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Matt Degen is an author specializing in reviewing cars with the goal of helping you find the best one for your needs. Prior to joining Kelley Blue Book in 2012, he was a writer and editor for over a decade at The Orange County Register newspaper. There he covered automobiles, music and food -- all things Matt is passionate about. He holds degrees in Communications and Culinary Arts. When not evaluating vehicles, he is cooking on his YouTube channel.

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Compact SUV Crossover

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2026MAZDA CX-50

2026MAZDA CX-50 Archives - Kelley Blue Book

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140-Character Blurb

The 2026 Mazda CX-50 blends adventurous attitude and premium flair, then adds spry driving manners to the mix.

Cons

<ul>
<li>Cargo space lags rivals</li>
</ul>

Power, Ride, and Handling

Driving Impressions

Most CX-50 buyers get the base engine, which is good for 187 horsepower. That’s the same as a Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson, three shy of the non-hybrid Honda CR-V, and a few more than the Chevrolet Equinox. In other words, it’s typical for this class. We think it’s sufficient for most situations. Whether cruising highways or slugging it out in heavy city traffic, we’ve found the CX-50 adapts well, delivering smooth, consistent performance. And if you’ve ever driven a Mazda, you know these vehicles have a more fun, athletic-leaning nature than other vehicles. The CX-50 is no exception. We also like that the CX-50 comes with all-wheel drive standard. This provides enhanced traction on slick and dry roads alike. For those who want to venture off-road, or at least a bit further off pavement, there’s an off-road mode and an available towing mode to best make use of the CX-50’s 3,500-pound max tow capacity.
If you want more fervor in your CX-50, look to a turbo model. It boosts the fun factor with 227 hp — or up to 256 hp when fed 93 octane gas.
Fuel Economy
Keeping in mind that the CX-50 comes with all-wheel drive as standard and most of its rivals don’t, it still lands close to the middle of its class. The non-turbo engine achieves 26 mpg in combined city/highway driving. That’s just one mpg less than the Subaru Forester (another contender with standard all-wheel drive). The CX-50’s turbocharged engine manages 25 mpg combined.
If you prioritize fuel economy and want a CX-50, check out the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid, which earns 38 mpg combined and has more power than the base engine in the standard CX-50.

Rugged Aesthetics

Exterior

There’s no mistaking a Mazda for anything else. The longish hood and short overhangs provide the CX-50 with a rakish, sporty look. Yet as the more outdoorsy sibling to the more road-oriented CX-5, the CX-50 features rugged design elements like black fender cladding. Meridian Edition models, which for 2026 can be had with the non-turbo engine, amplify the message with 18-inch alloy wheels and all-terrain tires and black roof rails.

FAQs

Our Favorite Features and Tech

Favorite Features

i-Activ all-wheel drive 
This standard system can predict when wheelspin will occur and respond almost immediately, sending power where it’s needed most.
Mi-Drive 
Also known as Intelligent Drive Select, Mi-Drive lets the CX-50 driver choose from Normal, Sport, and Off-Road modes. In Sport, responses are sharpened. For example, the transmission doesn’t upshift automatically when lifting off the throttle, keeping the engine ready for acceleration action.
Dual-zone automatic climate control 
A set-it-and-forget-it system, dividing the CX-50 into left and right regions, each with separate temperature settings. Once set, the system maintains the preset temperatures automatically. It comes standard in the CX-50.
Driver assistance technologies 
Mazda includes an array of safety tech like adaptive cruise control, emergency forward braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and driver-attention monitor.
Head-up display 
This available color display projects vital information onto the windshield just below the driver’s line of sight. It’s designed to help drivers keep their eyes on the road. This feature is more common in luxury vehicles, so we’re pleased to see it in a mainstream model.
Bose audio 
Available in Premium and Premium Plus trims, this 12-speaker system features Bose Centerpoint and AudioPilot technologies for an immersive listening experience.

Upscale, Practical Interior

Interior

Mazda designs some of the best-looking interiors among mainstream brands. Despite its premium vibe, the CX-50’s 2-row/5-passenger cabin furthers the impression that this all-wheel-drive SUV is no wallflower. Hosing out the interior is a no-no — it’s not that type of rugged — but the quality of the craftsmanship more than makes up for it. If you’ve been pining for a white interior color choice in addition to the gray, tan, black, and brown hues on offer, Mazda has heard you — even that lighter color is available for 2026. And if you’re one who loves to let the outdoors in, a panoramic moonroof is available — always a nice option to have.
As for spaciousness, although the CX-50’s rear legroom is more than adequate, its cargo room is below average for this compact SUV class. That said, we doubt owners will ever actually run out of room in normal situations.

