If you’ve spent any time browsing What Car?, you’ll know we regularly showcase the top vehicles in a wide range of categories whether you’re into SUVs, sports cars, or something in between, we’ve got you covered.
But what if you’re uncertain about the type of car you want and simply want to know which models we consider the absolute best available in the UK today? That’s exactly what this article is here to help with.
In this feature, we’ve compiled a list of the 5 best cars currently on sale, regardless of price range, market segment, or any other criteria these are, quite simply, the finest cars you can buy in 2024.
While you might notice that the Lexus LBX our current What Car? Car of the Year doesn’t sit at the top of this list, keep in mind that our annual Car of the Year Awards focus specifically on the best new models launched over the past 12 months.
This list, on the other hand, includes all the top choices available today, even if some were released a few years ago.Of course, choosing the best cars is not something we take lightly.
Our team of expert road testers spends countless hours driving each new model, covering thousands of miles under a variety of weather conditions and across different types of roads.
Cars That Are Worth Recommending
We thoroughly evaluate every aspect, including performance, practicality, and day-to-day usability, so you can trust our verdicts. After all of this rigorous testing, we can confidently say that the best car you can buy right now is the Kia Sportage.
Kia Sportage
Family SUVs are currently among the most popular vehicles on the market, and the latest Kia Sportage stands out as the best in its class.
Holding the title of our Family SUV of the Year, the Sportage provides buyers with a range of powertrain options including mild hybrid, full hybrid, and plug-in hybrid systems.
This versatility means that whether you prefer the convenience of a traditional engine or want to take advantage of electric power without needing to plug in, the Sportage can help reduce your fuel expenses.
Our preferred choice is the regular hybrid variant, which pairs a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor.
This combination enables the Sportage to operate on electric power alone for short distances, yet it doesn’t require external charging to replenish its battery.
The hybrid also performs impressively, having outpaced both the Ford Kuga hybrid and the Honda ZR-V in our 0–60mph acceleration tests.
Comfort is another area where the Sportage excels. It smooths over most road imperfections effectively, with only the Volvo XC40 providing a more refined ride though that vehicle comes with a significantly higher price tag.
The Kia Sportage is competitively priced and undercuts rivals like the Hyundai Tucson, Mazda CX-5, and Peugeot 3008 from the outset.
Importantly, Kia hasn’t sacrificed features to keep the cost down; even the base models come equipped with climate control, cruise control, 17-inch alloy wheels, and an electronic parking brake.
Despite the solid value of the base models, we believe it’s worthwhile to opt for the ‘3’ trim.
This version includes an upgraded infotainment system, heated front and rear seats, and adaptive cruise control features that make longer journeys more relaxing and enjoyable.
While lower-spec models deliver excellent value, and the interior feels smart and well-appointed, the Sportage also offers generous rear legroom and a spacious boot.
Some minor drawbacks include slightly reduced rear headroom when equipped with the panoramic roof and the absence of advanced rear seat functionality. However, overall, the Kia Sportage remains a top-tier choice in the family SUV segment.
Tesla Model 3
The fully electric Tesla Model 3, like many vehicles featured on this list, comes highly decorated it currently holds the titles of our top executive car, electric car, and company car.
Winning in three categories is no small feat, but the Model 3’s capabilities are impressively wide-ranging.
Even the entry-level rear-wheel drive version is quick, outperforming the Hyundai Ioniq 6 in our acceleration tests and matching the performance of entry-level versions of the BMW i4 and BYD Seal.
One of the standout features of the Model 3 is its range. The RWD model offers an official range of up to 318 miles on a full charge, while the Long Range variant claims up to 390 miles.
Although real-world driving usually falls short of official figures, the Long Range version still achieved 293 miles in our winter range test under cold conditions.
When it’s time to recharge, Tesla’s Supercharger network remains the gold standard in the EV world both fast and reliable.
It has recently been expanded to allow non-Tesla vehicles access as well. The interior of the Model 3 follows a minimalist approach, with almost every function controlled via the central touchscreen.
While this setup may not suit everyone, the system is responsive and offers a wealth of features.
Though rear passengers might find more comfort in a Volkswagen ID 7, the space available in the Model 3 will meet the needs of most occupants.
Reviews Editor Will Nightingale commented, “While I did eventually get used to them, Tesla’s haptic buttons on its steering wheel, which you use to control functions like the indicators, windscreen wipers and cruise control, feels like a solution to a problem which shouldn’t exist.”
