Hyundai has unveiled the redesigned 2026 Palisade, ushering in a new generation for the brand’s largest combustion-engine SUV. After six years on the market, this overhaul signals a significant change, not just in appearance but also in ambition.
The 2026 Palisade sports a squarer, more modern aesthetic while promising a more premium and spacious interior as Hyundai aims to position it in a higher segment.
Squarer Design
The design of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade leans towards more angular shapes, marking a departure from its predecessor. Similar to the smaller but sleeker and refined Santa Fe, the lines of the new Palisade are tidier and more focused on angularity, giving it a more confident presence on the road.
The front of the 2026 Palisade is highlighted by large LED clusters vertically flanking the massive vertical grille, a distinct and futuristic departure from the current model sold in Vietnam.
The proportions are also sharper, thanks to a longer wheelbase, a shorter front overhang, and subtly stretched rear overhang. The result is an SUV with better balance and a more poised stance. From certain angles, the 2026 Palisade even bears a resemblance to the Range Rover, thanks to its black pillars, flat side profile, and the shape of its LED taillights that stretch horizontally.
Hyundai’s designers have clearly aimed for a more premium style, adding aluminum accents around the body and roof rails. The multi-spoke 21-inch alloy wheels fit the Palisade’s presence, although we’ll have to wait and see if they’re standard or exclusive to higher trims.
While the exact length of the Palisade hasn’t been revealed, it’s expected to be over 5 meters, similar to the all-electric Hyundai Ioniq 9.
Premium Interior
In addition to its exterior refresh, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade boasts an improved interior, drawing inspiration from luxury items. The digital cockpit now features a more seamlessly integrated 12.3-inch dual-screen setup, replacing the curved screens of the previous model.
The gear selector has been moved from the center console to the steering column, freeing up space while retaining many physical knobs and buttons for climate and other essential functions, a notable response to customer feedback regarding the clunky infotainment controls of the previous model.
The A/C vents, round door handles, and sun-kissed brown upholstery reflect the design language of Hyundai’s premium Genesis brand. Other features enhancing the premium feel include a center console with an island-style layout, a Range Rover-style steering wheel, and illuminated wood trim.
According to Hyundai, the cabin can now accommodate up to nine passengers in a three-row configuration, thanks to a new center console design that doubles as a middle seat in the front row. However, this feature isn’t evident in the released photos, and it’s unclear if it will be offered in markets outside of South Korea.
The second row features individual seats, while passengers in the third row benefit from improved comfort and visibility.
Powertrain
While Hyundai hasn’t disclosed any specifications, reports suggest that the new Palisade will offer a hybrid version with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine, along with a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 option for those seeking more power.
Sales will initially commence in Hyundai’s home market of South Korea, with other regions—including North America—to follow soon after. The 2026 Palisade is expected to go on sale in 2026, and it may be 2027 or 2028 before it’s available in Vietnam through official channels.
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