2026 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year: All-New Hyundai Palisade

On January 14, 2026, Hyundai’s imported flagship hybrid midsize/large three-row SUV—the all-new Palisade—was awarded the “2026 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year” title. The award was determined by a panel of 50 seasoned automotive journalists from the U.S. and Canada, who conducted months of real-world testing and evaluated vehicles across multiple criteria, including design, performance, safety, innovation, and value. The jury particularly praised its 2.5T hybrid powertrain, luxurious cabin space, and family-friendly technology. The new Palisade has already earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick award, a five-star ANCAP safety rating, and the 2025 Red Dot Design Award. It features a P1+P2 dual-motor hybrid system delivering a combined output of 334 horsepower and a driving range exceeding 1,000 kilometers. With global cumulative sales surpassing one million units, the Palisade achieved a 17% year-over-year retail sales increase in North America amid the region’s ongoing transition toward new-energy vehicles. Launched in China in September 2025, it quickly gained market recognition for offering premium specifications at a competitive price.