WASHINGTON, April 22, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — U.S. News & World Report, the global authority in rankings and consumer advice, today unveiled the 2026 Best Hybrid and Electric Cars awards. Despite the end of EV incentives, consumers’ interest in hybrids and electrified vehicles has been steadily increasing, particularly given the soaring price of gas. The 2026 awards include 15 newly expanded categories, recognizing 19 winners chosen for their mix of quality, efficiency and value. “Customers feel stretched every time they fill up at the pump, and there are more electric and hybrid options than ever. The 2026 Best Hybrid and Electric Cars awards are designed to help consumers make informed choices and save money with vehicles they’ll like,” said Tony Markovich, U.S. News senior editor, Autos. “This year’s awards categories were expanded to better suit a broader set of buyers’ needs, and the winners stand out as leaders in sustainability, sophistication and value.” There are now enough electrified choices that meet award criteria to break our existing categories out by size, with the aim of helping consumers find an efficient vehicle that meets all of their needs. While a small hybrid car might be the most efficient, it won’t fit everyone’s life. There are now subcompact, compact and midsize hybrid SUVs, and multiple size categories of EVs and luxury models. In addition, as families increasingly turn toward environmentally friendly driving options and look to save money on fuel, the 2026 awards introduce the Best Hybrid Minivan class. Hyundai and Kia lead the industry in 2026, earning three awards each. The Hyundai Tucson Hybrid and Hyundai Ioniq 5 each earned their third consecutive titles, leading the breakout Best Compact Hybrid SUV and Best Compact Electric SUV categories, respectively, while the Hyundai Ioniq 9 secured top honors in the Midsize Electric SUV breakout