Is the YMM a Good Vehicle?

Is the YMM Reliable?

KBB Editors' Overview

Some compact SUVs laud themselves for their everyday practicality, while others tout their rugged persona. The 2026 Mazda CX-50 is a mix of both, and what a fine recipe results. As the more off-road-oriented sibling of the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/mazda/cx-5/2026/">Mazda CX-5</a>, the CX-50 looks like the tougher of the two and has more off-pavement functionality. Yet – and this is what we love about the CX-50 – it’s still a Mazda. By that, we mean it has athletic, enjoyable driving manners, and all the more so if you opt for the potent turbo engine. Yet even if you never venture further than a dirt lot or the suburbs, the CX-50 also serves well as a practical and safe 5-passenger SUV.
Also available is the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/mazda/cx-50-hybrid/">Mazda CX-50 Hybrid</a>, which we review separately.
We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of <a href="https://www.kbb.com/suv/best-compact-suvs/">compact SUVs</a>, including the Mazda CX-50.

Optional Equipment

Pricing - Dynamic

The 2026 Mazda CX-50 starts at $31,395 for a base 2.5 S Select model. On the other end, a Cx-50 2.5 Turbo Premium Plus starts at $44,395. With the new CX-50 2.5 Turbo trim, you can step into a turbo CX-50 for $39,395.

Pricing - Static

The Mazda CX-50 is in line with other popular compact SUVs like the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/honda/cr-v/">Honda CR-V</a>, <a href="https://www.kbb.com/hyundai/tucson/2026/">Hyundai Tucson</a>, and <a href="https://www.kbb.com/nissan/rogue/">Nissan Rogue</a>. But there’s a notable inherent value in the CX-50, since it comes standard with all-wheel drive — an extra cost on most rivals. The <a href="https://www.kbb.com/subaru/forester/">Subaru Forester</a>, which also has it standard, is close in price, while the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/ford/bronco-sport/">Ford Bronco Sport</a> starts higher.
Before buying a new Mazda CX-50 compact SUV, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should really pay. The Mazda CX-50’s resale value is average for the class. Remember: Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

Pros

<ul>
<li>Standard AWD</li>
<li>Choice of powertrains</li>
<li>Upscale and adventurous vibe</li>
</ul>

Quick New

<ul>
<li>Meridian Edition available with base engine</li>
<li>White interior option</li>
<li>New base turbo model</li>
<li>Black emblems on certain trims</li>
</ul>

Safety

Standard Equipment

Trims

Engine and Transmission

Under the Hood

The most popular engine is the base 2.5-liter 4-cylinder unit, which makes 187 hp and 185 lb-ft of torque. This goes to a standard all-wheel-drive system through a 6-speed automatic transmission. The optional 2.5-liter turbocharged engine generates 227 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque when there’s regular 87 octane gas in the tank. That jumps to 256 hp and 320 lb-ft on a diet of 93 octane gas.
The 2026 Mazda CX-50 with the standard engine can tow up to 2,000 pounds, while those with the turbo engine can pull up to 3,500 pounds, which is on the higher side for this class.
3-Year/36,000-Mile Warranty
Mazda’s new-vehicle warranty is for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever happens first. Powertrains are covered for five years or 60,000 miles. This is all typical for mainstream manufacturers, although Hyundai and Kia do better.
Safety Ratings
This generation of CX-50 has taken the highest accolade of Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (<a href="https://www.iihs.org/ratings/">IIHS</a>) and earned the maximum 5-Star overall score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (<a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/ratings">NHTSA</a>).

What's new for

For 2026, the Mazda CX-50 gains a Meridian Edition trim with the 2.5 S powertrain — the non-turbo, base engine. There&#8217;s also a new base model with the turbo engine, simply called the CX-50 2.5 Turbo, which gives buyers a less expensive way to get more power and towing capability. A new white interior is available, while black Mazda emblems and badges now grace other trims.

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2026 Mazda CX-50 Expert Review - Kelley Blue Book

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2026MAZDA CX-50 Hybrid

2026MAZDA CX-50 Hybrid Archives - Kelley Blue Book

hybrid

hybrid Archives - Kelley Blue Book

The 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid SUV combines great fuel economy, an adventurous vibe, and a high value proposition.

