2026 Canadian Utility Vehicle of the Year

Hyundai Palisade – 2026 Winner

Hyundai’s flagship SUV returns for 2026 with a full make-over, offering a new off-road focused trim, all-new interior materials and fresh technology. A V6 engine continues to be in the lineup, while a new four-cylinder turbocharged hybrid is available. With three rows, standard all-wheel drive, and a large suite of safety systems, the Palisade offers Canadians a strong choice in the highly competitive large SUV market. Juror Andrew McCredie had this to say in his Hyundai Palisade review published in Driving.ca: “And that stellar highway fuel economy would mean more money for apres-ski and less for Big Oil. Hyundai has …

Ford Maverick – 2026 Finalist

For 2026, the Ford Maverick remains one of the most unique vehicles on the market, blending compact pickup utility with car-like attributes. Buyers can still choose between a hybrid powertrain or a turbocharged gas engine, and now both are available with all-wheel drive. With its truck bed and urban-friendly size, the Maverick continues to offer a compelling choice for those interested in the smallest of trucks. Juror Stephanie Wallcraft had this to say in her Ford Maverick review published in Roadtripper.ca: “The middling crash test ratings give me a moment of pause, but I would put that aside for how …

Toyota RAV4 – 2026 Finalist

A brand new RAV4 hits Canadian roads in 2026, bringing standard hybrid power, an all-new system architecture and fresh styling to the table. The base powertrain option is a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid, while those who want more power and some all-electric range can opt for the plug-in hybrid model. Driving refinement has been enhanced for this new model, which expands its model lineup with an adventure focused Woodland trim and a fun GR Sport model. Juror Stephanie Wallcraft had this to say in her Toyota RAV4 review published in RoadTripper.ca: “However, given that Toyota was already having hard time keeping …

Subaru Forester – 2026 Semi-Finalist

The 2026 Subaru Forester continues after its full redesign last year, emphasizing practicality, visibility, and of course, standard symmetrical all-wheel drive. Updates for 2026 include infotainment refinements and additional active safety features. Power comes from a naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine or you can opt for the new Forester e-boxer Hybrid model, pairing that same engine with a battery and electric motor. The Forester continues to provide high value and customer-focused features for 2026. Juror David Chao had this to say in his Subaru Forester review published in AutomotivePress.com: “You want something with a bit of character, but want an open, …

Honda Passport – 2026 Semi-Finalist

For 2026, the Honda Passport gets a full, significant facelift, bringing new rugged styling and an updated interior to the table. Power continues to come from a naturally-aspirated V6 engine paired with an automatic transmission, while all-wheel drive continues to be the standard drivetrain. For Canada, all Passports are offered in Trailsport trim for 2026, offering upgraded off-road capability, features and styling. Juror Dan Heyman had this to say in his Honda Passport review published in VicariousMag: “Is it going to go blow-for-blow with the body-on-frame 4Runner? Not quite, but with the styling provided, the beefy chassis and powertrain design …