The Hyundai Palisade has been one of the brand’s most successful and well-loved vehicles since its debut, and for 2026, it gets its first full redesign. This new version of Hyundai’s popular three-row SUV is larger, more stylish, more capable—and yes, more expensive.

If you were hoping the fresh design and added features would come without a price hike, think again. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade starts at $40,430 for the base model and climbs to $57,775 for the top-of-the-line Calligraphy Hybrid AWD trim. That’s a price increase of up to $3,060 compared to the outgoing 2025 model.

But let’s take a deeper look at everything new and improved on the 2026 Palisade—and what you’re getting in return for those extra dollars.

A More Sophisticated Look, Inside and Out

Hyundai has completely overhauled the Palisade’s exterior design for 2026. The new look is boxier and more upscale, bearing a passing resemblance to luxury SUVs like the Range Rover. The changes are not just for show either—the 2026 Palisade has grown in size, offering more interior space for passengers and cargo.

The front fascia now features a more prominent grille, updated lighting elements, and refined body lines that give the SUV a premium and rugged presence. This redesign isn’t just aesthetic—Hyundai is aiming to raise the Palisade’s appeal in a crowded and competitive SUV market.

New Hybrid Option: More Power, Better Mileage

One of the biggest updates for the 2026 model year is the introduction of a hybrid powertrain. The new Palisade Hybrid uses a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine paired with an electric motor. This setup delivers an impressive 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque—more power than the standard gas engine.

Even more impressive is its fuel economy. According to Hyundai, the hybrid can achieve up to 34 miles per gallon in combined EPA estimates. That translates to a driving range of around 619 miles on a full tank—ideal for families or road-trippers who don’t want to stop often to refuel.

While there’s no direct comparison to previous hybrid models (since this is the first one), the hybrid versions are priced about $2,220 more than their gas-only counterparts. Given the performance and fuel efficiency improvements, that’s a relatively reasonable premium.

Introducing the XRT Pro: Off-Road Ready and Built for Adventure

Hyundai is also launching a brand-new trim level for those who want to take their Palisade off the beaten path. Called the XRT Pro, this model takes the sporty look of the existing XRT trim and adds real off-road capability.

Key features of the XRT Pro include:

• 1-inch higher ground clearance
• All-terrain tires (255/60R18)
• Electronic limited-slip rear differential
• Special terrain modes for mud, sand, and snow
• Real-time pitch, roll, compass, and elevation readings
• Exposed Canyon Red recovery hooks
• Factory-installed tow hitch hidden behind a removable panel

This trim is powered exclusively by Hyundai’s 3.5-liter V6 engine, which produces 287 hp and up to 260 lb-ft of torque. It offers a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, which is 1,000 pounds more than the hybrid version despite having lower overall power. If towing is a priority, the V6 XRT Pro might be the better fit.

Tech and Luxury Features That Add Real Value

The 2026 Palisade isn’t just about performance and looks—it also brings a suite of cutting-edge technology designed to enhance both convenience and safety.

One of the most impressive new features is the built-in dual-camera Dash Cam included in Calligraphy trims. This system continuously records footage while you drive and automatically activates if motion is detected when the car is parked. You can view the footage through the heads-up display or access recordings via the microSD card slot located in the glove box.

Another exciting update is the Digital Key 2.0 Premium system, which is now standard across all trims, including the base SE model. This system allows you to unlock and start the vehicle using a compatible smartphone or smartwatch. You can also share digital keys with others remotely.

And let’s not forget Hyundai Pay, the brand’s in-car payment platform. This new feature allows drivers to pay for fuel or parking right from the infotainment screen—no need to pull out your phone or card.

A Closer Look at 2026 Hyundai Palisade Pricing

Here’s a detailed breakdown of each trim, including the base price, all-wheel drive option (where applicable), and how much more it costs than the 2025 version:

As shown, the biggest price hike is seen on the Calligraphy trim, which jumps by $3,060 over last year’s version. However, the base SE also sees a significant increase of $1,735. Hybrid models come in at a higher starting price but offer much better fuel efficiency and more powerful drivetrains.

Final Thoughts: A More Premium Palisade for a Premium Price

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade is aiming to elevate its position in the SUV market. With a bold new design, more tech, better fuel economy, hybrid powertrains, and even an off-road-capable XRT Pro trim, Hyundai is packing in more value, but also asking for more money.

For buyers looking for a family SUV with luxury vibes, cutting-edge features, and flexible performance options, the new Palisade could be a strong contender. But with price increases across the board, shoppers will need to weigh whether the upgrades justify the added cost.

Whether you’re drawn to the rugged new XRT Pro, the fuel-efficient hybrid, or the tech-packed Calligraphy model, there’s a lot to explore in the 2026 Hyundai Palisade lineup. It’s not just a refresh—it’s a full-scale evolution of one of Hyundai’s most important vehicles.

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