<ul>
<li>Some rivals have more power</li>
<li>… and higher fuel economy</li>
<li>… and more cargo room</li>
</ul>

The 2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid makes a total of 219 horsepower, which is quite a bit more than the standard CX-50 (187 hp) and the same as the outgoing Toyota RAV4. And we mean literally the same as that soon-to-be-last-gen RAV4 Hybrid: The Mazda actually has a partnership with Toyota to use that powertrain from the hybrid RAV4. Still, we find the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid is no copycat, despite the shared heart. Mazda vehicles in general are blessed with an athletic-leaning nature, and that holds true of the CX-50. Combine that cornering talent with the CX-50’s more off-road-oriented nature, and you get a true all-arounder. Whether you’re using the CX-50 for the daily commute, urban errands, or <a href="https://www.kbb.com/reviews/experiencing-the-2025-mazda-cx-50-hybrid/">venturing off the beaten path</a>, it’s up for the challenge and satisfying to drive.
As such, the CX-50 Hybrid compares well with its current class of contenders, but it looks to have serious competition in the all-new 2026 Toyota RAV4, which will only be sold as a hybrid or plug-in hybrid and brings more power to the party.
Fuel economy
The Mazda CX-50 earns 38 mpg in combined city/highway driving. This is more than respectable, and a sizable gain over the standard CX-50’s 27 mpg rating. Against competitors, the Mazda’s mpg figures beat the Subaru Forester Hybrid and all-wheel-drive versions of the Honda CR-V Hybrid, and match those of all-wheel-drive Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and Kia Sportage Hybrid models.

Adventurous Exterior

The CX-50&#8217;s modus operandi is to be the more rugged, outdoorsy sibling to the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/mazda/cx-5/2026/">Mazda CX-5</a>, and that shows in its design, including this hybrid version. So there is the requisite black cladding around the wheels and available roof rails to bring your outdoor gear. The two lower trims have a decent 7.8 inches of ground clearance, while the Premium Plus sits at 8.1 inches. That’s good, but still can’t match the Forester Hybrid’s 8.7 inches. The two lower trims ride on 17-inch wheels, while the top one gets 19-inchers. All models have a convenient power liftgate with programmable height setting.

All-wheel drive 
The CX-50 Hybrid’s all-wheel-drive system is different than its gasoline-only counterpart’s, with an electric motor driving the rear wheels. That said, it’s still standard.
Driving modes 
This hybrid drivetrain also has bespoke driving modes, like Power and Trail.
Dual-zone automatic climate control 
A set-it-and-forget-it system, dividing the CX-50 Hybrid into left and right regions, each with separate temperature settings. Once set, the system maintains the preset temperatures automatically.
Driver assistance technologies 
Mazda includes an array of safety tech like emergency forward braking with pedestrian detection, blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, lane-departure warning, lane-keeping assistance, and a driver attention monitor.
Head-up display 
This color display projects vital information onto the windshield just below the driver’s line of sight, to help keep eyes on the road. This feature is more common in luxury vehicles, so we’re pleased to see it in a mainstream model. It comes in the Premium Plus trim of the CX-50 Hybrid.
Bose audio 
Included in Premium and Premium Plus trims, this 12-speaker system features Bose Centerpoint and AudioPilot technologies for an immersive listening experience.

Premium Interior

Mazda interiors of late just feel special, and a cut above the competition. No, they won’t win the ever-competitive screen-size wars, but the CX-50 Hybrid’s 10.25-inch high-mounted display is ample enough. Rather, the CX-50 Hybrid is ready to win you over on its premium-leaning fit, finish, and design. The 5-passenger cabin is simply a nice place to be. In the driver’s seat, you’ll enjoy a cockpit-like experience, and the center console provides a wide berth between you and the passenger. It’s there you’ll also find a traditional, easy-to-use transmission lever — no buttons, dials, or switches here. Directly south of that is a command dial like the ones BMW fashioned so long ago to control infotainment. It takes some getting used to, but after having Mazda long-term test vehicles in our fleet for years, we can say with confidence the learning curve is short.
For 2026, a panoramic moonroof is standard even in base models. And we must mention that the upholstery itself feels a grade above. Another small detail: We simply love the way Mazda steering wheels feel. Go on, grab hold and sense what we mean.
In back, rear legroom of 37.8 inches isn’t class leading — a Kia Sportage Hybrid will give you 41.3 inches — but is fine for most. Same for cargo room: Compare the Mazda’s 29.2 cubic feet with rear seats up and 56.3 with them down to the Kia’s 39.5/73.7 numbers. But we found it useful for most cases, and never needed to stack grocery bags in the front seat due to a lack of space.

