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Editors' Picks May 2024: The new Tacoma, E-Class and more

Editors' Picks May 2024: The new Tacoma, E-Class and more



This month saw us rate a number of cars and trucks that recently received massive updates. The 2024 Toyota Tacoma is finally an Editors' Pick, as it marks a tremendous improvement over the previous generation pickup. Meanwhile, others like the redesigned Mercedes-Benz E-Class or refreshed Lexus LC continue in their success. Lastly, we finally get a go in the Cadillac Lyriq on our home turf and deem it worthy enough for a recommendation.

In case you missed previous Editors' Picks posts, here’s a quick refresher on what’s going on here. We rate all the new cars we drive with a 1-10 score. Cars that are exemplary in their respective segments get an Editors’ Pick designation. Those are the ones we’d recommend to our friends, family and anybody who’s curious and asks the question. You'll find the entire list of Editors' Picks at this link here, which we keep updated as cars are either added or dropped from the list. The vehicles you’ll find below consist of every car we rated in May that earned an Editors’ Pick.

2024 Toyota Tacoma


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Quick take: The Toyota Tacoma is a stellar midsize pickup with several configurations, off-road variants and a relatively efficient hybrid powertrain option. It's finally the complete package.

Score: 8

What it competes with: Ford RangerNissan FrontierChevrolet ColoradoGMC CanyonHonda RidgelineJeep Gladiator

Pros: Strong power and torque; enormous configurability; loads of off-road options; quiet and refined ride; manual transmission availability

Cons: Coarse engine; on the expensive side; Limited not as plush as it could be; manual is clunky

From the editors:

News Editor Joel Stocksdale — "I'm quite impressed with the Tacoma, even without trying out the flagship powertrain. It's a serious competitor in the segment again with strong performance and efficiency, refined ride quality, and an impressive amount of features and customizations."

In-depth analysis: 2024 Toyota Tacoma Review: All-new and highly configurable

 

2024 Lexus LC


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Quick take: The craftsmanship and attention to detail are supreme, but it's the driving experience that really makes this car a phenomenon. Plus, it finally has a usable infotainment system.

Score: 8.5

What it competes with: Porsche 911, Chevrolet Corvette, Jaguar F-Type, BMW 8 Series, Maserati GranTurismo

Pros: One of the most complete cars on sale today; symphonic engine; Concours-conquering design; way-fun to drive

Cons: Tight trunk space; hybrid is an odd offering

From the editors: 

Road Test Editor Zac Palmer — "The LC is hands-down one of my favorite cars to drive and be in. The infotainment update for 2024 is a massive upgrade, but I still don't think it solves all the problems. That said, of all the super-powerful, high-performance grand tourers on sale today, the LC 500 is the one I'd put in my driveway."

In-depth analysis: 2021 Lexus LC 500 Convertible First Drive