Unveiling Top 10 Best Cars of 2024: A Detailed Review
The automotive landscape is poised for an extraordinary year in 2024, sparking enthusiasm and anticipation among car enthusiasts and potential buyers alike.
As the industry gears up to showcase the best cars 2024 has to offer, featuring innovations in design, performance, and technology, selecting the top-rated cars becomes a task of paramount importance.
This article aims to unveil the top 10 best cars of 2024, rigorously selected based on comprehensive evaluation and analysis, including the exciting new cars 2023 has introduced.
Key to this meticulous selection process are safety and reliability ratings, fuel economy, and performance specifications, as gathered from the U.S. News ranking. This ranking, highly regarded for its consensus opinion from the automotive press and inclusion of new car prices, provides a critical foundation for understanding what sets these vehicles apart in their respective classes, effectively influencing car rankings and highlighting the best new cars in 2023.
Through this approach, Clacified's objective is to guide readers through an exploration of the best cars in the world, highlighting not just the luxury and design but emphasizing car detailing, car dealers, car prices, and overall value, ensuring an insightful glimpse into the prowess of 2024's best cars.
1. Subaru Crosstrek
The 2024 Subaru Crosstrek emerges as a redesigned subcompact SUV that brings together refinement, safety, and performance, setting a high bar for its segment. Here's a detailed look at what makes the Crosstrek a standout choice among the best cars 2024 has to offer.
- Engine and Performance:
The Crosstrek offers two engine options: a base 2.0L engine delivering 152 horsepower and a more robust 2.5L 4-cylinder engine producing 182 horsepower, promising a more engaging driving experience.
A Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) is standard across all trims, refined for efficiency and smoother operation, with paddle shifters available on higher trims for an enhanced driving feel.
Fuel efficiency stands at an impressive combined gas mileage of 29 mpg, though the Wilderness trim exhibits slightly lower efficiency due to its enhanced off-road capabilities.
- Safety and Technology:
The updated EyeSight suite of active safety features includes automatic pre-collision braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control, ensuring peace of mind on every drive.
Standard safety features are further bolstered by steering-responsive LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation and a next-generation collection of driver assistance and collision avoidance systems.
Inside, the base model features dual 7-inch touchscreen displays, while upper trims boast a sharp-looking 11.6-inch touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available, keeping you connected.
- Design and Comfort:
The interior has been designed for comfort and quiet, with updated seats providing good support and cushioning. The interior noise has been significantly reduced compared to the previous model.
The Crosstrek offers a simple and roomy interior, with 20.8 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 55.3 cubic feet by folding the rear seats flat.
Exterior design features include a choice of 9 colours and 4 trims, with the new Wilderness trim adding a rugged appeal with improved ground clearance and all-terrain tyres.
With a price range of $25,195 - $32,195 and a market price for the base model at $25,215, the 2024 Subaru Crosstrek is a compelling option for those seeking a blend of performance, safety, and value.
2. Toyota Prius & Prius Prime
The 2024 Toyota Prius and Prius Prime redefine efficiency and style, setting new benchmarks in the best hybrid cars 2024 segment. Here's a closer look at what both models offer:
- Performance and Efficiency:
The Toyota Prius comes with a sportier design and an enhanced performance profile, offering 75 more horsepower than its predecessors, ensuring a more dynamic driving experience. The Prius Prime steps up the game with 39 electric-only miles and an overall 43 mpg, catering to those seeking the ultimate in efficiency.
Fuel economy shines across both models, with the Prius boasting up to 57 MPG in the city and the Prius Prime offering up to 127 MPGe, showcasing Toyota's commitment to fuel efficiency without compromising performance.
- Design and Comfort:
Both models feature a 5-passenger seating arrangement with 60/40 split fold-down rear seats, including a centre armrest and cup holders, blending comfort with convenience. The Prius offers 23.8 cubic feet of cargo space, expanding to 50.4 with seats folded, while the Prius Prime provides slightly less standard cargo space but expands to a generous 62.7 cubic feet, ensuring ample room for all your adventures.
