Carly Gregg’s Top Car Picks: 2024 Guide
Carly Gregg has established herself as a trusted voice in automotive journalism, delivering insightful reviews and recommendations that resonate with both casual drivers and enthusiasts. Her 2024 car picks reflect a careful analysis of performance, reliability, value, and innovation across multiple segments. Whether you’re shopping for your first vehicle or upgrading to something more refined, this comprehensive guide showcases the vehicles that earned Gregg’s endorsement this year.
The automotive landscape in 2024 continues to evolve with electrification, advanced safety features, and improved fuel efficiency becoming standard expectations. Carly Gregg’s selections balance these modern demands with practical considerations like affordability, maintenance costs, and real-world performance. This guide examines her top picks across various categories, offering detailed insights into what makes each vehicle worthy of consideration.
Luxury Sedans: Premium Performance and Comfort
Carly Gregg’s luxury sedan selections prioritize refined driving dynamics, cutting-edge technology, and premium craftsmanship. The 2024 BMW 3 Series stands out as a benchmark for sport-luxury vehicles, offering responsive handling paired with a whisper-quiet cabin. Its turbocharged engine options deliver impressive acceleration while maintaining respectable fuel economy for the class.
The Mercedes-Benz C-Class represents another top-tier choice, emphasizing elegance and innovation. Gregg particularly appreciates the MBUX infotainment system’s intuitive interface and the vehicle’s comprehensive safety suite. The C-Class provides exceptional ride quality on varied road surfaces, making it ideal for both highway cruising and urban navigation.
Audi’s A4 rounds out Gregg’s luxury sedan recommendations, delivering Teutonic precision with understated styling. The Quattro all-wheel-drive system provides confidence in diverse weather conditions, while the virtual cockpit offers customizable displays that appeal to tech-savvy drivers. Build quality throughout the interior reflects Audi’s commitment to premium materials and attention to detail.
For luxury sedan shoppers, understanding car insurance coverage options becomes increasingly important given the higher replacement costs and repair expenses associated with premium vehicles. Extended warranty coverage should also be considered for these sophisticated models.
Performance Vehicles: Thrills and Precision Engineering
Performance enthusiasts will appreciate Carly Gregg’s selections in this category, which emphasize genuine driving engagement and measurable capabilities. The 2024 Chevrolet Corvette continues its reign as an American performance icon, delivering supercar-level acceleration with a mid-engine layout that provides exceptional handling balance. Gregg commends the Corvette’s transparent pricing and value proposition compared to European competitors.
The Porsche 911 remains the gold standard for sports cars, combining everyday usability with track-day competence. Gregg highlights the latest generation’s improved fuel economy and connectivity features, which modernize the classic formula without compromising the driving experience. The 911’s extensive customization options allow buyers to tailor their vehicle precisely to personal preferences.
BMW’s M440i xDrive offers compelling performance in a more accessible package, delivering 382 horsepower with all-wheel-drive traction. Gregg appreciates this model’s practicality, as the sedan format accommodates passengers and cargo while maintaining genuine sports car credentials. The adaptive suspension adjusts stiffness in real-time, optimizing comfort and responsiveness based on driving conditions.
For performance vehicle owners, proper brake maintenance becomes critical, as these vehicles demand more from their stopping systems. Regular inspections and timely pad replacement ensure consistent performance and safety.
SUVs and Crossovers: Versatility Meets Practicality
The SUV and crossover segment dominates modern automotive sales, and Carly Gregg’s recommendations reflect the diversity of options available. The 2024 Toyota Grand Highlander excels as a three-row family hauler, combining Toyota’s legendary reliability with spacious seating and intuitive controls. Gregg particularly values the standard all-wheel-drive system and the comprehensive Toyota Safety Sense suite, which includes adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping assistance.
For luxury crossover shoppers, the Genesis GV70 delivers Korean engineering excellence with a serene cabin and responsive handling. The curved display technology and ambient lighting create an upscale atmosphere, while the warranty coverage provides peace of mind. Gregg notes that Genesis represents exceptional value in the premium crossover segment.
