Wrapping up the calendar year, we’re looking ahead at The Car Connection Best Car To Buy 2024 winners to be announced on Jan. 3, 2024, while also looking behind at those vehicles that earned the highest marks in our unique 10-point rating system. The 2024 Rivian R1T pickup truck once again topped the chart with an 8.8 out of 10. It also got cheaper and comes with more available range this year. That’s a rare win-win.
The TCC Rating system awards up to 10 points in six categories based on what matters most to most car buyers: Style, Performance, Comfort, Safety, Features/value, as well as a Green rating for efficiency. Every car and truck starts from a baseline of 5 and points are earned or deducted for each category. For instance, in the Performance section, a pickup truck earns a point for its towing capability but loses a point for its handling. The rating system is designed to be as objective as possible to put all vehicles on equal footing to simplify the car shopping process for the consumer. Electrified cars typically rate higher due to their Green rating, but we also account for electric efficiency as well as gas. (For a more detailed explanation, see how we rate cars here.)
Here’s a look at what else we reviewed this week, and how they rate.
The pickup truck’s uncanny combination of gut-dropping performance, breathtaking off-road capability, luxury-like standard convenience and safety features, and packaging optimized for the electric vehicle platform earn it a TCC Rating of 8.8 out of 10.
An excellent midsize EV crossover, the Nissan Ariya has finely finished space, a user-friendly driver interface, a moderate base price, and a top range of 304 miles. It earns a TCC Rating of 8.2 out of 10.
2024 Mercedes EQE SUV review
Most EQE SUVs have dual motors, and they all come loaded with premium comfort, good standard safety features, but less than 300 miles of range. It earns a TCC Rating of 8.2 out of 10.
Related to the Toyota bZ4X, the compact crossover is Subaru’s first EV with standard all-wheel drive, reasonable off-road capability, but a disappointing range of 228 miles. It’s a 7.8.
The Toyota bZ4X doesn’t lead the pack in terms of performance or technology, though it impresses in terms of its feature set and comfortable cabin. It’s a 7.2 out of 10.
The range of performance options and decidedly luxurious interior earns the midsize SUV a high TCC Rating of 7.0 out of 10.
The latest generation of BMW’s classic midsize sport sedan has crisper styling, new safety and infotainment features, as well as an i5 electric variant we review separately. The gas models earn a 6.8 out of 10.
With a zip in its step and a petite footprint, the small crossover combines performance and practicality for a TCC Rating of 6.2 out of 10.
