Hyundai’s gasoline-powered utility vehicle lineup runs the gamut from the sub-compact Venue to the midsize eight-passenger Palisade. It has been a popular choice with buyers since the introductory 2020 model year. For 2024 Hyundai reported a 23-per-cent uptick in Palisade sales, compared to the previous year.
For 2026 the automaker’s redesigned eight-passenger flagship has been lengthened overall by 5.0 centimetres and the distance between the front and rear wheels (wheelbase) has been extended by about 7.0 centimetres. Hyundai says the increase provides more space for rear-seat passengers. Maximum cargo capacity with the second and third-row seats folded flat is also up slightly.
From front to back the restyled body exudes a premium appearance, starting with an imposing front-end. The grille and headlights are framed by running lights that are best described as massive. The rounded nose results in a reduced drag coefficient that, according to Hyundai, is the lowest in class. In back, the nearly vertical roof pillars include larger side windows that will provide improved visibility for those seated in the third row.
The redesigned interior comes with a curved instrument cluster containing a 12.3-inch driver’s gauge display. Alongside it is an infotainment touchscreen of equal size that contains the navigation system plus Apple CarPlay and Android Auto connectivity. Below it there are separate audio and climate/ventilation controls plus an available 15-watt phone charger on the floor console.
The second-row bench seat is standard on the base Palisade trim, while all others come with captain’s chairs.
The Palisade’s base engine is a 3.5-litre V-6 with 287 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. An eight-speed automatic transmission sends power to all four wheels. It replaces the original’s 3.8-litre V-6 rated at 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet.
A new hybrid option for the Palisade uses a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine supported by two electric motors. It’s rated at an estimated combined 329 horsepower and 339 pound-feet. A six-speed automatic controls the gear shifting. It also comes with all-wheel drive.
Standard drive modes for both powertrains include Eco, Sport and driver selectable My Drive).
There are no official ratings for either engine, but the V-6 is expected to offer improved fuel economy compared to the outgoing 3.8. Along with the extra grunt the hybrid is expected to deliver even better fuel economy than the new V-6. However, for towing the V-6’s maximum 5,000-pound (2,270-kilogram) capability is 1,000 pounds (455kg) greater than the hybrid’s.
Pricing is predicted to start in the mid $50,000 range including destination charges – but excluding possible tariff-related fees – for the base Preferred (one of five trims) when the 2026 Palisade arrives this summer. It comes reasonably well outfitted with tri-zone climate control, navigation, plus most key active safety-assist items (part of Hyundai’s Smart Sense suite).
Along with second-row captain’s chairs, moving up to the Trend adds a power sunroof, hands-free power liftgate, roof rails power-adjustable front seats (heated for the driver) and faux leather seat covers.
The top-end Ultimate Calligraphy is loaded with premium Nappa leather seat coverings, head-up driver’s display, 14-speaker Bose audio system, built-in dash cam, dual-pane sunroof, remote smart parking assist and 21-inch wheels (18s are standard).
The Calligraphy’s heated and ventilated front and second-row seats come with Relaxation Mode that recline and have fold-out leg supports.
New for 2026 is the AWD Palisade XRT PRO trim, which is designed for off-road travel. It comes with an extra 2.5 centimetres of ground clearance (now 21 centimetres), all-terrain tires, electronic limited-slip rear differential, surround-view monitor with forward ground view, pitch, roll and elevation displays, downhill brake control and Mud, Sand and Snow drive modes.
The XRT PRO’s visual accoutrements include a unique grille and lower air intake plus a pair of red recovery hooks.
With the next-gen Palisade, Hyundai has created a competitive family hauler with added power, spaciousness and content to further temp buyers.
