The Hyundai Palisade has been one of the go-to choices for families seeking a roomy, upscale three-row SUV that doesn’t break the bank. For 2026, Hyundai has refined its winning formula with bold new styling, a more premium interior, and new tech that pushes the Palisade closer to luxury-brand territory. While it’s not the most thrilling SUV to drive, the 2026 Palisade nails what most families actually want — comfort, space, and value.
Hyundai gave the 2026 Palisade a fresh design that makes it even more eye-catching on the road. Its squared-off grille, chiseled body lines, and more upright stance give it a strong, confident presence that stands out in a crowded SUV segment. The new XRT Pro model takes that toughness up a notch with a 1-inch raised suspension, off-road driving modes, and all-terrain tires. It’s not a hardcore off-roader, but it adds some welcome capability and personality for buyers who like the idea of weekend adventures.
The Palisade also grows slightly in size — 2.5 inches longer than before — which pays dividends inside. Step into the cabin, and you’re greeted by one of the nicest interiors in the class. The materials feel solid and premium, especially in the upper trims like the Calligraphy, which wouldn’t look out of place in an entry-level luxury SUV.
Inside, the Palisade continues to impress with its smart layout and generous space. The front and second rows are exceptionally roomy, with supportive seats and an airy feel thanks to the large windows and available panoramic sunroof. Families will appreciate the Palisade’s flexibility — there’s 19.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, enough to fit a large Yeti cooler for a beach day or camping trip. Fold the third row down, and the space expands to 46.3 cubic feet, making it easy to load strollers, sports gear, or luggage for a weekend getaway.
The third row, while convenient, remains best suited for kids or short adults on quick trips. It’s a bit tight compared to some rivals, though power-folding seats make accessing and managing the space simple.
Hyundai packed the 2026 Palisade with technology that’s both advanced and easy to use. A sleek curved display stretches across the dash, combining two 12.3-inch screens — one for the digital instrument cluster and the other for infotainment. The graphics are crisp, and the interface is intuitive, whether you’re using the native system or wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. An on-board Wi-Fi hotspot is also standard.
The Palisade’s long list of available features makes it feel like a luxury SUV at a more accessible price. Heated and ventilated seats in the first two rows, a Bose audio system, and a digital rearview mirror add to the upscale experience.
Under the hood, the 2026 Palisade gets a new 3.5-liter V6 with 287 horsepower paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It delivers smooth, predictable power but doesn’t feel particularly energetic — acceleration is slower than the previous generation, and overall performance is just adequate for the size of the vehicle.
Handling is composed but not engaging, with a focus on comfort over excitement. Drivers looking for a more dynamic experience may find it a bit “meh,” but most families will appreciate its quiet and comfortable ride.
For those seeking more power and efficiency, Hyundai has a Palisade Hybrid on the way. With 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, it promises more muscle than the V6 while delivering up to 35 mpg on the highway, which is 10 more mpg than the V6.
The available all-wheel-drive system adds peace of mind in bad weather and performs admirably on light trails, especially in the XRT Pro model. It’s not built for rock crawling, but it handled gravel roads and sandy paths with confidence.
Pricing for the 2026 Hyundai Palisade starts at a competitive $41,035 for the base SE trim. The rugged XRT Pro starts at $51,470, while the top-of-the-line Calligraphy — loaded with luxury touches — comes in at $56,170. Considering the space, technology, and comfort packed into every model, the Palisade remains one of the best values in its class.
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade isn’t about delivering thrills behind the wheel — it’s about making every family drive smoother, more comfortable, and more connected. With its bold styling, upscale interior, and generous list of standard features, it continues to set a high bar for midsize SUVs. The new XRT Pro trim adds a dash of adventure, while the upcoming hybrid version promises to make it even more compelling.
