Carly Gregg: Top Car Picks of 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 represent a carefully curated selection spanning multiple segments, prioritizing reliability, performance, value, and innovation. Whether you’re shopping for a daily commuter, a weekend performance machine, or an eco-conscious family hauler, Gregg’s recommendations offer something for everyone in this dynamic model year.

The automotive landscape in 2024 reflects significant shifts toward electrification, advanced safety technologies, and refined driving dynamics. Carly Gregg’s selections acknowledge these industry trends while maintaining focus on practical ownership experiences. Her picks balance cutting-edge features with proven track records, ensuring buyers make informed decisions in a competitive marketplace.

Luxury Sedans and Executive Vehicles

Carly Gregg’s luxury sedan selections for 2024 emphasize refined powertrains, sophisticated interiors, and technological advancement. The BMW 7 Series stands out with its updated design language, enhanced infotainment system, and available hybrid-electric powertrain options. Gregg particularly appreciates the vehicle’s blend of traditional luxury craftsmanship with contemporary digital integration, making it a compelling choice for executives and affluent buyers seeking prestige with practicality.

The Mercedes-Benz S-Class represents another cornerstone of Gregg’s recommendations, offering unparalleled comfort, cutting-edge autonomous driving features, and a range of powerful engines. The S-Class’s supple suspension tuning and sound insulation create an exceptionally serene driving environment, while its advanced safety suite provides peace of mind on every journey. Gregg notes that the S-Class particularly excels for those prioritizing ride quality and technological sophistication over sportiness.

The Lexus LS deserves mention as a quieter luxury alternative, delivering impressive reliability credentials alongside elegant design. Known for exceptional build quality and a loyal ownership community, the LS appeals to discerning buyers who value longevity. Gregg recommends the LS for those seeking a luxury vehicle that will maintain its composure and functionality for years of ownership, supported by understanding car insurance coverage options for premium vehicles.

Electric Vehicles Leading the Charge

The 2024 electric vehicle segment showcases remarkable maturity, and Carly Gregg’s EV picks reflect this evolution. The Tesla Model S Plaid combines blistering acceleration with extended range and advanced autonomous capabilities, appealing to tech-forward enthusiasts willing to embrace full electrification. Gregg highlights the vehicle’s minimalist interior design, responsive handling dynamics, and Supercharger network accessibility as key advantages for prospective buyers.

The Porsche Taycan offers a compelling alternative for those seeking German engineering excellence in an electric package. With its distinctive design, responsive chassis, and available all-wheel-drive performance variants, the Taycan satisfies enthusiasts craving sports car dynamics without combustion engine complexity. Gregg particularly admires the Taycan’s charging speed capabilities and dual-motor configurations that deliver engaging driving experiences.

For mainstream EV adoption, Gregg champions the Hyundai Ioniq 6, which delivers impressive efficiency, stylish design, and competitive pricing. The Ioniq 6’s aerodynamic profile contributes to exceptional range, while its well-appointed interior and intuitive controls make it accessible to EV novices. She also highlights the advantages of electric vehicles, including lower operating costs and environmental benefits, making them increasingly practical for everyday driving.

The Chevrolet Blazer EV and Equinox EV round out her EV selections, offering American-made alternatives with strong value propositions. These General Motors offerings provide practical family transportation with zero-emission capability, supported by GM’s expanding charging infrastructure partnerships. Gregg notes that these vehicles democratize EV ownership, making electrification accessible to budget-conscious families.

SUVs and Crossovers for Every Lifestyle

The SUV and crossover segment dominates 2024 sales, and Carly Gregg’s selections acknowledge diverse buyer priorities across this expansive category. The Toyota 4Runner represents a resurgence in body-on-frame SUV design, combining rugged capability with refined on-road manners. Gregg appreciates the 4Runner’s legendary reliability, spacious three-row seating, and genuine off-road credentials, making it ideal for adventurous families prioritizing versatility.

For luxury crossover excellence, Gregg recommends the BMW X7, which delivers impressive seven-seat functionality, premium materials, and dynamic handling characteristics unusual in its segment. The X7’s powerful engine lineup, sophisticated suspension technology, and intuitive iDrive infotainment system create a compelling luxury family transport solution. She notes that the X7 particularly appeals to buyers seeking premium brand prestige without sacrificing practical utility.

The Mazda CX-90 PHEV offers a unique proposition combining plug-in hybrid efficiency with engaging driving dynamics. Gregg highlights this vehicle’s refined turbocharged engine, responsive steering, and upscale interior design as differentiators in a crowded segment. The CX-90’s ability to operate in electric-only mode for daily commuting, supplemented by efficient gas power for longer journeys, appeals to eco-conscious drivers seeking flexibility.

