The 40 Best Vehicles To Buy In 2024
2024 is an exciting year for car lovers as several popular vehicles have been redesigned to a great extent. Many new trims have been introduced, and a wide majority of vehicles have seen improvements in their interior, their infotainment, and their powertrain options.
The last year sure was great for SUVs and pickups, but sedans are here to stay… at least in 2024. With that said, let us have a quick look at the best cars, trucks, and SUVs in all segments that you can get this year. Read on to see them all!
Chevrolet Trax: $21,495 - $24,995
The Chevrolet Trax features a 137-hp turbocharged three-cylinder engine and a six-speed automatic transmission throughout all trims. Drawing inspiration from the mid-size Blazer, the new-gen Trax enhances both rear legroom and cargo space… while cutting down on the starting tag.
Priced from $21,495 to $24,995, the Trax is now offered in five trims rather than two, with the LT model striking a perfect balance between affordability and features. It includes an 11.0-inch infotainment touchscreen, remote start, and optional heated front seats and steering wheel. The LT and higher trims also feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
Honda Civic: $25,045 - $32,545
Heading into 2024, the Civic maintains its familiar form with no significant changes. There was speculation about a hybrid addition this year, but Honda has postponed it to 2025. The 2024 Civic is stylish, fuel-efficient and enjoyable to ride with a number of standard niceties, including Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto capability and an extensive suite of driver-assistance features.
The base trims feature a 158-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, while the higher ones boast a 180-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder powertrain. While all models offer a great value for money, the mid-level EX sedan particularly stands out with a number of features including a power sunroof, dual-zone automatic climate control, blind-spot monitoring, heated front seats, and heated exterior mirrors.
Jeep Wrangler: $33,890 - $93,440
The 2024 Jeep Wrangler offers a variety of powertrain options, starting with a 285-hp 3.6-liter V6 paired with either a six-speed manual gearbox or an eight-speed auto transmission. Since it is purely meant to access the inaccessible, every trim comes standard with part-time four-wheel drive controlled by a lever on the center console.
The lower trims do lack some basic creature comforts, but a comprehensive infotainment package more than makes up for that. Known as Uconnect 5, this interface is user-friendly, responsive, and displayed on a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and onboard navigation with over 2000 mapped trails.
Buick Envista: $23,495 - $29,695
Emphasizing simplicity over performance, the Envista is an all-new nameplate for Buick and a practical choice in the subcompact SUV category. Powered by a turbocharged 1.2-liter three-cylinder engine producing 136 horsepower, all models feature front-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission.
The base trim includes features like an 11.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system, an 8.0-inch digital gauge display, and automatic high-beam headlamps, while the higher trims offer a range of niceties to match the tag. The Envista delivers confident handling, a well-controlled ride, precise steering, and a decent mileage estimated at 28 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway.
Ram 1500: $41,415 - $67,805
The Ram 1500 offers two powertrains: a 305-hp 3.6-liter V6 and a more potent 395-hp 5.7-liter V8, both of which are mated to an eight-speed auto transmission and assisted by a 48-volt hybrid system. The 5.7-liter Hemi V8 is also available as non-hybrid.
Capable of towing up to 12,750 pounds, the Ram 1500's towing capacity is one of the highest in class. Another notable feature is its rear suspension that uses standard coil or optional air springs. The air suspension trims can let you adjust your ride height as well, which not only enhances fuel efficiency, but also helps in off-road performance.Ford F-150: $38,565 - $84,495
Kia Niro: $28,315 - $41,515
The Niro hybrid features a 139-hp powertrain, comprising a 1.6-liter four-cylinder and an electric motor, with a standard six-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission and front-wheel drive. If you want sportier performance, the plug-in-hybrid variant boosts the combined horsepower to 180… besides providing 33 miles of electric range from its 11.1-kWh battery pack.
The base trim delivers an EPA-estimated 53 mpg in the city and 54 mpg on the highway, while others are rated at 53 mpg city and 45 mpg highway. The cabin features recycled materials, ambient lighting, a rotary shift knob, and enough space to comfortably seat four adults. All trims except the base LX feature a 10.3-inch infotainment display with in-dash navigation and SiriusXM satellite radio.
