Cars You Should Consider Driving in 2026
Here’s a draft article on cars people should drive in 2026 — and ones they might want to avoid. Let me know your target audience (Canada, U.S., Europe, etc.) and I can tailor it further.
🚗 Cars You Should Consider Driving in 2026
When choosing a car in 2026, a few trends stand out: electrification, strong value propositions (lower cost per mile), advanced safety & autonomy features, and longevity. Below are some models and types that look particularly promising.
Top Picks for 2026
| Model or Type | Why It’s Worth Considering | Potential Trade-Offs / Things to Check |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 | Hyundai is cutting prices significantly for 2026 to stay competitive. (Car and Driver) The Ioniq 5 has already proven to be a strong all-round EV with good driving dynamics, decent range, and charging infrastructure support. | Range can vary a lot by trim, and fast charging availability in your region is important. Also, check for software and battery warranty coverage. |
| 2026 BMW iX3 (Neue Klasse platform) | The new iX3 is built on BMW’s Neue Klasse EV architecture, with large battery, advanced charging capabilities, and strong range estimates. (Wikipedia) It offers a premium EV experience in a compact SUV footprint. | Premium EVs tend to have higher upfront cost and insurance. Also, check local service and replacement part availability. |
| 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 9 | A three-row electric SUV / crossover, the Ioniq 9 is Hyundai’s move into a more family-oriented EV market. (Wikipedia) This makes it a strong pick if you want both space and sustainability. | As a newer model, real-world reliability is still unproven. Also, large EVs are heavier, so efficiency under load is worth scrutinizing. |
| 2026 Jeep Cherokee (new redesign) | Jeep’s all-new Cherokee maintains off-road credibility while offering hybrid or electrified options and a more modern interior. (Motor1.com) | If you often drive in urban settings, its off-road capability may be less relevant. Fuel economy in non-hybrid trims might lag. |
| 2026 Cadillac Optiq (electric SUV) | Cadillac is updating its Optiq line for 2026 with new powertrain options, better performance, and more competitive elements. (Car and Driver) | As with any luxury EV, expect higher maintenance or parts cost down the line. |
🚫 Cars / Types to Be Wary Of in 2026
While many models are evolving or being replaced, several legacy and under-performing models may not offer the value or support you want going forward.
Models Phasing Out or Already Discontinued
- Acura TLX, Audi A4, BMW X4, Cadillac XT4/XT6, Chevrolet Malibu, Infiniti QX50 — these are among the models that automakers are discontinuing or “killing” for the 2026 model year. (Car and Driver)
- Traditional Sedans in General in Some Markets — many brands are scaling back their sedan offerings in favor of SUVs and crossovers. (Car and Driver)
If you buy a model being discontinued, you may see reduced resale value, fewer replacement parts, and less ongoing support.
Cars to Avoid (Based on Reliability, Efficiency, or Obsolescence)
- EVs with weak battery technology or limited infrastructure — Some EVs are still launching with marginal charging speed or limited range, which could leave you stranded in many regions.
- Gas-only models with older architectures — As regulatory and consumer pressure continues toward electrification, purely gas models that aren’t upgraded may become less competitive in fuel economy or legal compliance.
- Luxury or niche variants with complex systems — High-end performance variants or models with exotic features are tempting, but their repair costs, parts scarcity, and software dependencies may pose risks.
Also, consumer reports often flag “popular models to avoid” due to recurring reliability or safety issues. (Consumer Reports)
🧭 How to Choose the Right Car in 2026
- Check regional support: An EV is only as good as its charging infrastructure and local service network.
- Look beyond headline specs: Real-world range, battery degradation, and warranty terms are key.
- Consider future resale / obsolescence risk: Cars being phased out or built on legacy platforms may become liabilities faster.
- Hybrid or flexible options may be safer bets: If full electrification is still uncertain in your region, a hybrid or plug-in hybrid can be a transitional solution.
- Software / updates matter: Over-the-air updates, security patches, and vehicle software ecosystems will grow in importance.
