Impressive: The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid can maintain the air conditioning even when its gas engine is turned off.

      DREW PHILLIPS

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      Behold the 2026 Hyundai Palisade in its true form. Although we’ve previously seen this redesigned three-row family SUV through computer-generated images, the wait for our first real look ended at the 2025 New York Auto Show—along with confirmation that the hybrid available abroad will indeed make its way to the USA. The new Palisade Hybrid is powered by a turbocharged four-cylinder engine, which will not only provide more power but also greater range compared to the V6. All of this comes in a larger, more capable package that seems to preserve nearly everything we appreciate about the outgoing Palisade. Let’s explore further.

      Let’s begin with the hybrid. The 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine contributes 258 of the system’s total 329 horsepower and an unspecified (but presumably significant) portion of its 329 pound-feet of torque. The remainder is generated by a pair of electric motors integrated into the transmission. While Hyundai hasn’t released the Palisade’s EPA figures yet, it anticipates achieving a highway fuel economy of 30 mpg or better. The company hasn’t provided an estimate for the city mpg, but the competing Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid, which reaches 36 mpg in the city, might offer a clue. Towing capacity for the hybrid hasn’t been finalized yet, but the goal is set at 4,000 pounds.

      To enhance the hybrid's feature set, Hyundai incorporated some technology from its electric vehicle lineup. The new "Stay Mode" is intended to optimize battery life, extending the operation of the Palisade’s climate control and entertainment systems while the gasoline engine is turned off, enabling users to run the air conditioning longer without assistance from the internal combustion engine.

      The V6 option returns for 2026 with some minor updates. It has dropped from 291 hp to 287 and lost a couple of pound-feet of torque (down from 262 to 260), but the change is likely unnoticeable. Hyundai has not disclosed the Palisade’s curb weight, but given that it is only 2.5 inches longer than its predecessor, the standard V6 model is expected to weigh around the same.

      Yes, it is larger. When is that not the case these days, especially for a family vehicle? However, Hyundai managed to achieve this while also adjusting some key proportions of the Palisade. The front overhang is now shorter by 1.6 inches, with some of that length added back in its 2.7-inch longer wheelbase. This results in an appealing side profile, in addition to increases in cabin space. Hyundai also claims that entering and exiting the new Palisade is easier.

      Inside, there’s much to admire as well. The latest infotainment system features dual 12.3-inch screens—one for the instrument cluster and the other prominently placed in the center—and importantly, it retains physical buttons. While some HVAC controls are haptic buttons located beneath the audio interface, both the driver and passenger have dedicated knobs for temperature adjustment (alongside the existing knobs for volume and radio tuning). The futuristic, albeit somewhat Tesla-like, screen layout that Hyundai has planned for future models is still some time away, but for now, we benefit.

      Completing the lineup is the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT PRO, which aims to enhance off-road capability. It’s clear that the previous Palisade didn’t excel in this area, and Hyundai is taking significant steps to improve it. The XRT Pro includes an increased ground clearance, enhanced approach (20.5°), departure (22.4°), and breakover (18.3°) angles, all-terrain tires, and an electronic rear limited-slip differential. Additionally, the XRT Pro package replaces many of the Palisade’s polished exterior elements with what appears to be a satin or matte black finish.

      We won’t know the pricing until we get closer to the launch dates (summer for the ICE version; fall for the Hybrid), but we wouldn't be surprised to see some MSRP increases given the current economic conditions; while Hyundai produces several models in the U.S., the Palisade is manufactured in Korea.