We already dig the standard Mazda CX-50 for its rugged yet practical appeal, litany of safety features, and satisfying driving manners. The CX-50 Hybrid boasts all those traits and then adds excellent fuel economy to the equation, earning 38 mpg in combined city/highway driving. As the cherry on top, it also has more power than the standard CX-50.
We review the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/mazda/cx-50/">2026 Mazda CX-50</a> separately.
We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of <a href="https://www.kbb.com/hybrid/best-hybrid-suvs/">hybrid SUVs</a>, including the Mazda CX-50 Hybrid.

The 2026 Mazda CX-50 has a starting sticker price of $36,245, including destination fee.
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">CX-50 Hybrid Preferred</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$36,245</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">CX-50 Hybrid Premium</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$39,645</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">CX-50 Hybrid Premium Plus</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$41,645</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

The 2026 CX-50 Hybrid has an appealing starting price, especially considering it comes standard with all-wheel drive and that even the entry model is well equipped. The CX-50 Hybrid starts above the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/hyundai/tucson-hybrid/2026/">Hyundai Tucson Hybrid</a> and <a href="https://www.kbb.com/kia/sportage-hybrid/">Kia Sportage Hybrid</a>, and below the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/subaru/forester-hybrid/">Subaru Forester Hybrid</a>. It’s also below an all-wheel-drive <a href="https://www.kbb.com/honda/cr-v-hybrid/">Honda CR-V Hybrid</a>. The all-new <a href="https://www.kbb.com/toyota/rav4/2026/">2026 Toyota RAV4</a> will only be sold as a hybrid, but pricing on that model — which looks to bring serious competition to all compact SUVs — is still to be announced. Before buying a CX-50 Hybrid, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to see what others in your area are paying.
The Mazda CX-50 Hybrid’s resale value is a bit above average. Recouping more value when you sell or trade in your car can mean more money down and lower payments on your next one.

<ul>
<li>Ample features</li>
<li>Standard all-wheel drive</li>
<li>Appealing price</li>
</ul>

<ul>
<li>Panoramic sunroof standard</li>
<li>Parking sensors standard</li>
<li>More features for higher trims</li>
</ul>

The 2026 CX-50 Hybrid uses a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder gasoline engine and three electric motors to create a total output of 219 hp and 163 lb-ft of torque. This goes to all four wheels through an automatic transmission. Maximum towing ability is 1,500 pounds, which is at least suitable for a couple of personal watercraft on a trailer.
3-Year/36,000-Mile Warranty
Mazda’s new-vehicle warranty is for three years or 36,000 miles, whichever happens first. Powertrains are covered for five years or 60,000 miles. This is all typical for mainstream manufacturers, although Hyundai and Kia do better. Hybrid batteries have an 8-year/100,000-mile warranty.
Safety Ratings
Regardless of drivetrain, this generation of CX-50 has taken the highest accolade of Top Safety Pick+ from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (<a href="https://www.iihs.org/ratings/">IIHS</a>) and earns the maximum 5-Star overall score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (<a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/ratings">NHTSA</a>).
&nbsp;
&nbsp;

The CX-50 Hybrid debuted just last year, yet improves for its second model year with more features. The base Preferred trim gains a panoramic moonroof and parking sensors, the midgrade Premium gets ventilated front seats and an auto-dimming rearview mirror with HomeLink universal remote, and the top Premium Plus adds heated rear seats and a heated steering wheel, plus signature lighting.

2026 Mazda CX-50 Hybrid Expert Review - Kelley Blue Book

2026Subaru Forester

2026Subaru Forester Archives - Kelley Blue Book

subaru

subaru Archives - Kelley Blue Book

The 2026 Subaru Forester compact SUV deftly blends adventurous ability and rugged vibes with everyday practicality and modern technology.