Despite some quirks, the Model 3 impresses with its long range, rapid charging, and everyday practicality.
BMW 4 Series
The BMW 4 Series earns a place on this list thanks to its exceptional versatility, whether you choose the sleek coupé or the stylish convertible. It offers a premium driving experience in either format.
However, the 4 Series doesn’t provide a diesel engine option for high-mileage users. Instead, buyers can pick between a 181bhp petrol engine in the 420i or a powerful 369bhp six-cylinder unit in the range-topping M440i.
Although the M440i delivers thrilling acceleration, we recommend the 420i, which strikes a great balance between performance and efficiency for everyday driving.
The 4 Series Coupé’s standard passive suspension allows it to tackle corners more eagerly than competitors like the Audi A5 and Mercedes CLE.
The Convertible, while heavier due to the necessary structural reinforcements, still handles with sharpness and precision, aided by accurate steering that helps place the car with confidence.
Inside, both versions feature BMW’s renowned iDrive infotainment system, which remains a class leader in terms of usability.
The system can be operated via voice commands, touch, gesture, or most conveniently, through the rotary controller located on the centre console.
The overall build quality inside the 4 Series is outstanding, contributing to an upscale, driver-focused environment.
While the Mercedes CLE might include more equipment as standard, the BMW 4 Series excels where it matters most offering an engaging drive and a high-quality interior.
Porsche Cayman
An exceptional sports car should be thrilling to drive, yet a truly great one also needs to be relatively practical and come with a price tag that’s within reach for more than just the wealthiest few.
The Porsche Cayman fits that bill perfectly. It’s available in multiple versions, starting from a 2.0-litre engine in the base model, moving through a more potent 2.5-litre S, and topping out with the GTS model.
Our recommendation is the GTS variant, which features a 4.0-litre six-cylinder engine that we consider a standout.
It sounds superb, delivers blistering performance coming close to the BMW M2 in a 0-60mph race and yet remains civilised enough to handle low-speed city driving with ease.
The GTS version comes equipped with adaptive suspension as standard, though even the less expensive Cayman models ride smoothly with their basic setups.
Regardless of the version you go for, the Cayman rewards drivers with incredibly precise and well-weighted steering, excellent body control, and exceptional grip, making cornering a delight and inspiring confidence behind the wheel.
Inside, the Cayman may not offer abundant space, but both the driver and front passenger will find it roomy enough to get comfortable even taller individuals.
We do wish Porsche was a little more generous with standard equipment, but what you do get is built to last and made from premium materials. The attention to detail in the fit and finish is unmistakable.
“While its mid-engined layout means there aren’t any rear seats in the Cayman, there are a couple of coat hooks on the backs of the front seats to hang jackets from, and some small cubby spaces with sliding lids for snacks or peripherals”.
BMW X7
No matter how you define luxury, the BMW X7 emerges as the ultimate choice. If your idea of luxury centres around plush materials and cutting-edge technology, you’ll find plenty to admire in the X7’s high-resolution infotainment system, sumptuous surfaces, and outstanding build quality.
For those who associate luxury with spaciousness, the X7 excels again. The front and middle row seats deliver a premium experience reminiscent of first-class travel.
And if you need room for more passengers, the third row isn’t just an afterthought it’s spacious enough to accommodate two adults over six feet tall, offering more headroom than rivals like the Range Rover.
If having a wide range of choices is your version of luxury, the X7 delivers there too. It’s available with petrol or diesel engines.
The petrol lineup peaks with the powerful M60i, which produces up to 523bhp.
However, our pick is the xDrive40d diesel variant, which combines smooth power delivery with sensible running costs, striking an ideal balance between performance and efficiency.
The standard air suspension in the X7 soaks up potholes and road imperfections with ease, providing a ride quality that matches its upscale image.
And despite its substantial size and weight, the X7 is surprisingly agile in the bends, outperforming large SUV rivals like the Land Rover Discovery and Mercedes GLS in overall handling.
Cars That You’d Warn Friends About
Buying the wrong car can lead to years of regret, primarily due to the financial consequences. Spending more money than your budget allows on a new vehicle is already a burden, but that strain becomes significantly worse if the car turns out to be a lemon that constantly requires maintenance and repairs.
According to Consumer Affairs, the average cost of repairing and maintaining a car is about $900 per year.
However, some vehicles can cost double that or even more annually. Among the major auto manufacturers, the yearly maintenance and repair expenses can range from as low as $576 for a Honda to as high as $1,580 for a Land Rover.
