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Kelley Blue Book Introduces 2026 Best Buy Award Winners

On January 21, 2026, Kelley Blue Book, a respected automotive resource, unveiled the winners of its 2026 Best Buy Awards, following a year filled with comprehensive testing of virtually every new and redesigned vehicle available in the U.S. The Best Buy Awards, now in its 12th year, aims to provide potential car buyers with vital insights into which models stand out across various categories.

Comprehensive Evaluation Process

The selection process for the Best Buy Awards involved meticulous assessments by automotive experts who kept the interests and needs of everyday drivers in focus. Brian Moody, executive editor at Kelley Blue Book, emphasized the goal of helping consumers cut through the overwhelming array of options currently available in the market. With hundreds of new vehicle models introduced each year, the Best Buy Awards serve as a valuable guide to simplify buying decisions, ensuring customers choose the vehicle that best fits their requirements.

“Our team undertakes rigorous testing, evaluating, and comparing vehicles to highlight the true standouts in the most popular categories,” Moody stated. “The Best Buy Award winners exemplify the best in their respective classes, offering reliability, efficiency, and safety.”

Notable Winners of the 2026 Best Buy Awards

Among the distinguished recipients this year are:

• - Best New Model: 2026 Nissan LEAF – Recognized for its stylish design, extensive range exceeding 300 miles and affordability, making electric vehicles accessible to a broader audience.
• - Best Compact Truck: 2026 Ford Maverick – Praised for its compact size combined with features akin to full-size trucks, all at economically friendly pricing.
• - Best Midsize Car: 2026 Toyota Camry – Continues to be a trustworthy option for families around the U.S., known for its impressive safety ratings and fuel efficiency.
• - Best Compact SUV: 2026 Toyota RAV4 – Celebrated for delivering value with reduced fuel consumption, alongside Toyota's renowned reputation for resale value.
• - Best Full-Size Truck: 2026 Ford F-150 – A benchmark in the pickup segment, excelling in various aspects including power, comfort, and economy.
• - Best Electric Vehicle: 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 – Remarkable for its affordability amidst rising vehicle prices, offering a great balance of features and value.

These selections not only celebrate the models' achievements but also serve to inform and empower consumers in their purchase journey.

Understanding the Best Buy Awards

The Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Awards aim to highlight vehicles excelling across various domains, ensuring buyers can access reliable and transparent information. With evolving automotive trends and technology, the program adapts categories that reflect advances in safety, technology, and sustainability. This initiative encourages manufacturers to strive for excellence, knowing their vehicles may be recognized as industry leaders.

Conclusion

For anyone considering a new vehicle in 2026, the Kelley Blue Book Best Buy Awards serve as an indispensable resource. By showcasing the best options available, Kelley Blue Book aims to reduce the anxiety associated with new car purchases, fostering a more straightforward buying process.

To dive deeper into the complete list of winners, expert commentary, and details about each model, visit Kelley Blue Book's Best Buy Awards Page. Founded in 1926, Kelley Blue Book has long stood as the trusted resource for automotive information, helping generations navigate their vehicle purchases with ease.

Whether you're searching for a practical sedan, a rugged truck, or a cutting-edge electric vehicle, the Best Buy Awards highlight the cars that can best meet your needs, providing confidence in your choices.