6 underrated cars from the 2024 Utah Auto Expo

There were many standouts at this year’s Utah International Auto Expo, but there were also several hidden gems. KSL Cars went three times over the weekend, and we sat in just about every vehicle there. We’ve also test driven a fair number of them, so we have a pretty good feel for some of the best out there. That being said, we think that some on display at the January event deserve a second look.

Photo by Jason Bell

Jeep Wagoneer L

The Jeep Wagoneer L is the new kid on the block with a lot to prove. It has to compete with segment heavyweights such as the Chevy Suburban and Ford Expedition, which is no easy task, especially in the Utah market. But, just because it’s new doesn’t mean it’s not awesome. It is. We loved the Wagoneer L on display so much, it’s now on our personal shortlist.

Photo by Jason Bell

The Wagoneer felt more spacious and comfortable than its competition, and to our eye it was more stylish, especially in its Carbide trim. It also boasts Stellantis’s new turbocharged inline 6-cylinder engine, which we’ve heard nothing but rave reviews about. If you need a full-size SUV capable of hauling your kids, an entire church youth group and all of their gear — while simultaneously towing a boat — the Wagoneer L is certainly worth a look. Search new Wagoneer listings on KSL Cars

Photo by Jason Bell

Ford Mustang GT

OK, we know, another year, another Mustang. And by now, you know the recipe: a four-seat, two-door coupe with a 5.0-liter V8 and an available manual transmission. But just because you know the recipe doesn’t mean it’s not still one of the best performance dishes around. 

For this latest generation of Mustang, Ford has cranked the V8 to 480 horsepower and 415 pound-feet of torque, and it’s available for just over $43,000. That’s a lot of bang for your buck, and you’d be hard-pressed to find anything else new quite like it — especially with that iconic Coyote motor exhaust bellowing out the rear.

Seeing the new Mustang in person, no one would blame the casual passerby for thinking it was the previous generation. In fact, it was almost sad how many attendees walked on by, not even realizing the treasure before them. The Mustang might look familiar, but don’t let it lure you into complacent feelings about it — it's still awesome and one of the best performance values on the market. Shop 2024 Ford Mustangs

Photo by Jason Bell

Kia Niro Hybrid

Let’s be honest, other more popular compact hybrid commuters get all the attention when it comes to hyper mile efficiency. No one ever talks about the Niro Hybrid, and it’s a shame. We’ve driven the Niro Hybrid and found it to be more comfortable, practical and just as efficient as most of the competition. Fully loaded in its SX Prestige trim, it’s almost luxurious but still a bargain at $36,315. If you want an uber efficient hybrid commuter apart from the usual suspects, you need to check out the Kia Niro Hybrid. See new Kia Niro listings on KSL Cars

Photo by Jason Bell

Subaru BRZ

Of all the sports cars available these days, perhaps none is more overlooked than the Subaru BRZ. It’s so good, even Car and Driver has named it one of the top 10 cars for three years in a row. Sadly, it’s quickly dismissed by too many because of its lack of turbo; but honestly, it doesn’t need it.

The BRZ is so well-balanced, and so much pure fun, we hope it never changes. And for just over $30,000, you’d be hard-pressed to find a car that offers more smiles and giggles for the money — or even at double or triple the BRZ’s price tag. A drag racer, this is not. But, if you want to have a ball carving up a canyon, or heck, even just driving to the grocery store, the BRZ is your answer. 

In short, if driving fun is important to you, the Subaru BRZ should be on your short list of candidates. It may just be the sports car bargain of the century. View all Subaru BRZ listings

Photo by Jason Bell

Subaru Impreza RS

Another car no one really talks about, the Subaru Impreza RS is probably one of the best daily drivers around. It’s safe, affordable, decently fun, offers excellent visibility, is extremely practical and comfortable, offers standard all-wheel drive and achieves pretty great fuel economy. We tested the Impreza RS in Colorado last summer and walked away feeling like we could drive it all day with no complaints. It’s not the most exciting option out there, but it does offer good, solid, practical transportation with just enough spice that you won’t be bored. See all new Subaru Impreza RS listings.

Photo by Jason Bell

Toyota Sienna Woodland Edition

We know, and manufacturers know, that you and all of your Instagram followers probably want an SUV to haul your elementary-aged kids around in. But what you probably should buy is a minivan — the Toyota Sienna. We put nearly 1,000 miles on our tester a few months ago, and we loved every second of it. It’s incredibly spacious — even more so than most SUVs — comfortable, practical and efficient. Every Sienna comes standard with a hybrid powertrain that is both punchy and efficient, and it’s all-wheel drive.

The Woodland Edition is especially great for Utah with its additional ground clearance. Oh, and the best part? The carpool kids won’t be dinging any neighboring cars with the Sienna’s sliding rear doors. The Sienna is a top-tier people hauler and is the car you probably want, even more than that SUV you’ve been lusting after. Give it a chance; we know you’ll love it. Shop new Toyota Sienna listings

Haven’t shopped for a new vehicle in a while? Today’s models come loaded with convenience and safety features — most of them standard — which just may convince you it’s time for an upgrade. Check them out on KSL Cars.

*The makes and models mentioned in this article are not placed in any particular order, nor intended to be viewed as a ranked list. KSL Cars does not endorse any vehicles. The views or opinions expressed in this article are those of the writer and do not reflect the views or opinions of KSL.com or its employees.

About the author: Having owned everything from a DeLorean to an E46 BMW M3 and a Toyota Land Cruiser, Jason Bell is a lifelong car enthusiast who loves sharing his passions as a teacher, automotive journalist and social media manager. He is an accredited member of the Rocky Mountain Automotive Press where he serves on the Board of Directors. Contact him at jasonbellcars@gmail.com.