The interior is equipped with a standard 8-inch touchscreen, with an upgrade to a 12.3-inch screen available, enhancing the tech-savvy nature of these vehicles.
- Technology and Safety:
Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 comes standard on the Prius Prime, including advanced features like a Pre-Collision System with Pedestrian Detection and Blind Spot Monitor with Rear Cross-Traffic Alert, ensuring a safer drive. The Prius Prime also offers additional tech such as Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa, keeping you connected on the go.
Both models include ToyotaCare, offering a $0 Cost Maintenance Plan and 24-hour Roadside Assistance, adding value and peace of mind for owners.
With starting MSRPs of $27,450 for the Prius and $32,350 for the Prius Prime, both models present compelling options for those prioritizing efficiency, technology, and safety in their next vehicle purchase.
3. Subaru Forester
The 2024 Subaru Forester, highly regarded for its compact SUV capabilities, secures its position as a top contender in the best cars of 2024 with a blend of performance, safety, and practicality. Here's an in-depth look at its standout features among 2024 cars.
Performance and Capability:
- Engine: Powered by a 2.5-litre horizontally opposed four-cylinder engine, the Forester generates 182 horsepower and 176 pound-feet of torque, offering a balanced blend of power and efficiency.
- Transmission and Drive: Equipped with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that simulates seven ratios and standard all-wheel drive, it ensures a smooth and responsive driving experience. Despite its sluggish acceleration and the CVT's mimicry of traditional automatic transmission, its off-roading capability surpasses most rivals, thanks to an 8.7-inch ground clearance, which extends to 9.2 inches with the Wilderness trim.
- Fuel Efficiency: While it boasts an EPA rating of 29 mpg combined, real-world evaluations have observed an average of 25.9 mpg, slightly below the expected performance.
Safety and Technology:
- Ratings: Achieving a 5-star NHTSA overall safety rating and Good ratings in most IIHS safety tests, the Forester reassures with its solid safety profile.
- Driver Assistance Features: A comprehensive suite of standard features includes a rearview camera, lane-departure warning with lane-keep assist, and forward automatic emergency braking. Additionally, available options like blind-spot monitoring enhance the driving experience.
- Warranty: Owners are supported by a three-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a five-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, providing peace of mind.
Design, Comfort, and Utility:
- Interior and Cargo: The Forester's design prioritizes functionality and space, offering 28.9 cubic feet of cargo space behind the rear seats, expandable to 74.2 cubic feet. Despite its old-school vibe with hard plastic and analogue gauges, the SUV excels in outward visibility and storage solutions.
- Seating and Comfort: Accommodating up to 5 passengers, the Forester's boxy shape not only maximizes interior space but also ensures one of the best riding experiences in its class. The unique sound of its boxer engine, while distinctive, may be perceived as noise by some.
With a base MSRP of $28,440 and an above-average RepairPal Reliability Rating of 3.5 out of 5 stars, alongside an average annual maintenance cost of $525, the 2024 Subaru Forester presents itself as a compelling choice for those seeking versatility, safety, and value in a compact SUV, making it one of the best cars to buy.
4. Mazda3
The 2024 Mazda3 stands out in the compact car segment, offering a blend of performance, luxury, and technological innovation that sets it apart from its competitors.
Available in both sedan and hatchback models, the Mazda3 caters to a wide range of preferences and needs, marking it as one of the best cars in 2024 and a top contender among 2024 cars.
- Trim Levels and Pricing:
The Mazda3 is available in six distinct trim levels: 2.5 S, Select Sport, 2.5 S Preferred, 2.5 S Carbon Edition, 2.5 S Premium, 2.5 Carbon Turbo, and 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus, giving buyers a variety of options to choose from based on their desired features and budget.
Pricing starts at $25,335 for the hatchback version, positioning the Mazda3 as a competitively priced option within the compact car category.
