Top 5 affordable cars and SUVs for 2026, according to Edmunds.

Edmunds names five affordable 2026 models — Honda Civic, Toyota Camry, Hyundai Kona, Kia Sportage Hybrid and Hyundai Palisade — selected using base price, fuel economy and safety as key factors.

Affordability is a key concern for many shoppers in 2026. Edmunds experts ranked five models across price and size classes to highlight affordable options. They weighed base price, fuel economy and safety ratings in making those selections. The list spans small cars, midsize cars, and small to midsize SUVs. Key findings: - Honda Civic (small car): 2026 Civic starting price $25,790; a 150-horsepower four-cylinder is EPA-estimated at 36 mpg combined; Civic Hybrids are reported as up to 49 mpg and hatchback, Si and Type R variants are also noted. - Toyota Camry (midsize car): 2026 Camry starting price $30,195; every Camry is reported as offering an efficient hybrid powertrain with EPA estimates of about 43–51 mpg depending on trim, and all-wheel drive is available. - Hyundai Kona (small SUV): 2026 Kona starting price $26,950; EPA-estimated 26–31 mpg depending on trim and drivetrain; base models use a 147-horsepower four-cylinder, an electric version is available, and the model is noted for strong crash-test ratings and a long warranty. - Kia Sportage Hybrid (compact SUV): 2026 Sportage Hybrid starting price $31,735; the turbocharged hybrid powertrain is EPA-estimated at 42 mpg combined (35 mpg with all-wheel drive); new S and X-Line trims are reported for 2026, with the LX noted as the most affordable and most fuel-efficient. - Hyundai Palisade (midsize SUV): 2026 Palisade starting price $41,035; redesigned three-row seating for up to eight people and an available turbocharged hybrid powertrain reported as about 34 mpg; base SE and SEL (for hybrids) trims are described along with a higher Calligraphy trim. Summary: Edmunds presents these five models as examples that balance purchase price with fuel economy and safety across small cars and SUVs. Market availability and pricing trends for these models are undetermined at this time.