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Car and Driver
8 hours ago
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Subaru Uncharted: What We Know So Far
Overview The Subaru Uncharted is the newest addition to the brand's electric SUV roster, and it's the baby of the bunch. Slotting in below the compact Solterra, the Uncharted has a small footprint and serves as a sort of EV companion to the gas-powered Subaru Crosstrek subcompact SUV. The Uncharted was jointly developed alongside the Toyota C-HR and shares nearly identical specs. Sport and GT models crib the C-HR's 338-hp dual-motor electric powertrain, which grants standard all-wheel drive. Unlike its Toyota counterpart, a 221-hp single-motor Premium FWD trim is also available, which maximizes efficiency with front-wheel drive and an estimated range of 300 miles. Boasting higher range estimates and significantly more power than its chief rivals, such as the Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia Niro EV, the Uncharted should be a compelling option in the electric subcompact segment. What's New for 2026? The Uncharted is an entirely new model for 2026. It is built on the same e-TNGA platform that underpins the subcompact Toyota C-HR. Subaru says it has tweaked the chassis, suspension tuning, and exterior styling to set the Uncharted apart from its Toyota counterpart. Subaru hasn't given an exact release date but says that this new model will arrive at dealers in early 2026. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Subaru Uncharted is expected to start around $34,000 and go up to $38,000 depending on the trim and options. Premium FWD $34,000 (est) Sport $36,000 (est) GT $38,000 (est) 0 $10k $20k $30k $40k $50k $60k Subaru hasn't yet released any pricing information for the Uncharted, but we know that it will be offered in three trims: Premium FWD, Sport, and GT. All three trims come equipped with heated front seats, heated exterior mirrors, a power liftgate, interior ambient lighting, and dual wireless phone chargers. The Premium FWD trim does without Subaru's trademark all-wheel-drive system but promises additional range. Sport and GT trims benefit from all-wheel drive and a higher output from their dual-motor arrangement. The Sport model adds an off-road X-Mode feature, a heated steering wheel, and water-repellent upholstery. The GT trim adds more equipment, including a panoramic moonroof, 20-inch wheels, ventilated front seats, and a Harman Kardon sound system. We'll reserve final judgement for when pricing is released, but the middle-tier Sport trim will likely offer the best value. EV Motor, Power, and Performance EV Motors: 221-hp single motor, 338-hp dual motor 221-hp single motor, 338-hp dual motor Drivetrains: front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive The Uncharted is available with the choice of two electric-motor configurations. The Premium FWD trim is powered by a single 221-hp electric motor mounted on the front axle. The Sport and GT models produce 338 horsepower and feature all-wheel drive, achieved through two electric motors —one at the front and one at the rear. While the Uncharted isn't likely to be a true off-roader, Sport and GT models are equipped with an X-Mode setting, which is intended to help on uneven terrain by independently modulating the power distributed to each wheel. 0–60-MPH Times Claimed 60-mph Time: under 5.0 seconds (Sport and GT) In Comparison: A sub-5.0-second sprint to 60 mph is impressive for a subcompact electric SUV. If Subaru's estimates reflect reality, the Uncharted should be significantly quicker than both the Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia Niro EV but fall short of the Volvo EX30 Dual Motor's mad 3.3-second 60-mph time. Subaru hasn't given an estimate for the single-motor Premium FWD model yet, but with 79 fewer horsepower, it'll likely be considerably slower. View Exterior Photos Subaru Range, Charging, and Battery Life Claimed EV Range: 290-300 miles Like the larger Solterra, the Uncharted features a 74.7-kWh battery pack, which Subaru estimates will allow for up to 300 miles of driving range on a full charge. That figure is for the FWD model, while the more powerful AWD model is estimated to deliver 290 miles of range. The Uncharted uses a NACS (North American Charging Standard) port, allowing it to charge at Tesla Superchargers. Subaru says that even in cold-weather conditions, it can charge from 10 to 80 percent in around 30 minutes at a DC fast-charger. It also supports quick AC charging with its 11-kW on-board AC charger. