Hyundai has unveiled the latest iteration of its flagship SUV, the 2026 Palisade, which now includes a nine-seat option. First showcased earlier this month, the Palisade’s new layout is designed to accommodate three passengers in the front row, utilizing a slim center seat similar to those found in some pickup trucks. Alongside this new seating configuration, Hyundai has also released detailed specifications for the South Korean market, revealing significant updates and enhancements.
Advanced Powertrain Options for the 2026 Palisade
The second-generation Hyundai Palisade brings a shift in engine options for the South Korean market, retiring the 3.8-liter V6 engine in favor of a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine. This new engine produces 277 horsepower and 300 lb-ft of torque, delivering slightly less horsepower than the outgoing V6 but offering a notable 66 Nm increase in torque for improved performance.
For those seeking a more efficient option, the Palisade is now available with a hybrid powertrain. The hybrid system pairs the 2.5-liter gasoline engine, which generates 258 horsepower and 353 Nm of torque, with an electric motor that contributes an additional 72 horsepower and 264 Nm of torque. Together, the hybrid system produces a combined 329 horsepower—38 horsepower more than the first-generation V6 engine.
While fuel economy figures for the hybrid model are not yet available for global markets, Hyundai claims that the hybrid Palisade can travel over 621 miles (1,000 kilometers) on a full tank of fuel, thanks to its 72-liter fuel tank and a 1.65 kWh battery. In South Korea, the gasoline model is available with either front-wheel drive (FWD) or all-wheel drive (AWD), while the hybrid variant is offered exclusively with FWD.
Bigger and More Capable
The all-new 2026 Palisade has grown in size, providing more space for passengers and cargo. The SUV now measures 5,060 mm in length, 65 mm longer than the previous generation, with a wheelbase of 2,970 mm and a 70 mm wider axle track. Its width has increased by 5 mm to 1,980 mm, while the height has grown significantly by 155 mm to 1,805 mm.
The Palisade’s cargo capacity has also been improved, thanks to a longer rear overhang and a sliding third row. It now offers 615 liters of cargo space, making it even more practical for family use. The SUV rides on wheels ranging from 18 inches to 21 inches, with the heaviest configuration featuring nine seats, AWD, and the largest alloy wheels, weighing in at 2,165 kg.
Enhanced Comfort and Safety Features
Hyundai has made strides in refining the Palisade’s cabin for a quieter and more comfortable ride. The use of thicker glass on all four doors and additional sound insulation materials around the windows reduces cabin noise significantly. Furthermore, the SUV features Hyundai’s Electronic Controlled Suspension, which uses sensors to scan the road and adjust the dampers in real time. This technology ensures a smoother ride, bringing luxury-car-like comfort to the family SUV segment.
Safety has also been prioritized, with the addition of a special dual airbag system that extends the passenger airbag to protect the person seated in the front middle seat.
Pricing in South Korea
Hyundai has revealed competitive pricing for the 2026 Palisade in its home market:
- The gasoline-powered version starts at $30,200 (approximately 113,250 SAR).
- The hybrid version starts at $34,300 (approximately 128,625 SAR).
With its increased size, advanced powertrain options, and family-friendly enhancements, the 2026 Palisade is set to appeal to buyers seeking versatility, comfort, and modern technology in an SUV.