The Kia EV9 represents three-row electric versatility, delivering spacious seating, impressive range, and innovative interior design. Gregg particularly values this vehicle’s practical layout, user-friendly technology, and competitive pricing relative to competing electric three-row options. The EV9’s flexible seating configurations and generous cargo space make it exceptionally practical for larger families transitioning to electric propulsion.

Performance Cars for Enthusiasts

Carly Gregg’s performance selections celebrate driving engagement and mechanical excellence. The Chevrolet Corvette Z06 represents American performance at its finest, combining a naturally aspirated 5.5-liter flat-plane V8 with sophisticated chassis dynamics. Gregg commends the Z06’s visceral engine character, precise steering response, and exceptional track capabilities, making it an accessible high-performance vehicle for serious drivers.

The Porsche 911 Carrera T offers classic sports car purity, stripping away excess to focus on driving engagement and mechanical feedback. Gregg appreciates the 911’s balanced weight distribution, responsive turbocharged engine, and intuitive controls that reward driver skill. She notes that the Carrera T particularly appeals to purists seeking an unfiltered sports car experience rooted in Porsche’s legendary heritage.

The BMW M440i xDrive sedan demonstrates that performance needn’t sacrifice practicality. With its turbocharged inline-six engine, all-wheel-drive traction, and spacious interior, the M440i appeals to drivers balancing speed with everyday usability. Gregg highlights this vehicle’s responsive handling, understated styling, and efficient powerplant as ideal for enthusiasts managing family responsibilities.

The Lotus Emira rounds out her performance selections, offering lightweight British sports car dynamics with contemporary technology. Gregg particularly values the Emira’s engaging mechanical experience, beautiful design, and superb steering feel. While production remains limited, she considers it essential for drivers prioritizing pure driving pleasure over practicality.

Family Vehicles and Practical Choices

Carly Gregg recognizes that most buyers prioritize practicality, space, and reliability. The Honda Odyssey continues dominating the minivan segment, delivering spacious three-row seating, innovative storage solutions, and Honda’s renowned reliability. Gregg notes the Odyssey’s smooth V6 engine, user-friendly features, and excellent safety ratings as reasons families consistently choose this platform for their transportation needs.

The Toyota Sequoia offers full-size SUV capability with three-row seating and impressive towing capacity. Gregg appreciates the Sequoia’s powerful twin-turbocharged V6, sophisticated four-wheel-drive system, and spacious interior that accommodates larger families comfortably. She emphasizes that Sequoia buyers benefit from Toyota’s legendary durability, critical for vehicles experiencing heavy family use.

The Volkswagen ID.Buzz electric minivan represents future family transportation, combining retro styling with electric-only propulsion. Gregg finds the ID.Buzz’s spacious interior, innovative seating flexibility, and zero-emission operation particularly appealing for environmentally-conscious families. She highlights that this vehicle bridges nostalgia with contemporary sustainability, creating emotional appeal alongside practical benefits.

For budget-conscious families, Gregg recommends the Hyundai Palisade, which delivers three-row seating, comprehensive safety features, and strong warranty coverage at competitive pricing. The Palisade’s well-appointed interior, responsive turbocharged engine, and intuitive controls make it accessible to first-time luxury crossover buyers. Understanding car maintenance tips for beginners helps Palisade owners maximize their investment over time.

Best Value Propositions

Carly Gregg emphasizes that excellent vehicles needn’t command premium pricing. The Honda Civic consistently delivers reliable transportation, engaging driving dynamics, and strong resale value. Whether selecting the sedan or hatchback variant, Civic buyers receive proven engineering, efficient powerplants, and timeless design. Gregg notes that Civic ownership remains financially sensible for budget-conscious drivers prioritizing reliability.

The Hyundai Elantra offers remarkable value in the compact sedan segment, combining attractive styling, capable performance, and comprehensive warranty protection. Gregg appreciates the Elantra’s turbocharged engine option, refined interior design, and strong safety credentials relative to its modest pricing. She considers it an excellent entry point for first-time car buyers or those seeking affordable reliable transportation.

The Toyota Corolla represents unshakeable dependability in the compact sedan market. Gregg emphasizes the Corolla’s legendary longevity, efficient engines, and minimal maintenance requirements. For drivers prioritizing ownership longevity over flashy features, the Corolla represents sound financial sense and predictable reliability. She notes that how to change car engine oil and other basic maintenance tasks remain simple on Corolla platforms, reducing service costs.

The Kia Forte provides surprising sophistication at accessible pricing, with upscale interior materials, available turbocharged power, and attractive design language. Gregg highlights the Forte’s value proposition, comparing it favorably against competitors charging premium prices for similar features. She recommends test-driving the Forte to appreciate how Kia compresses luxury features into affordable packages.