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo First Row: The Uncharted has a contemporary interior that strays from the utilitarian design language found in some other Subaru models. Its dashboard design is sleek and uncluttered, incorporating a digital gauge display and a 14.0-inch central touchscreen. Some unique touches distinguish the Uncharted's cabin from its Toyota C-HR counterpart, including orange dashboard trim, a squared-off steering wheel, and water-repellent upholstery on Sport and GT trims. The wide center console between the front seats features two wireless smartphone charging pads and open storage underneath. Second Row: We haven't seen the Uncharted's rear cabin yet, but Subaru claims that rear legroom is comparable to what you'll find in the Crosstrek. Upgrading to the GT trim grants heated seats in the back. Cargo Capacity: As to be expected from an electric subcompact SUV with puny proportions, the Uncharted doesn't have much cargo space. Subaru says that with its rear seats in the upright position, there is 25 cubic feet of space in the cargo area. View Interior Photos Subaru Infotainment and Connectivity Infotainment: 14.0-inch touchscreen 14.0-inch touchscreen Connectivity: Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto The Uncharted has a 14.0-inch display that is operated by a combination of physical and touch controls. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, and two wireless smartphone chargers sit below the central screen. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features We don't have the full details yet, but we do know that the Uncharted carries on Subaru's practice of offering ample standard driver-assistance technology. That includes standard pre-collision braking, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. Standard Safety Features: pre-collision braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control pre-collision braking, lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control Optional Safety Features: panoramic view monitor, traffic jam assist, lane change assist For information about the Uncharted's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Subaru offers average warranty coverage. However, the brand doesn't offer any complimentary scheduled maintenance. Limited Warranty: three years or 36,000 miles three years or 36,000 miles Powertrain Warranty: five years or 60,000 miles five years or 60,000 miles Complimentary Maintenance: none As more information becomes available, we'll update this story with more details about:
Car and Driver
8 hours ago
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 GMC Acadia Denali Ultimate Reaches Peak Luxe
There's a new Denali Ultimate trim in the 2026 GMC Acadia lineup, upping the luxury quotient with premium interior materials and additional standard features. The Acadia Denali Ultimate's standout additions include massaging leather seats, Paldao wood interior accents, an upgraded Bose sound system, performance suspension, and a panoramic sunroof. The Denali Ultimate will be the top trim in the Acadia lineup and is expected to go on sale at the end of 2025; pricing information isn't yet available. It takes a lot for a mid-size SUV to stand out these days. After its refresh in 2024, the GMC Acadia boasts larger proportions and sharper looks, but it still lacks a distinguishing trait to elevate it above the segment's midpack. The fact that it shares its mechanical foundation with the less expensive Chevrolet Traverse and the swankier Buick Enclave doesn't help its case, either. In an effort to up its appeal, GMC has announced a new top-tier Denali Ultimate trim that will max out the Acadia's luxury quotient, likely at a steep price. While upscale Denali trims are available for most GMC vehicles, the Denali Ultimate moniker is currently only used on range-topping versions of the Yukon, Sierra 1500, and Sierra HD. To justify the title and hefty price premium, those models feature unique exterior styling accents, fancier interior adornments, and mostly checked-off option sheets. View Photos GMC The new Acadia Denali Ultimate follows the same recipe. On the outside, a black chrome grille, special badging, LED daytime running lights, and 22-inch aluminum wheels finished in an After Midnight Metallic hue distinguish the Denali Ultimate from lesser Acadia trims. A Wealth of Luxury Details on the Inside The luxury focus is much more evident inside, where heated, ventilated, and massaging seats wrapped in rich Woodland Mahogany leather await the driver and front-seat passenger. Paldao wood trim with laser-etched detailing on the door panels, center console, and dashboard gives the cabin an elevated rustic vibe. Other interior flourishes include model-specific floor mats and topographical maps embossed into the front seat backs. View Photos GMC The Acadia Denali Ultimate also adds a host of desirable standard features. The list includes a 16-speaker Bose Performance Series sound system, a configurable 8-inch head-up display, a nine-camera surround-view system, and a panoramic sunroof. A performance suspension setup and a three-year subscription to GM's Super Cruise Level 2 hands-free driving system are also included. GMC hasn't released pricing information