Tesla’s Full Self-Driving (Supervised) system has earned top honors as the best driver-assistance technology in the 2026 MotorTrend Best Tech Awards. The award marks a significant shift for the publication, which previously favored competitors over earlier FSD versions. Judges praised the latest v14 software for its smooth performance in complex real-world scenarios.
MotorTrend's decision highlights substantial advancements in Tesla's Full Self-Driving (Supervised) system, tested extensively with its v14 software. Previously, the publication had critiqued earlier FSD iterations for erratic behavior and near-misses, opting instead for systems like GM’s Super Cruise. However, testers now report that v14 delivers far smoother handling in challenging urban environments, such as unprotected left turns, traffic circles, interactions with emergency vehicles, and navigation through dense city streets.
What sets FSD apart is its camera-only approach, enabling operation on city streets, rural roads, and freeways without reliance on radar, lidar, or pre-mapped highways. This versatility outpaces rivals including Ford's BlueCruise, GM's Super Cruise, and BMW’s Highway Assistant, according to the evaluators. No other advanced driver-assistance system (ADAS) matches FSD's broad capabilities, though it remains a Level 2 system requiring constant driver supervision.
Pricing remains a point of discussion, with Tesla charging $8,000 for a one-time purchase or $99 monthly subscription—higher than competitors' offerings. MotorTrend deems the premium worthwhile due to FSD's extensive scope and ongoing software updates. Safety evaluations showed collision-free performance over thousands of miles, but concerns persist regarding configurable modes that permit aggressive driving or speeds exceeding limits.
Overall, the award underscores Tesla's rapid progress in reshaping the ADAS landscape. For drivers needing the most capable hands-on assistance available, FSD Supervised currently leads the field.
