The Hyundai Palisade returns with a bolder, more luxurious design for the 2026 model year. Recently unveiled in Korea, the new Palisade showcases a revamped exterior and interior, along with details on its local engine lineup. This three-row SUV, a gasoline-powered counterpart to the Ioniq 9, aims to appeal to families seeking a spacious and refined alternative to minivans.
The 2026 Palisade will be available in both gasoline and hybrid versions, both exclusively powered by four-cylinder engines, contrary to earlier speculations of a V6 option. Specific details regarding the North American model are still under wraps.
This generation marks a significant design shift for the Palisade, adopting a more boxy and upscale aesthetic. The refreshed exterior complements a premium cabin inspired by high-end furniture. The Korean market offers a nine-seater configuration with a unique folding front-middle seat that doubles as a center console, enabling drivers to utilize bus lanes.
Larger Dimensions and Range Rover Influences
The 2026 Palisade has grown in size, now measuring 5,060 mm in length, an increase of 65 mm compared to its predecessor. While matching the dimensions of the Ioniq 9, it retains an updated version of its current unibody platform. The vehicle is also wider and taller.
A notable increase in wheelbase by 70 mm contributes to a more spacious interior and lends the Palisade a subtle resemblance to the Range Rover, with its shorter front overhang and elongated rear.
Luxurious Interior and Advanced Features
The Palisade’s interior exudes a premium feel, featuring dual 12.3-inch displays under a curved panel, complemented by wood accents, ambient lighting, and an island-style center console. While drawing inspiration from Genesis and Range Rover, the overall design maintains a distinct Hyundai character.
Seating options include configurations for seven, eight, or nine passengers. The seven-seater model offers second-row seats with power adjustments, reclining, and optional massage functions, along with a walk-in feature for easier third-row access. The third row also provides sliding functionality, maximizing cargo space. The driver can conveniently control the position and angle of the second and third-row seats via the infotainment system.
Hyundai has prioritized ride comfort and reduced noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) through enhanced soundproofing. The Palisade also introduces Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS) for the first time in a Hyundai SUV, utilizing sensors and navigation data to improve ride quality and stability. A comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) further enhances safety.
Trim Levels and Color Options
The Korean market will offer the Palisade in Exclusive, Prestige, and Calligraphy trims. A diverse color palette includes new options like Ecotronic Gray Pearl, Cast Iron Brown Pearl, and Galaxy Maroon Pearl, alongside more traditional choices. These exterior colors can be paired with various interior upholstery options, including white/navy, gray, black, and tan.
Engine Options and Hybrid Powertrain
The 3.8-liter V6 engine has been discontinued, and the 2026 Palisade will be exclusively powered by a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generating 277 horsepower and 422 Nm of torque. While a diesel option was previously available in Korea, it has been discontinued.
For those seeking improved fuel efficiency, a hybrid variant will be offered, delivering 330 horsepower and an impressive estimated driving range of over 1,000 km. This combination of a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, an electric motor, and a 1.65 kWh battery pack provides a compelling option for eco-conscious drivers.
North American Market
Specific details regarding the North American market are yet to be announced. However, it is expected to feature a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, potentially with hybrid or plug-in hybrid options.
Pricing and Availability
In Korea, the 2026 Palisade will be priced between ₩43,830,000 and ₩60,340,000, representing a price increase compared to the previous model. Deliveries for the gasoline-powered model are expected to commence in January 2025, with the hybrid version following in mid-2025.
The Hyundai Palisade is anticipated to arrive in US dealerships as a 2026 model year later next year.
Discover more from Wheels Craze - Automotive News, EV News, Car News, Bike News
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
