Those of us here at Gear Patrol’s Motoring desk drove a lot of cars in 2023, and we can’t wait to get right back behind the wheel in 2024. But with the calendar coming to a close and the ingredients for a tasty glass of boozy egg nog waiting to be assembled, it’s time to reflect on the year we had in the automotive world. From brand-new trucks to budget off-roaders to anything-but-budget sports cars, here are our favorite

The Crosstrek’s formula — being a cheaper, more chuckable Outback — is a winner. For the all-new 2024 model year Crosstrek, Subaru followed even more in the Outback’s footsteps and added a full-bore Wilderness version. You get Subaru’s excellent symmetrical AWD system paired with 9.3 inches of ground clearance — nearly as much as the base Jeep Wrangler. It’s optimally sized for navigating a trail, clambers over almost everything you put in front of it, remains charming on-road — and best of all, starts under $35,000. Oh, and if you don’t need quite that much off-road capability, the lesser Crosstreks are delightful as well — Tyler Duffy READ OUR 2024 SUBARU CROSSTREK WILDERNESS
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