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Colin Ryan, Author at Kelley Blue Book

Russ Heaps has produced automotive content for newspapers, magazines, and websites since 1987. Knight-Ridder recognized his contributions in founding and supplying content for the stand-alone auto section in the Boca Raton News with a Knight-Ridder Excellence award nomination in 1990. He began contributing advice and other automotive-related content to Cox Automotive as a contractor in 2010. Cox Automotive brought Russ on board as Senior Editor, Advice for Kelley Blue Book in 2022. Previously, he contributed financial and automotive content for Bankrate.com. He was also managing editor for Auto World and NOPI Street Performance Compact magazines for four years. His work has appeared in the Washington Times, the Miami Herald, the Palm Beach Post, and a host of other newspapers on a syndicated basis. 
Russ also has a deep background in travel as the supervising producer for the syndicated television series Discover America where he also wrote scripts and field-produced episodes. Additionally, he authored travel stories for AAA of the Carolinas Magazine.
He graduated Wittenberg University with a degree in Political Science. His passions are friends, cars, bourbon, and the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Russ Heaps

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$73,500 &amp; up

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2-Line Blurb

140-Character Blurb

If the large luxury sedan segment was a mountain, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class would be at the summit.

Cons

Power, Ride and Handling

Driving Impressions

There’s nothing lacking in the S 500. It melds 442 horsepower with superb refinement. <a href="https://www.kbb.com/mercedes-benz/">Mercedes-Benz</a> says this model can accelerate from standstill to 60 mph in a brisk 4.5 seconds. We don’t dispute it. To compare, the BMW 740i has 375 hp and hits 60 mph in 5.1 seconds.
However, the authoritative V8 thrust of the 496-hp S 580 seems perfectly right in a large luxury sedan. It will shave 0.2 of a second from the S 500’s sprint time.
We’ve also driven the S 580e plug-in hybrid, which feels so beautifully effortless. We could never tell when its V6 was sliding into or out of operation without looking at the rev counter. The electric motor is perfectly capable of decent freeway speeds and making decisive passing moves without any help from the gasoline side.
Life behind the wheel of a 2026 S-Class is rather wonderful. As that smell of fine leather or the cabin fragrance system wafts gently into your nostrils, the massaging seat kneads your back, your elbows rest on padded areas of yet more leather, and the crystal-clear stereo system plays your favorite tracks, the rest of the world falls into insignificance.
Threading through city streets or dashing down a highway, there’s the same comfort and pretty much the same suppressed level of noise. An air suspension is standard, enhancing comfort, yet also making the car feel more agile than its size suggests. A comprehensive set of driver assistance features is also included.
In our ideal new S-Class, we would also choose the rear-wheel steering system for greater maneuverability. And the E-Active Body Control hydro-pneumatic suspension that reads the road ahead, adjusts the ride quality accordingly, and helps keep the car astonishingly flat through corners.
We review the higher-powered 2026 <a href="https://www.kbb.com/mercedes-benz/mercedes-amg-s-class/">Mercedes-AMG S-Class</a> separately. Likewise, the ultra-luxurious <a href="https://www.kbb.com/mercedes-benz/mercedes-maybach-s-class/">Mercedes-Maybach S-Class.</a>
<h3>Fuel Economy</h3>
The S 500 4Matic achieves 24 mpg in combined city/highway driving. Compare that with the BMW 740i xDrive, which manages 27 mpg combined.
People who can afford a new S-Class aren’t especially worried about fuel bills, but if anyone wanted to reduce their carbon footprint a little, the S 580e plug-in hybrid can travel for an impressive 56 miles on battery power alone. After that, it achieves 23 mpg combined. With a computer-controlled combination of electric and gasoline operation, it feels almost odd to be driving an S-Class and hardly see the fuel gauge move even after a couple of long drives. The comparable BMW 750e xDrive runs for 35 miles in electric mode.
All these engines require premium gasoline.

Elegant Exterior

Exterior

As brave and bold as something like the BMW 7 Series might be, with its avant-garde exterior styling, some buyers are going to be more conservative in their tastes. Over its many generations, the S-Class has always occupied the top spot, and part of the reason why is its design. It manages to convey presence, authority, prestige, and elegance — all at the same time.
This year’s expanded plethora of Manufaktur paint choices should please even the pickiest customer.