The Subaru Forester’s pricing is near that of the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/honda/cr-v/">Honda CR-V</a> and a bit above other rivals like the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/kia/sportage/">Kia Sportage</a> and <a href="https://www.kbb.com/hyundai/tucson/">Hyundai Tucson</a>. Part of the Forester’s value equation, however, is that it includes all-wheel drive standard — a feature that can cost extra on competitors. Those that do have all-wheel drive standard, such as the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/mazda/cx-50/">Mazda CX-50</a> and <a href="https://www.kbb.com/ford/bronco-sport/">Ford Bronco Sport</a>, begin a bit higher than the Forester. Before buying a new Forester SUV, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should be paying.
The Subaru Forester’s resale value is also notable, coming in at above average for the segment. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

Rugged Exterior

The 2026 Subaru Forester retains its signature boxy silhouette, but this latest generation has contemporary tweaks and neat details. The grille and headlight design are less disjointed and appear more flush, while the more angular wheel housings create a bold stance. The Forester also touts large windows, which have always given this model above-average outward vision. Ground clearance remains the number most Subaru loyalists know by heart: 8.7 inches. The new Forester Wilderness goes even better with 9.3 inches of ground clearance. It’s also shod in Yokohama Geolandar all-terrain tires and trim-exclusive 17-inch wheels.
On the side of the rear pillar of the Forester are the words “Symmetrical AWD” in shiny script on a black background. It’s a neat effect that splits the pillar in half and gives the new Forester a sense of motion, like a strafing line on paper. Around the back, a connected taillight replaces the previous boomerang design.

Standard all-wheel drive 
More competitors are beginning to make all-wheel drive standard, but it’s a Subaru hallmark. Its Symmetrical system works exceptionally well.
Heated/ventilated front seats 
We’re pleased to see these creature comforts make it into the top Touring trim of the Forester SUV.
Infotainment system 
Except for the Base model, the 2026 Forester has an 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen, displaying sharp graphics and overall user-friendliness.
DriverFocus Distraction Mitigation System 
Standard in the top Touring trim, this system uses a camera to watch the driver’s face for signs of (you guessed it) distraction, as well as fatigue. It also allows for gesture control to change the temperature.
Rooftop camping 
The new Forester Wilderness has standard roof rails with an 800-pound static load capacity (and 176 pounds dynamic). This means it’s ready to be fitted with gear like a rooftop tent for adventurous owners who truly love being in the wilderness.
Emergency Stop Assist 
This system activates if the driver becomes unresponsive to warnings when adaptive cruise control is engaged. Should this happen, the Forester slowly eases to a stop, activates the hazard lights, and unlocks the doors. Additionally, those with Starlink Connected Services will call emergency services.

Roomy and Functional Cabin

The Forester’s 2-row, 5-seater cabin receives some welcome tech and convenience updates yet continues to prioritize its high utility value. For example, the Forester continues with traditional analog gauges that sandwich a small screen for driver information — no slick dual screens such as those found in the Kia Sportage. Still, the infotainment system is upgraded, with all but the Base model deploying an 11.6-inch vertical touchscreen. The base version uses a dual 7-inch screen arrangement, with the top used for phone and audio functions and the bottom handling climate and vehicle settings — we’re not big fans of that setup. Higher trims enjoy plusher upholstery, and we particularly like the saddle brown perforated leather in Touring versions, whose front seats finally get ventilation in addition to heat. The new Wilderness model has water-resistant StarTex artificial leather seating surfaces with copper stitching and a Wilderness logo in the headrests.
In general, we like how the Forester’s dashboard has three-dimensional textures on some plastics, along with little splashes of color to create a little more interest. The seats are well-bolstered and comfortable, and the cabin has soft touchpoints where we rest our elbows while driving. There’s plenty of rear headroom and adequate rear legroom, with passengers back there able to tuck their toes under the seat in front.
All 2026 Forester variants feature 60/40-split folding rear seats and slightly more cargo space than before. Beyond the rear seats is 29.6 cubic feet, expanding to 74.4 when those seats are folded (for reference, the Honda CR-V’s best numbers are 39.3/76.5). We appreciate the Forester’s low lift-over height as well. This pragmatism extends to the ceiling, whose intentionally dark headliner hides scuffs from loading gear like bikes.

There’s a sea of competitors among compact SUVs, yet the Subaru Forester manages to stand out. That’s because it is — and has been for decades — the go-to choice for buyers who love outdoor adventure, immense practicality, and a strong likelihood of trips with their canine companion. The Forester entered an all-new generation just last year, but retained the traits that loyalists love: standard all-wheel drive, ample ground clearance, excellent safety scores, and high resale value.
Also available is the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/subaru/forester-hybrid/">Subaru Forester Hybrid</a>, which we will review separately.
We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of <a href="https://www.kbb.com/suv/best-compact-suvs/">compact SUVs</a>, including the Subaru Forester.

