2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid
When Hyundai introduced the all-new second-generation Palisade earlier this year, it immediately gave consumers what they wanted: more interior space, more technology, and a bolder exterior design. But one thing the brand lacked was an efficient and powerful engine option. That changes now with the introduction of the first-ever 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid, featuring a combination of a 2.5-liter turbocharged engine and two electric motors, delivering over 300 horsepower and up to 35 MPG.
Key Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 + 2 electric motors |
| Combined Power | 329 hp / 339 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 6-speed automatic |
| Battery | 1.65 kWh lithium-ion |
| Drivetrain | FWD / HTRAC AWD |
| Fuel Economy | Up to 35 mpg highway |
| 0 to 60 mph | 6.88 seconds |
| Towing Capacity | 4,000 lbs |
| Cargo Volume | 19.1 to 86 cu.ft |
| Seating Capacity | Up to 8 passengers |
| Range | 525 to 600 miles (estimated) |
Powertrain and Performance
The big story with the second-generation Palisade Hybrid is its completely new hybrid system. Hyundai pairs a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four engine with two electric motors, a configuration that marks a major step forward from its previous single-motor design.
The gasoline engine alone produces 258 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, while the two electric motors add 13 hp and 72 hp, contributing up to 195 lb-ft of torque. Combined output stands at 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, all routed through a six-speed automatic transmission.
Power is drawn from a 1.65 kWh lithium-ion battery pack, which is larger than most competitors’ hybrid systems. While it is not a plug-in hybrid, the system allows the SUV to drive on electric power alone more often and more smoothly than before.
0 to 60 mph: 6.88 seconds (tested)
Top speed: around 129 mph
Fuel economy (FWD): 35 mpg highway / 34 combined
Fuel economy (AWD): 29 city / 30 highway / 29 combined
Towing capacity: 4,000 lbs
Range: Up to 525 miles (AWD) / 600 miles (FWD)
Despite the added hybrid tech, weight is up by only around 100 lbs (approximately 4,800 lbs total), proving Hyundai managed its engineering balance well.
Exterior Design
The 2026 Palisade takes on a boxier and more commanding look, achieving a 0.31 coefficient of drag despite its upright stance. While some may find it overly robotic, the squared-off proportions give it a strong SUV presence.
The featured Robust Emerald color looks nearly black under direct sunlight, while satin silver accents add a premium touch. The LED headlamps are split into two vertical clusters with daytime running lights that integrate into a chrome bar, complemented by an LED light strip across the grille, exclusive to the Calligraphy trim.
Other key exterior highlights include:
Active grille shutters and a 360° camera system
21-inch alloy wheels on Calligraphy (18-inch and 20-inch on lower trims)
Self-leveling rear suspension and upgraded brakes (13.8-inch front, 12.8-inch rear)
Ground clearance: 7.4 inches
Power-folding mirrors, silver roof rails, and a dual-panel panoramic sunroof
At the rear, the vertical LED taillights, hidden rear wiper, and clean tailgate design with “Palisade” lettering emphasize modern minimalism. Cargo capacity remains unchanged from the gas version, offering 19.1 cu.ft with all rows up, 46 cu.ft with the third row folded, and 86 cu.ft with both rear rows down.
Interior Comfort and Features
Inside, the new Palisade Hybrid feels more Genesis than Hyundai. The Calligraphy trim adds saddle brown Nappa leather, a massaging driver’s seat, soft-touch materials, and metallic accents. Build quality feels solid, and cabin noise is impressively low.
Key interior highlights:
Dual 12.3-inch displays with Hyundai’s latest software and wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
Ergo motion massaging driver seat (14-way adjustable)
Heated and ventilated front and second-row seats
UVC-light storage console for sanitizing small items
14-speaker Bose premium audio system
Ambient lighting and Alcantara headliner
The cabin’s floating center console and spacious storage areas emphasize practicality, while premium touches such as soft-touch door panels, real metal switches, and a digital rearview mirror enhance the luxury appeal.
Second and Third Row Space
The second row can be configured with either captain’s chairs or a bench seat (available on select trims), allowing up to eight-passenger capacity. Hyundai’s engineers positioned the hybrid battery beneath the floor, slightly reducing legroom by 1.6 inches, but space remains generous at 41.6 inches.
Features include:
Power-adjustable second-row seats
Retractable sunshades and tri-zone climate control
USB-C ports and a 115V power outlet
The third row continues to impress with 32 inches of legroom, power reclining seats, and the ability to slide forward and backward, a unique feature in this segment. Adults can sit comfortably here, and larger side windows improve visibility for passengers.
Driving Experience
On the road, the Palisade Hybrid delivers a smooth, quiet, and composed ride. Acceleration is strong, with the 0 to 60 mph time dropping from 8.6 seconds (V6) to 6.88 seconds in the hybrid. The combination of turbo power and electric torque provides excellent mid-range response and refined highway performance.
Steering remains light and comfort-oriented, and while it is not sporty, it prioritizes ride quality and refinement, making it ideal for long family trips. The suspension absorbs bumps gracefully even on 21-inch wheels, outperforming rivals like the Infiniti QX60 in ride comfort.
During testing, the Palisade Hybrid returned 29 mpg combined in AWD form and is expected to offer a range of over 600 miles in front-wheel-drive versions.
Verdict
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid blurs the line between a value-brand SUV and a true luxury vehicle. With its refined hybrid powertrain, exceptional comfort, upscale interior, and impressive fuel efficiency, it sets a new standard for three-row family SUVs.
Hyundai’s first hybrid Palisade doesn’t just improve efficiency; it elevates the entire driving experience.
2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid – Frequently Asked Questions
1. What powertrain does the 2026 Palisade Hybrid use?
The Palisade Hybrid pairs a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 gasoline engine with two electric motors and a six-speed automatic transmission. The combined output is 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. It uses a 1.65 kWh lithium-ion battery pack.
2. How efficient and what fuel economy can I expect?
Front-wheel-drive versions are rated up to around 35 mpg highway and 34 mpg combined. All-wheel-drive versions deliver about 29 mpg city, 30 mpg highway, and 29 mpg combined. Real-world mileage may vary depending on driving conditions and style.
3. How quick is the Palisade Hybrid?
In testing, the Palisade Hybrid accelerated from 0 to 60 mph in 6.88 seconds, about a second faster than the older V6 gasoline model.
4. Does the hybrid affect cargo and passenger space?
No major changes. Cargo volume remains 19.1 cu.ft with all rows up, 46 cu.ft with the third row folded, and up to 86 cu.ft with both rear rows folded. The hybrid battery sits under the second-row floor, slightly reducing legroom by 1.6 inches.
5. How many passengers can the Palisade Hybrid seat?
It can seat seven passengers with second-row captain’s chairs or eight with a second-row bench, depending on the trim level.
6. What is the towing capacity of the hybrid model?
The Palisade Hybrid can tow up to 4,000 pounds — about 1,000 pounds less than the standard V6 model but still capable for small trailers or campers.
7. What trim levels and pricing should I expect?
The hybrid is available from the SEL trim upwards. The SEL Hybrid starts around $44,150, while the top Calligraphy trim can reach $60,000–$61,000 with options. Prices may vary by dealer and region.
8. When will the Palisade Hybrid be available?
Hyundai has already started shipping the Palisade Hybrid to dealerships. Availability may vary depending on your region.
