Consumer Reports’ 10 Best Cars of 2026 all have one important feature

Consumer Reports’ 10 best new cars for 2026 all have one important feature: electric propulsion.

Consumer Reports, the nonprofit consumer advocacy organization that buys all the equipment it tests and doesn’t accept freebies from manufacturers, said this year’s list includes cars that can either have a hybrid engine or be all-electric.

“For the first time, every model on Consumer Reports’ Best New Cars list this year is either a hybrid, available as one, or is an electric vehicle,” Consumer Reports said in its report released Tuesday morning. “While car buyers can’t go wrong with traditional petrol-only versions, their hybrid counterparts often offer quicker acceleration, quieter cabins and improved fuel economy, which could translate into lower long-term ownership costs.”

Hybrid sales rose in the U.S. despite full electric vehicle sales falling after the loss of the U.S. federal tax credit for electric vehicles. Automakers such as Ford ( F ), General Motors ( GM ), and Toyota ( TM ) (the hybrid leader) are looking to offer more hybrid options in the future.

Here are the top 10 new vehicles on Consumer Reports’ 2026 list:

(A new addition to the list.) Consumer Reports said the Honda ( HMC ) Civic is an excellent sedan overall, but the hybrid is the best version. “It has all the qualities Consumer Reports’ auto experts love about a gas-only sedan, including quick and responsive steering, a comfortable ride and a roomy interior.”

Consumer Reports noted that the Toyota Camry is now sold exclusively as a hybrid, powered by a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine that achieved 48 mpg overall in CR testing. “The latest iteration strikes a nice balance between ride comfort and capable handling, offers practical interior space, and offers easy-to-use controls that make effective use of physical buttons and switches.”

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Consumer Reports said the Subaru ( FUJHY ) Crosstrek returned to the list thanks to positive additions such as the new, more powerful hybrid engine with an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined. “The Crosstrek handles well, with quick steering and minimal cornering roll, but it’s the ride quality that’s most noteworthy.”

Also returning is the Forester, which Consumer Reports said gets a new fuel-efficient hybrid powertrain, a 2.5-liter four-cylinder powered by hybrid technology sourced from partner Toyota — good for 5 more miles per gallon than the gasoline version. “Unlike most other small hybrid SUVs, which offer only limited all-wheel drive, the Forester Hybrid has a mechanical, full-time AWD system.”

(A new category added to the list.) “It’s rare to find a three-row SUV that’s roomy enough to seat an adult in each seat and still have room for cargo,” said Consumer Reports. The Highlander’s optional 245-hp hybrid powertrain is the standout, according to Consumer Reports, returning an astounding 35 mpg combined — on par with smaller SUV hybrids.

A repeat addition to the list, the Lexus NX is a “standout in small luxury SUVs.” The hybrid version is even more refined, Consumer Reports said, with electric assist helping to smooth the power delivery. The all-wheel-drive version returns 38 mpg overall in Consumer Reports testing — 13 mpg better than the gasoline version.

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Ford’s best-selling hybrid is back on the list. “The latest version continues to stand out with its low entry price, relatively spacious cabin and smooth ride – and because it’s available with a hybrid powertrain.”

Not surprisingly, the BMW ( BMW.DE ) X5 is atop the list, a year after Consumer Reports named it the top-rated vehicle, adding that it remains one of the best luxury SUVs Consumer Reports has ever tested. “The plug-in hybrid version of the X5 is ideal for drivers whose daily commutes approach 39 miles of electric-only range.”

Tesla’s ( TSLA ) Model Y — the best-selling electric vehicle in the U.S. last year (and the only electric vehicle on the list) — combines practical design, long driving range, high performance and access to Tesla’s ubiquitous Supercharger network as strengths, Consumer Reports editors said. “Like last year’s version, the revised Y still benefits from thrilling acceleration, sharp handling, comfortable front seats and unobstructed forward views.”

(A new category adds to the list.) America’s best-selling truck for the 49th year in a row ranks in Consumer Reports’ top 10, with editors citing improved reliability as a top factor. “A traditional mid-level 400-hp V8 is still available; however, a more powerful option is the 430-hp 3.5-liter turbocharged V6 hybrid. Unlike some hybrids, this powertrain prioritizes the debate over efficiency.” The F-150’s hybrid option can also double as a power generator for job sites or even to power a home during a power outage.

Gone from this year’s list were the Nissan Sentra, Toyota RAV4 and Toyota Highlander (although they were replaced by the new Grand Highlander). Last year’s lineup didn’t include a full-size pickup option.

Pras Subramanian is the lead auto reporter for Yahoo Finance. You can follow it further X and further Instagram.

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