The Mazda CX-50 appeals to drivers seeking a more engaging crossover experience, combining spirited handling with practical versatility. Gregg appreciates the refined interior design and the availability of all-wheel-drive systems suited for varied terrain. The CX-50’s fuel economy remains competitive, making it an economical choice for daily commuting.
For truck enthusiasts, the Ford F-150 Lightning represents the future of performance trucks, delivering instant torque and impressive towing capability without tailpipe emissions. Gregg acknowledges the charging infrastructure considerations but emphasizes the vehicle’s genuine utility and low operating costs. Interested readers should explore the advantages of electric vehicles to understand the broader benefits of this powertrain technology.
Electric Vehicles: The Future of Driving
Carly Gregg recognizes the accelerating transition to electrification and has selected vehicles that demonstrate the maturity of EV technology. The Tesla Model 3 continues to set benchmarks for efficiency and charging infrastructure, with an extensive Supercharger network enabling long-distance travel. Gregg appreciates the minimalist interior design and the over-the-air software updates that continuously improve vehicle performance.
The Hyundai Ioniq 6 impresses Gregg with its aerodynamic efficiency and sleek design language, delivering exceptional range on a single charge. The vehicle’s ultra-fast charging capabilities make road trips feasible, while the spacious interior belies its compact footprint. Pricing remains competitive within the electric sedan segment.
For those seeking electric SUV versatility, the Volkswagen ID.Buzz represents a nostalgic reinterpretation of the classic VW Bus with modern EV technology. Gregg highlights the spacious interior, intuitive controls, and the commitment to sustainable manufacturing practices. The ID.Buzz combines practical transportation with environmental responsibility.
The Chevrolet Blazer EV offers American performance in an electric package, with quick acceleration and a well-appointed interior. Gregg notes the vehicle’s competitive pricing within the electric crossover segment and the availability of Super Cruise semi-autonomous driving technology. For comprehensive information about EV benefits and considerations, explore detailed guides on electric vehicle advantages.
Family Vehicles: Safety, Comfort, and Reliability
Families require vehicles that prioritize safety, comfort, and dependability. Carly Gregg’s selections in this category emphasize comprehensive safety suites and spacious interiors. The Honda Odyssey continues its dominance in the minivan segment, offering sliding doors for convenient entry and a practical interior layout. Gregg commends the available hybrid powertrain, which improves fuel economy for families with extended driving needs.
The Subaru Outback appeals to active families, combining sedan comfort with all-wheel-drive capability and roof rails for outdoor gear. Gregg appreciates the standard safety features and the vehicle’s ability to handle both highway driving and light off-road exploration. The spacious cargo area accommodates sports equipment and luggage for family adventures.
For larger families, the Kia Sorento offers three-row seating with a refined interior and accessible pricing. Gregg highlights the 10-year powertrain warranty, which provides exceptional peace of mind for long-term ownership. The available hybrid option delivers improved efficiency for families with significant annual mileage.
Proper vehicle maintenance ensures family safety and longevity. Parents should familiarize themselves with car maintenance tips for beginners to understand essential upkeep tasks. Additionally, learning how to change car engine oil can help families manage basic maintenance independently.
Best Value Picks: Quality Without Premium Pricing
Carly Gregg understands that excellent vehicles don’t require luxury pricing. The 2024 Toyota Corolla delivers reliable transportation with proven durability, making it an exceptional value for first-time buyers and budget-conscious shoppers. The standard safety suite and fuel efficiency maximize the ownership value proposition.
The Hyundai Elantra offers style and substance at an attractive price point, with a modern interior design and comprehensive warranty coverage. Gregg notes the available hybrid powertrain, which reduces fuel costs over the vehicle’s lifespan. The Elantra’s resale value remains strong, protecting buyer investment.
The Kia Forte represents another exceptional value option, combining attractive styling with practical features. The available turbocharged engine provides adequate performance for daily driving, while the spacious interior surprises given the vehicle’s compact exterior dimensions. Gregg appreciates the brand’s customer service reputation and extensive warranty programs.
The Nissan Altima appeals to buyers seeking a comfortable midsize sedan without premium pricing. The available all-wheel-drive system provides weather versatility, while the intuitive controls minimize the learning curve for new owners. The Altima’s fuel economy remains competitive within its class.