- Performance and Efficiency:
At the heart of the Mazda3 is a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine that delivers 191 horsepower and 186 lb-ft of torque, providing a balance of power and fuel efficiency.
For those seeking more thrill, a turbocharged 2.5-litre engine is available, which boosts performance to 227 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque on regular gas, and up to 250 horsepower and 320 lb-ft of torque on 93 octane gas. This variant ensures quick acceleration and a more refined driving experience.
The vehicle offers a 6-speed automatic transmission as standard, with a 6-speed manual transmission available on the 2.5 S Premium hatchback trim for enthusiasts who prefer a more hands-on driving experience.
Fuel economy is commendable, with a rating of 30 mpg in combined city/highway driving for the front-wheel-drive models and 29 mpg with all-wheel drive. The turbocharged engine models see a slight decrease to 26 mpg, still respectable for the added performance.
- Interior, Technology, and Safety:
Inside, the Mazda3 boasts a spacious and premium interior, featuring comfortable and supportive front seats. However, it's noted that the rear seat legroom and cargo capacity are below average for the class.
Technology aficionados will appreciate the standard 8.8-inch infotainment screen, with an optional upgrade to a 10.25-inch touchscreen available on the 2.5 Turbo models, which includes wireless smartphone integration for added convenience.
Safety is a paramount concern, and the Mazda3 addresses this with a suite of advanced driver assist features as standard, including forward collision warning with automatic braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, and lane departure warning. This commitment to safety is underscored by a 5-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and a Good rating in all crash tests from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.
The Mazda3's blend of performance, luxury, and safety, combined with its competitive pricing and range of trim levels, make it a compelling choice for those in the market for one of the best cars in 2024.
5. Toyota Camry Hybrid
The 2024 Toyota Camry Hybrid not only continues its legacy as a reliable and efficient sedan but also sets new standards in the hybrid car segment, offering an impressive blend of performance, safety, and technology. It's easily one of the best hybrid cars for 2024.
Performance and Efficiency:
- Powertrain: Combining a 2.5L naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine with an electric motor, the Camry Hybrid achieves a total output of 208 horsepower and 163 lb-ft of torque, ensuring a smooth and powerful ride.
- Fuel Economy: The LE trim excels with an EPA-estimated 51 city / 53 highway mpg, while the SE, XSE, and XLE trims deliver a commendable 44 city / 47 highway mpg, making the Camry Hybrid a leader in fuel efficiency.
- Acceleration: With a 0-60 mph time of approximately 7.4 seconds, the Camry Hybrid balances brisk acceleration with exceptional fuel economy.
Safety and Technology:
- Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+: This comprehensive suite includes a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, lane tracing assist, road sign assist, and dynamic radar cruise control, ensuring top-notch safety across all trims.
- Infotainment and Connectivity: Depending on the trim, the Camry Hybrid comes equipped with a 7-inch or 9-inch touchscreen display, offering standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa for seamless integration with your digital life.
- Additional Safety Features: Higher trim levels benefit from blind spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert, adding an extra layer of security for the driver and passengers.
Design and Comfort:
- Interior Space: The Camry Hybrid is designed to maximize comfort, offering a roomy seating area with dual-zone automatic climate control and a power-adjustable driver's seat. The 60/40-split rear seat enhances versatility, allowing for expanded cargo space.
- Cargo Capacity: With 15.1 cubic feet of trunk space, the Camry Hybrid provides ample room for luggage and gear, making it an ideal choice for families and travelers alike.
Ranked #1 out of 7 in Hybrid Cars with an overall U.S. News rating of 8.4/10, the Toyota Camry Hybrid stands out for its blend of efficiency, performance, and safety. It's a top pick among the best hybrid cars 2024, offering a compelling choice for eco-conscious drivers and those seeking a reliable and comfortable sedan.
