Buying a new vehicle is a major investment these days, so you want to make sure your money is well-spent. Consumer Reports has done the research on the latest makes and models and has just come out with their picks for the Best Cars of 2026.
- Every year, they buy and test about 50 new vehicles to see how they perform in dozens of road tests, as well as government and insurance industry crash tests.
- For the first time, the top 10 cars all come in electric or hybrid versions, which come with perks like better acceleration, quieter interiors and improved fuel economy, according to the product testing and research group.
- But price is important, too, and this year’s picks for the top cars, trucks and SUVs include several models that are less than the average $50-thousand starting price for a new vehicle.
Consumer Reports’ Top 10 Best Cars of the Year
- Best small car: Honda Civic - base price $24,695
- Best midsize Car: Toyota Camry - base price $29,100
- Best subcompact SUV: Subaru Crosstrek - base price $26,995
- Best compact SUV: Subaru Forester - base price $29,995
- Best midsize SUV: Toyota Grand Highlander - base price $41,660
- Best luxury compact SUV: Lexus NX - base price $44,175
- Best small pickup truck: Ford Maverick - base price $28,145
- Best luxury midsize SUV: BMW X5 - base price $67,600
- Best electric vehicle: Tesla Model Y - base price is $39,990
- Best full-size pickup truck: Ford F-150 - base price $37,290
Source: CBS News