Consumer Reports’ 2026 best new cars rankings showed Japanese brands taking most of the top spots, while no Korean models were included among the category winners.
In its latest list of 10 category winners, Consumer Reports selected Japanese brands as No. 1 in six categories, including models from Toyota, Honda, and Subaru. The last time a Korean model appeared on the organization’s annual “car of the year” list was 2023, when the Kia Telluride was chosen in the midsize SUV category and the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid was selected in the two-row SUV category.
Consumer Reports said it buys about 50 new vehicles each year and evaluates them using dozens of road tests, crash safety evaluations, and surveys of reliability and consumer satisfaction before naming a winner in each category.
For best small car, Consumer Reports chose the Honda Civic, which has a base price of $24,695. The hybrid version was highlighted for delivering 44 miles per gallon.
In the midsize car category, Toyota Camry was selected. The Camry is sold only as a hybrid model and was cited for its roomy interior and easy-to-use controls. Its base price is $29,100.
For best small SUV, Consumer Reports selected the Subaru Crosstrek, with a base price of $26,995. The organization pointed to stable driving performance and off-road usability. In the compact SUV category, the Subaru Forester took first place, with a base price of $29,995, backed by strong marks for brand reliability and outward visibility.
In the midsize SUV category, Toyota Grand Highlander was named the top model. Consumer Reports cited its three-row space, 35 miles per gallon fuel economy, and smooth ride. The base price is $41,660.
For best luxury small SUV, Lexus NX ranked first. The model, which the report noted is popular among Korean American consumers, was cited for its upscale interior, comfortable seats, and the availability of hybrid and plug-in hybrid options. Its base price is $44,175.
In the small pickup truck category, Ford Maverick was selected, with a base price of $28,145. Consumer Reports highlighted that, despite being a truck, the hybrid model achieves 37 mpg.
For best luxury midsize SUV, BMW X5 took first place. Its base price is $67,600, and it was cited for ride quality, durability, and premium finishes.
For best electric vehicle, Tesla Model Y was selected. Its base price is $39,990, and the report cited access to the Tesla Supercharger network as a major advantage.
The final category winner, best full-size pickup truck, was Ford F-150. Consumer Reports noted that both gasoline and hybrid versions are available and cited reliability and a wide range of driver-assist features.
