Carly Gregg’s Top Cars of 2024: Expert Picks and Analysis
Carly Gregg has established herself as one of the automotive industry’s most trusted voices, delivering comprehensive vehicle evaluations that blend technical expertise with practical insights for everyday drivers. Her 2024 car selections reflect a dynamic market where performance, efficiency, and innovation converge to create compelling options across multiple segments. Whether you’re seeking a daily commuter, a weekend thrrill machine, or a family hauler, Gregg’s curated picks offer something for every driving enthusiast.
This year’s automotive landscape presents unprecedented variety, from electrified powertrains gaining mainstream acceptance to traditional combustion engines reaching new efficiency heights. Gregg’s methodology combines real-world testing, manufacturer specifications, owner feedback, and industry benchmarks to identify vehicles that deliver genuine value and satisfaction. Her selections span luxury marques, mainstream brands, and emerging manufacturers, each representing the pinnacle of their respective categories.
Performance and Sports Cars
Carly Gregg’s performance car selections showcase manufacturers pushing boundaries in acceleration, handling dynamics, and driver engagement. The 2024 Chevrolet Corvette Z06 emerges as a standout, delivering supercar-level performance with American muscle heritage. This mid-engine beast produces 670 horsepower from its 5.5-liter naturally-aspirated V8, achieving 0-60 mph in under three seconds while maintaining a sub-$110,000 starting price that offers exceptional value compared to European competitors.
The Porsche 911 Carrera S rounds out her performance selections, representing generations of engineering refinement. With 443 horsepower from its 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged flat-six, the 911 delivers balanced performance whether navigating winding backroads or conquering highway stretches. Gregg particularly praises the vehicle’s legendary handling characteristics and comprehensive technology suite that includes car maintenance tips for beginners through its integrated diagnostic systems.
BMW’s M440i xDrive coupe offers turbocharged performance in a more accessible package, combining 382 horsepower with all-wheel-drive capability. This vehicle appeals to drivers seeking daily-usable performance without the extreme costs of flagship supercars. According to MotorTrend, the M440i’s six-cylinder engine delivers smooth power delivery across the RPM range, making it equally comfortable during commutes and weekend canyon runs.
Electric Vehicle Leaders
The EV segment has matured dramatically, and Gregg’s selections reflect this evolution. The Tesla Model S Plaid represents the pinnacle of electric sedan performance, producing 1,020 horsepower through its tri-motor configuration. This vehicle achieves 0-60 mph in approximately 1.99 seconds, redefining acceleration benchmarks while offering 400+ miles of real-world range. The vehicle’s technological integration and Supercharger network provide practical ownership advantages that extend beyond raw performance metrics.
For those prioritizing advantages of electric vehicles, Gregg highlights the Hyundai Ioniq 6, which combines efficiency with affordability. This sedan delivers 320 miles of EPA-estimated range, features a 53.6 kWh battery pack, and starts under $45,000 before incentives. The Ioniq 6’s aerodynamic design and advanced thermal management systems demonstrate how manufacturers optimize EV efficiency through intelligent engineering.
The Lucid Air Sapphire emerges as Gregg’s luxury EV pick, featuring tri-motor all-wheel-drive producing 1,234 horsepower. Despite its extreme performance capabilities, the Air Sapphire achieves 516 miles of EPA-estimated range, showcasing how advanced battery chemistry and efficiency optimization enable both performance and practicality. According to Cars.com, this vehicle represents the current pinnacle of electric sedan technology.
The Chevrolet Equinox EV deserves mention for its practical approach to electrification, offering 319 miles of range, rapid charging capability, and a $35,000 starting price. This vehicle democratizes EV ownership by proving that affordable electric vehicles needn’t sacrifice range or features.
Luxury Sedans and Coupes
Luxury vehicles demand particular attention to craftsmanship, performance, and technological sophistication. Gregg’s selections in this category emphasize vehicles that justify their premium positioning through tangible benefits.
The Mercedes-AMG C63 S Sedan combines 503 horsepower from its 4.0-liter twin-turbocharged V8 with a sophisticated interior featuring OLED displays and panoramic sunroofs. The vehicle’s adaptive air suspension provides both comfort during daily driving and precision handling during spirited driving. Its integration with car cooling system maintenance essential guide technology ensures optimal performance under demanding conditions.