As Consumer Affairs pointed out, one of the most effective ways to keep repair costs down is to choose a reliable car.
You can also save money by getting a pre-purchase inspection, sticking to the recommended maintenance schedule, and tackling minor repairs yourself when possible.
One of the most crucial steps in avoiding costly car ownership mistakes is conducting thorough research before buying.
This is especially vital when it comes to purchasing new cars. While new vehicles typically come with higher price tags compared to used ones, they also depreciate significantly the moment you drive them off the dealership lot.
To help you make an informed decision, Consumer Reports is a valuable resource. They frequently release updates identifying the best and worst vehicles in various categories.
If you’re currently shopping for a car and reliability ranks high on your list of priorities, here are 5 new models to steer clear of in 2025, according to Consumer Reports’ latest evaluation of the least reliable vehicles.
Rivian R1T
The Rivian R1T has received a reliability score of 22 out of 100. Its price ranges from $69,900 to $88,000, and it delivers an overall equivalent of 70 miles per gallon in electric driving.
However, several areas have proven problematic, including the drive system, climate system, body hardware, and issues related to noises and leaks.
Large pick-up trucks continue to dominate American car sales, so it comes as no surprise that numerous manufacturers are working to develop electric alternatives—even though the task of powering already massive and heavy vehicles with equally large and heavy batteries is no small feat.
What was more unexpected, however, was that the first company to bring a full-size electric pick-up to the U.S. market wasn’t one of the established automotive giants but rather EV start-up Rivian.
The firm launched its R1T in 2021, several months ahead of Ford’s F-150 Lightning and at a time when the Tesla Cybertruck still seemed more like one of Elon Musk’s “dystopian fever dreams” than a realistic production model.
This prompts two key questions: what exactly makes Rivian’s software architecture so compelling that it attracted such a massive investment from Volkswagen? And, just as crucially, how good is the R1T itself?
The Rivian R1T is a strong performer, combining a pleasant driving experience with immense power, thoughtful use of modern technology, and sleek styling that fuses contemporary design with classic pick-up cues.
However, it is far too large for typical UK roads, which means it won’t be sold there. Additionally, drivers who are not comfortable with tech-heavy interfaces may find its reliance on digital screens challenging.
From a design and styling perspective, the R1T succeeds in blending familiar pick-up proportions with fresh, modern elements. Though undeniably large, it offers excellent visibility in all directions and features numerous cleverly integrated exterior storage compartments that enhance its practicality.
Still, it remains a very big vehicle—even if it’s not the largest in its class—and in terms of flatbed volume, it trails some of its direct rivals.
In contrast to the dramatic styling of the Cybertruck, the R1T maintains classic pick-up truck design traits: a bluff front, long hood, squared-off double-cab body, and a spacious, practical loadbed. That said, Rivian leverages its electric vehicle architecture to introduce unique futuristic touches.
For instance, its oval headlights are a signature visual cue, and the absence of a traditional bulky grille—so common on full-size trucks—stands out. Instead, the front features a clean look with a full-width light bar integrated into the headlamp design. Practical details, such as exposed tow hooks in the lower bumper, hint at the R1T’s utilitarian purpose.
The overall silhouette is clean and understated, yet sculpted enough to provide visual impact. The sharply raked windshield helps with aerodynamic performance, while large, flared wheel arches emphasize its off-road readiness. The squared-off rear end is dominated by a full-width brake light bar and places clear emphasis on function.
While this styling has become familiar to U.S. consumers over the past three years, that impression is somewhat misleading: the version of the R1T reviewed here is essentially a second-generation model, having received a substantial under-the-skin update late last year.
Among the notable upgrades are newly developed electric motors, now built in-house by Rivian, that deliver enhanced power output. The air suspension system has been reengineered, and the batteries have been updated—switching from conventional lithium-ion to lithium-iron-phosphate chemistry for the standard configuration.
A major overhaul of the electrical system has also taken place: the number of computer modules has been reduced from 17 to just seven, and the overall wiring complexity has been significantly decreased. These changes support a revamped infotainment platform and a more efficient electrical architecture.
In terms of size, the R1T comfortably fits the definition of a full-size U.S. pick-up. It measures 5514mm in length, 1986mm in height, and 2082mm in width with the mirrors folded in. It rides on a 3449mm wheelbase and offers a departure angle of 29.9 degrees—features that will appeal to off-road enthusiasts.
