Buyers Guide: The Best Cars for 2024

Whether you crave a fuel-efficient hybrid, a feature-packed EV, an affordable sports car that hugs the curves, or even an adventure station wagon, there’s a perfect model for you in our comprehensive list of the best cars in 2024.

From award-winning mainstays to innovative newcomers, dive into our picks for the most compelling cars you can buy this year. We’ll explore their features, fuel economy, price, and what makes them stand out from the pack, so read on.

2024 Honda Accord
2024 Ford Mustang
2024 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata
2024 Kia EV6
2024 Volkswagen Arteon
2024 Subaru Outback
2024 Dodge Charger R/T
2024 Toyota Prius Prime
2024 Nissan Altima

2024 Honda Accord

Via Honda

Specifications

MSRP: $29,910 USD / $39,464 CAD
Engine: 1.5L Turbocharged I4
Power / Torque: 192 hp / 192 lb-ft
Drivetrain: FWD
0-60 mph: 7.3 seconds
Fuel Economy: 32 MPG combined / 7.3L/100km combined
Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles / 58,000 km

Our Take

The 2024 Accord balances efficiency, performance, and dependability. The 1.5-liter turbo engine in the LX and EX trims is peppy enough to make driving fun. Inside, you’ll enjoy a refined interior with high-quality materials and a standard digital instrument cluster.

Honda’s reputation for reliability is a bonus, and safety tech abounds, earning the IIHS Top Safety Pick rating or better for the 2023 model year. This well-rounded sedan remains a class leader.

2024 Ford Mustang GT

Via Ford

Specifications

MSRP: $43,555 USD / $48,630 CAD
Engine: 5.0L V8
Power / Torque: 486 hp / 418 lb-ft
Drivetrain: RWD
0-60 mph: 4.2 seconds
Fuel Economy: 17 MPG combined / 13.8L/100km combined
Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles / 58,000 km

Our Take

The 2024 Mustang GT roars with classic muscle car looks and thrilling performance. The legendary 5.0L V8 delivers heart-pounding power, while the available drift brake and six drive modes unleash its potential.

Inside, comfy seats, a customizable digital cockpit, and a massive 13.2-inch touchscreen add a modern touch. Choose between coupe or convertible freedom, and with the available performance packages, you can tailor the GT to your driving desires.

2024 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid

Via Hyundai

Specifications

MSRP: $31,950 USD (US only)
Engine: 2.0L I4 + AC Motor
Power / Torque: 192 hp / 290 lb-ft
Drivetrain: FWD
0-60 mph: 8.0 seconds
Fuel Economy: 47 MPG combined / 5.0L/100km combined
Basic Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles / 96,000

Our Take

Combining practicality with impressive fuel economy, the 2024 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid boasts a classy interior and sleek exterior that rival luxury sedans. It delivers an exceptional 47 mpg combined, making it a wallet-friendly choice.

You won’t sacrifice power either, with a hybrid system generating 192 horsepower and 290 lb-ft of torque. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto infotainment systems are standard. Hyundai’s industry-leading warranty makes the 2024 Sonata Hybrid a top option.

2024 Mazda MX-5 Miata RF

Via Mazda

Specifications

MSRP: $37,010 USD / $41,900 CAD
Engine: 2.0L I4
Power / Torque: 181 hp / 151 lb-ft
Drivetrain: RWD
0-60 mph: 5.8 seconds
Fuel Economy: 30 MPG combined / 8.1L/100km combined
Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles / 58,000 km

Our Take

For those who yearn for the open air and a chic retractable roof, the Miata RF embodies roadster perfection. The goal is pure driving joy, not power. Its go-kart-like agility results from its crisp handling and ideal 50/50 weight distribution, and its 181 horsepower suffices for twisty roads.

For genuine driver engagement, go for a limited-slip differential and a manual gearbox. Though impractical, the Miata RF is a fantastic vehicle for connected, enjoyable driving.

2024 Kia K5

Via Kia

Specifications

MSRP: $25,590 USD / $30,495 CAD
Engine: 1.6L Turbocharged I4
Power / Torque: 180 hp / 195 lb-ft
Drivetrain: FWD
0-60 mph: 7.7 seconds
Fuel Economy: 31 MPG combined / 8.7L/100km combined
Basic Warranty: 5 years / 60,000 miles / 96,000

Our Take

The 2024 Kia K5 perfectly blends style and substance. It boasts a head-turning design with features like a panoramic sunroof and unique color options. Safety is top priority with Kia’s Driver Assist suite, which includes features like lane-keeping assist and blind-spot collision avoidance.