FAQs

Our Favorite Features and Tech

Favorite Features

Front seats 
The front seats have rapid heating or cooling, as well as multiple massaging programs — some of which go on for nearly 20 minutes. Even better news, these aren’t optional. They’re standard in every new S-Class luxury sedan.
Augmented reality 
The standard navigation system in the 2026 S-Class can show images of what’s directly ahead, and highlight things like direction signs and street numbers. This is done on the infotainment screen, as well as the optional head-up display.
Hey, Mercedes 
Wake up the onboard digital assistant with these two words, then give a command like “raise the cabin’s temperature by two degrees” or “turn down the volume.” This is another standard feature of the 2026 S-Class.
Powered rear shades 
The rear window and rear passenger windows at each side have shades that go up and down with the touch of a button — also standard.
Burmester 15-speaker/710-watt surround-sound system 
This standard setup is superb — crisp, detailed, and powerful. Or there’s always the optional 30-speaker/1,750-watt 4D upgrade for an even more immersive listening experience.
Soft-closing doors 
Yes, they’re common at this lofty luxury level, but every time we get in the S-Class and the doors shut smoothly behind us, we get a little thrill. They&#8217;re standard across the lineup.
&nbsp;

Interior Sanctum

Interior

Heaven on four wheels. The feel of the leather, the comfort of the seats, the heft of the switchgear, the many tech features, the cabin air ionization and fragrance, the space, the silence. These all collude to create a sumptuous and secure bubble, where occupants can dictate how much of the outside world they want to allow in.
Mercedes-Benz brings only its long-wheelbase S-Class models into the United States, so there’s plenty of legroom for tall passengers sitting in the back. Audi and BMW do the same thing. Every S-Class has the option of two executive rear seats with power-adjustable/heated/massaging seats and heated armrests. We’re mentioning the vast array of Manufaktur interior decor choices again, because there are just so many.
At 12.9 cubic feet, the trunk isn’t that big (similar to a Toyota Corolla’s). Perhaps S-Class owners have their Louis Vuitton luggage transported in a separate vehicle. The S 580e plug-in hybrid’s trunk is even smaller — 8.1 cubic feet — we struggled to get a large suitcase in there.

Is the YMM a Good Vehicle?

Is the YMM Reliable?

KBB Editors' Overview

There can only be one supreme ruler of the flagship sedan realm. It’s this, the S-Class. And it’s occupied that throne for many years and generations. Just like Steven Spielberg really, really knows how to make a film involving sharks, <a href="https://www.kbb.com/mercedes-benz/">Mercedes-Benz</a> is a master of the large luxury car.
Part of that mastery is the painstaking attention to the smallest details. Some of it comes from innovations in technology, especially on the safety front, or often applying them to enhance comfort. Then there’s the ability to power (quietly) along an autobahn with stability and reassurance. There isn’t only one reason why the S-Class rules, and that’s precisely why the S-Class rules.
We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of <a href="https://www.kbb.com/cars/best-luxury-full-size-cars/">luxury full-size sedans</a>, including the Mercedes-Benz S-Class.

Optional Equipment

Pricing - Dynamic

The 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class has a starting sticker price of $120,650, with the range-topping S 580 4Matic kicking off at $131,850.
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">S 500 4Matic</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$120,650</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">S 580e 4Matic</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$131,550</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">S 580 4Matic</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$131,850</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
&nbsp;

Pricing - Static

The S 580 4Matic is the most popular variant and one we would recommend for its considerable standard inventory and engine power.
Two main S-Class rivals are the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/bmw/7-series/">BMW 7 Series</a> and <a href="https://www.kbb.com/porsche/panamera/">Porsche Panamera</a>, both with prices beginning below their Mercedes-Benz equivalent. We’re expecting a new-for-2026 <a href="https://www.kbb.com/audi/a8/">Audi A8</a>, which should also begin lower than the S-Class. Same story with the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/lexus/ls/">Lexus LS</a>. The <a href="https://www.kbb.com/genesis/g90/">Genesis G90</a> is also less expensive than the S-Class, yet absolutely worth considering.
Before buying a new S-Class large luxury sedan, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should really pay. Resale values should be about average for the class. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one, if that matters to an S-Class buyer.

Pros

<ul>
<li>Sumptuous interior</li>
<li>Excellent tech</li>
<li>Scores high on the waft-o-meter</li>
</ul>

Quick New

<ul>
<li>Exclusive trim</li>
<li>Executive Rear Seat package tweaks</li>
<li>Edition 580 package</li>
</ul>

