The 2026 model year welcomes both highly-anticipated debuts and meaningful updates to some of the most popular cars on the market. From redesigned best-sellers to all-new models, there’s a lot on the horizon for car shoppers who aren’t in a rush to buy right now. Plus, most of these cars will arrive in customer hands within just a few months. Whether you’re after better tech, faster charging, or just reimagined styling, these upcoming 2026 cars, hatchbacks, and SUVs are worth the wait.

2026 Audi A6

The next-generation Audi A6 stays true to what it does best: executive-class refinement without the flash. Redesigned from the ground up, the 2026 A6 brings new exterior styling, a tech-heavy cabin with massive digital displays, and a long list of standard safety features.

Under the hood, U.S. models will come standard with a turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 producing 362 horsepower paired with Quattro all-wheel drive. Options like adaptive air suspension and four-wheel steering add an additional touch of refinement.

📆 Expected arrival: Late 2025

Where will it be made? Germany (To be impacted by auto tariffs)
Why it’s worth waiting for: Substantial luxury upgrades, new looks, and V6 power in a segment where others are going four-cylinder.

2026 Kia K4 Hatchback

Kia’s K4 sedan is already making waves, and now the hatchback version promises even more. Kia’s replacement for the discontinued Forte is orders of magnitude more compelling as a value-packed compact car. 

Think of the K4 Hatchback as a car designed with global markets in mind — we’re just lucky that it’s coming to the U.S. It’s about 11 inches shorter than the sedan, making it easier to park and maneuver, yet it packs up to 59.3 cubic feet of cargo space with the rear seats folded—almost SUV-like utility in a sleek, compact form.

Interior and powertrain specs largely mirror the sedan, which is good news if you’re already a fan of the K4.

📆 Expected arrival: Mid-to-late 2025

Where will it be made? Mexico (To be impacted by auto tariffs)
Why it’s worth waiting for: A rare new compact hatchback that blends smart packaging with sharp design.

2026 Rivian R2

Rivian’s upcoming R2 SUV is shaping up to be one of the most compelling electric vehicles under $50K. Smaller and more affordable than the R1S, the R2 targets the same crowd as the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E, but with Rivian’s adventure-ready edge.

Expect single-, dual-, and tri-motor configurations, with most specs good for 300 miles of range. Rivian has shared a few interesting features, like two gloveboxes, a new type of haptic knob on the steering wheel, and a very flexible interior. Plus, the R2 features the NACS (Tesla) charging port, so it’s easy to utilize the 20,000+ Tesla Superchargers around the U.S.

Rivian intends to enter the European market with the R2 at some point.

📆 Expected arrival: Early 2026

Where will it be made? Illinois and Georgia, USA
Why it’s worth waiting for: Rivian DNA at a more accessible price, plus true utility in a long-range, fast-charging electric SUV.

2026 BMW 3-Series

The BMW 3-Series is getting a full redesign for 2026, and it’s expected to blend Neue Klasse-inspired looks with major tech upgrades. While full specs are still under wraps, we anticipate the usual mix of turbocharged four- and six-cylinder engines, plus a new electric variant.

Inside, BMW is expected to roll out a wall-to-wall digital dashboard and next-gen iDrive software. A new M3 (gas and electric) is also in the pipeline. The 2026 3-Series is long-awaited. Basically, the 3-Series has been due for an upgrade for quite some time, and it’s finally happening.

EV-curious? The 3-Series will be accompanied by an all-electric BMW i3 in 2026. The BMW i4 has been one of the best-selling electric luxury sedans for some time, so BMW has high hopes for the new i3.

📆 Expected arrival: Mid-2025

Where will it be made? Mexico (To be impacted by auto tariffs)
Why it’s worth waiting for: The next-gen 3-Series should raise the bar again for tech and driving fun in a luxury sedan.

2026 Chevrolet Bolt EV

After initially discontinuing the Bolt EV, GM made a U-turn. The all-new 2026 Bolt EV is coming back with improved charging speeds, better range, and a price tag that should stay right around $30,000. 

Now built on GM’s Ultium platform and produced at the Kansas City-area Fairfax plant, the Bolt EV is expected to undercut the Equinox EV and offer NACS charging capability for easy access to Tesla Superchargers. By 2026, the Bolt will have more competition in the budget EV segment than ever before, including a next generation Nissan LEAF. However, GM’s excitement for the new Bolt EV is contagious, and we’re looking forward to the Bolt EV arriving late this year.

We don’t yet have any images of the next-gen Bolt EV, but we expect it to resemble the larger Equinox EV in design language.

📆 Expected arrival: Late 2025

Where will it be made? Kansas, USA
Why it’s worth waiting for: One of the few affordable EVs with fast charging and a proven following—now better than ever.

2026 Hyundai Palisade

Hyundai’s popular three-row SUV gets a major upgrade for 2026, and it’s aiming upscale. The new Palisade is longer, wider, and packed with more tech and comfort features. Most importantly, a new 329-hp hybrid powertrain joins the lineup, alongside a redesigned V6.

The hybrid could deliver over 30 mpg and up to 620 miles of range, while still towing up to 4,000 pounds. V6 versions will continue to tow 5,000 pounds and come standard with an updated 8-speed automatic.

The most noticeable change for the 2026 Palisade will be its looks. With a bold front fascia and unique running lights, Hyundai is about to launch yet another eye-catching SUV on the heels of the redesigned Santa Fe and the popular IONIQ 5 EV.

📆 Expected arrival: Late 2025

Where will it be made? South Korea (To be impacted by auto tariffs)
Why it’s worth waiting for: A hybrid three-row that blends comfort, efficiency, and capability.

2026 Toyota CH-R+ (Hopefully)

Toyota’s long-overdue push into electric vehicles gains serious momentum with two models in 2026: the reimagined and improved bZ4X, and the revival of the CH-R as an EV. Built on the same platform as the bZ4X, this upcoming EV crossover looks sharper, drives better, and—most importantly—should cost a lot less.

There’s a catch: it’s not officially confirmed if the CH-R+ will be coming to the U.S. market, but signs point towards its arrival sometime in 2026 following a debut in the European market. If Toyota hits the mark and keeps the price in the low-to-mid $30,000s, the CH-R+ could finally give EV buyers a true budget-friendly alternative with up to 300 miles of range, fast charging, and sleek looks.

📆 Expected arrival: 2026

Where will it be made? Unknown
Why it’s worth waiting for: Toyota reliability in an electric crossover that might actually be affordable. We hope it arrives stateside!

Final Thoughts: Should You Wait for 2026?

If you’re in no rush to buy, the 2026 model year could be worth the wait—especially if you’re looking for next-gen tech, EV upgrades, or something new altogether. That said, don’t overlook the fact that tariffs and supply chain changes could shift delivery timelines or pricing. Stay flexible, and keep your eye on preorder timelines if one of these catches your eye.

🔎 Looking to buy before then? Check out local listings and protect your wallet with total cost of ownership data using CarEdge Research. Remember, you can have our experts negotiate your deal if you’re ready to buy without the stress or dealership hassle.