These Were Europe’s Top-Selling Automakers Last Month
Europe’s new-car market returned to growth in May 2026, with registrations increasing across the European Union, EFTA countries, and the United Kingdom.
Europe’s new-car market returned to growth in May 2026, with registrations increasing across the European Union, EFTA countries, and the United Kingdom.
Plug-in hybrids promise electric commuting with gasoline backup, but recent reliability data paints a less simple picture. Several 2026 models named among the least reliable plug-in hybrids have faced recalls, fire-risk warnings, software problems, or production cuts.
Manual transmissions have become a rarity in the American auto market, now largely reserved for enthusiasts willing to prioritize driver engagement over convenience. As automatic gearboxes and electric vehicles continue to dominate sales, the list of new vehicles still offering a stick shift has narrowed again for 2026.
With the average price of a new car in the United States reaching $49,220 in May 2026, finding a practical and efficient SUV below that threshold has become a challenge for many buyers. Hybrid crossovers are increasingly attractive in this environment, especially as average gasoline prices remain above $4 per gallon.
A car that has crossed 100,000 miles usually needs more than an oil change, a filter, or a tire rotation. At that mileage, several parts and fluids may be worn, contaminated, or near the end of their expected service life.
Hybrid vehicles can cost more upfront than gas-only models, but many repay that premium through lower fuel costs over several years. The value depends on the model, fuel economy gains, purchase price, and how long the owner keeps the vehicle.
Three recent vehicles that have earned 10Best recognition and remain under five years old are now appearing on the used market at relatively accessible prices. These models combine modern equipment, strong everyday usability, and driving appeal, while staying within reach of budget-conscious buyers. All three can be found with mileage under 100,000 miles.
European luxury vehicles have long carried a reputation for costly repairs and unpredictable reliability, especially among enthusiasts sharing horror stories online. Yet, recent data from Consumer Reports reveals that several popular European models defy these expectations, offering owners a more stable experience than folklore might suggest.
Even as hybrid and electric vehicles dominate conversations about fuel economy, traditional gas-powered cars are still surprisingly efficient. Drivers who want to save money at the pump without spending extra on hybrid technology can find several 2026 models that deliver strong miles-per-gallon figures. Te Honda Civic leads the pack at 36 mpg combined, followed closely by the Hyundai Elantra and Toyota Corolla at 35 mpg.
Stellantis is making a bold bet on the future, announcing a $70 billion plan and 60 new vehicles by 2030. Among them, Chrysler could finally shake off its quiet years with the launch of the Arrow and Arrow Cross, set to join the recently revealed Airflow.
The low-slung luxury model was planned with advanced batteries, gigacasting production, and Toyota’s Arene OS software platform, but it will no longer move toward launch.
Hyundai is lowering the entry price of the 2026 Tucson Hybrid by adding new front-wheel-drive versions.
Ford is reportedly preparing a new chapter for the Escape, with the former SUV expected to return as a battery-powered model in 2029.
Volkswagen has confirmed that it will no longer offer any manual-transmission vehicles in the United States after the 2026 model year.
Routine oil changes in the United States may soon become more expensive and more difficult to book as disruptions tied to the conflict involving Iran affect global lubricant supply chains. The pressure is centered on synthetic motor oils that depend on specialized base stocks sourced largely from the Persian Gulf.