Hyundai Palisade wins 2026 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year
Hyundai Motor's Palisade flagship SUV wins the 2026 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year. Courtesy of Hyundai Motor
Hyundai Motor’s Palisade three-row flagship SUV has been named the 2026 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year for its balanced features in safety, convenience and design, the carmaker said Thursday.
The all-new 2026 Hyundai Palisade was recognized for its enhanced commercial value, driven in part by its advanced hybrid powertrain and spacious interior — attributes favored by North American customers.
“The Palisade represents everything we strive to deliver at Hyundai — beautiful design, advanced technology, exceptional safety and real value for families,” Hyundai Motor CEO Jose Munoz said. “To be recognized by 50 of North America’s most respected automotive journalists as the best utility vehicle of the year is a tremendous honor.”
The award is granted by the 50 professional automotive reviewers representing all forms of media, making it one of the most prestigious and sought-after prizes in the global automotive industry.
The Palisade is emerging as a key profit driver for Hyundai Motor in the United States, posting its best annual sales there in 2025 with a 13 percent increase from a year earlier.
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SUV is displayed during the New York International Auto Show Press Preview in New York City, April 16, 2025. Reuters-Yonhap
The addition of a hybrid powertrain provides a more diverse range of options for customers, according to the carmaker. This all-new Palisade Hybrid offers impressive efficiency, capable of driving up to 600 miles on a full tank.
“The 2026 Palisade was designed to be bigger, better and go further as Hyundai Motor’s flagship three-row SUV, while continuing to deliver family-oriented convenience, practical technology and uncompromised safety,” said Olabisi Boyle, senior vice president of product planning and mobility strategy at Hyundai Motor North America.
The latest award solidifies the carmaker’s footing in North America. Hyundai Motor Group has so far received a total of nine North American Car of the Year awards. The previous one was given to Kia’s EV9 all-electric SUV in 2024.
“The 2026 Palisade has been upgraded with bold proportions and premium design, full-featured seating and a complete suite of comfort and technology amenities,” Boyle said.
“We have also expanded the Palisade lineup to cater to an even broader array of customers by offering a powerful and efficient next-generation hybrid powertrain.”