Toyota Prius: $29,045 - $36,060
Every 2024 Toyota Prius is powered by a 194-hp hybrid powertrain, featuring the same 2.0-liter inline-four gasoline engine found in the Corolla Cross hybrid. Paired with a continuously variable automatic transmission, this setup ensures a 0-60 time of just over 7 seconds, which is a significant improvement from the previous model's launch time of 10.5 seconds.
For the FWD models, the EPA estimates a fuel efficiency of 57 mpg in the city and 56 mpg on the highway, while the all-wheel models deliver a combined 54 mpg. A noteworthy change includes a newly positioned gauge cluster (that now sits behind the steering wheel) and a slightly lower roofline. The biggest change, however, is that Prius no longer sacrifices performance and looks to fuel efficiency.
Ford F-150: $38,565 - $84,495
America's most-selling pickup truck, the Ford F-150 is offered in so many trim combinations that there's practically a version for every user and budget. You can select from a number of engine options (starting from a 325-hp twin-turbo 2.7-liter V6), body styles, bed length, and drive configurations.
The inside is upscale and modern, even for the base trims… and you can also get a hands-free driving feature for a monhtly subscription fee. As for towing capacity, the F-150 can tow up to 14,000 pounds and is rivaled by none. Moreover, the hybrid model boasts a whopping 700-mile driving range per tank and has an onboard generator for job sites or power outages.
Tesla Model 3: $40,630 - $55,000
The 2024 Model 3 is available in three trims. The base variant comes with a single motor driving the rear wheels and has an EPA-estimated range of 272 miles, while all other trim levels have dual motors for all-wheel drive. The mid-level Long Range model provides an estimated 341 miles per charge… while also ensuring stellar performance with a 0-60 time of just over 4 seconds.
Like the exterior, the interior too is characterized by elegance and simplicity, with almost every function controlled through the central touchscreen on the dashboard. The steering wheel buttons can also handle everything from operating the turn signals to changing the steering column position.
Hyundai Elantra: $22,775 - $30,600
The 2024 Elantra offers a compelling package for those seeking both style and practicality, thanks to its eye-catching design and a very roomy cabin. The striking exterior continues into the interior, with a stylish dashboard and center console that wraps around the driver.
The base trim houses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generating a modest 147 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, while the sportier packages offer a turbocharged 1.6-liter engine that generates 201 horses and 195 pound-feet of torque. The engines are either mated to a CVT or DCT. As for fuel efficiency, the 2.0-liter four-cylinder trims offer an EPA-estimated 33 mpg in the city and 42 mpg on the highway.
Mazda CX-30: $26,370 - $38,175
The CX-30 comes standard with a 191-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. Though it's not sluggish, you can also opt for the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine that churns out 250 horses. The non-turbo trims can take you 29 miles on a gallon, while the turbo ones have a combined mileage of 25 mpg.
The features increase as you move up the lineup. The $30k Preferred trim provides an eight-way power-adjustable driver's seat, a power sunroof, 18-inch silver-painted wheels, blind-spot monitoring, and keyless entry… while the higher-end trims (that go up to $38,175) offer near-luxury interiors.
GMC Sierra: $38,345 - $84,990
The Sierra offers four engine options, two transmissions, and a choice between rear- or four-wheel drive. The base configuration features a turbocharged 2.7-liter four-cylinder producing 310 hp and 420 lb-ft of torque, and is paired with an eight-speed auto transmission. The Sierra offers ample storage and an incredible towing capacity of up to 13,200 pounds.
When it comes to the interior, the Sierra enhances the driver's experience with accessible controls and upscale materials. The higher trims feature a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and a power-adjustable steering column, while the Denali Ultimate takes luxury to the next level with its 16-way power-adjustable, massaging front seats.
Honda CR-V: $30,850 - $41,550
The CR-V comes standard with a 190-hp turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, coupled with a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) and available in both FWD and AWD. The Sport and Sport Touring trims feature a hybrid powertrain, combining two electric motors with a 2.0-liter four-cylinder for a total of 204 horsepower.
