Hot on the heels of learning that Hyundai’s full-size SUV could be dubbed Palisade, our spy photographers have snapped a camouflaged prototype during testing.
Whatever it ends up being called, the full-size Hyundai SUV will use the same platform as the upcoming Kia Telluride. Consequently, it should be sold with front-wheel drive as standard and be offered with all-wheel drive as an option.
The vast majority of variants are bound to use a V6 engine but a number of electrified offerings are inevitable. After all, Hyundai intends on launching 15 electrified models by 2020, including hybrids, plug-in hybrids, battery-electric, and fuel-cell vehicles. The Kia Telluride should be offered with largely the same powertrain options as the Hyundai.
As the latest-generation Hyundai Santa Fe is no longer sold with seven-seats, the full-size SUV will essentially act as a replacement to that model. However, it will take things one step further and provide seating for eight occupants.
Santa Fe looks but on a bigger scale
From a styling perspective, influence will be taken from the new Santa Fe. Consequently, the full-size SUV will feature a bold front fascia with slim LED daytime running lights. At the rear, we will see vertical taillights and a more upright window and tailgate than the Santa Fe, allowing for ample room in the third-row.
Hyundai has discussed its impending full-size SUV in the past and according to the brand’s president and chief executive Wonhee Lee, it will hit the market in mid-2019. Naturally, a U.S. launch is a given and an arrival in Europe at a later date is likely.
Another all-new SUV from Hyundai is also in the works, namely an A-segment SUV which will be even smaller than the Kona. It too will have styling reminiscent of the Santa Fe and Kona and could also get some form of hybridization.