Hyundai PALISADE Crowned 2026 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year

22nd January 2026

• All-new PALISADE honored by the North American Car, Utility and Truck of the Year (NACTOY) jury, one of the most respected independent automotive accolades
• Flagship three-row SUV praised for its hybrid and ICE powertrain lineup, class-above interior space, and advanced safety and convenience technologies
• NACTOY awards judged by 50 leading automotive journalists from the U.S. and Canada, following extensive real-world evaluation

Seoul/Detroit, January 14, 2026 – The all-new Hyundai PALISADE has been named the 2026 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year™ by the North American Car, Utility and Truck of the Year (NACTOY) jury, reaffirming Hyundai Motor’s leadership in delivering family-focused SUVs with premium quality, advanced technology and everyday usability.

The NACTOY awards are determined by a jury of 50 independent automotive journalists from the U.S. and Canada, representing print, digital, television, radio and social media. Vehicles are evaluated through an extensive process, including long-term driving, comparative testing, and detailed assessments of design, performance, innovation, safety and value.

As Hyundai Motor’s flagship three-row SUV, the all-new PALISADE was recognized for its broad and versatile powertrain lineup, including an efficient next-generation hybrid option alongside proven internal combustion engines. It also stood out for its spacious, premium interior, intuitive technology and comprehensive suite of family-oriented safety and convenience features.

“Palisade represents everything we strive to deliver at Hyundai — beautiful design, advanced technology, exceptional safety, and real value for families. 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. Thank you to our teams who made this possible, to our dealers who bring Palisade to life for customers every day, and to the NACTOY jury for this recognition.” – José Muñoz, President and CEO, Hyundai Motor Company

Versatile Lineup Blends Innovation and Performance 

PALISADE plays a pivotal role in Hyundai Motor’s global SUV portfolio, reflecting the brand’s commitment to offering diverse powertrain choices and user-centric technology across major markets. The recent addition of a next-generation hybrid variant — delivering up to 34 mpg and more than 600 miles of range — joins our powerful, smooth naturally aspirated V6 to offer efficiency without sacrificing performance. 

For adventure seekers, the rugged XRT PRO off-road trim further expands the lineup. Combined with intuitive technology systems, versatile seating and a spacious yet practical cabin, PALISADE delivers the versatility and sustainability modern families' demand. 

PALISADE achieved record-breaking U.S. sales in 2025, with retail sales up 17 percent and total sales rising 13 percent. Its success highlights the growing demand for SUVs that combine versatility, technology and family-focused features.

“Hyundai PALISADE defines the family vehicle for the 21st century. It's spacious, fun to drive and has a lot of technology. Congratulations on this impressive win.” – Jeff Gilbert, NACTOY President

Founded in 1994, NACTOY is the longest-running new-vehicle awards program not affiliated with a single media outlet. Its independence, rigorous evaluation process, and diverse jury make the awards among the most credible and prestigious honors in the global automotive industry.