Hyundai Palisade: Fully redesigned, this large SUV now offers seating for nine

Completely redesigned, the spacious SUV now accommodates nine passengers

Hyundai and Kia have a reputation for making bold design changes with each new generation of their vehicles, and the 2026 Palisade is no exception. This full-size SUV marks a significant departure from its predecessor, adopting a boxier silhouette and rolling on intricate 21-inch wheels that might be a challenge to clean due to their numerous spokes.

The segmented lighting design on both ends of the new Palisade echoes the pixel theme seen in Hyundai’s electric models, like the recently revealed Ioniq 9. At the front, the large rectangles are likely daytime running lights, while four smaller rectangles positioned below are assumed to house the main headlights, including the low and high beams. Completing the modern look is a slim LED strip that spans the upper section of the grille.

Hyundai hasn’t shared exact figures, but notes that the front overhang is slightly shorter, while the wheelbase is longer than the previous model’s 114.2 inches (2,900 millimeters). The spacious greenhouse design remains intact, along with the dual sunroof, likely reserved for higher trims.

At the rear, the design is sleeker with the exhaust now hidden beneath the bumper and the rear wiper concealed under the roof spoiler. Unlike most Hyundai models, the taillights—resembling the front DRLs—don’t extend onto the tailgate. Although the HTRAC badge is absent, all-wheel drive is expected to be available for this second-generation Palisade.

Inside, the cabin has been completely revamped. It features dual 12.3-inch screens integrated into the dashboard, which still includes a variety of physical controls. Separate climate controls, radio and multimedia buttons, and shortcuts to key functions are clearly visible. Notably, the gear selector has been moved from the center console to the steering column for added convenience.

The large central console between the front seats is versatile, featuring 100-watt USB-C charging ports, cupholders, and a wireless charging pad. It can also be raised to add a third seat, allowing the new Hyundai Palisade to accommodate up to nine passengers. Images show the South Korean version, where drivers of the nine-seat model will be allowed to use bus lanes.

The Palisade is the latest Hyundai to ditch the H badge on the steering wheel, replacing it with four dots that represent the letter “H” in Morse code. The steering wheel appears to be shared with the smaller Santa Fe. Additionally, circular door handles bring to mind the Chevy HHR, and subtle ambient lighting enhances the cabin’s cozy feel.

While technical details are still under wraps, it’s widely reported that Hyundai will finally offer a hybrid powertrain for the Palisade, with full specifications expected to be revealed soon.

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  • Growing up with a father who was a mechanic I had an appreciation for cars and motorcycles from an early age. I shared my first bike with my brother that had little more than a 40cc engine but it opened up a world of excitement for me, I was hooked. As I grew older I progressed onto bigger bikes and...

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