Close Hyundai Palisade: 2026 NACTOY Award Finalist
Did you hear the news? The Hyundai Palisade is drawing national attention, most recently as a 2026 NACTOY Award Finalist. This esteemed honor is bestowed upon nine vehicles across the car, SUV, and utility segments.
This family-friendly Hyundai model has been a favorite among drivers in Bristol, Johnson City, Bulls Gap, and Pikeville, Tennessee, for some time now. Our team at Friendship Hyundai of Bristol can testify to this. Keep reading and learn more about this award and how exactly the 2026 Hyundai Palisade has earned a nomination to win it all.
2026 Hyundai Palisade Recognition
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade has been recognized as a finalist for the 2026 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year, a distinction that highlights its standout design, performance, and driver appeal.
This announcement, revealed during the opening of the Los Angeles Auto Show, positions the Hyundai Palisade among a short list of utility vehicles evaluated by a respected panel of automotive journalists. Coincidentally, the Los Angeles Auto Show is the same venue where the Hyundai Palisade made its debut in 2018.
This recognition continues a growing list of accolades for the Palisade, including the 2025 iF Design Award and the 2025 Red Dot Design Award.
2026 Hyundai Palisade Finalist
Being named a finalist for a major industry honor places the Hyundai Palisade award conversation on a national stage.
The North American Car of the Year jury selected three finalists in the Utility category after reviewing 30 eligible vehicles across the Car, Truck, and Utility segments. NACTOY 2026 finalists were chosen by an independent jury of automotive journalists who evaluated eligible models on areas such as:
- Design
- Driver Satisfaction
- Handling
- Innovation
- Safety
- Segment Leadership
- Value
NACTOY president Jeff Gilbert commented, “These finalists show the wide range of choices that consumers have in the marketplace. Our jury of distinguished auto reporters has come up with a great selection of fantastic vehicles that truly reflect the best of the best.”*
Final votes will be cast later in the year, with winners announced on January 14, 2026, during the Detroit Auto Show.
About the 2026 Hyundai Palisade
As a second-generation midsize three-row SUV, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade delivers space and flexibility that families value. Seating accommodates seven or eight passengers, but if you’re travelling with fewer, up to 86.7 cubic feet of cargo space is available when rear rows fold down and 46.3 cubic feet behind the second row.
The 2026 Palisade introduces expanded powertrain choices designed to match different driving styles. Buyers can select a 3.5-liter gasoline V6 or a 2.5-liter turbocharged hybrid four-cylinder, marking the first hybrid option offered in the Palisade lineup. The hybrid configuration delivers up to 34 MPG with an estimated driving range exceeding 600 miles, supporting longer trips with fewer fuel stops.
For drivers who enjoy exploring beyond paved roads, the Palisade XRT PRO brings added capability. Increased ground clearance, all-terrain tires, and a model-exclusive electronic rear limited-slip differential support confident traction across varied surfaces.
Test Drive a Hyundai Palisade Today!
For drivers searching for Hyundai Palisade 2026 award news, this finalist status reinforces why the model continues to stand out in a competitive field.
Shoppers interested in recognized vehicles can explore current availability at Friendship Hyundai of Bristol and stay informed as final voting approaches. Reach out and book a test drive around Bristol, Johnson City, Bulls Gap, and Pikeville, TN!
*Source: Hyundai