While these dimensions are colossal by UK standards, they are relatively modest when compared with other U.S. pick-ups: the Ford F-150 Lightning, for example, is 5910mm long, and even the angular Tesla Cybertruck stretches to 5682mm.
The R1T’s flatbed is approximately 1.4 metres long and 1.3 metres wide at its narrowest point. This provides ample space for cargo, although the bed is slightly smaller than those found on some rivals.
It comes with a powered, lockable tonneau cover that can be operated via vehicle-mounted buttons or through a smartphone app. Up front, a substantial frunk provides an additional 275 litres of storage space.
However, the R1T’s standout storage solution is its so-called Gear Tunnel—a 1650mm-long compartment located behind the rear seats and just in front of the rear axle. Offering 331 litres of space, it includes LED lighting and power outlets and is accessible from either side of the vehicle.
The tunnel’s drop-down doors also contain smaller storage pockets and are built to support up to 133kg of weight, making them useful as impromptu seating or as steps to access the roof or flatbed.
Volvo XC60 Plug-In Hybrid
With a reliability score of 21 out of 100, the Volvo XC60 Plug-In Hybrid falls short in terms of dependability.
It is priced between $59,395 and $75,450 and provides a fuel efficiency of 28 miles per gallon. Common trouble spots for this model include the EV battery, EV charging system, electrical accessories, climate system, and in-car electronics.
The Volvo XC60 T8 hybrid SUV closely mirrors its nonhybrid counterpart, carrying over the essential qualities of the standard XC60 while integrating a plug-in hybrid system that delivers both impressive efficiency and robust performance.
A standout example: our test drivers recorded a 4.2-second sprint to 60 mph—“pretty darn quick for a compact luxury SUV of any stripe.” When it comes to efficiency, those who have access to home charging stand to gain the most, with an EPA-estimated 36 miles of electric-only range.
In hybrid mode, our tests showed 29 mpg combined—one mpg more than the gasoline-only version. Beyond the powertrain, the XC60 hybrid adheres to the same formula as its sibling, offering seating for five within an interior that is both purposeful and refined, enhanced with Volvo’s signature Scandinavian design elements.
It sports a sizable central screen powered by Volvo’s Google-based infotainment system and includes a solid range of driver-assistance features. Steering is precise and communicative, and while the cabin remains impressively quiet, the ride can be notably firm, with impacts from rougher surfaces clearly transmitted into the interior.
For those seeking heightened performance, the Polestar-engineered trim offers slightly increased power and a stiffer suspension setup. While the XC60 Hybrid continues to present itself as a stylish and practical option, its design is beginning to show its age—something that will likely become more evident with the debut of the upcoming Audi Q5 PHEV, a key rival.
Ford F-150 Hybrid
The Ford F-150 Hybrid has a low reliability score of 19 out of 100. Prices for this hybrid truck range from $36,965 to $78,440, and it achieves a fuel economy of 20 miles per gallon.
Notable trouble areas include the transmission, electric system, electric/hybrid battery, electrical accessories, drive system, in-car electronics, and persistent issues with noises and leaks.
While much of the attention is currently on the all-electric Ford Lightning, the 2022 Ford F-150 Hybrid offers a compelling alternative, delivering improved fuel efficiency over most pickups and packing in a suite of useful features and technology.
With a starting MSRP of $43,805.00, this first-ever hybrid version of the iconic F-150 presents itself as a smart bridge between traditional internal combustion models and the electric future.
It offers not just fuel savings, but the ability to power tools and appliances via outlets in the cargo bed—a practical bonus for those who work or play off the grid. Notably, it’s also the first full-size pickup to support over-the-air software updates.
So while there’s plenty of excitement surrounding the upcoming Lightning, the F-150 Hybrid marks an important and capable step forward.
Under the hood, the F-150 Hybrid features a 3.5-liter PowerBoost V6 engine that produces 430 horsepower and 570 lb-ft of torque. This is complemented by a 35kW (47 horsepower) electric motor integrated into the 10-speed automatic transmission.
Power for the electric motor comes from a 1.5kWh lithium-ion battery located underneath the vehicle, which is recharged through the engine and a regenerative braking system.
The hybrid powertrain doesn’t just add efficiency—it adds capability. The 4×4 version returns a combined fuel economy rating of 24 miles per gallon (mpg) across city and highway driving. The rear-wheel drive model improves slightly with 25mpg in city and combined driving, and 26mpg on the highway.
