Hyundai planned to unveil the official images of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade today, December 5. However, due to a political scandal in South Korea, the reveal has been postponed. Despite this delay, recent spy shots and exclusive renderings made by our colleagues at Gotcha Cars have given us a glimpse of what’s to come.
Modern Platform and Enhanced Interior Space
Built on a new platform with a longer wheelbase, the next-gen Palisade provides ample interior space, rivaling key competitors like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander. This expanded platform not only offers generous legroom but also boosts cargo capacity, catering to growing families and travelers alike. The unmasked Hyundai branding on the wheels signals a pride in craftsmanship, further solidifying Hyundai’s commitment to delivering a premium experience.
Advanced Hybrid Powertrain and Increased Battery Capacity
The 2026 Palisade introduces two significant powertrain options: a new 2.5-liter hybrid and a turbocharged 2.5-liter gasoline engine, both of which replace the outgoing 3.8-liter engine. These new engines align with Hyundai’s eco-conscious goals, delivering increased performance with reduced emissions. The hybrid option, in particular, marks an important milestone, as Hyundai aims to produce 140,000 hybrid Palisade units per year, emphasizing its pivot toward sustainable energy solutions.
Comparison between the prototype spied and the rendering (Spy shot by ShortsCar)
Noteworthy Battery Capacity Upgrade for the Hybrid Variant
According to the latest news from the ‘Palisade Full Change LX3 Owners Club,’ the new 2.5-liter turbo hybrid gasoline engine on the 2026 Palisade is expected to come with a powerful V2L battery with a capacity of approximately 3.5 kWh. This is a significant enhancement compared to the 1.5 kWh battery typically found in Hyundai Group’s 1.6 turbo gasoline hybrids. This increase in battery capacity brings numerous advantages, including extended electric driving capability and enhanced energy storage, providing users with more efficient fuel consumption and a greener driving experience.
Hyundai’s Production Boost to Meet Growing Demand
Hyundai’s plans to increase Palisade production by 30% are in direct response to the rising demand for spacious, eco-friendly SUVs. With a production target of 210,000 units per year, the Palisade is set to become a leader in the competitive 3-row crossover market. The availability of both hybrid and gasoline options ensures Hyundai caters to a wide variety of consumer preferences while reinforcing its commitment to sustainability.
Conclusion
With increased production targets, a spacious new platform, and advanced hybrid technology, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade LX3 is well-positioned to leave a lasting mark on the family SUV market. Its elevated design, boosted battery capacity, and eco-friendly powertrains provide a powerful, responsible option for consumers, redefining what families can expect from a 3-row crossover. Hyundai’s focus on sustainability, paired with luxury-inspired aesthetics, ensures that the 2026 Palisade will be a preferred choice among discerning SUV buyers.