Edmunds Top Rated vehicle awards for 2026
ABC News
Earning a spot on the annual Edmunds Top Rated Awards list takes more than just having great track tests
Each year, the Edmunds Top Rated Awards are bestowed on the best new cars, trucks and SUVs on sale. To win, a vehicle must rank at the top of its class based on Edmunds’ rigorous, independent testing and evaluation process. That means each winner has been tested at the Edmunds test track and thoroughly evaluated over many miles of real-world use.
Edmunds divides the awards into six main categories: best car, best SUV and best truck, and electric versions of the same categories. This year’s Edmunds Top Rated Awards feature some repeat winners and newcomers, and each is a great choice if you’re planning to purchase a new vehicle. Note that all prices below include destination charges.
The Honda Civic maintains its spot from last year as the Edmunds Top Rated Car for 2026. With its available hybrid powertrain, the Civic achieves up to an EPA-estimated 49 mpg in combined city/highway driving, which is excellent for a small car. On top of that, the Civic Hybrid provides quick acceleration, roomy seating, and an upscale interior design that’s nicer than what you’ll find in the competition. Another bonus: The Civic Hybrid is available as a sedan or as a hatchback with extra cargo space.
Starting price for a Civic sedan with the hybrid engine: $30,590
The significant updates to the Tesla Model 3 last year continue to make it a compelling choice and an Edmunds Top Rated winner. This small electric sedan boasts an affordable starting price, ample range and helpful technology features. In the independent Edmunds EV Range Test, the Model 3 Long Range All-Wheel Drive went 338 miles on a single charge, enough for days of worry-free commuting or even a road trip. Easy public charging at Tesla’s nationwide Supercharger high-speed charging network is another plus. Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) is a nearly magical technology that steers the car through city streets like a robotic chauffeur.
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