Tesla (TSLA) has broken into the Top 10 of Consumer Reports’ 2026 automotive brand report card, ranking 10th with an overall score of 72, up from 18th last year. The score reflects road tests, reliability, safety ratings, and owner satisfaction across Tesla’s lineup, including the Model 3, Model X, Model Y, Model S, and Cybertruck. Tesla stock was up about 1% on Thursday.
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Importantly, the positive development comes despite ongoing complaints about Tesla’s electrically controlled doors. The Cybertruck, Tesla’s newest release, was the only model to score below average.
The other automakers in the Top 10 are Subaru, BMW, Porsche, Honda (HMC), Toyota (TM), Lexus, Lincoln, Hyundai (HYMLF), and Acura.
Why Tesla’s Score Improved
Consumer Reports credited Tesla’s rise to its strategy of refining existing models rather than making major redesigns. Tesla relies on over-the-air software updates to enhance performance and features, a method that has boosted reliability over time.
For instance, the Model S, introduced in 2011, has steadily improved for more than a decade without a full redesign.
CNBC quoted Jake Fisher, senior director of auto testing at Consumer Reports, saying, “They definitely have their struggles, but by continuing to refine and not make huge changes in their models, they’re able to make more reliable vehicles, and they’ve moved up our rankings.”
What It Means for Tesla
Breaking into the Top 10 is a major milestone for Tesla, which has often faced criticism over build quality.
The recognition from Consumer Reports suggests that Tesla’s strategy of incremental improvements and software‑driven updates is paying off, boosting confidence among both consumers and investors.
What Is the Prediction for Tesla Stock?
Turning to Wall Street, TSLA stock has a Hold consensus rating based on 13 Buys, 11 Holds, and 10 Sells assigned in the last three months. At $383.04, the average Tesla price target implies a 14.93% downside risk. The stock has gained 56.9% over the past six months.