The K5 comes loaded with tech, offering a user-friendly infotainment system and smartphone connectivity. Whether you prioritize comfort, performance, or peace of mind, the 2024 Kia K5 is a strong contender.

2024 Volkswagen Arteon

Via VW

Specifications

MSRP: $44,300 USD / $58,400 CAD
Engine: 2.0L Turbocharged I4
Power / Torque: 300 hp / 295 lb-ft
Drivetrain: AWD
0-60 mph: 4.6 seconds
Fuel Economy: 25 MPG combined / 7.9L/100km combined
Basic Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles / 80,000 km

Our Take

The Arteon is Volkswagen’s flagship sedan. It comes standard with the brand’s 4Motion® all-wheel drive system, a spacious interior, luxurious materials, and a refined GT design. The Arteon stands out amongst rival sedans because it integrates design and technology to deliver fantastic performance without breaking the bank.

Some tech-focused standard features include navigation, USB-C charging, enhanced speech recognition, MIB3 infotainment with wireless App-Connect, Climatronic® Touch, and Volkswagen Digital Cockpit Pro.

2024 Subaru Outback

Via Subaru

Specifications

MSRP: $28,395 USD / $32,695 CAD
Engine: 2.5L Flat-4
Power / Torque: 182 hp / 176 lb-ft
Drivetrain: AWD
0-60 mph: 8.6 seconds
Fuel Economy: 28 MPG combined / 9.2L/100km combined
Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles / 58,000 km

Our Take

The 2024 Subaru Outback blends rugged capability with everyday comfort. Standard all-wheel drive and up to 9.5 inches of ground clearance tackle any terrain, while its spacious interior with 32.6 cubic feet of cargo space keeps you comfortable.

Packed with safety features like automatic emergency braking and lane-centering cruise control, the Outback prioritizes your well-being. The Outback offers versatility and safety, making it a compelling choice for hitting the trails.

2024 Mini Hardtop 2 Door

Via BMW Group

Specifications

MSRP: $25,800 USD / $26,400 CAD
Engine: 1.5L Turbocharged I3
Power / Torque: 134 hp / 162 lb-ft
Drivetrain: FWD
0-60 mph: 7.6 seconds
Fuel Economy: 32 MPG combined / 6.0/100km combined
Basic Warranty: 4 years / 50,000 miles / 80,000 km

Our Take

The 2024 Mini 2-Door Hardtop packs a big personality in a small package. Its iconic go-kart handling results from its short wheelbase, wide track, and lightweight construction. Powertrain options include a turbocharged and fully electric engine, ideal for zipping around town.

It boasts tons of customization to match your style, and safety features keep you confident behind the wheel. While the rear space is tight, this zippy hatch is about driving experience.

2024 Toyota Prius Prime

Via Toyota

Specifications

MSRP: $32,975 USD / $39,550 CAD
Engine: 2.0L I4 + 2 Electric Motors
Battery: 13.6 kWh Lithium Ion
Power / Torque: 220 hp / 139 lb-ft
Drivetrain: FWD
0-60 mph: 6.7 seconds
Fuel Economy: 54 MPG combined / 4.5L/100km combined
Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles / 58,000 km

Our Take

The 2024 Toyota Prius Prime is the plug-in version of the standard Prius and a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. It combines efficiency with a surprising punch, with an impressive electric range for most daily commutes.

Its powerful engine kicks in seamlessly when needed, boasting 220 horsepower, making it quicker than ever. This efficient family hauler offers comfort and practicality with a spacious interior for passengers and cargo.

2024 Nissan Altima

Via Nissan

Specifications

MSRP: $25,730 USD / $31,598 CAD
Engine: 2.5L I4
Power / Torque: 182 hp / 178 lb-ft
Drivetrain: FWD
0-60 mph: 8 seconds
Fuel Economy: 32 MPG combined / 7.9L/100km combined
Basic Warranty: 3 years / 36,000 miles / 58,000 km

Our Take

The 2024 Nissan Altima offers excellent comfort, efficiency, and safety. Its spacious interior features innovative Zero Gravity seats for long drives. Powertrain options include a 2.5L engine for improved gas mileage or a muscular VC-Turbo option for more power.

All trims come with Nissan’s Safety Shield 360 suite, including automatic emergency braking and blind spot monitoring. Its all-wheel drive provides added driving confidence. Overall, the Altima is a capable and enjoyable sedan.