Hyundai has established its status as a frontrunner in the contemporary SUV landscape. At the 2026 Edmunds Top Rated Awards, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid garnered the “Best of the Best” accolade, the publication’s most prestigious recognition.
This honor was not Hyundai’s only achievement. From electric vehicles to compact hybrids, Hyundai’s 2026 selection earned top awards, showcasing that “premium” doesn’t necessarily imply “expensive.”
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid: The New Standard for Family SUVs
Selected from all newly released vehicles, the Palisade Hybrid emerged as the ultimate victor based on innovation, significance, and effect. According to Edmunds, it doesn’t merely compete within its category—it revolutionizes it.
“The Hyundai Palisade Hybrid delivers a plethora of benefits that put to shame SUVs priced at twice the cost,” remarked Alistair Weaver, editor-in-chief of Edmunds. “The best family SUV in America is also among the most coveted.”
Reasons for the Palisade Hybrid Winning “Best of the Best”
– Premium Craftsmanship: The quality of the interior and three-row configuration provides sophistication typically associated with luxury brands.
– Efficient Power: The hybrid powertrain harmonizes “energetic” performance with fuel efficiency.
– Real-World Usability: Tailored for school pickups and road trips, it emphasizes safety and convenience technology.
IONIQ 5: The Uncontested Leader of Electric SUVs
In 2026, the Hyundai IONIQ 5 was honored as Edmunds Top Rated Electric SUV. Its futuristic aesthetics and functional performance distinguish it in the competitive EV arena.
What Makes the IONIQ 5 Distinctive?
1. Versatility: Offerings include standard commuter options, off-road XRT variants, and high-performance IONIQ 5 N models.
2. Ultra-Fast Charging: Its 800V DC architecture ranks it among the quickest-charging EVs, facilitating long-distance journeys.
3. Flexible Space: The “living room” style interior features a spacious, flat-floor cabin for passenger comfort and cargo utility.
A Sweep of Excellence: Tucson Hybrid and IONIQ 9
Hyundai’s triumphs extended across other categories, with two models earning the Edmunds Top Rated “Highly Recommended” accolades:
– 2026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid: Recognized for its combination of driving pleasure and efficiency.
– 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9: The new three-row electric SUV received accolades for leveraging Hyundai’s EV expertise in a family-oriented design.
Crafted for Modern Lifestyles
For Hyundai, these honors affirm a “customer-first” approach.
Olabisi Boyle, senior vice president of product planning at Hyundai Motor America, emphasized that Edmunds’ assessments reflect real-life usage. “We produce vehicles that are thoughtfully designed for every seat, mile, and moment,” Boyle stated.
Whether in pursuit of a fuel-efficient family vehicle or a speedy electric crossover, Hyundai’s 2026 accolades indicate they offer the best choices available.
