Top 10 picks for 2024 also include several moderately priced cars with starting prices under $30,000, well below the average new car price of about $48,000. The list also includes seven electrified vehicles, including one EV, four hybrids and two plug-in hybrids.
Starting at about $25,000, the Subaru Crosstrek is one of the least expensive cars on CR's top 10 list. It was also redesigned for 2024, with new safety features and an upgraded infotainment system.
Subcompact SUV: Subaru Crosstrek
Compact SUV: Subaru Forester Starting at about $27,000, the Subaru Forester is a larger vehicle than the Crosstrek, and one of the vehicles on the top picks list that starts under $30,000. The all-wheel drive vehicle was also among CR's top picks for 2023.
Hybrid/PHEV car: Toyota Prius/Prius Prime Which starts at about $28,000, was first released in the U.S. in 2000, and while flashier and more fuel-efficient cars may now be available, it remains a reliable option for consumers.
Small car: Mazda 3 Starting at about $24,000, the Mazda 3 sedan is one of the more affordable top picks for 2024. Mazda "is like the best kept secret in the auto industry," "They drive nicely, they are comfortable, they are generally very sporty and fun to drive as well.
Mid Size car: Toyota Camry Hybrid Which starts at about $29,000, is one of CR's top picks that also ranked on its 2023 list. "It's reliable, comfortable, a smooth ride — that's what the Camry has been known for for a long time.
Small pickup: Ford Maverick/Ford Maverick Hybrid The Ford Maverick starts at about $24,000, providing a compact pickup vehicle in both gas-powered and hybrid versions.
Electric vehicle: Tesla Model Y The Tesla Model Y starts at about $44,000 and earned its spot on the list partly because of Tesla's network of superchargers, which makes it easier for owners to find spots to power up their cars while travelling.
Midsized SUV: Toyota Highlander Hybrid Starts at about $41,000, making it pricier than some of CR's other picks. With a third row of seats, the car can seat seven to 8 passengers, depending on the trim level.
Luxury SUV: BMW X5/X5 PHEV On the higher priced end of CR's picks is the BMW X5, which is also available in a plug-in hybrid version. The vehicle starts at about $62,000.
Plug-in hybrid SUV: Toyota RAV4 Prime The all-wheel drive Toyota RAV4 Prime starts at about $44,000 and gets about 42 miles of driving range from its electric power-train. Like the Camry, the RAV4 gets good ratings for comfort and reliability.