2026 Hyundai Palisade revealed at NYIAS: 5 things to know

Hyundai continues with its every-vehicle-is-unique chess piece design strategy with the reveal of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade at the New York International Auto Show. The bold design of the three-row SUV is a sharp departure from the previous generation, and the family resemblance to other vehicles in the Hyundai lineup is minimal – at least on the outside. The interior bears the hallmark large monoscreen of other, newer Hyundais.

Outside of the dramatic new design, here are five of the most important things to know about the new Palisade.

2026 Hyundai Palisade gets bigger

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade grows by 2.5 inches in overall length, and the wheelbase is 2.7 inches longer. This translates to better passenger space as well as easier entry to and exit from the vehicle. Eight-passenger seating is standard.

Hyundai puts that extra interior space to good use with available “Relaxation” seats for both the front- and second-row passengers. Plus, when you opt for the captain’s chairs, you get one-touch, second-row tilt-and-slide functionality for easy access to the third row.

V-6 stays, hybrid added

As many automakers switch to turbocharged 4-cylinder engines, Hyundai goes against the grain, keeping a V-6 in the 2026 Hyundai Palisade. But it does get less horsepower. This newly developed naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V-6 delivers an estimated 287 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. Max towing capacity with this engine is 5,000 pounds.

For the first time, Palisade adds a hybrid option, and this is where the four-cylinder turbo comes into play. The 2.5-liter turbocharged engine is mated to two electric motors for a total estimated system output of 329 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque. It’s expected to get 30+ MPG on the highway and get around 619 miles on a single tank of gas. Max towing fo this powertrain is 4,000 pounds.

Capability increases

In addition to new drive modes, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade gets a new off road trim. Perhaps the biggest news here is the XRT PRO trim, which gets 8.4 inches of ground clearance, standard HTRAC all-wheel drive and a rear electronic limited slip differential (eLSD). It also gets improved approach, departure and breakover angles. It also comes with a lot of up-level standard features, including the blind-view monitor, heated steering wheel, premium Bose audio system, ambient lighting and power moonroof. It also gets some design differentiators, including exclusive dark-finish alloy wheels, XRT PRO rear badging and dark exterior accents.

In terms of drive modes, the HTRAC AWD system is now available with Tow Mode, which optimizes the powertrain’s performance, holidng lower gears longer and reducing shift frequency while towing heavy loads. It includes an integrated fascia-concealed tow hitch on XRT PRO, Limited and Calligraphy trims. Additional new terrain modes are Mud, Sand and Snow.

Tech gets techier

Though the new Palisade keeps the large curved display with two 12.3-inch digital display screens, which was already pretty techy, it adds (finally) wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Another big tech add is the built-in Dash Cam, which can provide continuous recording while driving as well as automatically record nearby movement while parked.

Other advanced tech features available on the 2026 Hyundai Palisade include the ability to use your phone as a key, a UV-C sterilization compartment, rear camera mirror, Advanced Rear Occupant Alert and wireless over-the-air updates.

Safety overload

The new Palisade comes standard with Hyundai’s SmartSense active safety technologies. The advanced driver assist systems you’ll see on this next-gen model include automatic emergency braking, blind spot monitoring, safe exit assist, automatic high beams, navigation-based smart cruise control, lane follow assist, rear cross-traffic alert, automatic reverse braking, and remote smart park assist (aka smaht pahk).

Our take on the 2026 Hyundai Palisade

We really liked the OG Palisade, but these improvements up the ante. The suave new design and up-level tech make this three-row SUV even more attractive for active families. We can’t wait to experience the 2026 Hyundai Palisade IRL.

Editors note: All photos on this page courtesy of Hyundai Motor America.