MotorTrend has named José Muñoz, President and CEO of Hyundai Motor Company, as its 2025 Person of the Year. He also holds the top position on the 2025 MotorTrend Power List, which ranks the 50 most influential leaders in the automotive industry. Muñoz is the first non-Korean to lead Hyundai and Genesis, and he has played a key role in the company’s success in North America.
MotorTrend praised Muñoz for guiding Hyundai through record sales, market share, and revenue growth. Under his leadership, Hyundai has become the world’s third-largest automaker. Once known mainly for affordability, the company is now recognized for quality, innovation, and its Genesis luxury brand.
Muñoz expressed his gratitude for the award, saying, “This recognition is due to the vision and support of our Executive Chair, the hardworking women and men of Hyundai, our outstanding dealer partners, our customers, and so many others who work tirelessly for Hyundai and Genesis.”
Muñoz has pushed Hyundai into new technologies, including electrification, autonomous driving, artificial intelligence, and hydrogen-powered vehicles. He has also overseen major investments, such as a $12.6 billion assembly plant, battery ventures in Georgia, and expansions in Alabama, Michigan, and California. Hyundai Motor Group has invested $20.5 billion in the U.S., creating over 570,000 jobs.
Muñoz joined Hyundai in 2019 after working for companies like Toyota and Nissan. His leadership extends beyond North America to regions including Europe, India, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia Pacific. A native of Spain, he holds a Ph.D. in nuclear engineering and an MBA. Fluent in English, Spanish, and French, he has also completed executive programs at top business schools in the U.K. and France.
With his vision and strategic leadership, José Muñoz continues to shape the future of Hyundai and the automotive industry.
