shopping for a car in 2026these are the top picks in each segment Shoppers love Consumer Reports' annual Top Picks list, which points out the standout models across segments based on performance, reliability, safety, and owner satisfaction. Just 10 vehicles earned a spot on the list in 2026, and every single one is either a hybrid, offers a hybrid option, or is fully electric. shopping for a car in 2026these are the top picks in each segment Small Car: Honda Civic The Honda Civic is the benchmark in the compact segment-it smoked everything else in our Compact Car Shoot Out last year- the hybrid version, especially, stands out as the best all-around choice. It has more power than the standard model and paradoxically improves fuel efficiency at the same time. Combine that with sharp handling, a comfortable ride, and a well-designed interior, and the Civic continues to punch above its weight. But the Civic Sport Touring hybrid is an expensive car relative to its peers, and it does lack some standard content common to the segment. shopping for a car in 2026these are the top picks in each segment Midsize Car: Toyota Camry The Camry family has fully embraced electrification, with Toyota exclusively offering the midsize sedan as a hybrid. It delivers excellent fuel economy while maintaining the comfort, practicality, and ease of use that have long defined the model. When Kyle last drove the Camry, he called it a Prius Plus, praising it for its efficiency and comfort-what else is there to expect? shopping for a car in 2026these are the top picks in each segment Subcompact SUV: Subaru Crosstrek The Crosstrek continues to be the go-to choice for buyers looking for a small, capable crossover. Subaru's standard all-wheel drive has basically become a meme at this point. The Crosstrek's fuel economy and impressive capabilities make it well-suited for a wide range of conditions-including light off-road use in the case of the Wilderness trim, which Greg spent some time in last summer. shopping for a car in 2026these are the top picks in each segment Compact SUV: Subaru Forester The renewed Forester builds on its reputation for practicality and visibility with a spacious interior and strong safety credentials. The addition of a hybrid powertrain for 2026 improves efficiency, making an already well-rounded package even more appealing. Greg thinks it's a great choice, especially because it delivers an outdoorsy, I-like-to-do-stuff vibe even in the lower trims, which lends it some character compared to some of the more anonymous competitors in class. AutoGuide Wrapped: The News Stories That Got The Most Traffic In 2025 shopping for a car in 2026these are the top picks in each segment Midsize SUV: Toyota Grand Highlander Toyota's Grand Highlander stands out in a crowded segment by offering genuine three-row usability. Adults can fit comfortably in all rows, and there's still room for some cargo. Its hybrid powertrain delivers strong efficiency for a vehicle of that size, making it a great choice for families who might have otherwise considered a full-size, body-on-frame SUV. The last time we had the Grand Highlander through the AutoGuide Garage, our team loved the combination of hybrid power and a usable third row. Although in 2026, there are new rivals entering the space with the same claim to fame. shopping for a car in 2026these are the top picks in each segment Luxury Compact SUV: Lexus NX The Lexus NX combines premium materials with strong reliability and efficiency. The hybrid version is the pick of the lineup, offering smoother performance and significantly better fuel economy than the gas-only model. A plug-in hybrid option adds short-distance electric driving capability. The NX is one of AutoGuide's preferred front-biased choices in this crowded segment. It's handsome, easy to drive, feels properly luxurious, and is very easy on the wallet during day-to-day life. shopping for a car in 2026these are the top picks in each segment Luxury Midsize SUV: BMW X5 The BMW X5 continues to set the standard in the luxury midsize SUV class. It offers a refined interior, engaging driving dynamics, and strong performance. The plug-in hybrid variant adds meaningful electric range, making it a versatile option for both daily use and longer trips. What really impresses about the X5 is the seamless integration between its two methods of propulsion. The power is fabulous, and the fact that it will go 40 miles on pure electric power is a great plus in town. Kyle liked the hybrid X5 so much that it became difficult to justify V8-powered alternatives. shopping for a car in 2026these are the top picks in each segment Small Pickup: Ford Maverick The Maverick remains one of the most compelling vehicles on the market thanks to its affordability and versatility. Its hybrid powertrain delivers excellent fuel economy for a pickup, while the compact size and usable bed make it practical for everyday use. When we last drove one late last year, Kyle liked that the Maverick offers plenty of the truck experience and capability most folks will ever need, but in a package that's a better day-to-day companion shopping for a car in 2026these are the top picks in each segment Full-Size Pickup: Ford F-150 The Ford F-150 earns its place with improved reliability and a wide range of capable powertrains. The hybrid version stands out for its combination of torque and efficiency, making it especially appealing for towing and work duties. It's the one product Ford seems to have really dialed in right now. shopping for a car in 2026these are the top picks in each segment Electric Vehicle: Tesla Model Y The Tesla Model Y continues to dominate the EV space with strong range, quick acceleration, and access to a robust charging network. Updates for 2026 improve ride comfort and interior refinement, while reliability has also shown improvement. It's wild that the Model Y has been on market since 2019 and still dominates-it's a testament to how much better Tesla builds electric vehicles compared to anyone else trying to play in the space. 2026 Cadillac Lyriq-V: All the Details