Carly Gregg’s Top Car Picks for 2024
Automotive enthusiasts and industry observers have long recognized the importance of expert recommendations when navigating the increasingly complex vehicle market. In 2024, the landscape has shifted dramatically with the proliferation of electric vehicles, advanced safety technologies, and performance innovations across all segments. Carly Gregg, a respected voice in automotive journalism, has curated a comprehensive selection of vehicles that represent the best of what this year has to offer—balancing practicality, performance, innovation, and value.
Whether you’re seeking a daily commuter, a family hauler, or a weekend performance machine, Gregg’s selections provide a roadmap for discerning buyers. This analysis explores her top picks across multiple categories, examining what makes each vehicle exceptional and how they compare within their respective segments. From electric powertrains to turbocharged efficiency, these vehicles showcase the diversity and quality available to consumers in 2024.
Luxury Sedans and Performance Leaders
Gregg’s luxury sedan selections emphasize the convergence of traditional craftsmanship with cutting-edge technology. The 2024 BMW M440i xDrive stands as a compelling choice, delivering 382 horsepower through its turbocharged inline-six engine while maintaining sophisticated interior appointments. With a 0-60 time of approximately 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 155 mph, this vehicle bridges the gap between daily usability and performance capability. The all-wheel-drive system ensures confident handling in varied weather conditions, while the adaptive suspension provides both comfort for highway cruising and responsive dynamics for spirited driving.
The Mercedes-AMG C 43 represents another pinnacle selection, featuring a 402-horsepower hybrid powertrain that combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with electric motor assistance. This combination delivers impressive fuel efficiency for its performance class, achieving approximately 24 mpg combined according to EPA estimates. The vehicle’s 9-speed automatic transmission offers seamless gear changes, while the optional adaptive air suspension adapts to road conditions in real-time. Interior materials showcase Mercedes’ commitment to luxury, with Nappa leather, ambient lighting, and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster creating an environment befitting its premium positioning.
For those prioritizing track-capable performance, Gregg highlights the Chevrolet Corvette Z06. This American icon produces 670 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque from its naturally aspirated 5.5-liter V8 engine. The vehicle achieves 0-60 mph in approximately 2.6 seconds—hypercar territory—while maintaining a manageable price point relative to competitors. The fixed roof configuration reduces weight compared to the convertible, enhancing structural rigidity for track use. Carbon ceramic brakes, available Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 tires, and an electronically adjustable suspension system create a platform optimized for circuit performance. Understanding proper how to change car engine oil becomes essential for maintaining these high-performance machines.
Electric Vehicle Excellence
The electric vehicle segment has matured considerably, and Gregg’s recommendations reflect this evolution. The Tesla Model S Plaid emerges as her top EV selection, offering tri-motor all-wheel drive producing 1,020 horsepower. The vehicle achieves 0-60 mph in approximately 1.99 seconds, making it one of the quickest production vehicles regardless of powertrain type. The 12.5-inch vertical touchscreen controls most vehicle functions, while the optional yoke steering provides a unique driving experience. Range estimates exceed 350 miles on a full charge, and the Supercharger network provides convenient charging infrastructure across North America.
The Porsche Taycan 4 Cross Turismo appeals to enthusiasts seeking traditional sports car dynamics with electric propulsion. Its dual-motor setup produces up to 402 horsepower (671 with overboost function), enabling acceleration comparable to turbocharged gasoline engines. The vehicle’s 79-kWh battery provides approximately 280 miles of EPA-estimated range, while Porsche’s 800-volt charging architecture supports rapid charging to 80% capacity in roughly 22 minutes. The available all-wheel steering system reduces turning radius and enhances high-speed stability, creating a vehicle that feels more like a traditional sports car than many competitors. Exploring the advantages of electric vehicles helps consumers understand the long-term benefits of this technology.
