All-New 2026 Hyundai Palisade Makes Debut at the New York International Auto Show
Hyundai’s three-row SUV has never been more ready for primetime. Coming off a record-setting 2024 with a 23% year-over-year sales surge, the Palisade heads into 2026 not merely refreshed, but completely reimagined. Revealed at the New York International Auto Show, the all-new Palisade kicks off a new generation with its first-ever hybrid powertrain and a long list of enhancements that signal Hyundai’s growing ambitions in the full-size SUV segment.
Design and Interior Enhancements
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade showcases a bold, boxy exterior with vertical LED headlights and a sleek light strip across the grille, exuding a modern yet rugged appeal. The rear design is streamlined, featuring vertical taillights and a concealed rear wiper beneath the roof spoiler. A longer wheelbase and adjusted overhangs not only enhance aesthetics but also improve interior space.
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SUV is photographed in California City, Calif. on Mar. 4, 2025.
Inside, the cabin is thoughtfully redesigned with dual 12.3-inch screens seamlessly integrated into the dashboard, providing both infotainment and instrument displays. The center console is reimagined to offer additional storage, including a wireless charger and a 100W USB outlet. Notably, the gear selector has been relocated to the steering column, freeing up space and contributing to a cleaner layout.
Expanded Seating and Practicality
Comfort takes center stage with standard eight-passenger seating and available second-row captain’s chairs featuring one-touch access to the third row.
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SUV is photographed in California City, Calif. on Mar. 4, 2025.
Heated and ventilated seats are available for both second and third rows, with premium materials ranging from cloth to Nappa leather. Even the third row gets the VIP treatment with optional power-reclining, sliding, and folding functions.
Powertrain Options and Performance
Under the hood, the Palisade introduces a new hybrid powertrain, combining a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 engine with electric motors, delivering a combined output of 334PS. This setup is paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission and offers a towing capacity of 4,000 pounds. Alternatively, a 3.5-liter V6 engine is available, producing 291PS and capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, catering to those requiring more traditional power.
Off-Road Capabilities with XRT Pro Trim
Engineered for serious adventure, the Palisade XRT PRO brings rugged capability and exclusive features to Hyundai’s three-row SUV lineup. Here’s what sets it apart:
- XRT PRO-exclusive electronic rear limited-slip differential (eLSD)
- 8.4 inches of ground clearance (+1 inch vs. non XRT PRO models)
- Improved approach (20.5°), departure (22.4°), and breakover (18.3°) geometry
- All-terrain 255/60R18 tires
- Blind Spot View Monitor
- Surround View Monitor (with forward ground view)
- Real-time pitch and roll, compass, and elevation displays
- HTRAC® all-wheel drive
- New Mud, Sand, and Snow terrain modes
- Exposed functional canyon red recovery hooks front and rear
- Downhill Brake Control
- Tow mode
- OEM tow hitch
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SUV is photographed in California City, Calif. on Mar. 4, 2025.
XRT Pro Design Features:
- XRT PRO-exclusive 18-inch dark-finish alloy wheels
- XRT PRO rear badging
- XRT dark exterior accents (grille, window surround, cladding)
- H-Tex leatherette seating surfaces with front heating and ventilation
- Heated steering wheel
- Bose® 14-speaker premium audio system
- Ambient lighting
- 115-volt power outlet
- Power moonroof
Market Reception and Availability
Unveiled at the 2025 New York International Auto Show, the 2026 Palisade has already garnered significant attention. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade is expected to arrive in U.S. showrooms in summer 2025, but the hybrid version won’t arrive until this fall. Pricing and final trims to be announced closer to launch. Based on early buzz from its debut at the New York International Auto Show, consumer interest is already high, driven largely by the introduction of the new hybrid powertrain and the rugged XRT Pro trim. Hyundai’s strategic blend of capability, efficiency, and interior flexibility positions the Palisade as a serious contender in the three-row SUV segment, especially for families and adventure-seekers looking for more out of their next vehicle.