The BMW M5 represents another pinnacle luxury performance sedan, producing 625 horsepower through its 4.4-liter twin-turbocharged V8. The M5’s xDrive all-wheel-drive system, adaptive M suspension, and carbon-ceramic brake upgrade deliver superb handling dynamics while maintaining everyday practicality. Gregg notes the vehicle’s exceptional build quality and intuitive infotainment systems that enhance ownership experience.
For those seeking understated elegance, the Audi RS6 Avant wagon combines performance with practicality. Its 591-horsepower twin-turbocharged V8, adaptive air suspension, and 31.4 cubic feet of cargo space create a vehicle that satisfies both enthusiasts and practical families. The RS6’s availability in wagon configuration appeals to drivers rejecting traditional sedan constraints.
Compact and Mid-Size Crossovers
The crossover segment dominates contemporary automotive sales, and Gregg’s selections identify vehicles that elevate this category beyond mere transportation appliances.
The Mazda CX-50 leads her compact crossover picks, combining engaging driving dynamics with premium interior design. This vehicle’s turbocharged engine option produces 250 horsepower, while the standard 2.5-liter engine delivers 187 horsepower with impressive fuel economy. Gregg particularly appreciates the CX-50’s minimalist interior design philosophy and responsive steering that make driving genuinely enjoyable despite the vehicle’s practical crossover configuration.
The BMW X4 M40i xDrive represents the luxury compact crossover segment, delivering 382 horsepower through its turbocharged inline-six engine. The vehicle’s sport-tuned suspension, responsive steering, and premium interior create a compelling alternative to traditional performance sedans. Its coupe-like roofline sacrifices minimal practicality while enhancing visual appeal and aerodynamic efficiency.
The Subaru Crosstrek offers all-wheel-drive capability with surprising efficiency, achieving 28 city/33 highway EPA ratings with its standard 2.0-liter engine. This vehicle appeals to adventure-oriented drivers seeking reliable off-road capability without sacrificing fuel economy or affordability. Its extensive safety feature suite, including EyeSight Driver Assist, provides peace of mind during daily commutes.
Family SUVs and Three-Row Options
Families demand vehicles that balance safety, space, efficiency, and comfort. Gregg’s family vehicle selections emphasize practical considerations alongside performance metrics.
The Honda Pilot Three-Row SUV leads her family recommendations, offering three rows of seating for up to eight passengers with comprehensive safety features. The vehicle’s 3.5-liter V6 produces 290 horsepower, delivering adequate performance while maintaining 23 city/29 highway EPA fuel economy ratings. Honda’s legendary reliability reputation and superior warranty coverage enhance ownership satisfaction and reduce long-term costs.
The Kia Sorento offers competitive three-row seating with more modern styling and upscale interior appointments than traditional competitors. Its available turbocharged engine produces 281 horsepower, while the hybrid variant achieves exceptional fuel economy. Kia’s comprehensive warranty and strong safety ratings make this vehicle particularly appealing for families prioritizing value and reliability.
The Toyota Grand Highlander represents the luxury three-row SUV segment, combining Toyota’s legendary durability with premium interior design and advanced technology. Its 2.4-liter turbocharged engine produces 273 horsepower, while the hybrid variant achieves outstanding fuel economy. According to IIHS testing, the Grand Highlander achieves top safety ratings across all crash test categories.
Trucks and Work Vehicles
Pickup trucks have evolved into sophisticated vehicles capable of serving both work and lifestyle purposes. Gregg’s truck selections balance payload capacity, towing capability, and daily-driving refinement.
The Ford F-150 Raptor combines extreme off-road capability with surprising on-road refinement. Its 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 produces 450 horsepower and 510 pound-feet of torque, enabling 14,000-pound towing capacity. The Raptor’s specialized suspension geometry, electronic locking differentials, and terrain management systems deliver genuine off-road prowess while maintaining highway comfort and technology integration.
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 offers comparable off-road capability with different engineering philosophy. Its available 6.2-liter V8 produces 420 horsepower, while the turbocharged diesel variant delivers 480 pound-feet of torque for maximum hauling capability. The ZR2’s multi-mode four-wheel-drive system and adaptive suspension accommodate everything from technical rock crawling to highway cruising.
The Ram 1500 TRX represents the high-performance truck category, featuring a supercharged 6.2-liter V8 producing 702 horsepower and 645 pound-feet of torque. This vehicle achieves 0-60 mph in approximately 4.5 seconds despite its substantial size, delivering supercar-level acceleration in a practical truck package. Its air suspension and electronic locking differentials enhance both on-road comfort and off-road capability.
