Consumer Reports’ (CR) latest rankings in its 2026 Top 10 Picks and its first-ever Safety Verdict rankings offer encouraging momentum for Ford and Lincoln, highlighting progress in predicted reliability, efficiency, and safety.
The inclusion of the Ford F-150 marks the first time a full-size truck has made the list since 2019, thanks to improvements in predicted reliability, 3.5-liter PowerBoost hybrid performance and available BlueCruise. It also stands out for its strong powertrains, roomy cabin, and simple controls.
Maverick continues to lead the small pickup category, noted for its affordability, reliability, smooth ride, and the impressive 37 mpg overall from Maverick hybrid.
These wins solidify Ford’s reputation for trucks that balance utility with efficiency.
Consumer Reports also shared its new Safety Verdict rankings, which incorporate their evaluations for handling and ease of use, crash test results from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, and whether proven safety technologies are available as standard equipment.
Lincoln is identified as a top safety leader — ranking 4th overall and beating brands like Toyota, Honda, and Volvo by making advanced safety tech standard.
“It’s encouraging to see F-150 and Maverick earning two spots among Consumer Reports’ Top 10 Picks in New Cars, plus Lincoln ranking fourth in the new Safety Verdict rankings," saidJosh Haliburton, Ford Executive Director of Quality. "Combined with Ford earning our best reliability finish in 15 years this past fall in Consumer Reports’ Reliability Rankings, these milestones show we are moving in the right direction. However, we aren't resting on these achievements. We remain laser-focused on improving quality for our customers in every vehicle we assemble."