With prices starting at $28,855 for the LE trim and ranging up to $34,200 for the XSE, the Camry Hybrid offers various options to suit different budgets and preferences, all while maintaining a strong value proposition in the competitive hybrid market.
6. Ford Maverick & Maverick Hybrid
The 2024 Ford Maverick and its hybrid variant stand out as pioneers in the compact truck segment, blending utility with exceptional fuel efficiency and a suite of technological advancements. Here's a detailed exploration of what makes these models noteworthy, marking them as some of the best cars in 2024.
- Performance and Efficiency:
The base model Maverick comes equipped with a 2.0L four-cylinder engine, while the highlight is the optional 2.5L hybrid engine, which pushes the boundaries of fuel efficiency in trucks, boasting a remarkable 191 horsepower.
The hybrid model shines with an estimated 37mpg in the city and 37mpg combined, making it a top contender for those looking to maximize fuel economy.
For those needing more robust capabilities, the Maverick offers a towing capacity of up to 4,000 pounds with a towing package, and the 2024 model introduces a new tow package, enhancing the maximum towing capacity to 4,500 lb.
- Design and Features:
The 2024 Maverick showcases a bolder design with sharper lines and more aggressive front and rear fascias. New wheel options and paint colours allow for greater personalization.
Inside, the Maverick doesn't skimp on comfort or technology. The 2023 model is already equipped with an 8.0-inch infotainment screen, dual-zone climate control, ambient interior lighting in higher trims, and a practical bed size of 4.5 feet with an electrical outlet, setting a high bar for the 2024 model.
The introduction of wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto in the 2024 model further enhances connectivity, ensuring a seamless integration of your digital life into your driving experience.
- Pricing and Availability:
Starting at $22,595 for the 2023 model and approximately $23,400 for the 2024 model, the Ford Maverick offers incredible value, especially considering its hybrid option which, despite a $1,500 upcharge, presents itself as an economical choice in the long run.
However, potential buyers should be aware that the inventory may be limited due to high demand and global supply-chain constraints, emphasizing the need to act swiftly.
The Ford Maverick and Maverick Hybrid models redefine what's expected from a compact truck, offering a blend of efficiency, functionality, and technology that caters to a wide range of needs and preferences.
Whether it's the daily commute, a weekend adventure, or hauling necessities, the Maverick proves to be a versatile and prudent choice for modern drivers.
7. Toyota RAV4 Prime
The 2024 Toyota RAV4 Prime, a plug-in hybrid SUV, stands as a testament to Toyota's commitment to combining power, efficiency, and innovative design. Poised to make a significant impact in the best hybrid cars 2024 market, here's a detailed overview of what sets the RAV4 Prime apart.
Performance Highlights:
- Powerful Hybrid System: Combining a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, the RAV4 Prime achieves a total system output of 302 horsepower, making it one of the most powerful in its class.
- Acceleration: It boasts an impressive 0 to 60 mph time of just 5.7 seconds, highlighting its quick acceleration capabilities.
- Efficiency and Range: Not only is it powerful, but the RAV4 Prime also excels in efficiency with a 94 mpge combined rating and an all-electric range of 42 miles, ensuring drivers can enjoy the benefits of electric driving for daily commutes.
Design and Comfort:
- Exterior Design: The RAV4 Prime features a bold and rugged look, complete with full LED headlights, LED fog lights, a distinctive black mesh grille, and eye-catching 19-inch alloy wheels.
- Luxurious Interior: Inside, drivers are greeted with perforated leather seats accented with red stitching, heated and ventilated front seats, power-adjustable seats with memory function, a 12-inch digital dashboard, a 10.5-inch infotainment system, and a panoramic sunroof, all contributing to a premium cabin experience.
Safety and Technology:
- Advanced Safety Features: Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 Plus comes standard, offering a suite of safety technologies, including a pre-collision system with pedestrian detection, lane departure alert with steering assist, blind-spot monitors, and automatic braking to ensure peace of mind.
