For anyone shopping for a new SUV, the usual suspects are often Toyota or Honda. But this year, Hyundai surprised the industry by taking home the Best SUV Brand award for 2026, beating out 39 other automotive brands and proving their lineup packs plenty of value for buyers.
Hyundai has managed to win the Best SUV Brand award for the second year in a row and now holds an impressive record with six wins in the past five years. This recognition from U.S.News highlights what sets Hyundai apart: a strong blend of safety, reliability, comfort, technology, and value across the whole lineup.
The award winning Hyundai SUVs include the Palisade, Tucson, Santa Fe, Kona, Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, and the all new Ioniq 9. With gas, hybrid, plug in hybrid, and full electric models available, Hyundai makes it easy for buyers to find something that fits their needs. The Hyundai Santa Cruz truck even gets an honorable mention as a smart, fun to drive option for people who want something unique.
While Hyundai claimed the crown for SUVs, there are other winners worth noting. Ram took home the award for Best Truck Brand, thanks to its solid performance and wide appeal. Honda secured Best Car Brand, continuing its reputation for building quality sedans and hatchbacks. Genesis, which is actually Hyundai’s luxury brand, was named Best Luxury Brand for 2026.
Ford managed to win Best Electric Vehicle Brand, showing that the race for EV supremacy is far from settled. In more specific categories, the Hyundai Tucson earned Best Compact SUV for the Money, Ioniq 5 got Best Electric Vehicle for Families, and the Ioniq 6 won Best EV Car, proving Hyundai’s strength in both traditional and new tech segments.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.
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