for the 2026 Acadia lineup yet, but it's fair to assume that the Denali Ultimate will command a sizable price premium over the standard Denali trim. Austin Parsons Associate Editor Austin's car fixation began at a young age and at 1:64 scale. Eventually, Hot Wheels weren't cutting it anymore, so he developed an obsession with his father's full-sized 1965 Ford Mustang instead. Desperate to break into the automotive industry, he bartered his way into a job at a local BMW dealership by promising to stop hurling nerdy technical facts at the salesmen who came into the neighboring coffee shop where he worked. That was also around the time when he started writing automotive reviews, news articles, and technical guides for a number of local and international publications. Now at Car and Driver, Austin brings more than 10 years of experience in the automotive industry and an all-so-common love-hate relationship with German engineering to the table. Read full bio
Car and Driver
8 hours ago
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Hyundai Sonata Review, Pricing, and Specs
Overview It's a shame people have forsaken sedans in favor of SUVs when models like the 2026 Hyundai Sonata are simply nicer to drive, better equipped, and more fuel efficient than much of the high-riding competition. Not only that, the Sonata lineup caters to different shoppers with different needs with its trio of powertrains, ranging from a tame naturally aspirated four-cylinder to a thrifty hybrid to—our favorite—a muscle-bound 290-hp turbo four. In terms of handling and ride quality, this family sedan isn't at the top of the class, but it's comfortable and positively packed with driver-assistance and convenience features to make your life easier. Expert Tip: The Sonata is a great all-around package, but it's really hard to beat the Honda Accord. What's New for 2026? The SEL and SEL Convenience trims are gone, replaced by the SEL Sport. A low-level Blue Hybrid trim also joins the lineup. We don't know much about it yet, but if it follows the pattern of other Hyundai Blue models, it should offer superior fuel economy to other Sonata Hybrid trims. Pricing and Which One to Buy The price of the 2026 Hyundai Sonata is expected to start around $29,000 and go up to $39,000 depending on the trim and options. SE $29,000 (est) Blue Hybrid $31,000 (est) SEL Sport $32,000 (est) SEL Hybrid $33,000 (est) N Line $37,000 (est) Limited Hybrid $39,000 (est) 0 $10k $20k $30k $40k $50k $60k Budget-minded shoppers will do just fine with the Sonata SE, which comes with all the driver-assistance tech you need, plus proximity keyless entry, a 12.3-inch infotainment system, and wireless smartphone-mirroring tech. We'd, however, pick the 290-hp N Line. But then you probably could've guessed that. Engine, Transmission, and Performance Engines: 191-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder (standard), 2.0-liter four-cylinder with one electric motor for combined 192 hp (hybrid), 290-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder (N Line) 191-hp 2.5-liter four-cylinder (standard), 2.0-liter four-cylinder with one electric motor for combined 192 hp (hybrid), 290-hp turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder (N Line) Transmissions: 8-speed automatic (standard), 6-speed automatic (hybrid), 8-speed dual-clutch automatic (N Line) 8-speed automatic (standard), 6-speed automatic (hybrid), 8-speed dual-clutch automatic (N Line) Drivetrains: front-wheel drive, all-wheel drive The nonhybrid, nonturbo Sonata makes an adequate 191 horsepower from a 2.5-liter four-cylinder. It's not the sharpest handler in its class—the Honda Accord is more engaging to drive—but it's still composed and sufficiently responsive. We also commend Hyundai for continuing to equip its family sedan with a smooth-shifting conventional automatic transmission instead of the engine-drone-inducing continuously variable automatic transmission (CVT) that other automakers have embraced. During our time with the 192-hp Sonata Hybrid, which pairs a 2.0-liter four-cylinder with a motor-generator, we appreciated its fuel-saving efforts but disliked its noticeable transitions between gas and electric power sources. As for the 290-hp Sonata N Line, it's our favorite of the lineup, delivering fast and frugal fun. Late-model-year models benefit from a retuned eight-speed dual-clutch transmission and a revised launch-control system, which together make the N Line much more pleasant to drive in traffic and more consistent off the line. 0–60-MPH Times C/D 60-mph Tests: 5.4 seconds (N Line), 7.8 seconds (hybrid) In Comparison: The Sonata N Line dusts both the Honda Accord and the all-wheel-drive Toyota Camry to 60, and its improved launch-control feature does a better job of mitigating tire spin off the line. View Exterior Photos Marc Urbano | Car and Driver Fuel Economy and Real-World MPG C/D 75-mph Highway Fuel-Economy Tests : 39-51 mpg 39-51 mpg EPA City Ratings : 23-44 mpg 23-44 mpg EPA Highway Ratings: 32-51 mpg The EPA hasn't released fuel-economy information for the 2026 Hyundai Sonata yet, but the ratings shouldn't change. The 2025 nonhybrid Sonata earns estimates as high as 28 mpg city and 38 mpg highway. The thriftiest 2025 model is the Sonata Hybrid, which earns EPA estimates of 44 mpg city and 51 mpg highway. On our 75-mph highway fuel-economy test loop, the electrified Sonata bore that out, seeing 51 mpg. The turbocharged Sonata N Line is the least efficient of the bunch, with estimates of 23 mpg city and 32 mpg highway. In our hands, though, it proved much more economical, with an observed rating of 39 mpg. For more information about the Sonata's fuel economy, visit the EPA's website. Interior, Comfort, and Cargo First Row: We have few complaints about the Sonata's interior. The front row is more spacious than the Accord's and the Camry's, and the seats are comfortable and supportive. Material quality is also better than we'd expect for a sub-$30,000 sedan. Second Row: The back seat isn't the roomiest in the segment, but average-size adults will be fine back there for hour-long trips. Cargo Capacity: The Sonata's 16-cubic-foot trunk is reasonably sized, capable of swallowing seven carry-on suitcases. We also appreciate the wide opening, as it makes loading easy. View Interior Photos Marc Urbano | Car and Driver Infotainment and Connectivity Infotainment: 12.3-inch touchscreen 12.3-inch touchscreen Connectivity: Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility Bluetooth, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility Audio Systems: 6-speaker stereo (standard); 12-speaker Bose stereo (optional) A pair of screens—one for gauges and one for infotainment—nestle into the dash and look right at home there. The gauge cluster's dimensions vary by trim, but all models receive a 12.3-incher in the center stack. The interface supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connections too. Several trims come with six speakers, but a few get a Bose system with twice that. Safety and Driver-Assistance Features Hyundai's suite of standard driver-assistance features is comprehensive. Sonata buyers get automatic high-beam assist, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, lane-centering assist, blind-spot monitoring, rear-cross-traffic alert, and automated emergency braking. Only some camera features and parking tech are optional. Standard Safety Features: adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring Optional Safety Features: blind-spot view monitor, a 360-degree camera system, remote smart parking For information about the Sonata's crash-test results, visit the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) websites. Warranty and Maintenance Coverage Hyundai's powertrain warranty is legendary. The company also offers longer complimentary scheduled maintenance terms than Toyota and other rivals. Limited Warranty: five years or 60,000 miles five years or 60,000 miles Powertrain Warranty: 10 years or 100,000 miles 10 years or 100,000 miles Complimentary Maintenance: three years or 36,000 miles C/D Test Results and Specs We test every vehicle we can. Data in the chart below may be for a different model year if the model remained unchanged from when we last tested it. Specifications Specifications 2024 Hyundai Sonata N Line Vehicle Type: front-engine, front-wheel-drive, 5-passenger, 4-door sedan PRICE Base/As Tested: $36,100/$37,310 Options: Aero Silver Matte paint, $1000; carpeted floor mats, $210 ENGINE turbocharged and intercooled DOHC 16-valve inline-4, aluminum block and head, port and direct fuel injection Displacement: 152 in3, 2497 cm3 Power: 290 hp @ 5800 rpm Torque: 311 lb-ft @ 1650 rpm TRANSMISSION 8-speed dual-clutch automatic CHASSIS Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink Brakes, F/R: 13.6-in vented disc/12.8-in disc Tires: Pirelli P Zero All Season 245/40R-19 94W M+S DIMENSIONS Wheelbase: 111.8 in Length: 193.3 in Width: 73.2 in Height: 56.9 in Passenger Volume, F/R: 58/42 ft3 Trunk Volume: 16 ft3 Curb Weight: 3625 lb C/D TEST RESULTS 60 mph: 5.4 sec 100 mph: 13.0 sec 1/4-Mile: 14.0 sec @ 103 mph 130 mph: 24.2 sec Results above omit 1-ft rollout of 0.3 sec. Rolling Start, 5–60 mph: 5.9 sec Top Gear, 30–50 mph: 3.1 sec Top Gear, 50–70 mph: 4.1 sec Top Speed (C/D est): 155 mph Braking, 70–0 mph: 180 ft Braking, 100–0 mph: 358 ft Roadholding, 300-ft Skidpad: 0.87 g C/D FUEL ECONOMY Observed: 28 mpg 75-mph Highway Driving: 39 mpg 75-mph Highway Range: 620 mi EPA FUEL ECONOMY Combined/City/Highway: 27/23/32 mpg C/D TESTING EXPLAINED More Features and Specs
Car and Driver
8 hours ago
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
View Exterior Photos of the 2026 Subaru Uncharted
Subaru is known for standard AWD, but it says it's offering the FWD model to serve as a price and range leader.
