14 Most Reliable New 2026 Sedans and Hatchbacks You Can Buy, Tested and Recommended

From compact front-wheel-drive models to midsized ones with all-wheel drive, these cars performed well in CR's tests and won't leave you stranded

Jon Linkov, Consumer Reports Autos Editor.

By Jon Linkov
Autos Editor

Updated February 10, 2026

2026 Subaru Impreza driving on a highway with the sun setting behind it. — Subaru Impreza

Modern sedans and hatchbacks deliver a superior balance of passenger volume, cargo utility, and fuel efficiency at a significantly lower price than comparable SUVs. With all-wheel drive (AWD) available across both the compact and midsized segments, these refined vehicles offer a compelling, foul-weather-capable alternative to the traditional crossover.

But some sedans aren’t very reliable at all. Other cars may not be unreliable, but they don’t stand out for dependability. Consumer Reports compiled this list of the most reliable new sedans to help shoppers make a smart, informed purchase decision and avoid wasting time and money on repairs down the road.

In this article

Compact Cars Midsized and Large Sedans

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Jon Linkov

Jon Linkov is the deputy auto editor at Consumer Reports. He has been with CR since 2002, covering varied automotive topics including buying and leasing, maintenance and repair, ownership, reliability, used cars, and electric vehicles. He manages CR’s lineup of special interest publications, hosts CR’s “Talking Cars” podcast, and writes and edits content for CR’s online and print products. An avid cyclist, Jon also enjoys driving his ’80s-era sports car and instructing at track days.