For practical electric transportation, the Hyundai Ioniq 6 offers compelling value. This sedan delivers up to 361 horsepower from its dual-motor configuration, achieving 0-60 mph in 4.7 seconds. The 84-kWh battery provides approximately 361 miles of EPA-estimated range, among the best in its class. Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile battery warranty and comprehensive feature set—including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and wireless smartphone integration—create a compelling package. The vehicle’s efficient aerodynamic design contributes to its impressive range, while the spacious interior prioritizes passenger comfort.
Family SUVs and Crossovers
Gregg recognizes that many buyers prioritize practicality without sacrificing performance or technology. The Kia Telluride emerges as her top three-row SUV recommendation, offering seating for up to eight passengers across three rows. The 3.8-liter V6 engine produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, providing adequate performance for highway merging and passing. The available all-wheel-drive system with dynamic torque vectoring enhances handling, while the adaptive suspension accommodates both comfort and spirited driving. The spacious cargo area provides 21.8 cubic feet behind the third row, expandable to 72.1 cubic feet with all rear seats folded. Advanced safety features include blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and an available surround-view camera system.
The BMW X5 M50i delivers luxury SUV performance with 523 horsepower from its turbocharged 4.4-liter V8 engine. The all-wheel-drive system with variable torque distribution ensures confident handling for a vehicle exceeding 4,800 pounds. The adaptive M suspension provides dynamic handling while maintaining ride comfort for daily driving. Inside, the expansive 14.9-inch touchscreen interfaces with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, creating a modern cockpit environment. Premium audio from Harman Kardon, heated and ventilated leather seats, and panoramic sunroofs enhance the ownership experience. For maintaining this luxury investment, understanding car maintenance tips for beginners proves valuable even for luxury owners.
The Subaru Outback appeals to those seeking versatility and all-weather capability. The available 2.4-liter turbocharged boxer engine produces 260 horsepower, providing spirited performance while maintaining reasonable fuel economy. Standard all-wheel drive with Symmetrical AWD technology ensures confident traction regardless of conditions. The vehicle’s 10.5 inches of ground clearance accommodates light off-road exploration, while the 76.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo space accommodates adventure gear. Subaru’s EyeSight Driver Assist technology includes adaptive cruise control, pre-collision throttle management, and lane-keep assist, enhancing safety across diverse driving scenarios.
Compact and Affordable Options
Not all of Gregg’s recommendations carry six-figure price tags. The Honda Civic Si represents accessible performance, delivering 200 horsepower from its 1.5-liter turbocharged engine. The manual transmission provides engaging driver involvement, while the sport-tuned suspension and Brembo brakes enhance dynamic capability. The 0-60 time of approximately 6.0 seconds demonstrates adequate acceleration for daily driving, while the 32 mpg highway fuel economy maintains reasonable operating costs. The Civic Si’s starting price near $30,000 makes performance accessible to younger enthusiasts and budget-conscious buyers.
The Mazda3 Turbo offers refined driving dynamics at an affordable price point. The turbocharged 2.5-liter engine produces 250 horsepower, enabling 0-60 acceleration in approximately 6.5 seconds. Mazda’s i-Activsense safety suite includes adaptive cruise control, automatic emergency braking, and lane-departure warning as standard equipment. The interior emphasizes quality materials and intuitive controls, with the 8.8-inch touchscreen supporting both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Available all-wheel drive provides enhanced traction for winter driving, while the 34 mpg highway rating demonstrates efficiency. The starting price under $28,000 positions the Mazda3 as an exceptional value proposition.
The Toyota Corolla Cross delivers practical compact SUV capability without premium pricing. The 2.0-liter naturally aspirated engine produces 169 horsepower, providing adequate performance for urban and suburban driving. Standard all-wheel drive with multi-terrain select enhances traction, while the 8.0 inches of ground clearance accommodates light off-road exploration. The 76.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo space accommodates groceries and luggage, while the 33 mpg highway rating minimizes fuel expenses. Toyota’s legendary reliability, comprehensive warranty coverage, and extensive dealer network provide peace of mind for long-term ownership.
