Peter Lyon
January 24, 2026
The Hyundai Palisade, IONIQ 5, and Kona have been recognized with class wins in Kelley Blue Book’s prestigious 2026 Best Buy Awards, reflecting the brand’s continued momentum in technology, design, safety, handling, and quality.
Now in their twelfth year, Kelley Blue Book’s Best Buy Awards are widely regarded as a trusted benchmark of new vehicle excellence. The program honors models that rise to the top of their segments through a full year of expert evaluation, including comprehensive vehicle testing, pricing trends, consumer sentiment, five-year cost‑to‑own data, and real-world usability. The 2026 awards reflect Kelley Blue Book’s testing of nearly every new and redesigned vehicle sold in the U.S., making each recognition especially meaningful in recognizing Hyundai’s continued leadership in technology, safety, performance, design, and attainability.
“For our 12th annual Best Buy Awards, some obvious patterns have emerged. With three different vehicles in very challenging categories, Hyundai has proven they know how to build compelling vehicles that really appeal to new car shoppers,” said Brian Moody, executive editor for Kelley Blue Book. “The new Palisade is the perfect example, with available hybrid power and a luxurious interior, it’s an ideal family SUV. The Hyundai Kona combines a stylish look and usefulness for a very reasonable price. Finally, the home run of electric cars, the IONIQ 5, is one of those cars you see everywhere but is anything but ordinary. The hatchback look and thoughtful design elements make it an excellent choice for those who want both value and fun.”
“We are proud that these three Hyundai models continue to resonate with Kelley Blue Book’s editors for their engineering integrity, advanced safety technologies, distinctive design, and refined ownership experience,” said Olabisi Boyle, senior vice president, product planning and mobility strategy, Hyundai Motor North America. “IONIQ 5 extending its reign as Best Electric Vehicle, Palisade being honored for its premium design and available hybrid powertrain, and Kona winning its category for the third-consecutive year all speak to our team’s commitment to delivering vehicles that reflect our customers’ priorities. These recognitions reinforce that our models continue to surprise and delight consumers and expert reviewers alike on the strength of their innovation, style, and thoughtful engineering.”
CARLIST THOUGHTS
In addition to triple Kelley Blue Book accolades, Hyundai has done well over the last five years with international awards — including the World Car of the Year titles for the IONIQ 5 in 2022 and the IONIQ 6 in 2023.
