2024 BMW 7 Series vs 2024 Honda Civic Hatchback

Redesigned for 2023, the 7 Series is BMW's full-size flagship sedan, arch-rival to the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, Audi A8, and newcomers like the Genesis G90. For 2024, BMW has added the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) 750e and lightly updated the infotainment system. Unfortunately, these additions don't change the 7 Series calculus. The 750e offers a boost in power and efficiency over the low-end 740i, but it costs more, has a disjointed driving personality, and quickly eats its electric charge. Despite the update, the car's digital systems remain frustratingly complex.

Verdict: The 2024 BMW 7 Series has lots to offer luxury buyers, including features like a rear-seat theatre and cashmere upholstery, plus performance and fuel efficiency that are often superior to most rivals, few of whom offer PHEV options. But the car's frustrating digital systems and controls undermine the experience.

Few cars can put a smile on your face when driving and making the monthly payment like a 2024 Civic can. That’s especially true when it comes to the hatchback version, which adds significant utility and an available manual transmission to the mix. Last redesigned for 2022, the Civic hasn’t seen any major changes since then. But next year, the 2025 Civic Hybrid arrives in both hatch and sedan flavors.

Verdict: We’re big fans of the 2024 Honda Civic. Unless you want all-wheel drive, you can’t go wrong with this excellent compact car. It’s practical and safe, affordable yet first-rate, and thanks to its available turbocharged engine is a blast to drive. Instead of getting a small SUV like everyone else, strongly consider a Civic Hatchback instead.