Safety

Standard Equipment

Trims

Under the Hood

Before we get into the actual engines, a brief word about the mild hybrid system used in the S 500 and S 580 drivetrains. An electric motor enables a smooth action to the fuel-saving engine stop/restart function, as well as providing brief boosts of 21 hp and 184 lb-ft of torque.
An electrical compressor is part of the setup. It’s like a supercharger, working in tandem with the turbocharger(s). And when the optional E-Active Body Control hydro-pneumatic suspension is on board, the mild hybrid system also powers this. It’s typical of Mercedes-Benz to corral technology in the pursuit of comfort and refinement.
The S 500’s combustion side is a turbocharged 3.0-liter 6-cylinder unit. Output is a perfectly fine 442 hp and 413 lb-ft of torque.
The S 580 drivetrain employs twin turbochargers bolted to a 4.0-liter V8 to make 496 hp and 516 lb-ft of torque. The S 580e is a plug-in hybrid, pairing the 3.0-liter turbo V6/mild hybrid system with an electric motor to create a total of 510 hp.
Every new S-Class has an all-wheel drive (AWD) system (known as 4Matic on Planet Mercedes) and a 9-speed automatic transmission.
<h3>4-Year/50,000-Mile Warranty</h3>
The new-car and powertrain warranty on a 2025 S-Class lasts four years or 50,000 miles, whichever comes first. Roadside assistance is included. This is the usual arrangement in the luxury sector. Plug-in hybrid batteries are covered for six years or 60,000 miles in some states and 10 years or 150,000 miles in others.
<h3>Safety Ratings</h3>
The S-Class hasn’t been crash-tested by any independent agencies. That’s a common thing for such high-end vehicles, but it shouldn’t be a deal-breaker. Mercedes-Benz packs its flagship sedan with an array of comprehensive and often innovative standard safety features, such as the special windshield wiper system that doesn’t mess up vision with indiscriminate splashing all over the glass.

What's new for

There’s been a big equipment shake-up for the 2026 S-Class. A new Exclusive trim comes in below the Pinnacle trim, bringing a heated steering wheel, heated armrests, ventilated/power-adjustable rear seats with memory settings, plus several other convenience features.
All 2026 S-Class variants are eligible for the Executive Rear Seat package, which now heightens (or deepens) the luxury for two occupants, adding folding tables and a temperature-controlled cup holder.
The new Edition 580 package is exclusive to the S 580 4Matic (not the hybrid version) and bundles various features such as a choice of Manufaktur paint finishes, plus posher-than-usual mats and headrests.
The Manufaktur personalization program has gone into overdrive, with more than 50 new paint finishes, along with at least 20 new upholstery choices.

Featured Article

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2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Expert Review - Kelley Blue Book

Kelley Blue Book

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Frankie Rogers is a senior editor for Kelley Blue Book and focuses on the production of content. She edits and formats content, creates monthly deals lists, is a media asset curator, and photographs cars for various articles and inclusion in KBB’s image library. Her 16+ years at Kelley Blue Book have included roles as a Blue Book copy editor, press vehicle wrangler, and VIN analyst. In her spare time, she can be found tinkering with her 1970 Chevrolet Camaro, trying out new recipes in her cast iron pans, and spoiling her two cats, Grayson and Thaddeus.

Frankie Rogers

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.

Matt Degen

Midsize SUV Crossover

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2026Toyota Grand Highlander

2026Toyota Grand Highlander Archives - Kelley Blue Book

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$38,500 - $43,499

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The massive 3-row interior of the Toyota Grand Highlander makes it one of the most practical family vehicles among midsize SUVs.

Power, Ride, and Handling

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander is powered by a 265-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine matched with an 8-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD).
This is a perfectly nice powertrain for everyday use. There’s some coarse noise from the engine that’s characteristic of SUVs this size with turbo 4-cylinder engines, but it’s smooth and hushed once you get up to highway speeds. It’s more than enough power for most applications, but nothing so powerful it demands much attention. Light steering inputs and confident braking make for a pleasant driving experience.
The optional all-wheel drive is plenty sure-footed in cold weather, and <a href="https://www.kbb.com/toyota/">Toyota</a> doesn’t even try to pretend it’s made for rock crawling, which is refreshing amidst the off-road trend spreading through this class.
<h3>Fuel Economy</h3>
The Toyota Grand Highlander returns up to 21 city/28 highway/24 combined mpg with front-wheel drive. Upgrading to all-wheel drive brings that rating down to 23 combined mpg on the lower trims and 22 combined mpg on the Limited and Platinum trims because of the 20-inch wheels. Still, these are decent efficiency ratings for such a big SUV.
For better fuel economy in the same family-friendly package, consider the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/toyota/grand-highlander-hybrid/2026/">Grand Highlander Hybrid</a>, which returns up to 36 mpg in mixed driving.

Humble Exterior

Toyota has a reputation for putting function over form, and that’s evident in the Grand Highlander’s design. It’s a nice-looking vehicle as long as you prefer subtlety over flash. Upper trims get stylish 20-inch wheels, and Toyota’s multi-layered &#8220;Pearl&#8221; paint options of Ruby Flare and Wind Chill add a more premium look to the body.