The 2026 Subaru Forester has a manufacturer’s suggested retail price (MSRP) starting at $31,445, including destination fee. At the top end, a Forester Touring begins at $43,045.

<ul>
<li>Standard all-wheel drive (AWD)</li>
<li>Impressive safety systems</li>
<li>Resale value</li>
</ul>

The 2026 Subaru Forester uses a 2.5-liter 4-cylinder engine with horizontally opposed pistons (as opposed to the much more common inline configuration), giving it the “boxer” designation. This sets the engine lower, contributing to that typical Subaru planted feel. The only other major automaker doing this is Porsche, so Subaru is in good company. The Forester’s engine makes 180 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. That’s on the lower end for base engines in compact SUVs. Like all other Subaru SUVs, the Forester comes standard with all-wheel drive and features a continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT).
The Subaru Forester is rated to tow 1,500 pounds, which is on the lighter side. The Forester Wilderness, however, is rated for up to 3,500 pounds.
3-year/36,000-Mile Warranty
Subaru’s new-vehicle warranty covers three years or 36,000 miles, whichever happens first, while powertrain coverage is five years or 60,000 miles. Although Hyundai and Kia have much longer terms, these coverages are typical for the class.
Safety
The Subaru Forester has earned a Top Safety Pick honor from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (<a href="https://www.iihs.org/">IIHS</a>) and the top 5-star score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (<a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/">NHTSA</a>). All models come with Subaru’s impressive EyeSight safety suite, which includes features like automatic emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and more. It also features Emergency Stop Assist, which activates if the driver becomes unresponsive when using adaptive cruise control.

The big story this year is the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/car-news/2026-subaru-forester-wilderness-gains-more-off-road-skills/">introduction of the Subaru Forester Wilderness</a> model. It brings even more ground clearance and added off-road capability to what is already a capable SUV.

2026 Subaru Forester Expert Review - Kelley Blue Book

Electric Vehicle

Electric Vehicle Articles - Kelley Blue Book

2026Hyundai IONIQ 5

2026Hyundai IONIQ 5 Archives - Kelley Blue Book

Hyundai

Hyundai Archives - Kelley Blue Book

electric

electric Archives - Kelley Blue Book

The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a top pick among compact electric SUVs, boasting slick design, ample features, and terrific value.

<ul>
<li>Others edge it in range</li>
</ul>

We really enjoy driving the Ioniq 5, and we think you will, too. Like all electric vehicles, the Ioniq 5 benefits from instant torque, which means it’s ready to jump off the line as soon as you prod the accelerator pedal. Unlike many other EVs, though, the Ioniq 5 is rear-wheel drive by default, similar to a sports car. And like a sports car, that means it behaves in a livelier manner. Another benefit of this setup is you needn’t worry about torque steer, which happens when you ask the front wheels to both put power to the ground and steer. Under hard acceleration, such a scenario can mean fighting with the steering wheel to hold steady. Not so in the Ioniq 5.
Of course, you can also get the Ioniq 5 in all-wheel drive, which puts a motor at each axle and provides enhanced grip in both wet and dry conditions. It can also mean a lot more power and even faster acceleration. An Ioniq 5 SEL with all-wheel drive, for example, can go from zero to 60 mph in a blistering 4.5 seconds thanks to its 320-horsepower powertrain. Base models make do with 168 hp, while others get a more gratifying 225 hp.
Conversely, we really like the way in which the Ioniq 5 stops. It uses regenerative braking that transfers energy back into the battery, and the levels at which it does so can be adjusted on the fly via steering wheel-mounted paddles. We love using these like one would shift paddles in a sports car to, say, increase regen to slow the car as you head into a curve. And unlike some other EVs, the Ioniq 5 allows one-pedal driving, in which regen braking can bring the vehicle to a complete stop without you having to touch the brake pedal.
Range and Charging
If the 2026 Ioniq 5 keeps the same numbers as the prior year, it achieves up to 318 miles on the high end for a rear-drive, long-range model and 259 for an all-wheel-drive XRT. These numbers, especially for models falling in the 270-290 range, are more than acceptable and competitive with rivals, though still far shy of the Tesla Model Y’s 357-mile max range. As for charging, at its best, the Ioniq 5 can go from 10% to 80% in 20 minutes on a DC fast charger. Home charging on a Level 2 system takes a bit over five to seven hours, depending on model. The Hyundai Ioniq 5 uses a NACS charge port, making it compatible with Tesla’s network of Supercharger stations.

