As affordability becomes a more urgent part of car shopping, Edmunds has compiled a list of what it calls the five best affordable cars and SUVs for 2026. The Associated Press ran an Edmunds-provided write-up by Christian Wardlaw that said the models were ranked across price and size classes. The factors included base prices, fuel economy, and safety ratings.
Edmunds’ 2026 picks begin with the 2026 Honda Civic LX sedan. Edmunds said the Civic’s 150-horsepower four-cylinder engine provides an EPA-estimated 36 mpg combined, and that the model earns favorable crash test ratings. The write-up lists the Civic LX starting price at $25,790.
The AP’s Edmunds summary also points shoppers to hybrid versions within the Civic lineup. It says Civic Hybrids are “highly recommended” and describes their fuel economy as up to 49 mpg. For buyers looking for more performance or different body styles, Edmunds’ write-up mentions the Civic Si sedan and Civic Type R hatch.
Edmunds then directs shoppers to a midsize option with the 2026 Toyota Camry. The AP write-up says the Camry is popular for “good reason” and that every Camry features a hybrid powertrain, with EPA-estimated fuel economy ranging from 43 to 51 mpg depending on trim. It adds that buyers can equip the Camry with all-wheel drive for improved traction in snow.
In the Camry lineup, the Edmunds summary says the Camry LE is the least expensive model among those described and includes driver-assist features and infotainment technologies that many buyers want. For shoppers seeking a sportier look and driving feel, it points to the Camry SE. The write-up lists a 2026 Camry starting price of $30,195.
For buyers who prefer a smaller SUV, Edmunds recommends the 2026 Hyundai Kona in the small SUV segment. The AP write-up says the Kona averages 26 to 31 mpg depending on trim level and drivetrain, and that it has impressive crash test ratings. It also describes the Kona as having a long warranty and “generous ownership perks” that contribute to its value.
Edmunds’ Kona description includes an outline of available powertrains. It says the most affordable Konas use a 147-horsepower four-cylinder engine, while a turbocharged four-cylinder is standard on higher trims. The write-up also says an electric version is available. The starting price listed for the 2026 Kona is $26,950.
If the Kona is not large enough and the budget allows more, the Edmunds list includes the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid. The AP summary calls it a compact crossover SUV that is styled and roomy, while remaining “surprisingly affordable.” It says the model’s turbocharged hybrid powertrain returns an EPA-estimated 42 mpg combined, or 35 mpg with all-wheel drive.
The write-up says Kia made changes for the 2026 Sportage Hybrid, including design updates and new technology. It says new S and X-Line trim levels are available, and that the most affordable LX trim is also the most fuel-efficient and includes nearly all the tech buyers might want. It lists the 2026 Sportage Hybrid starting price at $31,735.
For families looking for a three-row midsize SUV, Edmunds recommends a redesigned 2026 Hyundai Palisade. The AP write-up says the Palisade offers seating for up to eight people and includes an available turbocharged hybrid powertrain rated at an EPA-estimated 34 mpg. It also describes the vehicle’s upscale styling and interior as part of what makes it appealing.
Edmunds’ summary advises choosing the Palisade base SE trim to keep prices in check, and selecting SEL for hybrids. It also points to a higher-end Palisade Calligraphy as an option for buyers reconsidering a luxury SUV, describing it as more “decadent” in look, feel, and equipment. The starting price listed for the 2026 Palisade is $41,035.
Edmunds says its five models provide “genuine value” and that shoppers can buy any of them without compromising on what they need, and in some cases, what they want. The AP write-up also notes that the story was provided to it by Edmunds, and that Christian Wardlaw is a contributor at Edmunds.