Budget-Friendly Winners
Exceptional vehicles need not carry premium price tags. Gregg’s budget selections prove that value-oriented buyers needn’t compromise on quality or capability.
The Toyota Corolla Hybrid leads her affordable sedan recommendations, delivering 53 city/46 highway EPA fuel economy ratings through its hybrid powertrain. This vehicle achieves exceptional reliability through Toyota’s proven hybrid technology while maintaining affordability under $30,000. Its comprehensive safety feature suite and available technology packages enhance ownership satisfaction without excessive cost.
The Hyundai Elantra provides compelling value in the compact sedan segment, offering 32 city/41 highway EPA ratings with turbocharged performance option. Hyundai’s comprehensive warranty and strong reliability reputation make this vehicle particularly attractive for first-time buyers or budget-conscious consumers. The available N-line trim adds visual sportiness and enhanced handling without proportional cost increases.
The Kia Niro Hybrid crossover combines practicality with exceptional fuel economy, achieving 51 city/46 highway EPA ratings. This vehicle’s spacious interior, advanced safety features, and competitive pricing create compelling value proposition compared to traditional gasoline-only competitors. Kia’s reputation for quality and reliability continues strengthening through vehicles like the Niro.
The Honda Civic Hatchback rounds out Gregg’s budget recommendations, delivering engaging driving dynamics alongside practical versatility. Its turbocharged engine option produces 180 horsepower while maintaining 33 city/42 highway EPA fuel economy. The hatchback configuration provides cargo flexibility that traditional sedans cannot match, appealing to younger drivers and urban residents.
FAQ
What makes Carly Gregg’s vehicle recommendations reliable?
Carly Gregg combines extensive hands-on testing experience with manufacturer specifications, owner feedback analysis, and industry benchmark comparisons. Her methodology emphasizes practical real-world performance rather than isolated performance metrics, ensuring recommendations reflect actual ownership satisfaction and value delivery.
How often does Gregg update her vehicle recommendations?
Vehicle selections evolve annually as manufacturers release new models, refresh existing vehicles, and introduce technological innovations. Gregg’s 2024 recommendations reflect current market conditions, pricing, and available features. Revisiting recommendations regularly ensures information remains current and relevant.
Does Gregg recommend specific trim levels or configurations?
While Gregg identifies overall vehicle winners, specific trim recommendations depend on individual priorities, budgets, and usage patterns. Her methodology typically emphasizes vehicles offering strong base configurations while identifying valuable optional packages that enhance ownership experience without excessive cost.
How important are fuel economy and efficiency in Gregg’s selections?
Fuel economy receives significant consideration, particularly for vehicles serving primarily commuting purposes. However, Gregg balances efficiency against performance, practicality, and overall value delivery. A powerful performance vehicle might receive high marks despite lower efficiency if it delivers exceptional driving engagement and capability.
Are luxury vehicles always better than mainstream alternatives?
Gregg’s selections prove that exceptional vehicles exist across all price points. While luxury vehicles offer premium materials and exclusive features, mainstream manufacturers increasingly deliver comparable technology, performance, and quality at more accessible price points. Vehicle selection should prioritize individual needs and preferences rather than brand prestige alone.
How does Gregg evaluate vehicle safety?
Safety evaluation incorporates NHTSA crash test ratings, IIHS Top Safety Pick designations, available active safety features, and real-world accident data. Modern vehicles increasingly incorporate sophisticated driver assistance systems that enhance safety through collision avoidance and mitigation technologies. Gregg emphasizes vehicles achieving top ratings across multiple safety assessment methodologies.
Should buyers follow Gregg’s recommendations exactly?
While Gregg’s recommendations provide valuable guidance, individual vehicle selection should ultimately reflect personal priorities, budget constraints, and specific usage requirements. Test driving recommended vehicles, researching ownership costs through understanding car insurance coverage options, and evaluating long-term maintenance expenses ensures alignment between vehicle selection and individual circumstances.
How do electric vehicles compare to traditional combustion engines in Gregg’s analysis?
Gregg evaluates electric and traditional vehicles using consistent criteria: performance, efficiency, practicality, reliability, and value delivery. EV selections reflect technological maturity, expanded charging infrastructure, and demonstrated reliability. However, traditional combustion engines remain appropriate for specific use cases where EV limitations prove prohibitive, such as extreme towing applications or remote area usage.