Infotainment system 
Every Grand Highlander trim level gets the same 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. We found it fairly intuitive to operate manually or with voice commands by saying “Hey, Toyota” to get the system’s attention. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are also standard.
Smart Key 
This lets you use your smartphone as a key. Conveniently, you can share it with another smartphone remotely. Sadly, it requires a subscription after a trial period.
Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 
This standard safety tech suite bundles must-have safety and driver-assist features like automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, full-speed adaptive cruise control, lane-keep assist, road sign assist, and automatic high beams.
360-degree camera system 
Provided only on the Platinum trim, this feature gives the driver a bird’s-eye view of the vehicle’s surroundings. We found it particularly useful in negotiating tight parking garages.
Digital rearview mirror 
Found only on the Platinum model, this shows you a clear view of what’s behind the car even if the rear window is blocked with a dorm room’s worth of stuff.
Traffic Jam Assist 
Also part of the Platinum trim, this feature can take care of the steering, throttle, and brakes at speeds up to 25 mph, under certain conditions. It’s a fatigue-saver in traffic.

Vast Interior

We’ll say at the outset that the Toyota Grand Highlander is a midsize 3-row SUV for families who will actually use the third row every day. It&#8217;s up there with the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/chevrolet/traverse/">Chevy Traverse</a> and <a href="https://www.kbb.com/volkswagen/atlas/">Volkswagen Atlas</a> as one of the roomiest in its class, with adult-friendly third-row seating and decent cargo space behind the third row. Precious few players in this class can make these claims.
Anything over 30 inches is pretty good for third-row legroom in a midsize SUV, and the Grand Highlander offers 33.5 inches for stretching out in the way back. As for cargo space, you get 20.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 57.9 cubic feet behind the second row, and a Costco-ready 97.5 cubic feet behind the first row.
OK, so it’s huge inside, but how’s the interior quality? The inside of the Grand Highlander has a just-right balance of quality and toddler-resistant durability to make it both comfortable and suitable for family use. Also, cupholders, USB-C ports, and storage cubbies are generously placed throughout this practical interior, which we love to see in a family hauler.
One of our editors has five children and has tested the Grand Highlander as a real-world daily driver for his family. While it’s still no minivan, he was impressed by how thoughtfully designed this interior is for real families, not just the ones in the commercials. In addition to the space, installing car seats is relatively easy, and ingress and egress to and from the third row don’t require much contortion by the passengers.
On the tech front, a 12.3-inch infotainment display comes standard on every Grand Highlander, as do wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. Higher trims get more advanced tech features and premium appointments, like a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a head-up display, a panoramic moonroof, and JBL audio.

Not all midsize <a href="https://www.kbb.com/suv/best-3-row-suvs/">3-row SUVs</a> are created equal. Some families buy them thinking they’re just as good as minivans, but, in some cases, the unfortunate third-row passengers beg to differ. The Toyota Grand Highlander is one option that really is almost as good as a minivan. It has one of the roomiest interiors in its class with adult-friendly third-row seating and cargo space you can actually use behind those rearmost seats. In addition to its roominess, the Grand Highlander has modern and user-friendly safety and infotainment tech features. Add in strong resale value and Toyota reliability, and the Grand Highlander is one of the most sensible and practical family SUVs we’ve tested.
We’ve spent hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of <a href="https://www.kbb.com/suv/best-mid-size-suvs/">midsize SUVs</a>, including the Toyota Grand Highlander.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander starts at $42,855 for the base LE trim. All-wheel drive costs an extra $1,600 on most trims, but it’s standard on the top Platinum trim, which starts at $56,040.
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Grand Highlander LE</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$42,855</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Grand Highlander XLE</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$45,625</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Grand Highlander Limited</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$50,355</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Grand Highlander Platinum</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$56,040</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>

Pricing for the Toyota Grand Highlander is slightly higher than that of the segment average, but it’s also one of the biggest and roomiest midsize SUVs available. You pay a little extra for that extra space and for Toyota’s rock-solid reputation for long-term reliability.
Before buying a Grand Highlander, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should really pay. Toyota Grand Highlander resale value is 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.

<ul>
<li>Huge interior</li>
<li>Great resale value</li>
<li>Pleasant ride quality</li>
</ul>