Truck Segment Standouts
The truck market continues to dominate American automotive sales, and Gregg’s selections reflect both capability and innovation. The Ford F-150 Raptor R emerges as the performance truck leader, delivering 727 horsepower from its supercharged 5.0-liter V8 engine. The 0-60 time of approximately 4.5 seconds—competitive with many sports cars—demonstrates the performance evolution of pickup trucks. The available electronic locking differentials, disconnecting sway bar, and adjustable Fox suspension create a platform capable of serious off-road exploration. The bed’s 5.5-foot length balances payload capacity with maneuverability, while the integrated power steps and tailgate step enhance practicality.
The Chevrolet Silverado 1500 ZR2 combines off-road capability with daily usability. The 6.2-liter V8 produces 420 horsepower and 460 lb-ft of torque, adequate for towing and hauling applications. The available Multimatic DSSV dampers provide sophisticated suspension tuning, adapting to road conditions automatically. The Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system includes an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless smartphone integration, while the available Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving system enhances highway comfort. The truck’s 22 mpg highway rating demonstrates reasonable efficiency for its capability class.
For diesel enthusiasts, the Ram 2500 Power Wagon with 6.7-liter Cummins diesel represents pinnacle capability. The turbocharged diesel produces 370 horsepower and 865 lb-ft of torque, enabling exceptional towing capacity exceeding 16,000 pounds. The electronically disconnecting sway bar, electronic locking differentials, and adjustable air suspension create a platform optimized for extreme terrain. The integrated winch, skid plates, and all-terrain tires demonstrate factory off-road preparation. Understanding how to replace car brake ppads becomes essential for maintaining heavy-duty trucks subjected to serious use.
Safety and Technology Features
Modern vehicles increasingly incorporate advanced safety technologies that transcend traditional active safety systems. Gregg emphasizes that her top picks incorporate comprehensive safety ecosystems addressing multiple collision scenarios. Automatic emergency braking, now standard on most vehicles, detects obstacles and initiates braking if driver response is insufficient. Lane-departure warning systems provide haptic or auditory alerts when unintended lane drift occurs, while lane-keeping assist actively steers vehicles back toward lane centers.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety provides comprehensive testing data evaluating crashworthiness and collision avoidance capabilities. Many of Gregg’s selections achieve IIHS Top Safety Pick designations, indicating superior crash test performance and advanced safety features. Blind-spot monitoring systems use radar or camera technology to detect vehicles in driver blind spots, while rear cross-traffic alert systems provide warnings when reversing near obstacles.
Connectivity features have evolved beyond entertainment, now encompassing vehicle diagnostics and remote functionality. Most vehicles support wireless smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, enabling hands-free calling, navigation, and music streaming. Some manufacturers offer companion smartphone applications enabling remote door unlocking, climate control adjustment, and battery status monitoring for electric vehicles. Voice command systems interpret natural language instructions, allowing drivers to maintain focus on the road while controlling entertainment and climate systems.
The EPA fuel economy website provides standardized efficiency ratings enabling cross-vehicle comparisons. These ratings, expressed in miles per gallon (mpg) for conventional vehicles and MPGe (miles per gallon equivalent) for electric vehicles, facilitate informed purchasing decisions. Gregg’s recommendations consistently achieve above-average efficiency within their respective categories, balancing performance with operational economy. Modern transmission technology, turbocharging, and hybridization enable vehicles to achieve efficiency previously reserved for smaller, less capable platforms.
Maintenance Considerations and Long-Term Ownership
Gregg recognizes that purchase price represents only one component of total cost of ownership. Maintenance expenses, insurance premiums, and depreciation significantly impact long-term affordability. Her selections prioritize vehicles with established service networks, reasonable parts availability, and predictable maintenance schedules. Japanese manufacturers—Honda, Mazda, Subaru, and Toyota—consistently demonstrate reliability advantages reflected in lower maintenance costs and higher resale values.
Premium brand vehicles, while offering superior performance and luxury appointments, typically incur higher maintenance expenses due to specialized service requirements and premium parts costs. Gregg’s inclusion of premium selections acknowledges that some buyers prioritize performance and luxury despite higher ownership costs. However, her emphasis on value-oriented selections recognizes that many buyers benefit from Japanese reliability at lower price points. The DrivePulse Daily Blog provides ongoing maintenance guidance supporting long-term vehicle ownership success.
