Hyundai Palisade Earns Major Industry Awards for 2026

Hyundai Motor America reports that the 2026 Palisade received awards from Good Housekeeping, Car Confections and IIHS, reflecting safety, space and hybrid updates.

The new-generation Hyundai Palisade is steadily strengthening its position in the midsize family SUV segment. The 2026 model year has already earned several major industry awards, an uncommon achievement even among high-profile redesigns.

The most notable recognition came from the Good Housekeeping 2026 Family Car Awards, where the Palisade was named Best Midsize SUV. The selection process combined evaluations from Good Housekeeping Institute experts, Car and Driver editors, and real families who tested the vehicle in everyday conditions, highlighting the model’s focus on practical, family-oriented use.

Around the same time, the Palisade also topped Car Confections’ ranking of the Best Midsize Three-Row SUV for 2026. The automotive media outlet assesses vehicles across a broad set of criteria, including interior space, ride quality, technology, efficiency, safety, and overall value within the sub-$50,000 segment. In this context, the Palisade emerged as the most well-rounded option in its class.

Safety played a central role in the model’s recognition as well. The 2026 Palisade earned the IIHS 2025 TOP SAFETY PICK designation under more stringent testing standards that place greater emphasis on second-row occupant protection. The SUV is equipped with ten airbags, including coverage for the third row, along with seatbelt pretensioners and load limiters for all seating rows.

Judges also pointed to key technical updates. For the first time, the Palisade is offered with a hybrid powertrain combining a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine and two electric motors, delivering up to 329 horsepower. Alongside the hybrid, Hyundai continues to offer a V6 option and the more adventure-focused XRT PRO trim, expanding the model’s appeal across a wide range of family needs.

According to Hyundai, the launch of the next-generation Palisade has already translated into market momentum, with double-digit sales growth reported in November. Together with its recent awards, this early response suggests that the updated Palisade aligns closely with current expectations in the family SUV market, where space, safety, and versatility remain decisive factors.