- Charging and Warranty: With a home charging time of just 4.5 hours on a 240V outlet, the RAV4 Prime makes recharging convenient. Additionally, hybrid batteries are federally mandated to carry at least 8 years or 100,000 miles of warranty coverage, emphasizing Toyota's confidence in their hybrid technology.
Priced between $43,690 and $47,560 and available in two trims, SE and XSE, with the XSE being the most popular due to its additional features and amenities, the RAV4 Prime offers a compelling package for those seeking a plug-in hybrid SUV that doesn't compromise on power, luxury, or efficiency.
Despite its few drawbacks, such as lacklustre handling and a longer-than-average braking distance, the RAV4 Prime remains a top choice for eco-conscious drivers looking for a versatile and capable SUV.
8. Toyota Highlander Hybrid
The 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid emerges as a beacon of efficiency and versatility in the midsized SUV category, blending performance with eco-conscious innovation. Here's a detailed breakdown of its key attributes, making it one of the best hybrid cars of 2024.
Performance and Efficiency:
- Engine: A 2.5 L 4-cylinder hybrid system propels the Highlander Hybrid, delivering a combined 243 horsepower, ensuring ample power for both city driving and highway cruises.
- Fuel Economy: It stands out with an estimated 36 mpg combined, making it one of the most fuel-efficient options in its class]. This efficiency translates to an estimated cost to drive of just $131/month, underlining its economic advantages.
- Towing Capacity: Despite its focus on fuel efficiency, the Highlander Hybrid doesn’t skimp on utility, offering a respectable towing capacity of 3500 lb.
Design and Comfort:
- Interior: The cabin is designed for comfort, offering an airy and open environment. However, it's noted that the third-row seating is tight, best suited for children, and the cargo space behind the third row is below average for its class.
- Features: The 2024 model introduces the New Nightshade Edition styling package and makes the Hands-free power liftgate a standard feature on the XLE trim, enhancing both aesthetics and convenience.
- Sound and Ride: While the ride is comfortable, the engine sound can be coarse and unrefined at full throttle, a minor drawback in an otherwise serene driving experience.
Value and Innovation:
- Pricing: With a price range of $40,970 - $53,375, the Highlander Hybrid is competitively positioned within the midsized SUV market, offering a compelling blend of features, performance, and efficiency for its price.
- Generation: As part of the fourth Highlander generation introduced in 2020, the 2024 model benefits from years of refinement and innovation, making it a mature choice in the hybrid SUV segment.
- Fuel Economy Leader: Achieving 35 mpg overall and equipped with all-wheel drive, the Highlander Hybrid sets a high standard for fuel efficiency without compromising on the all-weather and terrain versatility that SUV buyers seek.
With its blend of eco-friendly performance, cutting-edge features, and thoughtful design, the 2024 Toyota Highlander Hybrid positions itself as a top choice for families and individuals looking for a versatile, efficient, and comfortable SUV, making it one of the best hybrid cars of 2024.
9. BMW X5 & X5 PHEV
The 2024 BMW X5 and its plug-in hybrid variant, the X5 PHEV, continue to define luxury and performance in the SUV market, securing their place among the best luxury cars of 2024. Here's a closer look at what sets these models apart:
- Performance and Powertrains:
The BMW X5 offers a choice between a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine, producing 335 hp and 330 lb-ft of torque, and a more powerful 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 engine, delivering 523 hp and 553 lb-ft of torque.
The X5 PHEV combines a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline-six engine with an electric motor, achieving a total output of 389 hp and 443 lb-ft of torque. The xDrive50e variant further enhances this with 483 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque, showcasing robust electric propulsion and quick acceleration, with a 0 to 60 mph time of about 4.6 seconds.
- Luxury and Comfort:
Both models are known for their whisper-quiet cabins, featuring leather and wood interiors, cushioned surfaces, and coddling front seats for an exquisite ride.