The lineup caters to diverse preferences but prioritizes fuel economy over everything. The FWD Sport Hybrid model has the best fuel efficiency, with an EPA rating of 43 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway. All in all, the 2024 CR-V offers reliable performance, user-friendly driving dynamics, and ample space for both passengers and cargo.
Chevrolet Colorado: $31,095 - $60,540
The Colorado lineup features a turbocharged 2.7-liter inline-four engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, offering both rear- and four-wheel-drive options based on the trim level. The base WT and LT models deliver 237 horsepower, while other trims, including the off-road-oriented ZR2, can manage up to 310 horses.
The Colorado can tow up to 7700 pounds, which is the maximum towing capacity in the mid-size pickup segment. Whether it's campers, boats, or snow machines, the Colorado is up for any hauling job you throw at it. It also packs a lot of features inside a reasonably upscale cabin, including a standard 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen.
Mazda CX-50: $31,675 - $44,675
The 2024 CX-50 combines rugged aesthetics with a near-luxury interior without sacrificing Mazda's agile handling. It features a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, a six-speed auto transmission and an all-wheel drive configuration across all models. If the 187-hp base trims feel sluggish, you can opt for the more potent turbocharged variant, which churns out 256 horsepower.
The base CX-50 delivers 24 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway, while the turbo reduces these numbers by 1 mpg despite a significant boost in performance. All models feature Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and an eight-speaker stereo, while the higher trims offer a 12-speaker Bose stereo featuring SiriusXM satellite radio.
Hyundai Sonata: $28,650 - $38,350
The 2024 Sonata receives a refresh from Hyundai, featuring a redesigned front with new daytime running lights spanning the width of the bumper… as well as a restyled rear bumper cover and taillights. The interior sees the most notable transformation with the introduction of two 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreens seamlessly integrated into a curved display mount.
Under the hood, the Sonata offers a diverse range of powertrains, ranging from a 192-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine to a fire-breathing 290-hp turbo inline-four. While most models feature front-wheel drive, an all-wheel-drive option is also available to enhance its versatility for different driving conditions.
Volkswagen Tiguan: $30,305 - $40,305
The 2024 Volkswagen Tiguan is powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder tuned for 184 horsepower and 221 pound-feet of torque. The engine channels power to the front wheels through an eight-speed automatic transmission or the optional Volkswagen's 4Motion AWD system… and delivers an athletic, if not exhilarating, performance.
In terms of efficiency, the 2024 Tiguan holds up well in its segment, offering up to 24 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway according to EPA estimates. Notably, it stands out as one of the few models in its class with an optional third row.
GMC Canyon: $37,595 - $65,995
The 2024 GMC Canyon lineup is powered by a turbocharged 2.7-liter inline-four engine that generates 310-hp and 430 lb-ft of torque. The engine is mated to an eight-speed auto transmission with either standard RWD or optional 4WD. The Canyon boasts the same 7700-lb maximum towing capacity as the Chevy Colorado.
Moving inside, the pickup introduces significant technological upgrades. All models feature an 11.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, Wi-Fi hotspot capability and wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. You can also select from plenty of optional features, including wireless phone charging, underbody cameras and a head-up display.
Kia Sportage: $28,565 - $39,365
The Sportage comes with a standard 187-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, available in both FWD or AWD. The FWD models achieve a fuel efficiency rating of 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway, while the AWD trims slightly lag behind these figures.
For the 2024 iteration, Kia has included airbags for the second-row seats and LED projector headlights on all Sportage models. Within the lineup, the EX stands out with the value it provides for the tag. It offers wireless smartphone charging, heated front seats, and a larger 12.3-inch infotainment screen, making it an attractive choice for just over $30k.
Toyota Tacoma: $32,995 - $53,595
Every Tacoma has a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine paired with either an eight-speed automatic or a six-speed manual transmission, powering either rear or four wheels. The mightiest trim delivers up to 278 horsepower and 317 pound-feet of torque, and effortlessly tows up to 6500 pounds.