Engine and Transmission

Power for the non-hybrid variant of the Toyota Highlander comes from a 2.4-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, rated at 265 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque. Output is routed to the front or all four wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard and all-wheel drive is optional on all but the Platinum trim, where it’s standard. The Grand Highlander is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds.
Of note, there’s also a Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid, which we <a href="https://www.kbb.com/toyota/grand-highlander-hybrid/">review separately</a>. Its base hybrid powertrain maximizes efficiency, returning up to 36 mpg combined, while the Hybrid MAX powertrain is more about performance, generating 362 hp.
<h3>3-Year/36,000-Mile Warranty</h3>
Toyota’s new-vehicle warranty conforms to the class norms of three years or 36,000 miles, whichever happens first, with powertrains covered for five years or 60,000 miles. Toyota also includes free scheduled maintenance over the first two years or 25,000 miles. We caution buyers, however, not to overweigh free maintenance plans. There just isn’t much scheduled maintenance in the first two years or 25,000 miles of new car ownership, so it’s not much of a savings.
<h3>Safety</h3>
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (<a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/ratings" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NHTSA</a>) has given the Grand Highlander its top 5-Star overall safety rating. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (<a href="https://www.iihs.org/ratings/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IIHS</a>) has given it mixed scores in what tests it has performed. Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 is standard across the board. It bundles advanced safety tech like lane-keeping assist, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.

What's New for 2026

Following a few small updates for 2025, there are no notable changes to the non-hybrid version of the Toyota Grand Highlander for the 2026 model year.

2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Expert Review - Kelley Blue Book

Scott Hinderer is an award-winning copy editor. Before joining Cox Automotive in 2022, he built a 15-year career in print and digital journalism. His diverse résumé brings a broad perspective and commitment to accuracy to Autotrader and Kelley Blue Book that enrich the reader experience. Scott has a Bachelor of Arts in English from Salisbury University.

Scott Hinderer

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2026BMW Z4

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$63,500 - $73,499

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The 2026 BMW Z4 is a luxury 2-seater roadster with a choice of excellent engines, plus that special BMW sauce in the suspension.

<ul>
<li>No manual option with the smaller engine</li>
</ul>

The entry-level Z4 sDrive30i is propelled by 255 horsepower from a turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. It enables a sprint from a standstill to 60 mph in 5.2 seconds. It’s not a fair comparison, but the Chevrolet Corvette Stingray Convertible does that dash in about three seconds. It has almost twice as much muscle, however. The Z4 is entertainingly brisk all the same, and less expensive.
The automatic transmission has a fast and smooth action, as well as paddle shifters for some extra driver involvement. We’ve experienced BMW manual transmissions, like the one now offered in the optional Handschalter package (exclusive to the Z4 M40i, sadly) and found them to be just as wonderfully exact and well-engineered as everything else BMW makes.
Taking the Z4 to its most extreme, the M40i variant thrums and thrusts with 382 hp, an adaptive suspension, and stronger brakes. The sprint to 60 mph happens in 3.9 seconds. With this car’s optional manual transmission, the same sprint takes 4.2 seconds, but the greater involvement should more than make up for that fraction of time.
In either form, we’ve found the Z4 to be engaging and exhilarating. And it can be enjoyed every day of the week. The Z4 is sufficiently forgiving to handle commuting duties, just as it’s precise enough to tackle a canyon road.
<h3>Fuel Economy</h3>
The Z4 sDrive30i achieves 28 mpg in combined city/highway driving. The Z4 M40i returns 25 mpg combined (automatic) or 22 mpg combined (manual). The Z4 can overtake the Corvette while the latter is standing at the pumps, managing 19 mpg combined. Premium gasoline is required.

Excellent Exterior

There’s a lot to be said for the classic sports-car profile of a long hood and a short tail. We like how the BMW Z4 uses that as the template and goes somewhere novel with it. Everyone will have their own opinions, but we think some colors work better than others. The M40i’s Handschalter package has a couple of exclusive colors: San Remo Green metallic and Frozen Deep Green metallic (this latter color costs extra).

Engines 
We love a BMW engine. Sure, there’s something really special about its 6-cylinder creations, but even a 4-cylinder example has the kind of responsiveness and power delivery that make BMW engines so satisfying and enjoyable to exercise.
iDrive 
BMW’s infotainment system is one of our favorites because it’s intuitive to use, has standard features like wireless phone integration, and can understand voice commands given in natural speech.
Harman Kardon audio 
We’ve found the Z4 is quiet enough with the roof up to justify a top-notch sound system, like this 12-speaker, 408-watt surround-sound unit.
Dynamic Handling package 
Some buyers will find the sDrive30i plenty powerful enough, thank you very much. However, they can add some M elements without going for the full M40i by selecting this package that includes an adaptive suspension and beefier brakes.
Driver Assistance package 
This package is optional with both Z4 variants. It includes active blind spot detection (especially useful when the roof is up and outward vision is restricted) and parking sensors at both ends (especially useful because of that long nose). We say it’s worth the $700 investment.
Premium package 
This option is also available in both Z4 models, and it brings a head-up display, remote start, ambient cabin lighting, and a self-parking function.

