2026 Hyundai Palisade Reveal: Bold Redesign, New Hybrid, and Rugged XRT Pro Trim

Exterior Design Overhaul

• 💡 The 2026 Hyundai Palisade features a bold, retro-futuristic design with 80s pixel themes and 50s-inspired D-pillars.
• ✨ Modern design elements include integrated light streaks in the tail lights and distinctive daytime running lights that extend to the rear.
• 🚀 The XRT Pro trim boasts a unique, aggressive front end with a blacked-out grille and integrated recovery points.

Premium Interior Enhancements

• 🌟 The interior receives a significant upgrade with a more cohesive and wide-looking design, featuring dual 12.3-inch curved displays.
• 🎛️ Physical controls for media, maps, and climate are retained, alongside a touch-sensitive panel for various functions.
• 🔌 Notable features include a 15-watt ventilated wireless charger, a fingerprint scanner, 100-watt USB-C ports, and a UV sterilizer.
• 💺 The calligraphy trim offers a premium feel with ambient lighting, a dual sunroof, and relaxation seats in the second row with recline and additional support.

Expanded Seating and Cargo

• 📏 The Palisade has grown by approximately 2.7 inches in wheelbase and length, offering more space.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Available in an eight-seat configuration or with captain's chairs, it provides adequate space for second-row occupants and improved third-row roominess.
• 🔌 Third-row passengers benefit from electrically sliding and reclining seats, outboard heating, and USB-C charging capabilities.
• 📦 The power liftgate reveals underfloor storage, and the second and third rows can be folded from the rear for added convenience.

Powertrain and Capability

• ⛽ A 3.5L V6 engine is available, while the new hybrid powertrain combines a 2.5L turbocharged engine with electric motors for an estimated 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque.
• 📈 The hybrid model targets over 30 MPG on the highway, a significant improvement over the previous generation.
• ⛰️ The XRT Pro trim adds an inch of ground clearance, Continental all-terrain tires on 18-inch wheels, and enhanced approach/departure angles for off-road capability.
• ⚠️ While the XRT Pro offers improved off-road features, it lacks skid plates and a low-range gear option.

Advanced Technology and Safety

• 📸 A unique feature is the hidden event monitor camera in the rear glass, which can record incidents similar to a dashcam.
• 🛡️ The vehicle comes standard with 10 airbags and the full suite of Hyundai driver assistance features, including adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist.
• 🚗 The XRT Pro includes selectable drive modes for sand, mud, and snow, along with a tow mode, and features an electronic limited-slip differential.

Overall Impression

• 🤩 The 2026 Palisade is described as a significant redesign, offering a stunning aesthetic that rivals luxury SUVs like Range Rover and visually competes with off-road focused vehicles like the Jeep Grand Cherokee.
• 🗓️ Pricing and fuel economy details are yet to be released, but the new model is slated for sale starting in summer 2025, with hybrids arriving later in the fall.