Don’t buy that new car just yet. If you can wait, you will have new 2026. model variants that are not yet available. While some models remain largely unchanged, others are completely redesigned and often receive the latest features and improvements. Whether you’re interested in improved fuel economy, cutting-edge technology, or maybe just new and distinctive styling, there’s probably a car out there that will interest you. To make sure you don’t miss out on the latest and greatest, Edmunds’ auto experts highlight five vehicles you should consider.
Small SUV: 2026 Toyota RAV4
America’s best-selling SUV is getting a complete redesign for the 2026 model year. It should be noted that in 2026 the new RAV4 will be a full hybrid. Trust us, that’s a good thing. The base RAV4 should get around 40 mpg city/highway and make a respectable 226 horsepower. Or you can get the RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid. It makes a sporty 320 horsepower and can travel about 50 miles on all-electric power with a fully charged battery. Toyota has also modernized the interior of the RAV4 with a new design with large screens and the latest technologies of the brand. The RAV4 will be available in several trim levels, including the all-terrain RAV4 Woodland and a new sporty GR version.
Estimated starting price: $33,000
Mid-size SUV: 2026 Subaru Outback
in 2026 The Outback will be completely redesigned. Subaru has moved away from the Outback’s wagon profile in favor of a taller, boxier design that’s meant to be more SUV-like. If the new styling isn’t for you, the new interior probably will be. This is a big departure from the outgoing design. It’s highlighted by a new infotainment system that features sharper graphics and faster response to your touch. Thankfully, the Outback’s impressive 8.7 inches of ground clearance remains intact, useful for winter travel and off-road fun. The rugged Wilderness model also returns for even more off-road capability. Expect the new Outback to hit showrooms this fall.
Starting price: $36,445 (including destination)
Mid-range three-row SUV: 2027 Kia Telluride.
The Kia Telluride has been one of Edmunds’ favorite midsize SUVs since it debuted for the 2020 model year. The Telluride is spacious inside, comfortable and full of features. It also has top-notch design inside and out, and the reasonable price makes it a great value. Now, in 2027, the redesigned Telluride will debut. Kia won’t release official details on the next Telluride until late November, but we can get an idea of what to expect from the related Hyundai Palisade that’s already been unveiled. We expect the new Telluride to come with new tech features and, most importantly, an available hybrid powertrain that could help this family hauler achieve more than 30 mpg.
Estimated starting price: $39,000
Sports coupe: 2026 Honda Prelude
Honda’s sporty coupe of the 1980s and 1990s is making a comeback later this year as a hybrid-powered coupe. The new Prelude produces 200 horsepower, which is likely not favorable for acceleration lovers. But in contrast, the Prelude should get more than 40 mpg combined. It should also be fun to drive on twisty roads. Honda has given it a sophisticated suspension that should help the Prelude have sporty handling and a comfortable ride quality. The new Prelude has two small rear seats and a hatchback-style boot, so it should be useful enough for everyday driving. Interestingly, Honda says the Prelude will only come in one trim level and it will be packed with features.
Estimated starting price: $38,000
Full Size Truck: 2026 Ram 1500 Rev
The Ram Rev, formerly known as the Ramcharger, is what Ram calls an extended electric truck that is similar to a plug-in hybrid. The Rev has a large battery and two electric motors that deliver 145 miles of electric range and 647 horsepower. When the battery runs low, the V6 engine kicks in and charges the battery, increasing the total driving range to 690 miles. When the tank is empty, you can pump gas or charge the battery to get back on the road. The Rev has an impressive 14,000-pound towing capacity and looks like a regular Ram 1500 inside and out. We expect the hybrid Ram to hit the market in 2026.
Estimated starting price: $65,000
Edmund says
These five vehicles above are worth the wait, as each one will bring compelling features that either significantly improve the current model year’s vehicles or give them a distinctive new look.