The 2024 Tacoma marks the mid-size pickup's fourth generation, boasting a complete redesign. It inherits the body-on-frame TNGA-F platform shared with the recently revamped Toyota Tundra… and has more modern features than ever before. While wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, the optionals include wireless charging pad and a JBL audio system.
Kia Telluride: $37,585 - $54,780
All Tellurides are equipped with a naturally aspirated V6 engine, delivering 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, power is directed to the front wheels, with all-wheel drive available as an optional feature. The mid-size SUV has a towing capacity of up to 5500 pounds and up to 8.4 inches of ground clearance.
Besides the smooth-running V6, the Telluride boasts a spacious three-row cabin with a near-luxury interior that is well-suited for both families and adventure seekers. The lineup has a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto capability, in-dash navigation, and onboard Wi-Fi.
Ford Maverick: $25,410 - $39,945
The 2024 Maverick comes with a standard turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine and front-wheel drive, but you can also opt for an all-wheel drive or a fuel-efficient hybrid model. Offering a surprising amount of capability for its size, this compact pickup truck can tow up to 4000 pounds and carry 1500 pounds in its bed.
The cabin is surprisingly upscale for the price, with adjustable lumbar support for the front seats, remote keyless entry, a tilting and telescoping steering wheel, and lots of storage areas. As for fuel efficiency, the nonhybrid FWD version can get you up to 23 mpg in the city and 30 mpg on the highway.
Toyota Grand Highlander: $44,465 - $59,520
If you feel the Toyota Highlander is not roomy enough, you can consider buying the Grand Highlander. The "Grand" designation means you can expect an extended length and a spacious third row. The SUV offers various powertrain options, including a robust 362-hp Hybrid Max variant.
All models feature a number of standard driver-assistance features. A wireless smartphone charging pad, a 7.0-inch digital display in the gauge cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen, running Toyota's latest software interface, are also standard on all models. As for towing capacity, the Grand Highlander tops at 5000 lbs.
Honda Accord: $28,990 - $39,985
The 2024 Accord lineup features a number of powertrains, including a hybrid setup consisting of a 2.0-liter four-cylinder and two electric motors with a combined 204 horsepower. None of the models offer all-wheel drive though. The Accord hybrid has an impressive fuel efficiency, delivering 51 mpg in the city and 48 mpg on the highway. The non-hybrid trims are not that bad either, and are rated at 29 mpg city and 37 mpg highway.
The Accord is fairly spacious for both the passengers and the cargo, with a trunk capacity of 16.7 cubic feet. All models come with a standard 10.2-inch digital gauge display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, but the wireless connectivity is available only on higher trims with the larger 12.3-inch touchscreen.
Ford Bronco: $41,025 - $71,580
With options for two or four doors, softtops or hardtops, and removable body panels, the Bronco provides the same open-air experience as the vehicle it has been designed to rival – the Jeep Wrangler. As you can expect, even the base model packs a punch with a 300-hp turbocharged inline-four, coupled with a 10-speed automatic transmission or an optional seven-speed manual. For those seeking more power, the wilder option is a 330-hp twin-turbo V6.
The Bronco has the same 3500-lb towing capacity as the Wrangler. On the inside, it features a 12.0-inch touchscreen powered by Ford's latest in-dash Sync 4 software that offers wireless connectivity and over-the-air updates.
Jeep Grand Cherokee: $41,830 - $75,140
The 2024 Jeep Grand Cherokee is offered with two powertrain options: a 293-hp 3.6-liter V6 or a plug-in-hybrid 4xe configuration. The latter combines a turbocharged 2.0-liter inline-four with an 134-hp electric motor for a total output of 375 horsepower and 470 pound-feet of torque.
Though the entire lineup ensures stellar all-terrain performance, the Trailhawk model takes off-roading to a totally different level, thanks to its adjustable air suspension with up to 11.3 inches of ground clearance. For 2024, the Grand Cherokee has a significantly improved interior, with standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio.
