2026 Hyundai Palisade
2026 Hyundai Palisade
Hyundai has unveiled the next chapter in its three-row SUV story with the debut of the fully redesigned 2026 Palisade. The new generation introduces a broader range of features designed to meet the evolving needs of families, including the introduction of a fuel-saving hybrid engine and a more rugged XRT PRO model aimed at adventure-seeking drivers. The new Palisade is larger, more refined, and more capable than its predecessor, bringing meaningful updates across the board. Hyundai has confirmed that full Canadian specifications will be shared in the months leading up to its arrival in showrooms.
What's new on the 2026 Hyundai Palisade?
Exterior
The visual changes to the 2026 Palisade are substantial, giving the SUV a bolder stance and more refined proportions. The redesigned front end features a vertically-oriented lighting setup that incorporates slim LED daytime running lights and a new lighting signature across the fascia. A horizontal hood line and upright windshield bring added visual height to the profile, while aerodynamic touches like grille shutters help reduce drag. Hyundai has succeeded in giving the Palisade a premium, utility-first look without overcomplicating the design. The revised dimensions enhance the Palisade's road presence. A longer wheelbase and stretched body create more space inside while improving balance and ride stability. Larger wheels—ranging up to 21 inches—fill out the reworked arches, and the tail section has been completely re-sculpted with new vertical tail lamps, a squared-off roofline, and an updated stop lamp that spans the width of the vehicle. Matte black accents and dark trim details on upper trims add to the Palisade's upscale yet robust image.
Interior
Hyundai has used the additional space in the 2026 Palisade to great effect, improving both usability and aesthetics. The dashboard is now built around a sleek panoramic display that merges the 12.3-inch digital cluster and infotainment system. Controls are simplified but remain tactile where it matters, while premium finishes and refined surface materials elevate the experience across all rows. An updated centre console design offers more storage and now includes an improved wireless charging pad with integrated cooling to support higher power outputs. Practicality remains at the forefront. Second- and third-row passengers benefit from wider access, improved legroom, and enhanced comfort options. Second-row captain's chairs are available with ventilation, while all three rows can be optioned with heated seating. The new Relaxation Seats, available in both the front and second rows, add an extra layer of luxury with deployable leg rests and extended recline angles. Hyundai has also added more charging ports—now rated at 100 watts—and upgraded insulation to reduce cabin noise significantly.
Features
Powertrain
The addition of a hybrid engine marks a major evolution in the Palisade's powertrain lineup. This system, combining a turbocharged 2.5-litre gasoline engine with an electric motor, delivers 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. It is engineered for efficiency, with a projected consumption rate of 7.0 L/100 km and a total driving range that surpasses 900 kilometres on the highway. The hybrid also provides solid utility, with a maximum towing capacity of 4,000 pounds. For drivers needing traditional capability, Hyundai continues to offer an updated V6 engine—this time a 3.5-litre unit making 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard HTRAC all-wheel drive, it's designed to handle towing tasks up to 5,000 pounds. The Palisade includes a dedicated Tow Mode that optimizes gear selection and engine performance when trailering, ensuring both safety and smooth power delivery when hauling.
Technology
The 2026 Palisade takes a step forward in connected convenience and safety technology. A first for Hyundai, the vehicle now features a fully integrated dashcam recorder that automatically captures footage from front and rear views while driving or parked. The video can be reviewed via the infotainment screen or exported using the onboard MicroSD card. Other new additions include a digital rearview mirror and a UV-C sanitizing tray located in the centre console for everyday items like phones or wallets. The infotainment system has been upgraded with over-the-air update functionality and maintains full wireless compatibility with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Hyundai's Digital Key 2.0 has been expanded, allowing remote access and control using smartphones and select smartwatches. Safety enhancements include the expansion of Hyundai's SmartSense suite, with new features like intersection and lane-change collision prevention, driver monitoring, enhanced blind-spot detection, and forward collision avoidance that now recognizes more complex traffic scenarios.
Versions
The 2026 model lineup includes the introduction of the Palisade XRT PRO, which brings legitimate off-road capability to the range for the first time. Featuring additional ground clearance, all-terrain tires, orange recovery hooks, and a rear electronic limited-slip differential, the XRT PRO is purpose-built for rougher conditions. Interior upgrades for this trim include leatherette seating, heated second-row seats, and distinct styling cues. Hyundai also continues to offer trims like the Luxury and Ultimate Calligraphy, both of which return with increased standard equipment and additional material choices. The hybrid engine will be available across a variety of these trims.
Frequently Asked Questions about the 2026 Hyundai Palisade
Hyundai has not yet disclosed full pricing for the 2026 Palisade. However, given the introduction of a hybrid variant, more advanced safety systems, and a dedicated off-road model, pricing is expected to increase compared to the outgoing version. Canadian-specific pricing and trim-level breakdowns will be announced prior to the vehicle's arrival in showrooms.
The gasoline-powered 2026 Palisade is expected to begin arriving at dealerships in early summer. Hybrid versions, including the XRT PRO, are scheduled to follow in early fall. Additional launch timing and final feature availability for the Canadian market will be communicated closer to the release.
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