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

The 2026 CX-5 looks like an evolutionary redesign of the compact SUV. Power comes from the same 187-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed automatic transmission found in the outgoing CX-5. All-wheel drive will remain standard. Mazda says a wheelbase that’s 4.5 inches longer translates into more interior room, particularly for rear-seat passengers. Most controls, including the ones for the climate system, have been integrated into an all-new touchscreen display. We expect all key active safety systems, including AEB, AEB highway, BSW, and RCTW, will be standard equipment. A hybrid version will debut in 2027. Read our First Drive Review of the 2026 CX-5.

The redesigned RAV4 is available only in hybrid and plug-in hybrid forms. The company claims it has improved performance, infotainment, and safety. The hybrid powertrain produces 226 combined horsepower, and for the first time, it’s available in a front-drive configuration. The AWD version has even more oomph, with 236 hp. The plug-in hybrid powertrain gained 18 hp for 2026, raising its combined output to 320 hp. The electric-only range has increased to 50 miles. All RAV4s have a 12.3-inch instrument panel, while the center infotainment screen is either a slim 10.5-inch screen or a 12.9-inch one with onscreen controls for the climate system. The Safety Sense 4.0 system is the latest evolution of the brand’s comprehensive suite of safety and driver assistance features. Read our First Drive of the 2026 RAV4.

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 a commendable 29 mpg overall. 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 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 turbo four that produces 260 horsepower. 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. Read our preview of the redesigned Outback.

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 compared with 180 for the regular Forester. We measured 34 mpg overall, a notable improvement from the 29 mpg overall we recorded for the regular Forester we tested. The Hybrid retains all of the Forester’s key virtues, including a comfortable ride, excellent outward visibility, and a roomy rear seat. But it’s 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 incredibly popular CR-V is a practical and functional SUV. Its 1.5-liter turbo-four is mated to a CVT and delivers unobtrusive propulsion, but this combo feels underpowered at times. At 26 mpg overall, fuel economy has regressed. 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 Subaru Crosstrek has a comfortable ride, responsive handling, mostly simple controls, and a practical but basic interior. Updates for the 2026 model include the 180-hp 2.5-liter engine replacing the lackluster 2.0-liter engine. The engine is paired with a continuously variable transmission. The X-Mode for the all-wheel-drive system alters power distribution to help traverse tricky terrain in off-road situations. 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. A hybrid version is also available.

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. With standard AWD, the SUV got 21 mpg overall in our testing. 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.

The Toyota Camry’s standard four-cylinder hybrid is available with either front- or all-wheel drive. We got an impressive 48 mpg overall in our tests of a front-drive SE. The cabin is quiet at low speeds, but at higher power levels, the engine noise is pronounced. The ride is firm and composed yet still comfortable. Handling is responsive and very secure, even when the car is pushed to its limits around our track. The cabin is fairly 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 into and out of. The infotainment system is relatively easy to use. Uplevel XLE and XSE versions get more sound insulation.

The Highlander uses a 265-hp, 2.4-liter turbo four-cylinder that packs good midrange oomph but has a gritty sound under acceleration. We got 22 mpg overall in our tests. The ride is comfortable, and handling is sound and secure, but mundane. Seven- and eight-passenger seating configurations are available. Either way, the second row is very roomy, but the third row is tiny and not as useful as in some midsized SUV competitors. The Highlander’s infotainment system looks modern, but it’s not particularly user-friendly.

• Toyota 4Runner
• Toyota Crown Signia
• Toyota RAV4 Hybrid
• Honda Pilot
• Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid
• Nissan Rogue
• Honda CR-V Hybrid
• Hyundai Tucson
• Ford F-150
• Chevrolet Equinox