The Edmunds Top Rated Awards for 2026 have been announced, recognising the best new cars, trucks, and SUVs based on rigorous independent testing. Winners are selected after track testing and extensive real-world evaluation, with six categories covering conventional and electric vehicles.
The Honda Civic retains its title as Top Rated Car, with the hybrid version achieving up to 49 mpg combined. The Civic Hybrid offers quick acceleration, roomy seating, and an upscale interior, available as a sedan or hatchback from $30,590.
In the electric car category, the Tesla Model 3 wins again after significant updates. It boasts a 338-mile range in Edmunds' EV test, affordable pricing, and access to Tesla's Supercharger network. The Full Self-Driving (Supervised) system is highlighted as a standout feature.
The Hyundai Palisade, fully redesigned for 2026, takes the Top Rated SUV award. This three-row SUV seats up to eight and offers gas or hybrid powertrains, with the hybrid preferred for its power and 34 mpg combined. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 wins Top Rated Electric SUV, praised for its range of trims, quick charging, and spacious interior.
Ford's compact Maverick earns Top Rated Truck, offering hybrid or turbocharged engines, a 4,000-pound towing capacity, and easy manoeuvrability. The Rivian R1T is Top Rated Electric Truck, with distinctive styling, rapid acceleration, a 390-mile range, and 11,000-pound towing capacity.
