Cue the debate.
In one of the most divisive decisions in the automotive world in recent years, the Subaru Outback loses its unicorn status for the new model year in 2026, ditching its previous lifted wagon styling for a more traditional SUV design.
Completely redesigned for 2026 both inside and out, and gaining an updated tech/infotainment setup, the question now is whether buyers will continue to flock to the Outback or not, as for many years it has been among the brand’s best-selling models.
Based on my experience with everything the new Outback offers, I would say the answer is yes. I recently tested the off-road friendly 2026 Outback Wilderness model. Read on for info on all the changes, and what this new generation of a longtime favorite has to offer vs. rival SUVs.
Additional Info
- Vehicle 2026 Subaru Outback Wilderness
- Price as tested $50,535
- Best feature Roomy interior, off-road credentials
- Rating 4.5 out of five stars
- Who will want this vehicle? SUV buyers who love Subaru and want a vehicle that can handle multiple terrains
The debate of minivan vs. SUV rages, with many extolling the minivan’s virtues, and others preferring an SUV as their method of family transportation.
Both sides have solid arguments, but if you’re going to opt for a minivan, the 2026 Kia Carnival hybrid, which I recently tested, is one vehicle that should definitely be considered.
It combines the versatility and roomy interior of the standard Carnival with some additional fuel economy to keep you on the road longer between fill-ups. If you’re hauling the kids around the state and beyond on travel sports treks, for example, it’s really a no-brainer to consider this type of vehicle.
Read on for my full take on the 2026 Kia Carnival hybrid, which battles is a somewhat limited category — taking on primarily the hybrid-only Toyota Sienna, and to a lesser extent the Chrysler Pacifica plug-in hybrid.
Additional Info
- Vehicle 2026 Kia Carnival hybrid
- Price as tested $57,985 (starts at $43K)
- Best feature Roomy and versatile interior, strong fuel mileage
- Rating 4.5 out of five stars
- Who will want this vehicle? Families who want a roomy, fuel-efficient minivan that looks and drives more like an SUV
I’m a big fan of automakers being a bit adventurous in their designs, as it happens far too rarely.
One such example is the Hyundai Santa Cruz, which is a car-truck combo offering, taking a portion of the Hyundai Tucson SUV and adding a compact truck bed behind.
First launched for 2022, it’s still around for the 2026 model year, and I recently got to spend some time behind the wheel of a 2026 Santa Cruz.
Read on for a full report on how it holds up in this relatively small segment, where its only true rival is the Ford Maverick (semi-rivals include the Honda Ridgeline and Jeep Gladiator).
Additional Info
- Vehicle 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz
- Price as tested $42,940 (starts around $31K)
- Best feature Sharp and unique design, drives like an SUV and not a truck
- Rating 4 out of five stars
- Who will want this vehicle? Buyers seeking something a little different than the traditional SUV
As vehicle prices continue to skyrocket, and payments reach new highs every year, it’s important to remember that some vehicles are still out there which are more basic and come at a price that won’t cost you a kidney.
One such vehicle is the Hyundai Venue, a subcompact SUV that’s about as affordable as you’ll find today.
I recently tested a 2026 Hyundai Venue SEL model, and I’m back with a full report on what you’ll get from this budget-friendly ride, which competes with other small SUVs such as the Kia Soul, Volkswagen Taos, Chevy Trax and Mazda CX-30.
Additional Info
- Vehicle 2026 Hyundai Venue
- Price as tested $24,440 (starts around $22K)
- Best feature Nimble drive, extremely affordable
- Rating 3.5 out of five stars
- Who will want this vehicle? City drivers and commuters who want a compact SUV that will serve them well for a low price
Some vehicles are hard to define, but the 2026 Mazda CX-70 is about as straightforward as it gets.
Take a 3-row Mazda CX-90, remove the third row, and you essentially have the CX-70. There are other minor differences, but for folks who don’t need a third row and want to focus on cargo space, the CX-70 is the Mazda model aimed at them.
With sharp and upscale design, both inside and out, and the traditionally powerful Mazda driving ability, the CX-70 makes a clear case as one of the best SUVs for sale today, and straddles the line between luxury and nonluxury vehicles.
Read on to learn 5 key things you need to know about the 2026 Mazda CX-70 — and how it compares to a variety of SUV alternatives.
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