Warranty coverage varies significantly across manufacturers, influencing total cost of ownership calculations. Tesla’s 4-year/50,000-mile basic warranty contrasts sharply with Hyundai’s 5-year/60,000-mile coverage and BMW’s 4-year/50,000-mile terms. Extended powertrain warranties, available on most vehicles, provide financial protection against major mechanical failures beyond factory warranty periods. Gregg’s recommendations consider warranty comprehensiveness as a value component, recognizing that extended protection reduces uncertainty in long-term ownership.
Environmental Considerations and Future Directions
The automotive industry faces increasing environmental scrutiny, with regulatory agencies implementing progressively stricter emissions standards. Gregg’s 2024 selections acknowledge this reality, with electric vehicles and efficient hybrid powertrains receiving prominent recognition. The EPA emissions regulations continue driving technological innovation, encouraging manufacturers to develop cleaner powertrains across all segments.
Carbon dioxide emissions standards, measured in grams per mile, incentivize manufacturers to improve efficiency through lightweighting, aerodynamic optimization, and powertrain innovation. Gregg’s selections consistently exceed minimum efficiency standards, demonstrating manufacturer commitment to environmental responsibility. Electric vehicles produce zero tailpipe emissions, though overall environmental impact depends on electrical grid composition. Vehicles charged using renewable energy sources generate substantially lower lifetime emissions compared to conventional gasoline-powered alternatives.
The transition toward electrification continues accelerating, with manufacturers committing to substantial EV portfolio expansion. However, Gregg recognizes that conventional gasoline and hybrid powertrains will remain relevant for years, particularly in segments where battery technology remains impractical. Her balanced approach acknowledges both electrification benefits and the continued viability of optimized conventional powertrains. Understanding understanding car insurance coverage options becomes increasingly important as vehicle technology advances, with specialized coverage addressing EV-specific considerations.
Comparison Framework for Prospective Buyers
Gregg’s selection process employs a comprehensive evaluation framework considering multiple variables beyond raw performance specifications. Reliability ratings from J.D. Power and Consumer Reports provide quantitative reliability assessments, identifying potential problem areas before purchase. Real-world owner feedback through automotive forums and enthusiast communities supplements manufacturer data, providing practical insights into daily ownership experiences. Depreciation trends, analyzed through historical market data, reveal which vehicles maintain resale value most effectively.
Driving dynamics evaluation encompasses steering responsiveness, suspension compliance, and braking performance. Gregg prioritizes vehicles providing engaging driving experiences regardless of powertrain type, recognizing that electric motors and turbocharged engines deliver different sensory feedback. Interior space, ergonomic control placement, and material quality significantly influence daily satisfaction, particularly for vehicles serving as primary transportation. Technology integration, including infotainment system intuitiveness and smartphone connectivity reliability, increasingly influences ownership satisfaction.
Fuel economy comparisons must account for real-world driving patterns, as EPA estimates frequently exceed actual consumption under typical driving conditions. Gregg’s selections generally demonstrate efficiency within 10-15% of EPA ratings under mixed driving, reflecting realistic performance expectations. Electric vehicle range estimates similarly require realistic interpretation, as temperature, driving aggression, and terrain significantly impact actual range. Cold weather operation particularly affects EV range, with some vehicles experiencing 20-30% range reduction in freezing temperatures.
Emerging Technologies and Future Considerations
Advanced driver assistance systems continue evolving toward higher autonomy levels, with some manufacturers offering semi-autonomous highway driving capabilities. Gregg’s 2024 selections incorporate Level 2 autonomy features enabling extended hands-off driving under specific conditions, though full autonomy remains years away for production vehicles. Adaptive headlights, which alter beam patterns based on steering angle and speed, enhance nighttime visibility while reducing glare for oncoming traffic. Automated parking systems, once limited to luxury vehicles, now appear on mainstream offerings, simplifying parking in constrained spaces.