Kia K5: $26,745 - $33,145
The Kia K5 comes standard with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, delivering a robust 180 horsepower. If you want more power, the GT trims can give you an impressive 290 horsepower and a 0-60 time of just 5.2 seconds. With its distinctive exterior and its range of standard features including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, the K5 emerges as a stylish rival to the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
The inside is as elegant as the outside, with plenty of attractive materials (such as wood trim on the dash and doors), ambient lighting, heated and ventilated front seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a convenient wireless charging pad.
Chevrolet Tahoe: $58,195 - $78,895
The 2024 Chevrolet Tahoe offers three powertrain options, each compatible with either rear- or four-wheel drive and a 10-speed automatic transmission. A smooth 355-hp V8 serves as the base engine, while a more powerful 420-hp V8 is available for performance-oriented buyers.
Equipped with three rows of seats, robust all-terrain tires, an adjustable air suspension, and a truly spacious cabin with plenty of upscale materials, the Tahoe does offer it all. It also showcases an impressive towing capacity of 8400 pounds, which is nearly as much as some full-size pickup trucks offer. All in all, this full-size SUV has more capacity and capability than you may probably need.
Toyota Camry: $27,515 - $35,390
Despite the auto market's shift toward SUVs and pickups, the Camry has been holding its own remarkably well. For over two decades, this mid-size sedan has retained the title of the best-selling sedan in the US. Unlike rivals like the Honda Accord and Hyundai Sonata, the Camry still offers six-cylinder options, with the most potent trim churning out 301 horses on the tarmac.
For those who want fuel efficiency, the hybrid four-cylinder models can give them 51 mpg in the city and 53 mpg on the highway. Besides reliable performance, good looks and a roomy cabin, the Camry is well equipped on the inside as well, with Toyota’s Entune 3.0 touchscreen infotainment system being standard across the lineup.
Subaru Outback: $30,240 - $44,090
Retaining its position as the vehicle of choice for adventurous families, the Subaru Outback blends SUV-like styling with a comfortable car-like ride and abundant cargo space. It comes standard with a four-cylinder engine, but there's an optional turbocharged four delivering 260 horses as well for those seeking extra power.
All Outbacks feature all-wheel drive and continuously variable automatic transmission. With an impressive 8.7 inches of ground clearance (and AWD), the Outback can effortlessly handle snow or any challenging terrain. The Wilderness model, in particular, can go anywhere, thanks to its beefed-up suspension and 9.5 inches of ground clearance.
Kia EV6: $43,975 - $62,975
The EV6 offers a choice between a single electric motor on the rear axle for rear-wheel drive or electric motors on both front and rear axles for all-wheel drive. The most potent AWD trim churns out 576 horses on the tarmac, catapulting it to 60mph in just over 3 seconds.
Equipped with a 77.4-kWh battery pack, every single-motor EV6 boasts a combined EPA rating of up to 117 MPGe and a range of up to 310 miles, while the dual-motor variant is rated at 109 MPGe with the standard 19-inch wheels… and a slightly reduced range of 206 miles per charge.
Hyundai Palisade: $38,045 - $55,245
All Palisades are propelled by a 3.8-liter V6, which is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission to generate 291 horsepower and tow up to 5000 pounds. The 3-row SUV comes standard with front-wheel drive, but also offers an optional all-wheel-drive configuration.
The Palisade has an extremely spacious cabin, providing 86 cubic feet of cargo space with all seats folded. On the inside, you find a standard 12.0-inch touchscreen featuring Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, in-dash navigation, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Bluetooth connectivity. The Palisade also allows remote locking, unlocking, and starting through Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa when integrated with Hyundai's Blue Link app service.
Toyota Corolla: $23,145 - $28,345
The 2024 Toyota Corolla prioritizes safety, reliability, and predictability over thrill, excitement and pretty much everything else. Powered by a 169-hp 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, it channels power to the front wheels through a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT)... and returns a stellar fuel efficiency of up to 41 mpg on the highway.
The cabin, though lacking in trunk space, offers plenty of soft-touch materials and numerous standard features including passive entry, push-button start, Apple CarPlay/ Android Auto compatibility, and a subscription-based Wi-Fi hotspot. The higher trims offer heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, and ambient interior lighting. The Corolla sedan is also available with a hybrid powertrain.