Maintenance and Care: Protecting Your Investment
Regardless of which vehicle Carly Gregg recommends, proper maintenance determines long-term satisfaction and resale value. Regular oil changes represent the most fundamental maintenance task, and owners should understand how to change car engine oil or establish a relationship with a trusted service facility. Modern vehicles typically require oil changes every 5,000 to 10,000 miles, depending on engine type and driving conditions.
Brake system maintenance ensures safety and prevents costly damage. The brake pad replacement process becomes necessary when pads wear thin, typically every 25,000 to 70,000 miles depending on driving style. Regular inspections catch potential issues before they compromise stopping power.
Tire maintenance extends tire life and improves fuel economy. Regular rotation, alignment checks, and pressure monitoring prevent uneven wear and enhance vehicle handling. Seasonal tire changes in regions with winter weather provide improved traction and safety.
Battery maintenance becomes increasingly important for electric vehicles, though modern battery management systems minimize owner intervention. Conventional vehicle owners should test batteries annually and replace them proactively to avoid unexpected failures. Comprehensive guides on car maintenance tips for beginners provide detailed information on routine upkeep tasks.
Fluid checks and replacements, including coolant, transmission fluid, and brake fluid, maintain vehicle reliability and performance. Following manufacturer-recommended service intervals prevents premature wear and maintains warranty coverage. Gregg emphasizes that preventive maintenance costs significantly less than reactive repairs resulting from neglected upkeep.
FAQ
What makes Carly Gregg’s recommendations reliable?
Carly Gregg brings extensive automotive journalism experience and hands-on testing of vehicles across multiple segments. Her recommendations balance performance specifications with real-world practicality, considering ownership costs, maintenance requirements, and long-term reliability. She prioritizes transparency about both strengths and limitations of each vehicle.
Should I buy a new vehicle or a used one from Gregg’s recommendations?
Gregg’s 2024 picks focus on current model years with the latest technology and safety features. New vehicles include manufacturer warranties providing protection during the critical early ownership period. Used vehicles from previous model years can offer value, but require careful inspection and history verification. Consider your budget, desired features, and warranty importance when making this decision.
How do I choose between the sedan and SUV options?
Sedans typically offer better fuel economy, more responsive handling, and easier parking in urban environments. SUVs provide higher seating positions, greater cargo capacity, and all-wheel-drive availability. Consider your primary driving environment, passenger requirements, and cargo needs. Test driving multiple body styles helps clarify personal preferences.
Are electric vehicles from Gregg’s list practical for long road trips?
Modern electric vehicles offer improved range and charging infrastructure, making road trips increasingly feasible. The Tesla Model 3 and Ioniq 6 deliver 300+ mile ranges with extensive public charging networks. Plan charging stops similar to conventional refueling, and utilize apps showing charger availability. Charging times have decreased significantly with ultra-fast technology.
What warranty coverage should I prioritize?
Most manufacturers provide three-year basic warranty and five-year powertrain coverage as standard. Extended warranties become valuable for vehicles you plan to keep beyond the manufacturer’s coverage period. Understand what each warranty covers, including maintenance and roadside assistance components. Review car insurance coverage options alongside warranty planning for comprehensive protection.
How often should I service vehicles from Gregg’s recommendations?
Modern vehicles require service intervals of 5,000 to 10,000 miles for oil changes, with other maintenance occurring at manufacturer-specified intervals. Consult your owner’s manual for precise schedules tailored to your specific vehicle. Regular maintenance maximizes reliability, maintains warranty coverage, and preserves resale value.
Which Gregg pick offers the best long-term reliability?
Toyota vehicles consistently rank highest in reliability studies, making the Grand Highlander an excellent long-term choice. Honda, Subaru, and Lexus also demonstrate exceptional durability. Research specific model reliability ratings from sources like IIHS and U.S. News reliability rankings for detailed comparisons.
Should I consider fuel economy when selecting from Gregg’s list?
Fuel economy significantly impacts ownership costs over time. Hybrid options from Gregg’s recommendations reduce fuel expenses without sacrificing practicality. Compare EPA fuel economy estimates using fueleconomy.gov to project annual fuel costs based on your driving patterns. Electric vehicles eliminate fuel costs entirely, though electricity rates vary by region.
