconds, making this sedan significantly quicker than perceived competitors. The M440i’s appeal lies in its versatility—daily commuting comfort paired with weekend track capability.
Gregg also recommends the Dodge Challenger T/A, a modern muscle car that honors American performance traditions while incorporating contemporary technology. The supercharged 6.2-liter HEMI V8 generates 645 horsepower, enabling a quarter-mile pass in approximately 11.4 seconds. The available six-speed manual transmission provides engaging driver involvement, though the eight-speed automatic offers superior highway fuel economy. Track-focused suspension tuning and Brembo brakes distinguish the T/A variant from standard Challengers, creating a purposeful performance machine.
The Electric Revolution
Electric vehicles represent the future of automotive transportation, and Carly Gregg’s EV recommendations reflect the technology’s maturation. The Tesla Model S Plaid stands as perhaps the most impressive electric sedan, producing 1,020 horsepower through triple electric motors and achieving 0-60 mph in 1.99 seconds. The 95 kWh battery pack provides 348 miles of EPA-estimated range, while the innovative yoke steering and landscape-oriented center display exemplify Tesla’s forward-thinking design philosophy. Supercharging infrastructure across North America ensures practical long-distance travel, with 200 miles of range restored in approximately 15 minutes.
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 offers compelling value in the electric sedan segment, with pricing starting around $42,000 for the standard range version. This vehicle delivers an impressive 361-mile EPA range with the long-range battery, achieving approximately 4.2 miles per kilowatt-hour efficiency. The sedan’s aerodynamic design reduces drag to just 0.22 Cd, contributing to exceptional efficiency. Gregg appreciates the Ioniq 6’s practical interior space despite its sleek exterior proportions, along with Hyundai’s comprehensive warranty covering 10 years or 100,000 miles for the battery.
For those considering the advantages of electric vehicles, the Porsche Taycan provides performance and prestige in electric form. The dual-motor setup produces 670 horsepower in overboost mode, enabling 0-60 mph acceleration in 2.6 seconds. The available 93.4 kWh battery provides 287 miles of range, while 800-volt charging architecture enables rapid replenishment. The Taycan’s sports car heritage translates seamlessly to electric propulsion, delivering engaging handling and intuitive controls that appeal to driving enthusiasts transitioning to electrification.
Family-Focused Crossovers
Crossovers dominate the current market, and Carly Gregg identifies several standouts that balance practicality with driving engagement. The Toyota RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid represents mainstream family transportation with performance undertones, combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with dual electric motors for 302 combined horsepower. The 42-mile all-electric range covers most daily commutes without consuming gasoline, while the gas engine ensures unlimited range for road trips. EPA efficiency ratings reach 133 MPGe combined, among the highest in the segment. The available all-wheel drive system provides confidence in adverse weather conditions.
The Mazda CX-50 appeals to buyers seeking driving enjoyment in a crossover package, featuring responsive steering and well-tuned suspension that encourages spirited driving. The 2.5-liter turbocharged engine produces 228 horsepower, enabling quick acceleration despite the vehicle’s upright seating position. Mazda’s infotainment system prioritizes simplicity and reliability over excessive complexity, with intuitive controls and minimal touchscreen reliance. The CX-50’s available i-Activ all-wheel drive system includes multiple terrain modes, making it genuinely capable on light trails and snowy roads.
The Kia Sorento offers three-row capability with refined interior appointments rivaling luxury competitors. The available 3.8-liter turbocharged V6 produces 300 horsepower, while the standard 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder delivers 277 horsepower with impressive efficiency. Kia’s warranty program—10 years or 100,000 miles for comprehensive coverage—provides exceptional peace of mind. The Sorento’s spacious cargo area and comfortable second-row seating make it ideal for growing families, while available leather upholstery and panoramic sunroof create a premium atmosphere.
Best Value Picks
Carly Gregg recognizes that exceptional vehicles don’t require premium pricing. The Honda Civic remains a value leader, combining reliability, efficiency, and driving engagement in an affordable package. The 2024 model introduces a redesigned interior with improved materials and technology integration, while the turbocharged 1.5-liter engine produces 180 horsepower with an impressive 33 city/42 highway EPA rating. The available six-speed manual transmission appeals to enthusiasts, providing mechanical feedback and engagement rarely found at this price point.
The Subaru Outback delivers versatility and all-wheel drive capability at reasonable cost, featuring a 2.5-liter boxer engine producing 182 horsepower. Standard all-wheel drive ensures confident traction regardless of weather conditions, while the raised suspension provides genuine light-duty off-road capability. The Outback’s emphasis on safety includes EyeSight Driver Assist Technology, which uses stereo cameras to monitor road conditions and provide collision prevention assistance. This technology has earned IIHS Top Safety Pick recognition, validating Subaru’s commitment to accident prevention.
