2026 Hyundai Palisade Review
Introduction
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade continues to make its mark in the competitive full-size SUV segment, offering a blend of spaciousness, advanced technology, and family-friendly features. Positioned against formidable rivals such as the Kia Telluride, Ford Explorer, and Chevrolet Traverse, the Palisade stands out with its refined design and comprehensive suite of safety and infotainment options.
What’s New
- Updated exterior styling with a more aggressive front fascia
- Enhanced interior materials for improved luxury feel
- New tech features including a larger touchscreen and upgraded infotainment system
- Refined suspension for better ride quality
- Additional driver assistance features as standard across all trims
What We Think
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade impresses with its thoughtful updates that enhance both aesthetics and functionality. The refreshed exterior gives it a more commanding presence on the road, while the upgraded interior materials elevate the overall experience. Strengths include its spacious cabin, advanced safety features, and user-friendly technology. However, some may find the engine performance slightly underwhelming compared to competitors that offer more powerful options. Overall, the Palisade remains a strong contender in its class.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade is powered by a robust 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth shifts. The Palisade offers both front-wheel drive (FWD) and all-wheel drive (AWD) configurations. Acceleration from 0-60 mph is achieved in approximately 7.5 seconds, making it competitive within its segment. Estimated fuel economy figures stand at 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway for FWD models, while AWD models achieve slightly lower figures.
Engine Options
The sole engine option for the 2026 Hyundai Palisade is the 3.8-liter V6. This engine provides a balanced mix of power and efficiency, making it suitable for daily driving as well as family road trips. While some competitors offer turbocharged engines for enhanced performance, the Palisade’s V6 remains reliable and capable.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect occupants. Standard safety systems include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Cruise Control with Stop & Go functionality
Optional features include advanced systems such as Highway Driving Assist and Remote Smart Parking Assist, enhancing convenience and safety during driving.
Interior, Cargo Space, and Dimensions
The interior of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade is designed with family comfort in mind. It offers three rows of seating that can accommodate up to eight passengers. Legroom measurements are as follows:
- First Row: 41.4 inches
- Second Row: 38.4 inches
- Third Row: 33.5 inches
Cargo capacity is generous, providing:
- 18 cubic feet behind the third row
- 45.8 cubic feet behind the second row
- 86.4 cubic feet with all rear seats folded down
This cargo space is competitive when compared to rivals like the Ford Explorer and Chevrolet Traverse.
Technology and Infotainment
The technology suite in the 2026 Hyundai Palisade has been upgraded to enhance user experience. Key features include:
- A standard 12.3-inch touchscreen display with navigation capabilities
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility for seamless smartphone integration
- An available premium audio system by Harman Kardon for audiophiles
- Optional head-up display (HUD) for essential driving information at a glance
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade is available in four trim levels:
- Palisade SE: Starting at $35,000; includes essential features like LED headlights and an infotainment system.
- Palisade SEL: Starting at $39,000; adds more comfort features such as heated front seats and additional USB ports.
- Palisade Limited: Starting at $46,000; includes luxury upgrades like ventilated second-row seats and a premium audio system.
- Palisade Calligraphy: Starting at $50,000; top-tier trim with exclusive design elements and advanced technology.
Pros and Cons
- Pros:
- Spacious interior with ample cargo capacity
- User-friendly technology interface
- Comprehensive suite of safety features as standard
- Smooth ride quality with refined handling characteristics
- Lack of more powerful engine options compared to some competitors
- No hybrid or electric variant available yet
- Slightly less sporty handling than some rivals in its class