The automotive industry often celebrates its best-sellers and innovators. Cars like the Toyota Corolla and Tesla Model Y are prime examples, commanding attention year after year. But not all noteworthy models share the same spotlight.
For 2024, several cars stand out not for their popularity but for their exceptional value, technology, and performance. These vehicles may not dominate headlines, but they prove that greatness often hides in plain sight.
2024 Toyota Crown
The Toyota Crown redefines what a modern sedan can be, blending luxury and hybrid efficiency into an enticing package. With sales showing slight improvement over the previous year, the Crown’s unique offerings remain underappreciated. Available with two powertrain options—a 236-horsepower hybrid or a 340-horsepower turbocharged hybrid—the Crown delivers a refined driving experience.
Its top-tier trim boasts a 2.4-liter hybrid engine, enabling swift acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.1 seconds. Beyond its performance, the Crown’s upscale interior features dual 12.3-inch displays, a premium JBL sound system, and wireless phone charging. Its impressive 42 MPG fuel efficiency solidifies its place as a practical yet stylish choice. However, some might find its bold design polarizing or question its niche appeal compared to luxury rivals.
2024 Hyundai Venue
In the competitive subcompact SUV market, the Hyundai Venue often gets overlooked, but its affordability and practicality make it a worthy contender. Starting at just over $20,000, the Venue provides remarkable value, featuring an intuitive 8-inch touchscreen with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Though modestly powered by a 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine generating 121 horsepower, the Venue compensates with excellent fuel economy, reaching up to 33 MPG on the highway. Its spacious interior comfortably accommodates five passengers, and standard driver-assist technologies enhance its appeal. While the Venue’s plasticky interior and underwhelming acceleration might deter some, it remains a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers.
2024 Volvo XC40
Once known for its utilitarian designs, Volvo now emphasizes style and sophistication, exemplified by the XC40. This compact SUV combines Scandinavian elegance with cutting-edge technology. Powered by a 247-horsepower turbocharged engine paired with a mild hybrid system, the XC40 delivers a spirited yet composed ride.
Inside, it features luxury touches like a crystal gear shifter, a panoramic sunroof, and a high-resolution 9-inch touchscreen. The XC40 also prioritizes safety with advanced driver aids. However, the reliance on touchscreen controls might frustrate some users, and fuel efficiency lags behind rivals. Despite these quirks, the XC40 remains a hidden gem for buyers seeking luxury in a compact package.
2024 Subaru Legacy
The Subaru Legacy continues to be overshadowed by stalwarts like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, but it holds its ground with unique strengths. Chief among these is its standard all-wheel-drive system, ensuring confident handling in any weather.
The Legacy’s turbocharged 2.4-liter engine produces 260 horsepower, enabling a brisk 0-60 mph time of 6.1 seconds. Inside, a spacious cabin includes an 11.6-inch vertical infotainment display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. While its base engine lacks punch and the CVT dulls engagement, the Legacy’s tech features and all-weather capability make it a compelling alternative to more mainstream sedans.
2024 Kia K5
With its bold styling and feature-rich interior, the Kia K5 deserves more attention than it gets. Its turbocharged 2.5-liter engine generates an impressive 290 horsepower, propelling the sedan from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.2 seconds. Buyers can also opt for a smaller, fuel-efficient 1.6-liter engine.
Standard features include a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless phone connectivity, and ambient lighting. The K5’s GT trim, in particular, delivers thrilling performance while undercutting rivals like the Honda Accord in price. However, its cramped seating position and less sporty handling compared to competitors might deter some enthusiasts.
2024 Acura TLX
Despite a 53% drop in sales, the Acura TLX is a stylish and well-rounded luxury sedan. Its Type S variant, powered by a 355-horsepower turbocharged V6, rivals German counterparts while remaining more affordable. The TLX also impresses with its athletic handling and sharp exterior design.
The cabin features leather upholstery, a 12.3-inch infotainment display, and an available ELS sound system. However, rear-seat space is limited, and the infotainment touchpad interface could use improvement. For those seeking an alternative to pricier luxury sedans, the TLX offers an excellent balance of performance and value.
2024 Mazda CX-30
Although the Mazda CX-30 isn’t new, it continues to impress with its upscale interior and engaging driving dynamics. Its turbocharged 2.5-liter engine delivers 250 horsepower, making it one of the quickest in its class.
Inside, the CX-30 boasts a minimalist yet premium cabin, rivaling luxury brands. While its stiff ride may not suit all buyers, the CX-30’s performance, combined with a price tag under $40,000, makes it an underrated contender in the compact crossover segment.
2024 Buick Encore GX
The Buick Encore GX combines practicality and luxury in a compact frame, making it a standout among subcompact SUVs. Starting below $30,000, the Encore GX includes an 11-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, and optional leather upholstery.
Its turbocharged three-cylinder engine provides decent efficiency, although its 155 horsepower output is modest. While some may find its styling polarizing, the Encore GX offers comfort and tech features that justify a second look.
2024 Volkswagen Jetta GLI
Often overshadowed by the Golf GTI, the Volkswagen Jetta GLI deserves recognition for its potent 228-horsepower engine and agile handling. Available with a six-speed manual transmission, it delivers an engaging driving experience.
Though its interior materials could be improved, the Jetta GLI offers excellent value with sporty performance at a reasonable price point. For driving enthusiasts seeking practicality, the Jetta GLI is a compelling option.
2024 Hyundai Sonata Hybrid
The Hyundai Sonata Hybrid competes in a tough market but stands out with impressive fuel efficiency and technology. Its base engine achieves up to 51 MPG, making it an economical choice for commuters.
The Sonata Hybrid’s interior features dual 12.3-inch displays, wireless phone integration, and an optional Bose sound system. While its acceleration may not excite enthusiasts, its affordability and practicality make it a strong contender in the hybrid sedan segment.
These 10 underrated vehicles represent a diverse range of segments, from luxury sedans to compact SUVs. Despite their lower sales figures, they offer features, performance, and value that rival or surpass their more popular competitors. As 2024 unfolds, these hidden gems are worth considering for buyers seeking something beyond the mainstream.