The refreshed 2025 Ford Explorer debuted in early February 2024, and deliveries of that particular model followed this past summer. Though it’s one of the longest-running and most popular vehicles in its segment, the Explorer certainly has its fair share of competition as well – including the Hyundai Palisade. Having just debuted for the 2020 model year, it isn’t exactly old by anyone’s standards, but regardless, a brand new version was just unveiled at the New York Auto Show – the 2026 Hyundai Palisade – and it looks quite a bit different than the outgoing model.
The first thing one will undoubtedly notice about the 2026 Hyundai Palisade is its rather large front grille, along with a more square-off appearance, overall. It’s also 2.5 inches longer, with a 2.7-inch elongated wheelbase, giving the SUV more space inside the cabin. There, one will find seating for eight with a center bench or seven with optional captain’s chairs, along with a pair of 12.3-inch screens.
Powertrain options consist of a standard 3.5L V6 making 287 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque mated to an eight-speed automatic driving either the front or all four wheels, or – for the first time – a hybrid (something the Explorer doesn’t offer for civilians, at least, for now) with a turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder gas engine paired with two electric motors churning out a combined 329 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque mated to a six-speed gearbox and either front- or all-wheel drive.
For now, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade will only be offered in three trims – XRT Pro, Limited, and Calligraphy – with the former being all-new and more off-road capable with one inch of additional ground clearance, an electronic limited-slip rear differential, and all-terrain tires. V6-powered models are slated to arrive first, this summer, followed by the hybrid in the fall. Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, but the 2026 Hyundai Palisade is currently expected to be built in South Korea for the U.S. market.
Comments
Everybody is copying the Ford swept back roofline now that started with the Lincoln Aviator.
…and Ford copied it from Range Rover.
Boy, is the new Palisade FUGLY..
It’s as ugly as the Maverick, same designer? Nice interior.
Hmmmmmmm????
Damn! This thing smells luxury – shocking…I think this will only help Hyundai increase their sales in the segment.