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Electric SUVs Take the Spotlight
In 2026, the electric SUV segment is set to explode with a mix of familiar brands and bold newcomers. The Acura RSX, unveiled as a concept last summer, promises a fresh look and a new all‑electric platform that could redefine the brand’s future. While the RSX isn’t Acura’s first electric SUV— the 2024 ZDX was a partnership‑built Chevy Blazer re‑branded— it marks the first model built entirely on Honda’s own electric architecture.
BMW’s iX3, the electric cousin of the X3, is another key player. Its clean redesign signals a shift toward a unified electric future for the German automaker, with technology, AI assistants, and interior design that will ripple across the brand’s lineup. BMW also hints at a 400‑mile range claim, a bold target that will be tested by Edmonds’ range‑testing program.
Not to be outdone, Fiat’s Topolino offers a quirky, ultra‑compact electric mobility solution. With a top speed of 28 mph and a range under 50 mi, it’s more of a novelty than a commuter, but it showcases the diversity of electric concepts entering the market.
Genesis is poised to launch a full‑size three‑row luxury SUV, the GV90, drawing inspiration from its Neoloon concept. The vehicle promises pillarless coach doors, signature lighting, and a luxurious interior that could rival the Cadillac Escalade IQ. Meanwhile, Rivian’s upcoming R2, a smaller electric SUV priced around $45,000, aims to bring the brand’s rugged, tech‑savvy DNA to a more affordable segment.
Slate, a startup that debuted a modular pickup last year, plans a barebones platform that can be customized with accessories ranging from power windows to an SUV conversion kit. Though production dates are uncertain, the concept underscores the growing trend of modular, customizable electric vehicles.
High‑Performance Muscle and Supercars
The Corvette ZR1X is a hybrid beast that blends a twin‑turbo V8 with an electric motor on the front wheels. With a claimed 8.99‑second ¼‑mile time, it outpaces even the Lucid Air Sapphire, the fastest vehicle the team has tested. The ZR1X’s engineers have boosted output and upgraded the braking system, making it a formidable contender in U‑Drag competitions.
Ford’s Mustang Darkhorse SC takes the Shelby GT500’s supercharged 5.2‑L V8 and pairs it with a seven‑speed dual‑clutch transmission, upgraded suspension, and optional track components. The result is a car that feels “agile” and “responsive” without being intimidating, a sentiment echoed by the team’s dyno results.
Porsche’s 911 Turbo S, now hybridized, offers 71 hp and a $300,000 price tag. Edmonds plans to test the Turbo S on U‑Drag tracks, hoping to see whether the brand’s legendary performance translates to the electric‑powered variant. The potential return of the GT2 RS, a turbocharged track monster, also fuels excitement for 2026’s high‑performance lineup.
Ram’s 1500 is set to reintroduce the 5.7‑L V8, while the SRT TRX will feature a Hellcat V8 with even more power and torque. These trucks aim to outgun the Ford Raptor, intensifying the “truck wars” and offering a new benchmark for off‑road performance.
Off‑Road and Utility Innovations
Jeep’s new Recon, a battery‑powered SUV, brings the brand’s trail‑ready formula to electric power. With a claimed 250‑mile range, it faces stiff competition from rivals offering over 300 mi, but its rugged design and off‑road capabilities make it a strong contender for off‑road enthusiasts.
The Kia Tellide, a three‑row SUV, is slated for a 2026 refresh. The new model will swap its old V6 for a turbo‑charged four‑engine hybrid, promising better efficiency and performance. Though the team notes the exterior styling isn’t their favorite, the interior space and comfort could make it a top pick for families.
Testing, Reviews, and What to Expect
Edmonds’ team tests hundreds of vehicles each year on public roads and a private track, ensuring that reviews are grounded in real‑world performance. Their rigorous rating system covers everything from range and charging speed to handling and off‑road capability.
“I love the way it breaks. I love the way it turns. It’s so agile,” one reviewer noted after testing the Mustang Darkhorse SC, highlighting the car’s balanced performance.
As new models roll out, Edmonds will conduct range tests, U‑Drag runs, and off‑road comparisons. They also plan to compare upcoming electric SUVs like the BMW iX3 and Rivian R2 against the Tesla Model Y and Hyundai Ioniq 5, providing a comprehensive view of the market’s evolution.
For buyers, the channel offers tools to evaluate trade‑in values and find the best deals, ensuring that the excitement of new releases translates into informed purchasing decisions.
What Lies Ahead
2026 promises a blend of electrification, performance, and off‑road innovation. From the Acura RSX’s new platform to the Corvette ZR1X’s hybrid power, the automotive landscape is set for dramatic shifts. With rigorous testing and transparent reviews, Edmonds aims to keep enthusiasts and buyers alike ahead of the curve.