Consumer Reports picks the best vehicles of 2024: Hybrids and plug-in hybrids make the list
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Consumer Reports has released its annual 10 Top Picks for the best cars on the road in 2024 and this year there is a definite drive towards hybrids and plug-in hybrids.
Consumer Reports has released its annual 10 Top Picks for the best cars on the road in 2024 and this year there is a definite drive towards hybrids and plug-in hybrids.
“This year, our top 10 includes vehicles with a variety of powertrains -- there are four hybrids, three plug-in hybrid electric vehicles or PHEVS and one EV,” Emily Thomas, manager of auto safety with Consumer Reports, said. “That’s significant because it shows how the markets shifted towards electrification and confirms that these models can best gas-only competitors.”
The research company and advocacy group puts every car through more than 50 tests, comparing for owner satisfaction and reliability to determine its top picks.
The Toyota RAV4 Prime takes everything drivers love about the popular RAV4 and adds the benefits of a plug-in hybrid. It provides about 65 kilometres of electric-only driving before the gas motor kicks in. The Prime is quieter and smoother than the standard RAV4, and it’s quicker as the Prime RAV4 goes zero to 100km/h a full two seconds faster than the gas-only model.
Another standout Toyota SUV is the 3-row Highlander Hybrid with key safety features, solid reliability, and great fuel economy. From Subaru, the Forester and redesigned Crosstrek are also top picks. Both have secure handling, good fuel economy, and a wide range of safety features.
The redesigned Toyota Prius has more horsepower and performance, plus the availability of all-wheel drive and the plug-in Prius Prime provides about 60 kilometres of pure-electric driving, and good fuel economy when the hybrid engine kicks in.
