2026 Vehicles to Watch – A Selection by Marc Bouchard

Every year brings its share of new developments and surprises in the automotive world. For 2026, manufacturers are once again pushing the boundaries of technology, comfort, and design, offering vehicles that combine performance, refinement, and innovation. In this selection, I present the models that, in my opinion, deserve your attention, whether you are looking for luxury, sportiness, or technological sophistication. From the electric BMW iX3 to the elegant Aston Martin Vanquish Volante, discover the 2026 vehicles to watch. A selection I talked about in the podcast “En première classe” (in French).

2026 Vehicles to Watch – SUV

BMW iX 3

BMW is poised to take a significant step forward with the launch of the iX3. Although it is not positioned at the top of the range, it occupies an important place as a compact BMW model. This vehicle marks a major advance, being the first to be built on BMW’s revolutionary Neue Klasse architecture, introducing a new paradigm of design and style. It represents a transition to a potentially unprecedented BMW experience for some customers. Compared to its predecessor, the iX3’s design is less likely to spark controversy. I believe that this vehicle, both in terms of its technology and design, will be crucial this year and will reach new heights.

Genesis GV90 – G90

Genesis is preparing to launch the GV 90, a high-end electric vehicle that has not yet been unveiled. However, I had the opportunity to test-drive the G90 Prestige, the “Black Edition” sedan. This vehicle is of exceptional quality, offering a smooth and powerful ride. Its ergonomics are well thought out and its seats are comfortable. For those who prefer to be driven, the rear space is equipped with Ottoman seats offering optimal comfort. The “Prestige” version is truly spectacular. What’s more, its price is about $30,000 lower than that of its main competitors.

Honestly, nothing inside the vehicle suggests this price difference. In my opinion, it’s a remarkable achievement and one of the vehicles we won’t see in large numbers on the roads in 2026, given its $140,000 purchase price. Nevertheless, it deserves serious consideration.

Volvo EX60

Let’s continue our analysis of the 2026 vehicles to watch, starting with the Volvo EX 60, a mid-sized electric SUV. This new model stands out with its more refined aesthetics and improved interior. The integration of physical elements into the dashboard, beyond the simple central screen, represents a significant evolution. It should be noted that this change is motivated by the new European safety standards (NCAP) for 2026, which require certain controls to be physical and not exclusively digital. These new standards will have a considerable impact on the interiors of Volvo vehicles, as well as those of other manufacturers.

As an electric vehicle, the EX 60’s range is a crucial factor to consider. It is among the best in its class. Although we have not had the opportunity to test the vehicle ourselves, the data provided by Volvo, which may be slightly optimistic, indicates that the EX 60 is an excellent choice and deserves special attention.

Lexus LX

The Lexus LX is a vehicle that, although its usefulness in the city may seem questionable, I admire enough to add it to the list of vehicles not to be missed in 2026. It stands out for its imposing size, comparable to that of a four-and-a-half-room apartment, although this comparison is exaggerated. It is a large, unpretentious vehicle. However, Lexus excels in execution and attention to detail, as evidenced by the article on the Takumi Kaiken. These qualities are integrated into a vehicle with exceptional off-road capabilities. Would I be willing to use a $160,000 vehicle off-road? I might, provided it wasn’t mine and I had the necessary permission, as I had the opportunity to do at an event organized as part of Lexus’s 35th anniversary celebrations in Canada. All in all, I consider the Lexus LX to be an aesthetically pleasing and enjoyable vehicle to drive.

Polestar 4

I would also like to discuss a range of vehicles that I find aesthetically pleasing, namely the Polestar brand. I previously test-drove the Polestar 2, which you can read about here.

Today, I am focusing on the Polestar 4, which has been available since the end of 2025. Although it is not entirely new, I consider it to be remarkably beautiful. This vehicle stands out for its elegant design and refined aesthetics. It is surprisingly less expensive than the Polestar 3, whose $100,000 price tag is difficult to justify.

I find the absence of a rear window particularly appealing. This feature complies with Canadian regulations, which require rearview mirrors on both sides, unlike in Europe, where the use of cameras is permitted. The absence of glass is compensated for by the integration of a camera, as is the case with most luxury vehicles, offering users the choice between a digital mirror and a traditional rearview mirror inside.

Audi Q9

Other new models to watch out for include the Audi Q9, which is the large SUV we’ve been promised. It is expected to come with a 45 TFSI engine, a 2.0 L turbocharged 4-cylinder with mild hybrid technology producing 261 horsepower and 273 lb-ft of torque, or a 55 TFSI, a 3.0 L turbocharged V6 with mild hybrid technology producing 335 horsepower and 369 lb-ft of torque. A plug-in hybrid version could also be on the menu.

But we’re promised a vehicle that will truly be extremely high-end, with the stated ambition of competing with the Mercedes GLS and BMW X7. We’ll probably have to wait until 2027 before it goes on sale in Canada, but our European colleagues will likely be able to drive it within a few months, before the end of 2026.

2026 Vehicles to Watch – Cars

Aston Martin Vanquish Volante

To our publisher and editor-in-chief, I present the latest Aston Martin Vanquish Volante model, a vehicle that I am sure will be of interest to you. The Vanquish is a well-known model, while the Volante stands out for its exceptional design.

This convertible is remarkable for its aesthetics and performance. However, I would like to draw your attention to a limited edition of only one model, the “Wave Edition.”

Its turquoise colour is particularly striking. This vehicle is undeniably beautiful, and I haven’t even looked at the price yet. For more information on Aston Martins in the James Bond film No Time to Die, please see my article.

Turquoise, the colour on the roads in 2026?

Turquoise is emerging as a colour to watch in 2026, thanks in particular to its use in the Aston Martin Volante. This shade has also been seen on the Ferrari Amalfi and, in a darker shade, on BMW models. In addition, mainstream brands such as Nissan have chosen a bright turquoise for the launch colour of their Leaf, illustrating a trend toward brighter and bolder shades.

This is a positive development, as gray is beginning to saturate the market. With automotive designs becoming increasingly sophisticated and the advent of electric vehicles reducing design constraints, designers are enjoying greater creative freedom. The integration of bright colours not only allows for greater vehicle customization, but also helps them stand out in an ever-changing market.

To listen to our full interview, tune in to the “En première classe” podcast (in French).