Consumer Reports' Most Popular New Cars, SUVs, and Pickup Trucks for 2026

The redesigned RAV4 offers an all-electrified lineup of hybrid and plug-in hybrid models. Eliminating the nonhybrid engine means every RAV4 has immediate electric torque off the line, seamless power delivery, and excellent fuel economy. Both front- and all-wheel drive variants are offered. Our all-wheel-drive hybrid returned an outstanding 40 mpg overall. The PHEV model delivers an EPA-estimated electric-only range of about 50 miles. Other improvements to this popular SUV include a more comfortable ride, shorter stopping distances, and a quieter cabin, all of which significantly boosted the RAV4’s road-test score. However, the interior trim looks and feels somewhat drab, and the driving position is marred by uncomfortable armrests and an intrusive center console. The controls are mostly easy to use, and the seats are reasonably comfortable.

The incredibly popular CR-V is a practical and functional SUV. Its 1.5-liter turbo-four is mated to a continuously variable transmission (CVT) and delivers unobtrusive propulsion, but this combo feels underpowered at times and fuel economy has gotten worse. The CR-V’s ride is firm but absorbent, and handling is responsive and secure. The rear seat is generously sized and easy to get into. A relatively simple and boxy shape provides ample cargo room. The controls and infotainment system are user-friendly. BSW and RCTW aren’t available on the base LX.

The Camry now comes only as a four-cylinder hybrid and is available with either front- or all-wheel drive. In our tests of a front-wheel-drive version, we got an impressive 48 mpg overall. The electric drive can propel the car at low speeds if you’re gentle on the accelerator pedal, keeping the cabin quiet. Higher power demands, however, elicit pronounced noise from the 2.5-liter gas engine. The ride in the SE model we tested is firm and composed yet still comfortable. Handling is responsive and very secure, even when pushed to its limits around our track. The cabin is reasonably roomy, but the rear seat isn’t the most generous in the class, and the car’s low stance makes it slightly difficult to get in and out. The infotainment system is relatively easy to use. The Uplevel XLE and XSE versions offer improved sound insulation for a quieter cabin.

The Subaru Forester has excellent outward visibility, a roomy interior, and a comfortable ride. While its 2.5-liter four-cylinder has a rather abrupt initial launch and sometimes feels underpowered, it returned commendable fuel economy. The Forester rides smoothly, and handling is sound and secure but not sporty. The front seats are comfortable, though the bottom cushion may be too short for drivers with longer legs. The rear seat is roomy, and cargo space is generous. Most controls are simple, but multiple steps are required for some climate functions through the touchscreen. BSW and RCTW aren’t available on the Base version and are only optional on the second-tier Premium.

The Subaru Outback has grown from an adventure-inspired wagon into a full-fledged SUV. The new look adds cargo space and headroom, although ground clearance remains the same on most models. It now sits between the Forester and the Ascent. A 180-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine is standard, while the more powerful XT and rugged-looking Wilderness models get a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine producing 260 hp. Roof rails are standard. An updated infotainment system and controls incorporate easier-to-use buttons and knobs instead of full touchscreens, and active safety systems have been enhanced with new features, including an emergency stop feature that can pull the car over if the driver is unresponsive.

The Subaru Crosstrek offers a comfortable ride, responsive handling, simple controls, and a practical yet basic interior. Updates for the 2026 model include a 180-hp 2.5-liter engine to replace the lackluster 2.0-liter engine. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission. The X-Mode for the all-wheel-drive system adjusts power distribution to help traverse tricky off-road terrain. The cabin is roomy, and, in Subaru SUV tradition, it’s easy to get into and out of. The front seats are comfortable and supportive, and are finally available with adjustable lumbar support. BSW and RCTW are available only on higher trims.

The Forester Hybrid uses an electric motor backed by a lithium-ion battery to augment its 2.5-liter flat-four engine. That hybrid powertrain increases horsepower to 194, up from 180 for the regular Forester. Fuel economy is much better than that of the regular Forester. The Hybrid version retains all of the Forester’s key virtues, including a comfortable ride, excellent outward visibility, and a roomy rear seat. But it’s also quieter than the regular model, and benefits from a more pleasant initial takeoff, thanks to the electric drive. All trims come standard with BSW and RCTW.

The Crosstrek Hybrid, which is essentially a raised Impreza hatchback posing as a subcompact SUV, is once again available as a hybrid. An electric motor, backed by a larger battery, augments its 2.5-liter flat-four engine, which is paired with an electronic continuously variable transmission and full-time all-wheel drive. Total system output is 194 hp (the regular Crosstrek’s is 180 hp). Fuel economy is also better than in the regular Crosstrek. Arguably, the biggest benefit of the Crosstrek’s hybridization is its improved low-speed drivability, thanks to its smooth electric shove off the line. Otherwise, most of the Crosstrek’s virtues remain, including a comfortable ride, responsive handling, mostly simple controls, and a practical but basic interior. 

The 2026 CX-5 is an evolutionary redesign of the compact SUV. Power comes from the same 187-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder and six-speed automatic found in the outgoing CX-5, albeit slightly retuned. Unfortunately, this engine gets loud when it’s pushed, acceleration is tepid, and the automatic shifts roughly at times. Fuel economy is 26 mpg overall, which is competitive. Interior quality has taken a step backward, with fewer padded surfaces. The front seats are comfortable, but lateral support is modest. The rear seat is unquestionably roomier and more comfortable. Unfortunately, most of the CX-5’s controls, including those for the climate and audio systems, are now located on the touchscreen. This setup is unintuitively laid out and distracting to use while driving. A hybrid CX-5 will debut in 2027.

The Pilot-based Passport features a rugged, off-road flair. Its 285-hp V6 is slick and punchy, but the 10-speed automatic doesn’t always shift smoothly. Fuel economy is on a par with other nonhybrid midsized SUVs. The ride is noticeably more comfortable than before, although handling is more competent than engaging. Most controls are clear and straightforward. We like that the climate and audio systems are controlled by handy buttons and knobs. The front seats are comfortable and reasonably supportive, the rear seat is roomy, and cargo space is generous. Off-road trims add skid plates, a raised ride height, and all-terrain tires.

• Toyota Crown Signia
• Honda CR-V Hybrid
• Hyundai Tucson
• Toyota Highlander
• Nissan Rogue
• Honda Pilot
• Toyota 4Runner
• Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
• Chevrolet Equinox
• Lexus RX