Exciting Exterior

We confess to being smitten by the Ioniq 5’s design ever since it seemed to step out of a 1980s video game into reality. Angular, squat, with moody and pixelated lighting treatments, we just love the thing. It’s arguably more hot hatch than SUV, which only makes us dig it more. For a more rugged approach, there’s the Ioniq 5 XRT model, with chunkier all-terrain tires, a smidge more ground clearance (7 inches, vs. 6.1 for other models), and specific front and rear treatments that include red tow hooks and “digital camouflage” cladding. For 2026, the Ultimate Red and Cosmic Blue Pearl paint colors that were previously reserved for the XRT are now available on all trims.

Ultra-fast charging 
The Ioniq 5’s batteries can cope with an 800-volt DC fast charger. On a 250-kilowatt unit, all it takes is 20 minutes to go from 10% to 80% capacity, making the Ioniq 5 one of the fastest-charging EVs out there. It’s still a quick 24 minutes on a 400-volt, 150-kilowatt charger.
Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto 
This is becoming more common, yet we are still glad to see it as standard in the Ioniq 5. Wireless phone charging becomes standard with the SEL trim.
Hands-free tailgate operation with auto-open 
Detecting the key’s proximity, the powered tailgate opens automatically, so there’s no need to wave a foot under the bumper. This comes in at the SEL trim level.
Driver’s relaxation seat 
In the short-ish time it takes to recharge an Ioniq 5 EV, drivers can relax by reclining their power-adjustable seat and extending the leg support — like an airplane seat in business class. This is exclusive to the Limited trim, though.
Reverse charging 
The official term is vehicle-to-load, or V2L. It means that electricity can also be taken out of the battery (as long as it has more than 20% juice) to power an air fryer while camping or keep the fridge running during a power outage, for instance. It’s another standard feature in the Limited model.
Remote Smart Parking Assist 
This feature allows drivers to inch their Ioniq 5 into or out of a parking space using remote control, while standing outside the vehicle. It’s standard in the XRT and Limited trims.

Airy Interior

A benefit of electric vehicles is that, since their battery is mounted low in the frame, the floor can be flat — no ungainly or obtrusive transmission tunnels here. The Ioniq 5 smartly capitalizes on this with an interior that feels more airy and expansive than its exterior footprint would lead you to believe.
Up front, there are two 12.3-inch screens — one for the instrument cluster, the other as a touchscreen for infotainment duties. Below the center screen are controls for climate and audio, a good mix of physical buttons and dials, along with touch-sensitive controls. Even the way you put the vehicle into gear is smart: It’s a steering wheel-mounted stalk that you twist to put into drive, reverse, etc. This saves space on the floor and console, allowing you to slide your feet all the way across if you want to play footsie with your passenger. Please, though, not while driving.
In back, there’s a generous amount of legroom — 39.4 inches — and the seats both fold in a 60/40 split and recline. Behind the seats is a good 26.3 cubic feet of cargo capacity, which expands to a very useful 58.5 cubic feet with the seats folded. The 2026 Ioniq 5 also has a frunk — a front trunk — with just under a cubic foot of storage. That’s enough to store the charging cable or takeout from the fast food joint that would otherwise smell up the interior.

In what is becoming a highly competitive class of battery-powered SUVs, the compact Ioniq 5 continues to wow us. It has claimed our top honor of <a href="https://www.kbb.com/awards/best-buy-awards-2025/">Best Electric Vehicle</a> in its class for the past three years in a row, thanks to its strong feature set, variety of trims, eager driving manners, ample range, and, of course, its charming retro-yet-futuristic design. For 2026, this multi-year Best Buy Award winner becomes an even better value thanks to a hefty price cut. If you’re dipping your toe into the EV waters or planning for your next one, the Hyundai Ioniq 5 is a superb choice. Also available is the bonkers <a href="https://www.kbb.com/hyundai/ioniq-5-n/">Ioniq 5 N</a> high-performance variant, which we review separately.
We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of <a href="https://www.kbb.com/electric-car/">electric vehicles</a>, including the Ioniq 5.

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