Volkswagen Taos
Earning a reliability score of just 18 out of 100, the Volkswagen Taos is among the least reliable vehicles on the list. Its price spans from $23,995 to $33,515, with an overall fuel efficiency of 26 miles per gallon. Key areas of concern include the brakes, electrical accessories, transmission, engine, electric system, in-car electronics, and various noises and leaks.
As the smallest SUV in Volkswagen’s lineup, the subcompact Taos faces high expectations—especially now that the GTI is the only Golf variant still available in this market. For the 2025 model year, the Taos receives a series of updates that appear to address one of the major shortcomings of the outgoing version: transmission refinement.
Historically, the Taos has struggled to justify its higher price point when compared with more value-driven rivals like the Subaru Crosstrek, Kia Soul, and Hyundai Kona. The key question is whether these updates are enough to improve the Taos’ standing from its current 10th-place ranking out of 17 subcompact SUVs.
Among the changes, all-wheel-drive models now ditch the previous seven-speed dual-clutch automatic in favor of an eight-speed automatic transmission, aligning them with their front-wheel-drive counterparts. This upgrade is expected to deliver a noticeable boost in driving smoothness and overall refinement.
Additionally, the Taos’ 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine now produces 174 horsepower, up from 158, which could enhance performance metrics like the 0–60 mph acceleration times—previously clocked at 7.4 seconds for AWD models and 7.6 seconds for FWD versions.
Visually, the 2025 Taos benefits from updated exterior styling, including a redesigned grille and illuminated Volkswagen badging. It also gets new wheel designs across the 17-, 18-, and 19-inch size range.
Several new color options have been added as well, featuring fresh shades of blue, green, and gray. Inside, the cabin has been revised with an updated dashboard layout, and all models now come standard with an 8.0-inch infotainment touchscreen. While this screen size remains relatively modest compared to industry standards, it does bring uniformity across the trim levels.
Volkswagen has also taken steps to modernize the interior tech offerings. Where the previous base model came with a 6.5-inch screen, the updated 2025 version equips all variants with the larger 8.0-inch display.
Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid
The Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid has one of the lowest reliability scores at 14 out of 100. It is priced between $39,645 and $59,785 and offers a fuel economy of 27 miles per gallon.
Major problem areas for this vehicle include the electric/hybrid battery, electric charging components, electric motor, and in-car electronics.
Visually and mechanically unchanged from the Pacifica models that received the 2021 facelift, the Chrysler Pacifica Hybrid remains a rare offering in both the minivan and three-row crossover segments.
It is one of only three vehicles across these two classes—along with the Kia Sorento PHEV and Mazda CX-90 PHEV—to provide a plug-in-hybrid powertrain that aims to offer the best of both worlds.
At the heart of the Pacifica Hybrid is Chrysler’s dependable 3.6-liter V-6 engine, paired with two electric motors mounted at the front axle, a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and a 16-kWh battery located mid-vehicle. This setup yields a combined system output of 260 horsepower. However, the listed 230 lb-ft of torque can be misleading.
Although the gasoline engine alone produces 230 lb-ft and the electric motors collectively generate 324 lb-ft, the nature of the planetary gear system used in the transmission means the torque figures cannot simply be added together.
Still, the hybrid system delivers an impressive EPA-estimated 32 miles of all-electric range, 520 miles of total range, and fuel economy ratings of 87 MPGe city, 77 MPGe highway, and 82 MPGe combined.
Recharging is handled by a 6.6-kW onboard charger that can top up the battery in just over two hours using a Level 2 charger or overnight via the included Level 1 charger and a standard 120-volt household outlet.
For those simply navigating city streets and suburban neighborhoods, performance metrics like quarter-mile times and figure-eight lap speeds may not seem relevant.
Yet, it’s surprisingly evident how well the Pacifica Hybrid drives. The powertrain is arguably its strongest feature. When the battery is fully charged, the electric motors feel energetic and provide strong acceleration, often moving the van with ease and without requiring the gas engine to engage.
When the V-6 does activate, it does so without drama, though its timing can feel somewhat unpredictable. Unlike the plug-in hybrid Jeep models, which include selectable electric, hold, charge, and hybrid driving modes, the Pacifica Hybrid operates with less user control.
The engine might fire up during a highway pass or simply in response to colder temperatures when the defroster and cabin heat are operating at high levels. Once the battery is depleted, the Pacifica functions as a conventional hybrid, blending power from the engine and electric motors as efficiently as possible until the next charging opportunity arises.
