2026 Hyundai Palisade Review | Bigger, Better & Smarter SUV

2026 Hyundai Palisade SUV Review: Bigger, Better, and Built for Every Journey

The Hyundai Palisade has always been a family favorite, but with the debut of the all-new 2026 Hyundai Palisade at the New York International Auto Show, Hyundai has pushed its flagship SUV into a new league. Bigger, more powerful, and packed with advanced technology, the 2026 Palisade is designed to meet the needs of modern families and adventure seekers alike. With new hybrid power, a rugged off-road model, and luxury features throughout, this Palisade is truly “Bigger, Better, and Further.”

Bold New Design

The 2026 Palisade wears a commanding look worthy of a flagship SUV. Up front, vertical LED daytime running lights and a bold grille give it a wider, more powerful stance. The SUV has grown in size—2.5 inches longer overall with a 2.7-inch longer wheelbase—resulting in more space for passengers and cargo. From the side, larger glass panels and bold D-pillars give it a premium, upscale silhouette. Out back, vertical taillights, a higher shoulder line, and integrated roof rails complete the refined yet rugged profile.

A Premium, Spacious Interior

Step inside, and the Palisade feels more like a luxury lounge than a family SUV. The cabin is larger in every dimension, featuring premium materials, soft-touch finishes, and a sleek horizontal dashboard layout. Dual 12.3-inch digital displays dominate the cockpit, while wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ keep you connected.

For passengers, Hyundai has gone all out. The 2026 Palisade offers Relaxation Seats in the first and second rows, complete with extra recline angles and deployable leg supports. Families will appreciate the one-touch second-row slide-and-tilt function for easy access to the third row, plus available power-folding, heated, and reclining third-row seats. Every row gets USB-C ports and cupholders, ensuring no one is left out of the comfort zone.

Power and Efficiency: ICE or Hybrid

Hyundai is offering two new engines for 2026:

• 3.5L V6 (287 hp, 260 lb-ft torque): A strong and smooth performer with up to 5,000 lbs of towing capacity.
• 2.5L Turbo Hybrid (329 hp, 339 lb-ft torque): The first-ever Palisade hybrid, offering impressive power, over 30 mpg highway, and a targeted 619 miles of range.

Both options deliver a quiet, refined ride, thanks to sound-deadening glass, under-hood insulation, and fine-tuned powertrain response. For added confidence, Hyundai’s HTRAC® AWD system with new terrain modes (Mud, Sand, Snow) ensures capability no matter where the road—or trail—takes you.

Technology That Works for You

The 2026 Palisade is packed with smart tech for families and drivers alike. Highlights include:

• Built-in dual-camera Dash Cam for driving and parking peace of mind.
• Digital Key 2.0, letting you use your phone or smartwatch as your car key.
• OTA (Over-the-Air) updates, keeping the Palisade’s systems fresh long after purchase.
• Wi-Fi hotspot and Alexa Built-in, making road trips more connected than ever.
• Hyundai Pay®, an in-car payment system for secure fueling and parking transactions.

Hyundai even added a UV-C sterilization compartment to keep personal items sanitized on the go.

Safety First

With ten standard airbags, including coverage for the third row, plus seatbelt pretensioners in all three rows, the Palisade sets new safety benchmarks. Advanced driver-assistance systems include Forward Collision-Avoidance, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Safe Exit Assist, Lane Following Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance, and Remote Smart Parking Assist.

Introducing the XRT PRO: Rugged Capability

For those who want more adventure, Hyundai has introduced the first-ever Palisade XRT PRO. It adds real off-road muscle with:

• 8.4 inches of ground clearance (+1 inch).
• All-terrain tires and improved approach/departure angles.
• Functional canyon red recovery hooks.
• Electronic limited-slip differential.
• Unique XRT design touches inside and out.

It’s not just rugged—it’s also refined, offering premium seating surfaces, ambient lighting, and a Bose® 14-speaker audio system.

Verdict: Bigger, Better, and Ready for More

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a complete reimagining of what a family SUV can be. With a choice of powerful and efficient engines, expanded interior space, luxury touches, advanced tech, and now true off-road capability with the XRT PRO, Hyundai has created a vehicle that stands out in every category.

Whether you’re hauling the family across Dubai, heading out for a weekend adventure, or simply looking for a premium, high-tech SUV, the Palisade delivers on all fronts.

If you’re exploring the SUV market or planning your next upgrade, the all-new Palisade will surely be on your shortlist. And if you’re considering used cars in Dubai, you can always find great deals and listings on Auto Trader UAE—your trusted destination for buying and selling used cars in Dubai.