Edmunds Announces Top Rated Vehicles for 2026

Annual awards recognize best new cars, trucks, and SUVs based on Edmunds' independent testing and evaluation.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

Edmunds has announced its Top Rated vehicle awards for 2026, honoring the best new cars, trucks, and SUVs across several categories. The winners were selected based on Edmunds' rigorous testing and real-world evaluation, with repeat champions and new standouts earning the top spots.

Why it matters

The Edmunds Top Rated awards are a trusted industry benchmark, providing consumers with expert guidance on the top-performing vehicles in each segment. These awards highlight the latest innovations and standout models that should be on shoppers' consideration lists as they look to purchase a new vehicle.

The details

Edmunds divided the awards into six main categories: best car, best SUV, best truck, and electric versions of each. Repeat winners include the Honda Civic Hybrid for best car and the Hyundai Palisade Hybrid for best SUV. New to the list are the Tesla Model 3 for best electric car and the Rivian R1T for best electric truck, both praised for their impressive range, performance, and technology features.

  • The Edmunds Top Rated Awards were announced on February 18, 2026.

The players

Edmunds

An automotive research and review company that provides consumers with expert guidance on new vehicle purchases.

Honda Civic Hybrid

The hybrid version of the popular Honda Civic sedan, which won the Edmunds Top Rated Car award for 2026.

Tesla Model 3

Tesla's compact electric sedan, which won the Edmunds Top Rated Electric Car award for 2026.

Hyundai Palisade Hybrid

The hybrid version of Hyundai's midsize three-row SUV, which won the Edmunds Top Rated SUV award for 2026.

Rivian R1T

Rivian's all-electric pickup truck, which won the Edmunds Top Rated Electric Truck award for 2026.

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The takeaway

The 2026 Edmunds Top Rated Awards showcase the latest advancements in the automotive industry, with a mix of established leaders and innovative newcomers earning top honors. These award-winning vehicles represent the best options for car, SUV, and truck shoppers looking to purchase a new vehicle that excels in performance, efficiency, technology, and overall value.