The X5 and X5 PHEV share the same dimensions and come standard with luxury amenities, including a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 14.9-inch infotainment touchscreen, panoramic sunroof, heated front seats, and wireless charging. However, the X5 PHEV has slightly less cargo space due to the battery pack.
- Efficiency and Innovation:
The X5 showcases fuel efficiencies of 21 mpg city / 26 mpg highway (RWD) and 20 mpg city / 25 mpg highway (AWD). The X5 PHEV impresses with 64 MPGe and a 20-mile all-electric range, which increases to 39 miles (EPA estimate) or 47 miles (tested) for the xDrive50e PHEV variant.
Safety features across both models include automatic emergency braking, pedestrian detection, and lane departure warning, ensuring peace of mind.
The xDrive50e PHEV charges in about four hours using a Level 2 charger, making it convenient for daily use. Additionally, this model is eligible for a $1,000 EV Tax Credit, enhancing its value proposition.
Starting at $66,100 for the X5 and $70,300 for the X5 PHEV, with the xDrive50e PHEV at $72,500, these models represent BMW's commitment to luxury, performance, and eco-friendly innovation, making them standout choices for discerning buyers looking for the best luxury cars 2024.
10. Tesla Model Y
The 2024 Tesla Model Y, with its electric prowess and midsized SUV convenience, stands as a beacon of innovation and performance in the automotive landscape. This vehicle not only captivates with its acceleration and handling but also offers practical features that cater to a wide range of needs, positioning it among the best electric cars in 2024.
Performance and Efficiency:
- Acceleration: The Model Y's ability to sprint from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 3.5 seconds, or 4.3 seconds with the Acceleration Boost, showcases its stunning acceleration capabilities.
- Driving Range: Offering over 300 miles of range on the Long Range model, the Model Y ensures long journeys without frequent stops for charging, supported by robust Supercharger compatibility.
- Efficiency: Qualifying for the entire $7,500 federal tax credit, the Model Y becomes an even more attractive option, effectively reducing its starting price to approximately $35,000.
Design and Comfort:
- Interior: A minimalist interior design dominated by a large windshield and a panoramic glass roof, coupled with a spacious cabin offering up to 76 cubic feet of cargo space, defines the Model Y's appeal.
- Exterior: The Model Y's distinctive design features 21-inch Uber turbine wheels, frog-like Tesla LED headlights, and a sleek carbon fibre spoiler, enhancing its sporty yet elegant stance.
Safety and Technology:
- Safety: A five-star safety rating across all categories, built-in dash cams, and the Autopilot feature for semi-autonomous driving contribute to a secure and stress-free driving experience.
- Connectivity and Control: The large 13.0-inch infotainment screen provides real-time information about the charging process and access to Tesla's extensive Supercharger Network, ensuring ease of use and peace of mind during travels.
The Tesla Model Y's blend of performance, design, and innovation, coupled with minimal maintenance costs and a comprehensive safety profile, positions it as a compelling choice among the best cars of 2024. Its electric SUV format, combined with SUV-like body features, more passenger and cargo space than the Model 3, and instant torque for exhilarating drives, makes the Model Y a standout in the category of best electric cars 2024.
Conclusion
Through the exploration of the top cars of 2024, it has become apparent that this year is marked by exceptional innovation, performance, design, and value across a range of categories, from electric SUVs like the Tesla Model Y to versatile hybrids like the Toyota RAV4 Prime.
Each vehicle showcased exemplifies the automotive industry's commitment to pushing boundaries, whether through electrification, safety enhancements, or cutting-edge technology, ensuring there's something for every type of driver.
As we look forward to the automotive future, the significance of these vehicles goes beyond mere transportation; they symbolize the industry's shift towards more sustainable, safe, and connected driving experiences.
Readers are encouraged to delve deeper into these models, perhaps even test-driving their favourites, to truly comprehend their impact and capabilities. The best cars of 2024 offer a glimpse into the exciting advancements on the horizon, underscoring an era of automotive innovation that promises to redefine the way we drive.
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