Vehicle-to-infrastructure (V2I) communication technology enables vehicles to receive traffic signal timing, road condition, and hazard information from municipal infrastructure. This technology remains limited to pilot programs in select cities, but promises eventual integration across broader networks. Gregg anticipates V2I adoption will accelerate as municipalities invest in smart city infrastructure, enabling vehicles to optimize routes and improve safety through real-time information exchange.
Battery technology continues advancing, with solid-state batteries promising higher energy density and faster charging capabilities. Current lithium-ion technology dominates the market, but manufacturers actively develop alternative chemistries addressing cost, energy density, and charging speed limitations. Gregg anticipates that 2025-2026 model years will introduce solid-state batteries enabling 300+ mile ranges with sub-20 minute charging, accelerating EV adoption among consumers with range anxiety concerns.
FAQ
What makes Carly Gregg’s vehicle recommendations reliable?
Gregg’s recommendations derive from extensive automotive industry experience, comprehensive specification analysis, and real-world ownership evaluation. Her selections balance performance, reliability, value, and practicality across diverse buyer preferences. Recommendations emphasize vehicles demonstrating strong reliability records, advanced safety technologies, and reasonable long-term ownership costs. Her balanced approach acknowledges that optimal vehicle choices vary based on individual priorities and usage patterns.
How do electric vehicles compare to conventional powertrains?
Electric vehicles offer zero tailpipe emissions, lower operating costs, and superior acceleration characteristics. However, conventional vehicles provide established charging infrastructure, longer driving ranges, and lower purchase prices. Hybrid powertrains bridge these categories, offering efficiency improvements with established reliability. Vehicle selection should prioritize personal usage patterns, with electric vehicles benefiting daily commuters with home charging access, while conventional vehicles suit buyers requiring extended range and towing capability.
What safety features should buyers prioritize?
Modern safety encompasses both passive protection through structural design and active collision avoidance through advanced driver assistance systems. Automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring represent essential safety features. IIHS Top Safety Pick designations indicate superior crash test performance and collision avoidance capabilities. Buyers should evaluate vehicles using NHTSA crash test ratings and IIHS testing data before purchase.
How do warranty periods impact total ownership costs?
Comprehensive warranty coverage reduces financial uncertainty during ownership, protecting against major mechanical failures. Extended warranties, available on most vehicles, provide protection beyond factory terms. Warranty comprehensiveness varies significantly across manufacturers, with Japanese brands typically offering longer coverage than premium European manufacturers. Warranty evaluation should consider both basic and powertrain coverage periods, as powertrain failures typically exceed repair capabilities for most owners.
What considerations apply to truck buyers?
Truck selection should prioritize intended usage, with payload and towing capacity requirements driving powertrain selection. Off-road capability varies significantly across models, with specialized suspension, locking differentials, and all-terrain tires enhancing rough terrain performance. Fuel economy considerations become increasingly important with full-size trucks, as larger engines and higher weights reduce efficiency. Diesel powertrains offer superior towing capacity and torque but command premium pricing and require diesel fuel availability.
How should buyers evaluate fuel economy claims?
EPA fuel economy ratings provide standardized comparison metrics, though real-world consumption frequently exceeds ratings by 10-15% under typical driving conditions. Individual driving habits, terrain, and climate significantly impact actual fuel economy. Hybrid vehicles demonstrate greater variance between EPA ratings and real-world consumption, as efficiency depends heavily on driving patterns favoring regenerative braking. Prospective buyers should research real-world fuel economy data through owner forums and review sites before purchase.
What role does depreciation play in vehicle selection?
Depreciation significantly impacts total ownership costs, with some vehicles retaining 50-60% of purchase price after five years, while others retain only 30-40%. Japanese brands typically demonstrate superior depreciation retention, reflecting strong reliability reputations and consistent demand. Luxury vehicles generally depreciate more rapidly due to higher maintenance costs and narrower buyer pools. Buyers prioritizing total cost of ownership should emphasize vehicles with strong depreciation histories alongside reasonable purchase prices.
