23:22 03-02-2026

Best cars for 2026: Top picks from Consumer Reports

Consumer Reports has released its annual Top Picks ranking, naming the 10 best cars for 2026. For the first time ever, every winner is either an electric vehicle or a hybrid version of a popular model, reflecting the market's rapid shift toward efficiency and new powertrains.

The experts tested over 260 models and selected vehicles that performed best in reliability, handling, safety, and owner satisfaction. The Honda Civic Hybrid leads the compact category with smoother power delivery and lower running costs. The Toyota Camry, now fully hybrid, has reinforced its status as one of the most balanced sedans on the market, achieving the best fuel economy in its class.

In the crossover segment, the Subaru Crosstrek and Forester stand out, both featuring updated hybrid powertrains. Among three-row SUVs, the Toyota Grand Highlander wins for its spacious cabin and impressive efficiency in the Hybrid Max version. In the premium category, the Lexus NX and BMW X5 are top picks, blending comfort, technology, and high expected reliability.

Among pickups, the Ford Maverick maintains its position as the most affordable and practical compact truck, while the updated Ford F-150 reclaims a top spot with improved reliability and a powerful hybrid version. The only electric vehicle on the list is the Tesla Model Y, praised for updates to comfort, noise insulation, and features, along with high marks for performance and range.

Consumer Reports' ranking is widely regarded as one of the most influential in the U.S., based on independent testing and real owner data. The 2026 winners highlight a key trend: future cars are becoming quieter, more efficient, and more technologically advanced, with hybrid systems gaining market share faster than anticipated.