2026 Hyundai Palisade Drops V6 For Four-Cylinders And Hybrid Efficiency In Korea

The Hyundai Palisade is back, boxier and flashier than ever. The 2026 model has just been officially detailed in Korea, spilling the details on the local engine lineup along with new photos of its revamped exterior and interior. This is the ICE-powered sibling to the Ioniq 9, and while it won’t save the planet with zero emissions, it might just win over families who need a three-row that doesn’t scream “minivan.”

The new Palisade comes in both traditional gasoline and hybrid versions, both exclusively powered by a four-cylinder engine—contrary to earlier leaks hinting at a possible V6. Details about the North American version remain under wraps for now.

The new Palisade marks a significant departure from its predecessor in terms of design, adopting boxier and more upmarket looks. The fresh exterior is joined by a more premium cabin, inspired by high-end furniture. Additionally, the Korean-spec model is available in a nine-seater, three-row configuration, with a small extra seat at the front between the driver and passenger.

Longer, Roomier, More Range Rover-ish

The 2026 Palisade has grown in every direction, now stretching to 5,060 mm (199.2 inches) in length, or 65 mm (2.6 inches) longer than the outgoing model. It matches the dimensions of Hyundai’s all-electric Ioniq 9 but sticks to an updated version of its current unibody platform. The width is now 1,980 mm (78 inches), and the height stands at 1,805 mm (71.1 inches).

More: 2026 Hyundai Palisade Is Big, Boxy, And Ready To Impress With 9-Seater Cabin

The most notable stretch, though, is in the wheelbase, which now measures 2,970 mm (116.9 inches), or 70 mm (2.8 inches) longer than before. The extended proportions, combined with a shorter front overhang and an elongated rear, lend the Palisade some very Range Rover-esque vibes. Whether that’s homage or imitation is for you to decide.

Inside, the Palisade has received a premium upgrade, looking less like your average Hyundai and more like a Genesis-lite. The dashboard features dual 12.3-inch displays under a single curved panel, paired with wood accents, ambient lighting, and an island-style center console. The design feels decidedly upmarket, though some touches, like the Range Rover-inspired steering wheel and Genesis-esque door handles, make it clear Hyundai’s been borrowing liberally from its own and others’ playbooks.

For seating, Hyundai offers a choice of seven, eight, or nine seats across three rows. The nine-seater version, exclusive to Korea, features a small foldable front-middle seat that doubles as a center console. While that might sound odd, it’s a clever move that lets buyers legally use bus lanes.

More: 2026 Genesis Electrified GV70 Gets 27-Inch Display, Star-Lined Door Cards And NACS

The two separate second-row seats of the seven-seater model have power folding, sliding, reclining, and optional massaging functions, with a tilting walk-in feature providing easier access to the third row. The latter can also slide forward, resulting to a boot capacity of up to 615 lt (21.7 cubic feet). The driver can adjust the position and the angle of the second- and third-row seats from the infotainment display.

Hyundai engineers prioritized ride quality and noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), enhancing the soundproofing capabilities of the glass. Additionally, the Palisade is the first Hyundai SUV to feature Electronic Controlled Suspension (ECS), which leverages sensors and navigation data to reduce pitching and yawing movements. The safety package boasts a wide array of advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS).

Trim and Color Options

In Korea, the Hyundai Palisade will be offered in Exclusive, Prestige, and Calligraphy trims. The color palette includes the new Ecotronic Gray Pearl, Cast Iron Brown Pearl, Galaxy Maroon Pearl, Robust Emerald Pearl, and Clazzi Blue Pearl, alongside the more traditional Abyss Black Pearl, Creamy White Pearl, and Shimmering Silver Metallic. These exterior options can pair with various interior upholstery choices, including white/navy, gray, black, and tan.

Goodbye Diesel, Hello Hybrid

The new Hyundai Palisade retains an upgraded version of its current unibody platform, but the powertrain lineup is getting a much-needed refresh. This time around, the 3.8-liter V6 is out, and there is no mention of any six-cylinder unit despite earlier reports. Instead, Hyundai offers a slightly punchier turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with 277 hp (207 kW / 281 PS) and 422 Nm (311 lb-ft) of torque.

As for diesel fans in Korea? Well, it’s time to pour one out as Hyundai’s officially pulling the plug on it. Not that North America will care, since the diesel option was never offered here in the first place. You can’t miss what you never had.

But don’t worry as there’s a silver lining for efficiency nerds. A hybrid version brings a beefier 330 hp (246 kW / 334 PS) to the table while offering a claimed driving range of over 1,000 km (621 miles) thanks to the combined efforts of both the turbo 2.5-liter four-pot, a single electric motor, and a 1.65 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. That’s pretty impressive for a bus-sized SUV and should help you feel a little better about all that space you’re taking up on the road.

What About in America?

As for North America, Hyundai’s rival to the Mazda CX-90, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Grand Highlander, among others, has yet to be officially detailed. However, it’s likely to feature a turbocharged four-cylinder, possibly with hybrid and/or plug-in hybrid variants.

Price Bump in Korea

In Korea, the Hyundai Palisade costs between ₩43,830,000 ($30,300) and ₩60,340,000 ($41,700) depending on the trim, seating layout, and powertrain. This makes it pricier than the outgoing model, which was listed between ₩38.96–54.91 million ($27,100–38,200). Deliveries will commence in January for the gas-powered model, and in mid-2025 for the hybrid.

Following its launch in its home market, the Hyundai Palisade is expected to hit US dealerships as a 2026MY later next year.