José Muñoz, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, has been crowned 2025 MotorTrend Person of the Year.
In fact, he topped the prestigious MotorTrend Power List, joining an elite club of industry changemakers.
MotorTrend lauded Muñoz as a “driving force” behind Hyundai’s record-breaking growth in North America, acknowledging his pivotal role in boosting sales, market share, revenue, and profitability.
But what makes this recognition particularly significant is that Muñoz is the first non-Korean executive to lead the conglomerate that includes both Hyundai and Genesis.
“This recognition is due to the vision and support of our Executive Chair, the hardworking men and women of Hyundai, our outstanding dealer partners, our customers, and so many others who work tirelessly for Hyundai and Genesis in this competitive and dynamic industry. It’s a great time to be with Hyundai!”
José Muñoz, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company
His achievements place him in esteemed company, alongside Euisun Chung, Hyundai Motor Group’s Executive Chair, as well as other Hyundai power players like SangYup Lee (Head of Hyundai and Genesis Global Design), Luc Donckerwolke (Hyundai Motor Group Chief Creative Officer), Claudia Marquez (Hyundai Motor America Chief Operating Officer), and Karim Habib (Head of KIA Global Design).
Hyundai was once synonymous with affordability, a brand that gave buyers bang for their buck. But under Muñoz’s leadership, Hyundai has evolved into a name that carries prestige, innovation, and top-tier quality.
Beyond record-breaking sales figures, Muñoz has been instrumental in Hyundai Motor Group’s rise to becoming the third-largest automaker in the world. His leadership has driven major investments in new technologies, particularly in electrification, smart cities, and sustainable mobility.
He credits much of Hyundai’s progress to Executive Chair Euisun Chung’s “Progress for Humanity” vision, which integrates advanced air mobility, autonomous driving, artificial intelligence, and a hydrogen economy.
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