Hyundai PALISADE Crowned 2026 Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year
- HMG Newsroom
- 2026.02.13 (KST)
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- The all-new Hyundai PALISADE has been named the 2026 Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year at the Canadian Car of the Year Awards (CCOTY)
- This marks the fourth time in the last five years that a Hyundai Motor model has won this prestigious award, following wins by SANTA FE, IONIQ 5 and TUCSON
- Two other Hyundai models were recognized as CCOTY finalists: IONIQ 9 for Canadian Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year and ELANTRA for Canadian Car of the Year
SEOUL, February 12, 2026 – Hyundai PALISADE has captured the prestigious 2026 Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year award, presented by the Automobile Journalists Association of Canada (AJAC) at the Canadian Car of the Year Awards (CCOTY) in Toronto.
What Makes the 2026 Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year Award Significant?
This marks the second consecutive year a Hyundai model has earned the Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year and is the fourth time in five years that a Hyundai model has taken the title, with previous wins from SANTA FE (2025), IONIQ 5 (2023) and TUCSON (2022).
“Being recognized as AJAC’s Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year is an honor we’re incredibly proud of, especially in a segment as competitive as this one. The all-new PALISADE represents Hyundai at its best: bold design, advanced technology and a commitment to delivering exceptional value to Canadian families. Earning this award for the fourth time since 2022 underscores the importance of applying customer and journalistic feedback we’ve gained over the years, while continuing the strong momentum and leadership of our SUV portfolio in Canada.” – Steve Flamand, President and CEO of Hyundai Auto Canada
“Congratulations to Hyundai PALISADE for earning AJAC's 2026 Canadian Utility of the Year Award. Hyundai has completely redesigned its three-row SUV, delivering more features, more comfort and a new, efficient hybrid system. Our expert jurors scored PALISADE highly for its interior styling, its overall quality and for the high consumer appeal this SUV brings to the Canadian marketplace.” – Evan Williams, President of AJAC
In recent years, other Hyundai models have also earned top honors, including:
- IONIQ 5 N – 2025 Canadian Electric Car of the Year
- SANTA CRUZ – 2022 Best Small Pickup in Canada
- IONIQ 6 – 2023 Canadian Green Car of the Year
What Makes PALISADE Stand Out?
The redesigned PALISADE represents a leap forward from its predecessor with more space, a new hybrid option, and advanced technology. Building on a reputation for durability, PALISADE is designed to meet the demands of modern families, now with an adventure-ready XRT PRO model. It offers:
- New Powertrains: PALISADE introduces two new engine options. A 3.5-liter V6 engine produces an estimated 287 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. For the first time, a hybrid variant is available, combining a turbocharged engine with electric motors for an estimated total system output of 329 horsepower and 339 lb.-ft. of torque.
- Advanced Technology: The new model features significant upgrades to its infotainment, convenience, and safety systems. The hybrid model includes a ‘Stay Mode’ to allow extended use of the climate and infotainment systems while parked.
- Proven Durability: PALISADE continues the company’s legacy of building durable vehicles; 95 percent of all Hyundai SUVs sold in Canada in the last 10 years are still on the road today .
Were Other Hyundai Models Recognized by AJAC?
Two other Hyundai models were finalists in the 2026 AJAC awards program:
- IONIQ 9: Finalist for Canadian Electric Utility Vehicle of the Year
- ELANTRA: Finalist for Canadian Car of the Year
How Are the Winners Chosen?
The CCOTY awards are determined through extensive real-world testing by more than 45 AJAC members across Canada. Vehicles are evaluated on the same roads and in the same conditions that drivers in Canada experience daily. All voting results are verified by the accounting firm KPMG.