Pleasing Interior

To all those who have discounted the idea of a sports car because they don’t think they’d fit in one, we say try the Z4 for size. It’s bigger than a Mazda MX-5 Miata (even though that’s a wonderful little roadster).
We’ve found that the Z4 has room for a couple of 6-footers. The cabin is also superb in regard to the quality of materials, the way they’ve been put together, and the ergonomic layout. The seats are well-shaped for support and well-cushioned for long trips. And there’s sufficient stowage space for phones, sunglasses, etc. The optional Handschalter package for the Z4 M40i includes Vernasca leather in five color schemes.
Trunk volume isn’t necessarily a deal maker or breaker among luxury sports cars, but the Z4’s 9.9 cubic feet is big enough for a couple of weekend bags.

As more cars go digital, electric, and isolating — and feature partial self-driving — the more attractive something like the Z4 becomes. This car represents the tactile dimension of personal transportation, where occupants can drop the top and feel engaged not only in the motion but also in the surroundings. It’s low to the ground, has a classic front-engined/rear-drive layout, and handles in a sophisticated, sporty way that’s typical of <a href="http://www.kbb.com/bmw/">BMW</a>. It even offers a manual transmission for greater involvement.
This current (third) generation debuted for the 2019 model year. But the more cars go digital, electric, and isolating — and feature partial self-driving — the more 2-seater luxury sports cars seem like an endangered species. We say buy it while you can.
We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of <a href="https://www.kbb.com/cars/best-luxury-convertibles/">luxury convertibles</a>, including the BMW Z4.

The 2026 BMW Z4 has a starting sticker price of $57,275, with the range-topping Z4 M40i kicking off at $69,575.
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%;">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Z4 sDrive30i</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$57,275</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="width: 50%;">Z4 M40i</td>
<td style="width: 50%;">$69,575</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
&nbsp;

If anyone wants to pay more, there might be a few <a href="https://www.kbb.com/porsche/718-boxster/">Porsche 718 Boxster</a> examples at some dealerships before production ends completely. Other than that, the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/chevrolet/corvette/">Chevrolet Corvette</a> Stingray convertible is worth a look, but that will also be more expensive than the priciest Z4. If a soft top isn’t necessary, then the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/toyota/gr-supra/">Toyota GR Supra</a> coupe, made in the same Austrian factory as the Z4 and the other half of this BMW/Toyota joint project, begins in the high-$50,000 region.
Before buying a new Z4 luxury sports car, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should be paying. The Porsche and Chevy have strong resale values, the Z4’s are a touch below the class average. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

<ul>
<li>Highly entertaining</li>
<li>Premium ambiance</li>
<li>Can be a daily driver</li>
</ul>

<ul>
<li>No significant changes</li>
</ul>

Both engines available in the 2026 Z4 are turbocharged. The sDrive30i has a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine making 255 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. The M40i employs a 3.0-liter engine in the classic BMW inline-6 configuration. It develops 382 hp and 369 lb-ft of torque.
An 8-speed automatic transmission is deployed as standard in each variant, with drive going solely to the rear wheels. The M40i also offers the option of a 6-speed manual transmission.
<h3>4-Year/50,000-Mile Warranty</h3>
BMW’s new-vehicle and powertrain warranties last four years or 50,000 miles, whichever happens first. This is typical among European luxury car makers. Roadside assistance is included for that time (with unlimited mileage). Scheduled maintenance is free for three years or 36,000 miles, which is less typical.
<h3>Safety Ratings</h3>
The Z4 hasn’t been crash-tested by any agencies in the United States, but it took a maximum 5-star overall score from a similar European program (Euro NCAP). Standard safety features include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking and rollover protection.

What's new for 2026

The Z4 comes into this model year unchanged from last year.

2026 BMW Z4 Expert Review - Kelley Blue Book

Eric Brandt is a Senior Editor for Cox Automotive, specializing in expert reviews for Kelley Blue Book and Autotrader. Eric helps shoppers find the right car for their needs, wants, and budget. Eric started writing for Cox Automotive as a freelancer in 2017 and entered his current role in 2022. In addition to car reviews, Eric’s work on KBB and Autotrader has included lists, comparisons, advice, Oversteer articles and videos, and even motorcycle and ATV content.

Eric Brandt

Genesis

Genesis Archives - Kelley Blue Book

The stylish 2026 Genesis G80 isn’t really in the envelope-pushing business, but it does virtually everything required of a midsize luxury sedan.