The Hyundai Elantra N Line offers turbocharged performance at an accessible price point, with a 1.6-liter turbo engine producing 195 horsepower. The available eight-speed dual-clutch transmission delivers engaging shifts and responsive throttle response, while sport-tuned suspension provides handling capabilities exceeding expectations for the segment. Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile comprehensive warranty adds confidence to ownership, knowing major repairs remain covered for an extended period. The Elantra N Line’s aggressive styling and genuine performance make it an enthusiast’s bargain.
Maintenance and Ownership Considerations
Carly Gregg emphasizes that vehicle selection extends beyond initial purchase price to encompass ownership expenses and reliability. Consulting car maintenance tips for beginners establishes proper care routines that extend vehicle lifespan and maintain resale value. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, and fluid inspections prevent costly repairs while preserving manufacturer warranties. Gregg recommends adhering strictly to manufacturer maintenance schedules, which optimize performance and longevity.
Understanding car insurance claim processes protects your investment when accidents occur. Comprehensive and collision coverage provide financial protection against unforeseen circumstances, while liability coverage protects other parties. Gregg advises obtaining quotes from multiple insurers, as rates vary significantly based on vehicle selection, driving history, and coverage preferences. Vehicles with advanced safety features often qualify for insurance discounts, offsetting higher premiums associated with expensive repairs.
For those considering performance vehicles, understanding how to replace car brake pads enables cost-effective maintenance of critical safety components. Performance driving generates additional brake wear, necessitating more frequent replacement than typical commuter vehicles. High-performance brake pads from reputable manufacturers ensure reliable stopping power during enthusiastic driving. Gregg emphasizes that brake maintenance directly impacts safety, making professional installation advisable for those lacking mechanical experience.
For manual transmission enthusiasts, how to drive a manual car provides essential guidance for smooth operation and longevity. Proper clutch engagement technique and thoughtful gear selection reduce wear on transmission components, extending the life of this engaging driving experience. Manual transmissions generally require less maintenance than automatics, though proper technique proves essential for reliability.
Consulting the Drive Pulse Daily Blog provides ongoing guidance for vehicle ownership, maintenance, and selection decisions. This resource offers comprehensive reviews, buyer guides, and expert commentary on automotive trends shaping the industry. Regular consultation ensures you remain informed about vehicle recalls, manufacturer updates, and maintenance innovations that enhance ownership experience.
Gregg recommends checking EPA fuel economy ratings at fueleconomy.gov to compare real-world efficiency expectations among competing vehicles. This official government resource provides standardized testing results that enable accurate comparisons. Additionally, consulting IIHS safety ratings ensures your selection meets rigorous crash test standards. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety independently evaluates vehicles across multiple crash scenarios, providing unbiased safety assessments.
FAQ
Who is Carly Gregg in automotive journalism?
Carly Gregg is a respected automotive journalist and reviewer known for providing balanced, specification-driven vehicle evaluations. Her recommendations emphasize practical considerations alongside performance metrics, appealing to diverse buyer demographics. Her reviews consistently highlight value propositions and long-term ownership considerations, establishing trust with readers seeking reliable purchasing guidance.
What makes a vehicle worthy of Carly Gregg’s top picks?
Gregg’s selection criteria include engineering excellence, practical value, reliability track records, and genuine driving engagement. Vehicles must demonstrate superiority within their segment while offering compelling reasons for purchase beyond marketing claims. Safety features, warranty coverage, and ownership cost considerations factor prominently in her recommendations.
Should I prioritize electric vehicles based on Carly Gregg’s recommendations?
Gregg acknowledges that EV suitability depends on individual circumstances. If your driving patterns align with electric range capabilities and charging infrastructure accessibility, electrification offers significant advantages including reduced fuel costs and minimal maintenance. However, traditional powertrains remain practical for those requiring unlimited range or lacking convenient charging options.
How do luxury vehicles compare to value picks in Carly Gregg’s selections?
Luxury vehicles offer advanced technology, premium materials, and refined powertrains that enhance driving experience, though at significant cost premium. Value picks deliver exceptional capability and reliability at more accessible pricing, making them practical choices for budget-conscious buyers. Gregg emphasizes that vehicle selection should align with personal priorities and financial circumstances rather than aspirational brand preferences.
What external resources does Carly Gregg recommend for additional research?
Beyond her own recommendations, Gregg suggests consulting Car and Driver for comprehensive road tests and performance evaluations. MotorTrend provides detailed specifications and long-term reliability data. Manufacturer websites offer configuration tools enabling personalized pricing and feature exploration, while owner forums provide real-world feedback from current vehicle operators.
How frequently does Carly Gregg update her top picks?
Gregg updates recommendations annually to reflect new model introductions, significant redesigns, and market shifts. Mid-cycle updates address major recalls or significant reliability issues that impact purchasing recommendations. Following her reviews throughout the year ensures you remain informed about emerging vehicles and market developments.