5 Future Vehicles Edmunds Says Drivers Should Watch Closely

Autumn is traditionally the season when automakers begin rolling out most of their vehicles for the upcoming model year. While many arrive with familiar designs, others bring complete redesigns, new powertrains or major technology upgrades. For shoppers planning to buy a vehicle within the next six months, knowing which models are about to change significantly could make the waiting worthwhile. Automotive experts at Edmunds have highlighted five new vehicles expected to stand out.

Small SUV: 2027 Nissan Rogue Hybrid

Nissan’s top-selling vehicle is receiving its first full redesign since 2021, and the update goes well beyond styling. The fourth-generation Rogue introduces Nissan’s E-Power hybrid system, which operates more like an electric vehicle than a conventional hybrid. A compact gasoline engine serves primarily as a generator, replenishing a battery that sends power to the electric motors. Nissan says this setup should deliver a quieter ride and faster acceleration than the standard Rogue. The automaker estimates combined fuel economy at 38 mpg. Although that figure trails the hybrid Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, it remains a strong result for a small SUV.

Starting price: $37,065, including destination fees

Three-row SUV: 2028 Toyota Highlander

For 2028, the Toyota Highlander is making a dramatic transition to an all-electric three-row SUV with an estimated range of up to 320 miles. Shoppers seeking a gasoline or hybrid three-row Toyota will instead have to consider the larger Grand Highlander. However, the new electric Highlander does not require that size upgrade to provide a usable third row. During an Edmunds first drive, the rearmost seats proved noticeably more comfortable for adults than those in the outgoing Highlander. With the Hyundai Ioniq 9 and Kia EV9 among the few other three-row EVs designed for larger families, Toyota’s new electric SUV is likely to attract considerable attention.

Estimated starting price: $60,000

Luxury SUV: 2027 Audi Q9

As Audi prepares to retire its long-running A8 flagship sedan, the brand is expanding its SUV lineup with an entirely new full-size model. The 2027 Audi Q9 will be the largest vehicle the company has produced, positioning it against luxury competitors such as the BMW X7 and Mercedes-Benz GLS. A 429-horsepower turbocharged V6 will power the SUV. The cabin can be configured for seven occupants or six passengers in a more upscale arrangement with second-row captain’s chairs. Compared with the Q7, which is also being redesigned, the Q9 offers substantially more third-row space. Audi is also equipping its new flagship SUV with the brand’s newest technology and driver-assistance systems.

Starting price: $89,095, including destination

Compact pickup: 2027 Slate Truck

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Few upcoming vehicles have attracted as much attention from budget-minded shoppers as the Slate Truck, the first model from a new American automaker. This compact electric pickup is smaller than the Ford Maverick and intentionally pared back, with room for two people and no factory paint or built-in infotainment screen. Instead, Slate expects owners to personalize the vehicle, including adding equipment that can transform the cargo bed into a second seating area and effectively turn the pickup into a five-seat SUV. Its low projected price makes it an intriguing EV option, but buyers will need to accept significant compromises. The Truck omits features that are standard on many rivals, and its estimated 205-mile driving range may limit its appeal for some owners.

Starting price: $26,400, including destination

Full-size pickup: 2027 Chevrolet Silverado 1500

Chevrolet is giving the Silverado 1500 its first full redesign since 2019, with the goal of strengthening its position against the Ford F-150, Ram 1500 and Toyota Tacoma. The 2027 model features a more prominent exterior, a redesigned cabin and a standard 16.3-inch touchscreen. Its engine lineup adds two V8 choices alongside the existing turbocharged four-cylinder and diesel six-cylinder. The 5.7-liter V8 delivers 402 horsepower, while the 6.2-liter version produces 481 horsepower—both improvements over the previous V8 engines. GM’s Super Cruise hands-free driving system is expected to be offered on higher-end trims. As with other full-size pickups, the Silverado will be available in a wide range of configurations, with seven variants spanning from work-focused models to the off-road ZR2 and upscale High Country, which can push pricing beyond $80,000.

Estimated starting price: $40,000

Edmunds says

The upcoming model year is set to deliver major changes across several of the market’s most popular vehicle segments. From an innovative Nissan hybrid and Toyota’s new electric family SUV to Audi’s flagship Q9, the stripped-down Slate Truck and a thoroughly revamped Silverado, these models could offer meaningful advantages over vehicles available today. New-car shoppers have plenty of compelling options to watch as these vehicles arrive in the coming months.

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The Associated Press received this story from automotive website Edmunds. Josh Jacquot is an Edmunds contributor.