Maintenance and Long-Term Ownership

Carly Gregg consistently emphasizes that vehicle selection represents only the first step in automotive ownership. Understanding maintenance requirements and planning for long-term costs ensures maximum value realization. Gregg recommends consulting manufacturer maintenance schedules and budgeting for predictable service intervals.

She strongly advocates for comprehensive car maintenance tips for beginners, noting that preventive care significantly extends vehicle lifespan and preserves resale value. Regular oil changes, fluid top-ups, and tire rotations represent inexpensive insurance against costly repairs. Gregg notes that many newer vehicles incorporate advanced onboard diagnostics, alerting owners to maintenance needs before failures occur.

For those performing their own maintenance, Gregg recommends learning how to change car engine oil properly, as this fundamental task represents a cornerstone of vehicle ownership. She provides guidance on selecting appropriate oil viscosity, changing intervals, and disposal procedures. Understanding basic maintenance builds confidence and reduces ownership costs substantially.

Brake maintenance represents another critical ownership responsibility. Gregg provides detailed guidance on how to replace car brake pads, noting that proactive brake service prevents more expensive rotor and caliper damage. She emphasizes that brake safety directly impacts occupant protection, making this maintenance task non-negotiable.

Extended warranty considerations deserve careful evaluation. Gregg recommends analyzing manufacturer coverage periods, powertrain protection duration, and corrosion warranties when assessing total ownership costs. She notes that luxury vehicles and performance-oriented models may justify extended coverage, while reliability-proven platforms like Toyota and Honda often require minimal supplemental protection.

FAQ

What makes Carly Gregg’s car recommendations particularly valuable?

Carly Gregg combines technical automotive knowledge with practical ownership experience, ensuring her recommendations address real-world considerations alongside performance specifications. She prioritizes long-term value, reliability, and user satisfaction rather than focusing exclusively on novelty or luxury branding. Her selections reflect genuine testing and comparative analysis across multiple vehicle categories.

Should I prioritize electric vehicles based on Carly Gregg’s 2024 picks?

Gregg’s EV selections acknowledge that electrification represents the automotive industry’s future, but she emphasizes that individual circumstances should drive this decision. Those with reliable charging access, predictable driving patterns, and environmental priorities benefit most from electric vehicles. She recommends evaluating your specific usage patterns and charging infrastructure availability before committing to full electrification.

How do Gregg’s luxury sedan picks compare to previous model years?

2024 luxury sedans incorporate significant technological advancements, refined powertrains, and enhanced autonomous capabilities compared to previous generations. Gregg notes that the segment’s evolution toward electrification and autonomous features accelerates, though traditional gas engines remain competitive. She recommends test-driving multiple options to appreciate how manufacturers differentiate their luxury offerings.

Which vehicles from Gregg’s picks offer the best resale value?

Toyota, Honda, and Lexus vehicles consistently retain value superior to competitors, reflecting their reputation for reliability and dependability. Gregg notes that enthusiast-oriented vehicles like Porsche sports cars maintain strong residual values among specialty buyers. She recommends consulting MotorTrend and similar resources for detailed resale value projections before purchase.

How should maintenance costs influence my vehicle selection?

Gregg emphasizes that purchase price represents only one component of total ownership costs. Vehicles requiring expensive maintenance, specialized parts, or frequent service intervals substantially increase long-term expenses. She recommends researching manufacturer warranty periods, common failure points, and service costs for specific models before finalizing purchase decisions. Consulting Car and Driver provides comprehensive ownership cost analyses.

What safety features should I prioritize when selecting from Gregg’s recommendations?

Modern vehicles incorporate remarkably sophisticated safety technologies, though availability varies across segments and price points. Gregg recommends prioritizing vehicles with high IIHS safety ratings and comprehensive driver assistance features. Features like automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and adaptive cruise control provide genuine collision prevention benefits. She notes that safety should never compromise vehicle selection decisions.

Are Carly Gregg’s picks suitable for first-time car buyers?

Gregg’s selections span multiple price points and complexity levels, ensuring options for first-time buyers. Vehicles like the Honda Civic, Toyota Corolla, and Hyundai Elantra offer user-friendly features, reliable performance, and manageable ownership costs. She recommends first-time buyers prioritize reliability, warranty coverage, and long-term value over trendy features or premium branding.

How do electric vehicle charging considerations influence Gregg’s recommendations?

Carly Gregg emphasizes that charging infrastructure accessibility directly impacts EV ownership viability. Those with home charging capability, workplace charging access, and reliable public charging networks gain maximum EV benefits. She recommends using EPA fuel economy resources and charging network maps when evaluating specific models. Those with limited charging access may benefit more from hybrid options like the Mazda CX-90 PHEV.