The hottest EVs from the 2026 New York Auto Show (plus one brawny concept)
With gas prices rising across the country, consumers are turning to electric vehicles as a way to save money on their commute. And while there weren’t a ton of all-new EVs on display at the 2026 New York International Auto Show, we did see some notable debuts from automakers including Subaru, Kia, Hyundai and more. So here’s a look at some of the most interesting upcoming EV models on display today, including a handful of previously announced vehicles that we haven’t had a chance to see in person before. Subaru Getaway Sadly, Toyota didn't bring the Highlander EV to the NY Auto Show, so I couldn't make a direct comparison to Subaru's new three-row EV SUV. Sam Rutherford for Engadget Built on the same platform as Toyota’s Highlander EV , the Getaway isn’t just Subaru’s first three-row EV SUV, it’s also its most powerful with up to 420 horsepower. Naturally, the car comes standard with the company’s signature Symmetrical all-wheel drive tech while the 95.8kWh battery on the long-range model delivers more than 300 miles. Sadly, with a lackluster expected charging speed of 150kW, the Getaway will need about 30 minutes to bring its battery from 20 to 80 percent. The Getaway is expected to arrive sometime in late 2026, and while Subaru has yet to reveal official pricing, it’s also planning on releasing a more affordable standard range model with a 77kWh power pack in the first half of 2027. Hyundai Boulder Concept Hyundai's SangYup Lee on stage to
With gas prices soaring across the United States, electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming an increasingly attractive option for consumers seeking to reduce their commuting costs. While the 2026 New York International Auto Show did not feature a plethora of entirely new EVs, several automakers, including Subaru, Kia, Hyundai, and others, showcased notable debuts and previously announced models that have garnered significant attention. This article delves into some of the most intriguing upcoming EV models on display, offering insights into their features, specifications, and expected release timelines.
One of the standout EVs at the event was Subaru's Getaway, a three-row electric SUV that represents the company's first foray into this segment. Built on the same platform as Toyota's Highlander EV, the Getaway is not only Subaru's first three-row EV but also its most powerful model, boasting up to 420 horsepower. As expected, the vehicle comes equipped with Subaru's hallmark Symmetrical all-wheel drive technology, ensuring optimal performance across various road conditions. The long-range variant features a 95.8kWh battery, which promises more than 300 miles of driving on a single charge. However, the Getaway's charging speed is somewhat disappointing, with an expected 150kW charging rate requiring approximately 30 minutes to increase the battery's state of charge from 20% to 80%. Subaru plans to release the Getaway in late 2026, though official pricing has yet to be disclosed. Additionally, the automaker intends to introduce a more affordable standard range model with a 77kWh power pack in the first half of 2027.
Another highlight at the auto show was Hyundai's Boulder concept, which was unveiled to commemorate the company's 40th anniversary in the US auto market. Hyundai's SangYup Lee took the stage to present the new Boulder SUV concept, which showcases the automaker's "Art of Steel" design philosophy. While concrete details about the Boulder are scarce, the prominent grille and body-on-frame construction suggest that it will not be a full battery electric vehicle (BEV). Instead, the Boulder is likely to be a hybrid or range-extended EV at best. Despite this, the concept car serves as a testament to Hyundai's commitment to innovation and design, reflecting the brand's evolving approach to the automotive industry.
In addition to these models, other automakers also showcased their latest EV offerings at the 2026 New York Auto Show. Kia, for instance, unveiled its new EV GT, a high-performance sports car that promises impressive acceleration and a sleek, aerodynamic design. The GT is powered by a dual-motor setup, with a combined output of 671 horsepower, enabling it to reach 60 mph in just 2.0 seconds. The vehicle's 87kWh battery delivers an estimated 280 miles of range, while its advanced regenerative braking system contributes to enhanced efficiency. Kia has set a release date for the EV GT in early 2027, with pricing starting at $59,900.
Furthermore, the event featured the unveiling of the Polestar 5, a performance-oriented electric sedan that aims to challenge established players in the luxury EV market. Designed to offer a blend of sporty handling and refined comfort, the Polestar 5 features a unique "Racing Lap" mode that optimizes the vehicle's performance for track use. Powered by a dual-motor setup, the sedan delivers a combined output of 608 horsepower, with a top speed of 155 mph. The 108.8kWh battery promises an impressive 300-mile range, while the vehicle's advanced chassis and suspension system ensure a smooth and responsive driving experience. Polestar plans to launch the 5 in late 2026, with pricing starting at $60,000.
The 2026 New York Auto Show also saw the debut of the Ford Mustang Mach-E R, a high-performance variant of the popular electric SUV. Boasting a 450-horsepower dual-motor setup, the Mach-E R can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 3.7 seconds. The vehicle's 98.8kWh battery delivers an estimated 300 miles of range, while its aggressive styling and enhanced performance make it a formidable competitor in the electric SUV market. Ford has set a release date for the Mach-E R in early 2027, with pricing starting at $59,995.
In conclusion, the 2026 New York International Auto Show provided a glimpse into the future of electric vehicles, showcasing a range of innovative models from various automakers. From Subaru's Getaway to Hyundai's Boulder concept, these EVs represent the latest advancements in technology, design, and performance, reflecting the growing importance of sustainable transportation in today's world. As gas prices continue to rise, electric vehicles are poised to become an increasingly attractive option for consumers seeking to reduce their environmental impact and save money on their daily commutes. With these new models on the horizon, the future of EVs looks bright, and the automotive industry is undoubtedly on the cusp of significant transformation.
