Edmunds Top Rated 2024: The Best Cars, Trucks, and SUVs
Every year, the Edmunds Top Rated Awards highlight the best new vehicles on the market. With a rigorous testing process, vehicles are evaluated for their performance, efficiency, and overall value. The 2024 awards showcase a range of standout vehicles, from hybrid and electric options to traditional gas-powered models. In this article, we’ll explore the winners across various categories and what makes them exceptional choices for consumers.
The Process Behind the Awards
The Edmunds Top Rated Awards are based on thorough evaluations conducted by automotive experts. Each year, over 300 vehicles are tested, encompassing a range of driving conditions and scenarios. This extensive testing includes:
- Real-world driving assessments
- Private test track evaluations
- EV range and efficiency tests for electric vehicles
These rigorous standards ensure that only the best vehicles receive recognition. The goal is to provide consumers with a reliable resource for making informed decisions when purchasing a vehicle.
Top Rated Car: Toyota Prius
The finalists for the Edmunds Top Rated Car 2024 included impressive contenders: the Honda Civic Type R, Chevrolet Corvette Z06, and Toyota Prius. Ultimately, the Toyota Prius emerged as the winner, and here’s why.
With the latest model, Toyota has significantly enhanced the Prius, adding around 70 horsepower without sacrificing fuel economy. This improvement has transformed the Prius into a more engaging driving experience, especially on highways. The new driver aids and safety features have also made it more user-friendly, contributing to its practicality.
Notably, the Prius remains the most efficient hybrid on the market, combining excellent technology with competitive pricing. It offers a spacious interior and a trunk that, despite being slightly smaller than previous models, still accommodates luggage effectively. These features solidify its status as the Edmunds Top Rated Car for 2024.
Top Rated Electric Car: BMW i5
In the electric vehicle category, the finalists showcased the exciting potential of sedans. The Hyundai Ioniq 6 and BMW i7 were notable mentions, but the BMW i5 took the crown.
The i5 has successfully integrated the strengths of the traditional 5 Series with the benefits of electrification. It delivers a quiet, luxurious ride that surpasses many competitors while remaining cost-effective. The interior design emphasizes quality materials and comfort, making it a top choice in its class.
Its ability to maintain the charm of the gas-powered model while offering electric benefits makes the BMW i5 the Edmunds Top Rated Electric Car for 2024.
Top Rated SUV: Kia Sportage Hybrid
SUVs have become increasingly popular for their blend of practicality and style. This year’s finalists included the updated Kia Telluride and the revised Mercedes-Benz GLS. However, the Kia Sportage Hybrid retained its title from the previous year.
The Sportage Hybrid excels in space and fuel efficiency, offering one of the best backseat and trunk spaces in its class. It stands out with its stylish design and modern technology, providing a special feel that many small SUVs lack. Its combination of power and efficiency further cements its position as the Edmunds Top Rated SUV for 2024.
Top Rated Electric SUV: Kia EV9
The electric SUV market continues to expand, with a variety of options available. This year, the finalists included the Kia Niro EV and the Hyundai Ioniq 5, but the Kia EV9 emerged as the clear winner.
The EV9 is designed with families in mind, offering ample space for adult passengers across all three rows. Its interior is comparable to luxury brands, providing comfort and style. Performance-wise, the all-wheel-drive version is surprisingly quick, and it exceeded its EPA range rating during testing.
This exceptional performance, combined with a high-quality interior, makes the Kia EV9 the Edmunds Top Rated Electric SUV for 2024.
Top Rated Truck: Chevrolet Colorado
The truck category showcased significant advancements in smaller trucks. Finalists included the redesigned Toyota Tacoma and the Honda Ridgeline, but the Chevrolet Colorado took the top spot.
The Colorado has transformed from an unremarkable model to a standout with an eye-catching design and robust capabilities. It can tow up to 7,700 pounds, outperforming some full-size trucks. Additionally, it incorporates advanced technology, including Google integration and various driver aids, making it an attractive option for truck buyers.
This blend of design, capability, and innovative features makes the Chevrolet Colorado the Edmunds Top Rated Truck for 2024.
Top Rated Electric Truck: Ford F-150 Lightning
The electric truck category featured strong competition, including the GMC Hummer EV and Rivian R1T. However, the Ford F-150 Lightning retained its title as the top electric truck.
The Lightning enhances the already popular F-150 platform with electric power, offering impressive torque and towing capabilities. It’s designed for practical use, functioning as a battery source for various applications, from work sites to tailgates. The option to equip it with luxury features further adds to its appeal.
With its combination of power, utility, and advanced technology, the Ford F-150 Lightning is the Edmunds Top Rated Electric Truck for 2024.
Best of the Best: Kia EV9
The Edmunds Top Rated Best of the Best award recognises the vehicle that excels beyond its class. This year, the Kia EV9 was honoured with this prestigious title.
The EV9 stands out as a mainstream electric vehicle that manages to offer all the strengths of the best gas-powered SUVs while being accessible to a wider audience. Its user-friendly technology and innovative features set a new standard for electric SUVs.
Kia continues to impress with its electric vehicle offerings, and the EV9 represents the culmination of their achievements in this segment.
Conclusion
The Edmunds Top Rated Awards for 2024 highlight the best vehicles available in various categories, ensuring consumers have access to quality options. Each winner has undergone rigorous testing to provide the best recommendations for car shoppers. The Toyota Prius, BMW i5, Kia Sportage Hybrid, Kia EV9, Chevrolet Colorado, and Ford F-150 Lightning exemplify excellence in their respective classes, making them worthy choices for anyone in the market for a new vehicle.
For more details on these awards and to read in-depth reviews of each winner, visit Edmunds.com.