Car and Driver
9 hours ago
- Automotive
- Car and Driver
2026 Subaru Uncharted EV Is the Toyota C-HR by Another Name
Subaru is adding a new electric SUV to its lineup for 2026 called the Uncharted. Roughly similar in size to the Crosstrek, it's a twin of the Toyota C-HR and offers two powertrains: a 221-hp FWD single-motor setup or a 338-hp AWD dual-motor configuration. The Uncharted will go on sale in the U.S. early next year. The name Subaru Uncharted may evoke visions of a rugged off-roader, but this new electric SUV is charting new territory in ways that you might not expect. As a mechanical twin to the recently revealed Toyota C-HR, the Uncharted will be the smallest EV in the Subaru lineup. And though Subaru is notably a brand known for offering standard all-wheel drive across its lineup (save for the rear-wheel-drive BRZ sports car), the Uncharted will also be the first front-wheel-drive Subaru in decades. It will offer a 221-hp single-motor base model that aims to be a price and range leader compared with the optional all-wheel-drive setup. Riding on the e-TNGA platform and sharing most of its bodywork with its Toyota sibling, the Subaru does have distinct front- and rear-end styling that makes it look similar to the larger Solterra electric SUV (which was also developed with Toyota). The Uncharted is a subcompact electric SUV that could be considered an electric equivalent to the Crosstrek, and it has a bit of extra black plastic cladding compared with the C-HR to give it that rugged appearance so closely associated with Subaru. View Exterior Photos Subaru The base powertrain isn't typically Subaru, though, as it's a front-wheel-drive setup with a single electric motor producing 221 horsepower. Subaru says that this version, called FWD Premium, will be available in "limited quantities" and that it's meant to appeal to those looking for a more affordable option with extra range. Subaru estimates the FWD version will achieve a driving range of 300 miles on a charge. The battery pack is a 75-kWh lithium-ion unit that's standard across the board regardless of powertrain spec. The optional all-wheel-drive configuration has considerably more power, with 338 horsepower courtesy of dual electric motors, one in front and one in the rear. It comes on the Sport and GT trim levels (curiously, Toyota takes a more Subaru-esque approach in offering the AWD setup as standard on the C-HR). This drops the estimated driving range down to 290 miles, although the AWD Uncharted claims an impressive 60-mph acceleration time of under 5.0 seconds. Subaru will offer its X-Mode off-road setting on the AWD versions. View Interior Photos Subaru The interior features a 14.0-inch touchscreen, dual wireless phone charging pads, and a two-row, five-seat layout. Subaru-specific touches include orange trim, optional water-repellent seat upholstery, and a squared-off steering wheel. Heated seats, a power tailgate, and ambient lighting are standard, while the Sport includes a heated steering wheel and a 360-degree camera system. The top GT trim level has a panoramic sunroof, 20-inch wheels, ventilated front seats, and an upgraded audio system. The Uncharted comes with the North American Charging Standard (NACS) port that means it can be charged at Tesla Superchargers. Subaru claims it can charge at speeds of up to 150 kilowatts, meaning it should be able to get from 10 percent to 80 percent charge in 30 minutes. We don't yet have pricing for the 2026 Uncharted, which goes on sale early next year, but we assume that the base front-wheel-drive model will be priced in the low-$30,000 range to compete with models such as the Hyundai Kona Electric and Kia Niro EV. The AWD versions will likely be in the upper-$30,000 to low-$40,000 range. Joey Capparella Deputy Editor, Rankings Content Despite being raised on a steady diet of base-model Hondas and Toyotas—or perhaps because of it—Joey Capparella nonetheless cultivated an obsession for the automotive industry throughout his childhood in Nashville, Tennessee. He found a way to write about cars for the school newspaper during his college years at Rice University, which eventually led him to move to Ann Arbor, Michigan, for his first professional auto-writing gig at Automobile Magazine. He has been part of the Car and Driver team since 2016 and now lives in New York City. Read full bio
