The NACTOY awards have been recognizing the most outstanding new vehicles in North America since 1994. Unlike awards tied to a single publication, NACTOY is determined by a diverse jury of 50 independent automotive journalists, representing print, digital, television, radio, and social media outlets.

Jurors evaluate vehicles through a rigorous process, including long-term driving, comparative testing, and detailed assessments of design, safety, technology, performance, and value. The Palisade impressed the panel with its combination of family-focused features, innovative technology, and efficient powertrains, standing out in a competitive 2026 SUV lineup.

Jeff Gilbert, NACTOY President, highlighted that the Palisade defines the family vehicle for the 21st century, and it is easy to see why that is the case with all the technology included in this SUV.

Earning the North American Utility Vehicle of the Year™ title requires more than strong first impressions. NACTOY jurors spend months living with finalist vehicles, using them the same way real families do. They load them with luggage, transport passengers in all three rows, navigate daily traffic, and log extended highway miles.

The voting process itself is designed to be highly competitive and fair. In the first round, jurors distribute a limited number of points across multiple vehicles. Only the top three finalists advance to the final ballot, where each juror awards their points without restrictions.

In this final round, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade earned 270 points, which was double the score of its closest competitor. For jurors, the message was clear: the Palisade delivers meaningful advancements that matter to everyday drivers.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade succeeds because it delivers where families feel it most: in everyday usability, comfort, and thoughtful design. Its third-row seating offers genuine adult-friendly legroom and headroom. Inside, the Palisade offers a class-above interior with premium materials, impressive build quality, and refined finishes. The result is a cabin that feels upscale without losing its practical focus, delivering strong value in the three-row SUV segment.

You can even opt for the hybrid powertrain, designed to blend efficiency with responsive performance with over 600 miles of range. For the more adventurous, the XRT PRO adds enhanced off-roading capabilities.

Technology in the Palisade is equally purposeful. Its intuitive infotainment, driver-assist systems, and connectivity features are designed to support real driving situations, enhancing safety, convenience, and overall confidence behind the wheel. Together, these elements create an SUV that feels well thought out, easy to live with, and consistently rewarding to own.