The best cars to buy in 2024: their pros and cons

The choice of a car depends on many factors. First of all, drivers pay attention to the price-quality ratio, reliability, fuel consumption, and brand reputation.The best cars, regardless of their purpose, are united by the fact that they go beyond their category.

Gear Patrol experts have published a rating of the best brands in many segments. In the small SUV segment, the Honda CR-V won, and the Toyota Sienna was named the best minivan.

Best pickup truck: Ford Maverick

Pros

• Two compelling engine options with a powerful four-cylinder and an efficient hybrid
• Impressive payload for a small truck
• Price starts at $25,000

Cons

• Not very high-quality interior, especially in lower trims

The Maverick isn't the most striking vehicle in Ford's lineup, but it's a game-changer in the segment. It is the first affordable, practical and interesting new vehicle in its category in a long time.

The best mid-size pickup truck: Toyota Tacoma

Pros

• New TNGA-F platform improves handling, reduces vibration and noise
• Smooth combination of powertrain and transmission
• A new hybrid powertrain will be available

Cons

• Switch to four-cylinder engines didn't help fuel economy
• The cabin is a bit cramped
• Can be expensive compared to competitors

The Tacoma fully justifies the hype that has arisen around this novelty. The new TNGA-F platform, coil-spring rear suspension, updated interior, and new 8-speed transmission make the truck modern and refined.

The best full-size pickup truck: Ford F-150

Pros

• Powerful and versatile powertrain lineup with hybrid
• Exquisite interior
• Impressive Pro Power Onboard system

Cons

• Price.
• Feels quite large during daily driving and parking

The F-150 is equipped with all kinds of essential modern features that, combined with its vast capabilities, make it a leader in the segment.

The best small SUV: Honda CR-V

Pros

• Excellent, though not particularly sporty, performance
• Huge amount of cargo space
• Affordable price

Cons

• Difficult to compare hybrid's fuel economy in real-world driving
• Not the most striking SUV

The CR-V is expertly customized for everyday driving. It's hard to find a better full-load family SUV at a relatively affordable price.

The best midsize SUV: Toyota Grand Highlander

Pros

• Hybrid powertrains focused on both efficiency and performance
• Spacious third row of seats
• Smooth and comfortable ride

Cons

• Driving dynamics not particularly sporty
• Cargo space is sufficient, but not large

Toyota introduced the new Grand Highlander in 2024. The car quickly became a leader in the three-row midsize SUV segment. Toyota offers three variants of powerful powertrains, two of which are hybrid.

The best mid-size luxury SUV: Genesis GV80

Pros

• Two smooth, powerful powertrain options
• Stylish Bentley-like design
• Premium interior with luxurious materials

Cons

• No hybrid option
• Fuel economy is disappointing, especially with the V6

The Genesis GV80 looks distinctive, exotic, and expensive thanks to its striking grille, signature dual lighting, and premium quality materials.

The best minivan: Toyota Sienna

Pros

• Available Woodland version with more off-road capability
• Tangible fuel economy

Cons

• Not particularly sharp or exciting to drive
• Other minivans have more cargo capacity

The all-new Toyota Sienna looks really stylish and offers something most of its competitors don't - truly impressive fuel economy and all-wheel drive.

The best small car ever: Honda Civic

Pros

• Excellent handling
• Surprisingly practical amount of space
• Simple, elegant interior at an affordable price

Cons

• No hybrid variant currently available (coming in 2025)

• No manual option available on the sedan
• The Civic offers excellent handling, affordable pricing, and a stylish interior.

The best mid-size car: Honda Accord

Pros

• Speed and agility, almost like a sports car
• Plenty of passenger and cargo space
• Excellent fuel economy with hybrid model

Cons

• Suspension can be harsh over bumps
• This is a sedan, not a crossover

Honda has made some tangible changes to the new Accord, such as ditching the vaunted V6 and turning the hybrid into a new performance model. But the commitment to delivering the refinement of a luxury sedan at an affordable price remains the same.

The best station wagon: Subaru Outback

Pros

• Reliable and comfortable driving
• Affordable price.
• Enough cargo space

Cons

• No hybrid powertrain option
• Wilderness equipment significantly improves fuel economy

Many manufacturers try to combine the best of regular car handling and SUV practicality, but few succeed at a price that mere mortals can afford. The Subaru Outback is a pleasant exception to the rule.

The best electric car available: Hyundai Ioniq 5

Pros

• Fast and comfortable ride
• Distinctive style.
• Ultra-fast E-GMP charging technology

Cons

• Car could have sportier tuning
• Strange door handles that slide out

The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is one of the best electric cars out there. It is surprisingly comfortable to drive. It offers one of the fastest charging technologies on the market thanks to the Hyundai E-GMP platform.

Subscribe to the OBOZ.UA channels in Telegram and Viber to keep up with the latest events.