<ul>
<li>So-so fuel economy</li>
<li>No hybrid version</li>
<li>Relatively small trunk</li>
</ul>

The most popular G80 engine is the 3.5T turbocharged V6, which makes 375 horsepower and matches the BMW 540i and the Mercedes-Benz E 450. If there were a drag race between the three, the BMW would win, hitting 60 mph in 4.4 seconds. The G80 3.5T would only be about a half-second behind, though.
The entry-level 2.5T is one of the most muscular base engines in the class, generating 300 hp. That’s punchy enough to reach freeway speeds without stress and be responsive to prods of the accelerator pedal. We also appreciate how finely the suspension has been tuned, providing both comfort and composure.
In addition to greater thrust and bigger brake discs than the 2.5T variants, the 3.5T enjoys a sport-tuned adaptive suspension for a bit of extra poise. This model even offers the option of rear-wheel steering, raising its agility game and improving low-speed maneuverability.
The G80’s overall driving character, though, follows the philosophy of tranquility. When we drove the latest 3.5T in top Sport Prestige trim, we were impressed by the exceptionally quiet and smooth ride. Some of that hush results from sound-insulating Pirelli tires. The brakes feel natural, and adjusting pressure with the pedal is easy.
We also spent time toggling between Comfort and Sport driving modes. The former is relaxed to the point of being slow to respond, so we preferred the latter — even if the slightly heavier steering still lacked a certain feel. There won’t be many sleepless nights at BMW, although a few other well-established luxury marques might be wondering how to meet the refinement challenge thrown down by Genesis.
Regardless of model, the wide array of standard driver assistance features provides confidence and reassurance. Highway Driving Assist 2 brings steering assistance to keep the car centered in its lane. It’s smart enough to edge over a little if a vehicle in an adjacent lane creeps too close. We’ve found this feature works exceptionally well, like the rest of the car’s driving aids.
<h3>Fuel Economy</h3>
The inevitable downside to the 2.5T engine being so zesty is that it achieves a less-than-stellar 24 mpg in combined city and highway driving. For comparison, the 255-hp BMW 530i xDrive manages 30 mpg combined.
The 3.5T returns 19 mpg combined, which is remarkable for the wrong reasons in light of the BMW 540i xDrive’s 28 mpg combined. Both G80 engines require premium gasoline and have a stop/restart function when idling.

Premium Exterior

The current G80’s styling has always looked like a bona fide luxury car to our eyes. The new-for-2026 Prestige Black G80 is available in black or (surprise) white. The details that come with it (all in black) are things like the grille, Genesis badges, 21-inch alloy wheels (with floating center caps), and the brake calipers.

Heated seats 
Not just the fronts, the outboard rears as well. And not just the seats, the steering wheel is also heated and has a power-adjustable column. This is all standard equipment.
Genesis Connected Services 
A smartphone app creates a deeper link between the driver and the G80. The app offers a remote start function that can set cabin temperature, keyless entry/ignition with the phone, automatic collision notification, parking spot memory, and various other features. Every new Genesis comes with a 3-year subscription.
Bang &amp; Olufsen surround-sound system 
A great luxury car deserves great audio. This sublime 18-speaker, 1,400-watt setup available in the 2026 G80 fits the bill perfectly.
Adaptive suspension with Road Preview 
This comes standard in the 3.5T. The Road Preview aspect entails a forward-facing camera reading the conditions ahead and adjusting the settings to suit. It ensures a superb ride quality at all times.
Remote Smart Parking 
Drivers can be outside their G80 and get the car to inch into a parking space automatically by pressing a button on the key fob. Or they can do it all from the comfort of their car seat. This is an option in the 3.5T.
Blind Spot View Monitor 
For Sport Prestige trims (regardless of engine), another option shows real-time video (in the digital instrument cluster) on either side of the car, according to which turn signal is activated. It’s one of those features we don’t like to be without now that we’ve experienced it.

Luxe Interior

The 2026 G80&#8217;s dashboard includes a 27-inch OLED display that handles driver information and infotainment duties. It looks great and works just as it should.
The usual Genesis rules apply elsewhere in the cabin — fine materials, great build quality, plenty of space, and lots of comfort in both rows. We thought the carbon-fiber trim pieces in the top Sport Prestige model looked a bit fake — if we were ordering a new G80, we’d probably select a different option.
Genesis employs two similar-looking rotary controls in the center console — one for the infotainment system and the other for selecting gears. In the past, we’ve sometimes felt it was too easy to grab the wrong one in the heat of a hasty 3-point turn. But during our seat time, it wasn’t an issue. It’s one of those things where owners can soon become accustomed.
The new Prestige Black version adds black Nappa leather, &#8220;Black Ash&#8221; wood trim, anodized black speaker grilles, bespoke key fobs, plus black controls and vents.
One little gripe: trunk space of 13.1 cubic feet is small for the class. By comparison, the BMW 5 Series has 18.4 cubic feet.