Hyundai Tucson: $28,875 - $38,135
The Tucson is powered by a standard 187-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. The 2024 model introduces new safety features, including rear side airbags, all-occupant seatbelt reminders, and steering-wheel haptic feedback for alerts from lane-keeping assist and blind-spot monitoring systems.
On the inside, the Tucson showcases a modern yet simplistic dashboard design, featuring a push-button shifter, a digital gauge display, and a touch panel for climate-control and infotainment. As for fuel efficiency, the Tucson gives 25 mpg in the city and 32 mpg on the highway with front-wheel drive.
Toyota RAV4: $30,025 - $39,645
Celebrating its 30th anniversary, the 2024 Toyota RAV4 continues to be one of the best-selling vehicles in the US, and that's not surprising at all. The compact crossover SUV prioritizes practicality, fuel efficiency, and a rugged aesthetic over everything else… and turns out Americans cherish this combo a LOT.
Under the hood, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine produces 203 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. While front-wheel drive is standard for most trims, two of the trims exclusively feature all-wheel drive. As for fuel efficiency, the RAV4 gives an EPA-estimated 35 mpg on the highway, which is one of the highest in class.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500: $37,445 - $64,695
From a turbocharged four-cylinder to V8 options to a Duramax diesel 3.0-liter inline-six, the Chevrolet Silverado 1500 offers a diverse range of engines, catering to various needs and users. The most potent option produces 420 horsepower and 460 pound-feet of torque, accelerating this mighty room on wheels to 60 mph in just 5.4 seconds.
The optional diesel engine is the most fuel-efficient, boasting EPA estimates of up to 23 mpg in the city and 33 mpg on the highway… while the potent V8 trim is a highly capable hauler, boasting a maximum towing capacity of up to 13,300 pounds.
Hyundai Ioniq 5: $43,175 - $54,875
The Hyundai Ioniq 5 is available in multiple electric configurations. The standard-range battery paired with a single rear-mounted electric motor produces 168 horsepower, while the most powerful all-wheel-drive version generates 320 hp and 446 lb-ft of torque. In terms of range, the standard 58.0-kWh battery pack offers 220 miles of range, while the larger 77.4-kWh pack delivers up to 303 miles with single motor and 266 miles with dual motors.
As for the interior, it is upscale with class-leading tech. You have a 12.0-inch touchscreen that offers everything from voice recognition to Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity, besides a 12.0-inch digital gauge cluster.
Nissan Rogue: $29,685 - $39,965
Every Nissan Rogue comes equipped with a turbocharged 1.5-liter three-cylinder engine, producing 201 horsepower. The power is transmitted to the front wheels through a continuously variable automatic transmission, and there's an option for all-wheel drive.
As for fuel efficiency, the turbocharged three-cylinder engine returns up to 30 mpg on the city and 37 mpg on the highway. Opting for all-wheel drive reduces these numbers by 2 mpg, but adds a lot of performance. As for the inside, it is not just spacious but extremely well equipped, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto being standard.
Mazda 3: $25,335 - $36,615
The 2024 Mazda 3 comes with two engine options. The base model has a 191-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder available in both front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations, while the Turbo trims boast a potent 250-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter that does 0-60 in under 6 seconds. The front-wheel-drive can be opted with a six-speed manual gearbox, while all-wheel drive mandates a six-speed automatic transmission.
The base level trims are the most fuel-efficient, with EPA ratings of 28 mpg city and 37 mpg highway. The higher trims, on the other hand, come equipped with a head-up display, leather upholstery, heated front seats, and numerous other features.
Volkswagen Taos: $25,420 - $34,940
The Taos features Volkswagen's new turbocharged 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 158 horsepower and 184 pound-feet of torque. The FWD models have an eight-speed automatic, while the AWD versions come equipped with a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
The Taos offers good mileage as well as ample interior space, despite its compact size. The FWD base trim achieves a rating of 28 mpg in the city and 36 mpg on the highway, while the AWD model is rated at 25 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. In terms of value, the mid-level SE model stands out with its long list of standard features including heated front seats, remote start, wireless charging, and blind-spot monitoring.
