Mercedes-Benz vehicles are renowned for their superb engineering, beautiful exterior styling, interior appointments and award-winning technology. And, of course, these qualities have caught the attention of automotive experts. Recently, Car and Driver gave awards to several Mercedes-Benz models in its “2026 Editors’ Choice: The Best New Cars, Trucks SUVs and Minivans” awards. 

Car and Driver is known for its data-driven approach to reviewing vehicles. The editors drove about 450 vehicles in 47 different segments to arrive at a list of 2026 honorees. Acceleration, braking, cornering and interior sound levels, as well as fuel economy, vehicle range (EVs and PHEVs) and, of course, their cargo-carrying capacity are all considered.

These are the Mercedes-Benzes they singled out:

• The 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC300 (Compact Luxury SUV) got high praise for its “Silky” turbo four-cylinder engine, “finely crafted interior,” and “comfortable and controlled road manners.” Car and Driver suggested Mercedes’ GLC class might be a more family friendly choice than the C-class sedan, especially with more interior room.
• The 2026 GLC class also has a superior Hybrid Compact Luxury SUV in the 2026 Mercedes-Benz GLC350e, with “class-leading electric range, richly decked-out cabin, [and] plenty roomy interior.” The plug-in hybrid has an all-electric range of 54 miles and gets a combined EPA-estimated 25 mpg.
• Mercedes-Benz’s E-Class drove off with the Best Mid-Size Luxury Sedan award because it “oozes luxury inside,” has great standard and optional technology and a “silken” inline-six engine. Altogether, it’s a “delicious combination of elegance, comfort and driver involvement, liberally seasoned with technology.”
• Among Full-Size Luxury Cars, the 2026 Mercedes-Benz S-Class won for its choice of three “stout” powertrains (the hybrid model boasts “class-leading all-electric range”, “smooth as glass” ride and “sophisticated Luxury.” The sedan is built for five and the Car and Driver review said, “Wherever you’re seated, the S-Class never asks you to compromise on comfort – or prestige.” 
• Unlike many brands, Mercedes-Benz has never given up on station wagons, and the 2026 Mercedes-AMG E53 Wagon and the E450 All-Terrain earned mentions. The editors loved the E53 Wagon’s style, performance and the electric range of its hybrid version. It “brilliantly combines the classic elements of a wagon with potent plug-in hybrid tech and plenty of features. The M-B E450 All-Terrain earned a mention for its “responsive powertrain, [and] elegant and comfortable cabin.” They also liked its “rugged good looks.” 
  
  Our client advisors at Mercedes-Benz of Farmington can help you sort through the myriad options and zero in on the best Mercedes-Benz for you and your family.