Some of the best cars in the world are midsize luxury sedans. Think about it. They have often come with brand-new tech features that beat their larger flagship stablemates to the punch. The levels of pampering are remarkable, the build qualities are worthy of wearing badges that signify glorious heritages. And being midsize still allows for a degree of athleticism denied their bigger brothers. Within this ultra-demanding category, the Genesis G80 stands its ground.
This second generation of G80 is yet another illustration of <a href="https://www.kbb.com/genesis/">Genesis</a> expanding its credentials as a proper luxury marque, confident in its abilities. Some rivals are sportier or offer hybrid drivetrains, but the G80 is an effective all-rounder from its handsome exterior to its driver assistance features.
We’ve logged hundreds of hours driving and evaluating this generation of <a href="https://www.kbb.com/luxury-car/">midsize luxury cars</a>, including the Genesis G80.

The 2026 Genesis G80 has a starting sticker price of $59,945, with the range-topping 3.5T Prestige Black kicking off at $80,845.
<table style="border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; height: 120px;">
<tbody>
<tr style="height: 24px;">
<td style="width: 50%; height: 24px;">G80 2.5T AWD</td>
<td style="width: 50%; height: 24px;">$59,945</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px;">
<td style="width: 50%; height: 24px;">G80 2.5T Advanced AWD</td>
<td style="width: 50%; height: 24px;">$65,535</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px;">
<td style="width: 50%; height: 24px;">G80 2.5T Sport Prestige AWD</td>
<td style="width: 50%; height: 24px;">$71,445</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px;">
<td style="width: 50%; height: 24px;">G80 3.5T Sport Prestige AWD</td>
<td style="width: 50%; height: 24px;">$79,845</td>
</tr>
<tr style="height: 24px;">
<td style="width: 50%; height: 24px;">G80 3.5T Prestige Black AWD</td>
<td style="width: 50%; height: 24px;">$80,845</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
&nbsp;

The base G80 is packed with standard equipment, which makes it easy to recommend. We might be tempted to go for the next-highest Advanced trim to gain the better audio system and a few other features. The larger of the two engines is also popular among G80 buyers.
Well-established rivals include the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/bmw/5-series/">BMW 5 Series</a> and the <a href="https://www.kbb.com/mercedes-benz/e-class/">Mercedes-Benz E-Class</a>, both starting in the same ballpark as the G80. However, equipping a BMW 540i xDrive or Mercedes-Benz E 450 4Matic to a comparable level  would end up costing several thousand more. On a different tack, the most expensive all-new-for-2026 <a href="https://www.kbb.com/lexus/es/">Lexus ES</a> is set to undercut the entry-level G80.
Before buying a new G80 luxury sedan, check the Kelley Blue Book Fair Purchase Price to know what you should be paying. The Lexus ES usually has the strongest resale values in this class, but the G80 performs respectably. Recouping more money when selling a vehicle can mean a bigger down payment and lower monthly payments on the next one.

<ul>
<li>Generous standard equipment</li>
<li>Impressive tech</li>
<li>Class-leading warranty</li>
</ul>

<ul>
<li>Prestige Black trim</li>
<li>Equipment changes</li>
<li>Color changes</li>
</ul>

The engine in the 2.5T is, unsurprisingly, a turbocharged 2.5-liter 4-cylinder unit, half a liter bigger than most rivals&#8217; base engines. Output is an impressive 300 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. The 3.5T is a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 developing 375 hp and 391 lb-ft of torque. Both engines connect to an 8-speed automatic transmission and all-wheel drive is standard throughout.
<h3>5-Year/60,000-Mile Warranty</h3>
The new-vehicle warranty from Genesis lasts five years or 60,000 miles, whichever happens first, with roadside assistance for five years. The powertrain is covered for 10 years or 100,000 miles. These terms are some of the best in the automotive industry. Genesis also includes three years or 36,000 miles of complimentary scheduled maintenance.
<h3>Safety Ratings</h3>
So far, this second generation of G80 has been named a Top Safety Pick+ by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (<a href="https://www.iihs.org/ratings/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">IIHS</a>). It’s the institute’s highest accolade. Likewise, the car also took the maximum 5-Star overall score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (<a href="https://www.nhtsa.gov/ratings" target="_blank" rel="noopener">NHTSA</a>). Standard safety equipment includes forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert.

Prestige Black is a new top-of-the-line trim level for G80 cars employing the 3.5T engine. It’s mainly a cosmetics package, with several black additions inside and out. We’ll explore them more in our Interior and Exterior sections below.
Genesis offers a front wireless charging pad and its Digital Key in the 2.5T Sport Prestige AWD and 3.5T Prestige Black AWD. Manual rear shades are available in those two variants, plus the 2.5T Advanced AWD trim.
Ceres Blue becomes an option for Sport Prestige cars with either engine. Tasman Blue and Makalu Gray Matte colors have been discontinued, along with the 3.5T Sport Advanced AWD trim.

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