Hyundai Motor Company has once again demonstrated its trusted brand competitiveness in the U.S. market by securing consecutive awards from major automotive media outlets.
The group announced on Friday that a total of 17 models – 8 from Hyundai, 5 from Kia, and 4 from Genesis – were named top models in their respective categories at the “2026 Editors’ Choice Awards” by the influential U.S. automotive magazine Car and Driver.
Car and Driver, a leading automotive publication in the U.S., annually selects the best models in each category as “Editors’ Choice” based on comprehensive evaluations by expert editors who test-drive vehicles available in the U.S. market.
Hyundai’s award-winning lineup includes the Ioniq 5 and Ioniq 5 N in the compact electric SUV category, Ioniq 9 in the midsize electric SUV segment, Palisade in the midsize three-row SUV class, Palisade hybrid and Santa Fe hybrid in the midsize hybrid SUV category, Elantra N in the compact sports sedan segment, and Santa Cruz in the compact pickup truck category.
The Hyundai Palisade has been named the best model for seven consecutive years, earning recognition for its attractive exterior design, upscale interior, and wide array of standard convenience features.
Kia’s accolades include the EV6 in the compact electric SUV category, the EV9 in the midsize electric SUV segment, the K5 in the midsize family sedan class, the Carnival in the minivan category, and the Carnival hybrid in the hybrid minivan segment.
Genesis models topped their respective categories: GV70 as the best luxury compact SUV, GV80 as the top luxury midsize two-row SUV, G80 as the leading luxury midsize sedan, and G90 as the premier luxury full-size sedan.
Car and Driver highlighted the key strengths of the selected vehicles, including outstanding design, product appeal, and driving dynamics. The Ioniq 5 received praise for its rapid-charging capabilities and agile, stable handling. The Elantra N stood out for its exceptional handling, while the Santa Cruz impressed with its premium interior and superior ride comfort.
Kia’s EV6 was recognized for its outstanding fast-charging functionality and stable driving performance. The Carnival earned accolades for its sleek exterior and spirited driving dynamics, while the K5 impressed with its bold design and class-leading standard features.
The Genesis GV70 was lauded for its sophisticated interior and exterior design and diverse convenience features. The GV80 and G80 were praised for their elegant cabin spaces and product quality that exceeds their class. The G90 received recognition for its serene and quiet ride, luxurious interior, and comprehensive convenience features.
Hyundai Motor Company’s success extended to other prominent automotive media outlets in the U.S.
In the “2026 Drivers’ Choice Awards,” presented by MotorWeek, America’s longest-running TV automotive program, the Hyundai Palisade claimed the title of “Best Large Utility,” while the Kia K4 was named “Best Family Car.”
The Palisade earned high marks for its next-generation hybrid system, which enhances both performance and fuel efficiency, as well as its array of advanced convenience features. The Kia K4 was commended for its spacious and comfortable interior and smooth driving characteristics.
Following its North American Car of the Year win, the Palisade has now secured major awards from both Car and Driver and MotorWeek, establishing itself as a dual champion among leading U.S. automotive media outlets.
In the “2026 Best Car Awards” announced by the automotive evaluation website Cars.com, the Hyundai Santa Fe and Santa Fe hybrid were honored as the “Best Family Car,” while the Kia EV9 claimed the title of “Best Electric Vehicle.”
The Santa Fe was recognized for its excellent space utilization, three-row seating configuration, smooth, comfortable ride, and family-friendly convenience features. The EV9 stood out for its impressive single-charge driving range, rapid charging capabilities, and exceptional spaciousness and comfort.
A Hyundai Motor Company spokesperson said the company’s consistent recognition from leading U.S. automotive media outlets reflects its ongoing efforts to enhance product competitiveness from the customer’s perspective. The spokesperson added that Hyundai would continue to strengthen its competitiveness in key global markets, including the United States.