Discover What Makes the 2026 Hyundai Palisade a Class Leader
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade ushers in its second generation with a bold design, family-friendly luxury, and powertrain choices that cater to both comfort and efficiency. Hyundai has reshaped the Palisade with a more angular, muscular aesthetic reminiscent of the redesigned Santa Fe. The SUV now stretches about 2.5 inches longer overall, with a notably longer wheelbase by roughly 2.7 inches—creating more interior space while enhancing road presence. Improved aerodynamics (drag coefficient down from 0.33 to 0.31) add efficiency to the package
A Bold New Look and Spacious Dimensions
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade makes an immediate impression with its thoroughly reimagined exterior design. The front fascia features a wider, more assertive grille complemented by sleek LED lighting that creates a distinctive signature both day and night. The vehicle’s silhouette has been refined to project strength and elegance simultaneously, with clean body lines and tasteful chrome accents that enhance its premium presence.
Beyond aesthetics, the 2026 Palisade’s dimensions have been optimized to maximize both passenger comfort and cargo utility. The wheelbase has been extended slightly to provide enhanced interior volume without significantly increasing the overall footprint. With this intelligent packaging, the Palisade delivers class-leading second and third-row legroom, making it genuinely comfortable for all occupants regardless of seating position. The cargo area behind the third row offers generous capacity at 18 cubic feet, expanding to over 86 cubic feet with all rear seats folded—dimensions that place it at the top of its class for versatility.
Advanced Powertrains: V6 and a New Hybrid
Under the hood, the 2026 Palisade offers a choice of powertrains that balance performance with efficiency. The standard 3.8-liter V6 engine has been refined to produce 295 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, offering smooth acceleration and confident passing power. This traditional powertrain is paired with an upgraded 8-speed automatic transmission that delivers crisp, responsive shifts while contributing to improved fuel economy ratings.
The most significant addition to the Palisade lineup is the all-new hybrid powertrain option. This system combines a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor and battery pack to generate a combined 326 horsepower while achieving an estimated 31 mpg in combined driving—representing a substantial 30% improvement over the conventional V6. The hybrid system seamlessly transitions between electric and gasoline power, prioritizing efficiency without sacrificing the smooth, refined driving experience expected from a luxury SUV. Both powertrain options can be paired with Hyundai’s latest HTRAC all-wheel-drive system, which now includes terrain-specific drive modes for enhanced capability in varying conditions.
Tech and Connectivity — Smarter Than Ever
The 2026 Palisade establishes a new technology benchmark in its segment. The centerpiece of the cabin is a panoramic curved display that combines a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster with a 14.5-inch touchscreen infotainment system under a single pane of glass. This visually striking interface houses Hyundai’s next-generation infotainment system, which supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, enhanced voice recognition, and over-the-air updates that keep the vehicle’s software current throughout ownership.
Connectivity extends throughout the cabin with USB-C ports for all three rows, an available wireless charging pad that accommodates multiple devices simultaneously, and an upgraded Harman Kardon premium audio system with 14 speakers. The Palisade also introduces Hyundai’s Digital Key 3.0, allowing drivers to use their smartphone or smartwatch to access and start the vehicle. For safety and convenience, the comprehensive driver assistance suite has been expanded to include a 360-degree camera system with 3D view, remote smart parking assist, and highway driving assist 2.0 with automatic lane changing capability.
Comfort and Versatility — Elevated Inside
The interior of the 2026 Palisade reflects Hyundai’s commitment to elevating the passenger experience through thoughtful design and premium materials. The cabin has been completely redesigned with an emphasis on visual lightness and tactile quality. Premium Nappa leather upholstery comes standard on higher trim levels, featuring an intricate quilting pattern and available contrast stitching. The second-row captain’s chairs now include a massage function previously reserved only for front-seat occupants.
Versatility remains a Palisade strong suit with an intelligent seating system that allows for multiple configurations. The power-folding third row can be lowered or raised with the touch of a button, while the second-row seats feature one-touch access to the third row. Climate comfort extends to all passengers with a tri-zone automatic system that includes ceiling-mounted vents for rear occupants. Practical touches abound, including expanded under-floor storage in the cargo area, an available hands-free power liftgate, and a conversation mirror that allows the driver to monitor rear passengers without turning around—features that reinforce the Palisade’s family-friendly credentials.
Rugged Off-Road Ready: The XRT Pro Trim
New for 2026 is the XRT Pro trim, which transforms the refined Palisade into a more capable off-road companion. This specialized variant features increased ground clearance (up by 1.2 inches), all-terrain tires mounted on unique 20-inch wheels, and underbody skid plates to protect vital components when venturing off the beaten path. The XRT Pro also receives a more sophisticated HTRAC all-wheel-drive system with a dedicated locking center differential and hill descent control.
Visual distinctions set the XRT Pro apart from other Palisade models, including a unique front bumper with integrated recovery points, body cladding around wheel arches, and a roof rack system designed to accommodate adventure gear. Inside, the XRT Pro features water-resistant upholstery and all-weather floor liners. These enhancements don’t compromise the model’s luxury credentials but extend its capability to match the active lifestyles of many luxury SUV buyers who occasionally seek adventure beyond paved roads.
Pricing and Value Proposition
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade maintains its reputation for offering exceptional value in the luxury SUV segment, with pricing that remains competitive despite significant upgrades across the board.
| Trim Level | Starting MSRP (est.) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| SE | $37,500 | 3.8L V6 engine, 12.3” digital instrument cluster, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto |
| SEL | $40,200 | Leather seating surfaces, heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring |
| XRT | $43,900 | Off-road styling, 20” wheels, roof rails |
| XRT Pro | $48,800 | Enhanced AWD system, increased ground clearance, underbody protection |
| Limited | $49,500 | Premium Nappa leather, ventilated seats, surround-view monitor |
| Calligraphy | $53,200 | Quilted leather, head-up display, premium trim details |
| Hybrid SEL | $43,700 | Hybrid powertrain, improved fuel economy |
| Hybrid Limited | $52,800 | Hybrid powertrain with luxury amenities |
Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.
When compared to direct competitors like the Kia Telluride, Ford Explorer, and Toyota Highlander, the Palisade offers a more comprehensive list of standard features at similar price points. The addition of the hybrid powertrain option further enhances its value proposition by offering substantial fuel savings over the lifetime of ownership, particularly for buyers who prioritize efficiency alongside luxury.
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade continues the brand’s upward trajectory in the luxury SUV segment. With its bold design language, diverse powertrain options, advanced technology integration, refined interior, and specialized XRT Pro variant, the Palisade offers compelling reasons to consider it a class leader. By addressing the needs of various luxury SUV buyers—from tech enthusiasts to adventure seekers to comfort-oriented families—Hyundai has created a versatile vehicle that excels across multiple dimensions while maintaining competitive pricing in its segment.
