Hyundai Palisade 2026: number one goal

The most popular mid-size SUVs in the country are the Dodge Durango, Ford Explorer, and Toyota Highlander/Grand Highlander. These are formidable targets for an SUV launched in 2020 which, despite its many qualities, faces fierce and aggressive competition.

Hyundai is careful not to include the Durango among its competitors, because it would be too embarrassing to admit that sales of this 15-year-old model are still exceptional. However, the manufacturer unabashedly states that it wants to win over buyers of the Explorer and Highlander—two vehicles that offer (or have offered) hybrid technology, which Hyundai considers one of the key features of this new generation.

In fact, in a few months, the 2026 Palisade will gain a 329-horsepower hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, a six-speed automatic transmission, and an electric motor. This system should deliver an average fuel consumption of just 7 L/100 km and could also find its way under the hood of future Genesis products.

In the meantime, Hyundai offered us the opportunity to test drive versions equipped with the V6 engine. While this mechanical configuration has been abandoned by many, it is still highly appreciated by North American buyers.

Grand Palisade?

The new Palisade is taller and 65 mm longer, including the wheelbase. This improves access to the rear seats and the comfort of the third row. The vehicle is clearly targeting the leaders in the segment that offer more interior space, such as the Chevrolet Traverse, Toyota Grand Highlander, and Volkswagen Atlas, all of which are very successful. Seven- and eight-passenger configurations are available, with a cargo volume of up to 2,455 liters.

Aesthetically, the 2026 Palisade is changing direction. As with all of the brand's recent products, its style is polarizing. Some won't like it, but there's no denying the inspiration from the Range Rover, especially when viewed from the three-quarter rear angle, where the window design, roof angle, and headlight positioning are very similar. It's also worth noting that the aerodynamic coefficient has been improved thanks to multiple underbody panels, active flaps, and a sloping roofline.

Available in a choice of nine exterior colors and three interior colors, the Palisade is also coming out this year in an XRT Pro version. It's a more adventurous model aimed at the Traverse Z71, Explorer Tremor, and Pilot TrailSport. A 25 mm higher suspension, 18-inch all-terrain tires, a digital inclinometer, and a ground view monitor are among the features of this version, which will give the impression of being able to venture a little further off the beaten track. Of course, it has a unique aesthetic treatment that includes red tie-down hooks, resulting in a less classic approach than the Ultimate Calligraphy version, which we were able to drive on the road.

Made in Korea

Unlike the vast majority of its rivals, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade is not assembled in the United States. This factor ensures price stability and a certain consistency in terms of availability. Hyundai makes no secret of the fact that it will take advantage of its momentum to steal sales from Toyota and Honda, which sometimes make their customers wait a very long time.

That said, in Canada, the company will continue to focus on the Ultimate Calligraphy version, the most expensive and luxurious, for profitability reasons. It claims that demand is driving this decision, but by pushing sales of this version at the expense of an entry-level model, it's hardly surprising that luxury has become more popular.

It must be said that the Palisade Ultimate Calligraphy has some surprising features. For example, its heated, power-operated seats in all three rows fold down at the touch of a button to create a completely flat floor. The massage function for the driver and the ventilated seats in the first two rows are also features rarely offered by the competition. Hyundai has installed two dash cameras that allow you to continuously film activities both while moving and when stationary, a unique convenience in this category.

Add to that exceptional craftsmanship, state-of-the-art connectivity including a digital key, and meticulous attention to detail, and you have a product that could certainly bear the Genesis badge—to the point where you might wonder whether it makes sense to make the leap to a GV80. No kidding: the 2026 Palisade is more impressive than the Acura MDX and Infiniti QX60, even though they are sold at higher prices.

From 291 to 287 horsepower...

For 2026, Hyundai is swapping out the old 3.8-liter V6 for an engine used in Kia's Carnival and Sorento. We're talking about a 3.5-liter V6 developing 287 horsepower, which is equivalent to Honda's Pilot. This engine can also tow loads of up to 5,000 lb. Unfortunately, it doesn't consume any less fuel than the old one. So why change? Because, on paper, you get a better power-to-displacement ratio and slightly lower emissions.

This highly flexible engine is virtually silent at cruising speed. It must be said that the soundproofing in the new Hyundai Palisade is exceptional, especially when compared to that of the Pilot, Atlas, and Nissan Pathfinder. However, the Palisade has been criticized for its sluggish transmission, which can make overtaking difficult at times. It should also be noted that the throttle response is disappointing, as is often the case with Korean products. This issue could be corrected in the short term with the Palisade Hybrid, whose more powerful 42-horsepower engine is significantly more generous in terms of torque.

Equipped with independent suspension with rear lift control, the Palisade also has more powerful and efficient brakes—a factor that will be appreciated when towing. However, the difference between the various driving modes remains minimal, except for longer gear ratios and firmer steering in Sport mode. Nothing very innovative, and few people will use it, in our opinion.

Waiting for the Telluride?

The new 2026 Hyundai Palisade has a lot going for it: comfortable, refined, well-equipped, and featuring renowned mechanics. Its more inspiring drive and modern presentation are sure to charm, especially considering its reasonable price tag. Of course, you could opt for the Preferred Trend version, which, including all fees, will cost $56,520. However, you can be sure that the dealer will push you toward the XRT Pro ($60,620) or Ultimate Calligraphy ($65,320) models.

At this point, it's hard to know whether Kia, which will soon be revamping the Telluride using the Palisade as a base, will also offer a hybrid powertrain. However, its styling is likely to appeal to a wider audience, while Kia will adopt a different marketing strategy. In addition to the Grand Highlander, it will be a formidable rival for the Palisade, whose hybrid versions (Luxury and Ultimate Calligraphy) will be available starting in November for an additional $3,200.

One thing is certain: with the Palisade, Hyundai is sure to gain a larger share of the market in the mid-size three-row SUV segment. Let's not forget that the Santa Fe (more compact) is also part of this segment and that Hyundai recently introduced the all-electric Ioniq 9. The Korean manufacturer offers a very compelling trio, available with a warranty that is more attractive than that of any of its competitors.