Hyundai Palisade vs Hyundai Palisade Hybrid

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade underwent significant changes while retaining its recognizable identity. The new model featured a more upright stance with a squared-off profile, giving it a bold and distinctive appearance. The standout feature was its front lighting, with rectangular slashes flanking the massive grille. Inside, the Palisade's interior was softened with flowing shapes and simple lines reminiscent of mid-century modern furniture. The interior was refined and relaxing, with high-quality materials and texture variance, especially in the top-spec Ultimate Calligraphy model. The Palisade was longer and had a stretched wheelbase, offering seating for seven or eight passengers.

In Canada, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid was available in two trim levels: Luxury and Ultimate Calligraphy. Both trims integrated seamlessly into the gas-only Palisade lineup. The base Luxury trim came with 20-inch alloy wheels and a massive grille with LED projector headlights. The Palisade Hybrid's interior was impressive, with features like H-Tex synthetic leatherette upholstery, eight-way power adjustment for the driver's seat, and three-stage heating elements. The interior design was filled with organic shapes, offering a richer feeling of craftsmanship compared to competitors. The Palisade Hybrid's cabin was comfortable, with dual-zone climate control and ample USB-C power outlets.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade was powered by a 3.5-litre V6 engine producing 287 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. This powertrain compared favourably to competitors like the Chevrolet Traverse and Ford Explorer. Despite a slight decrease in power from the previous model, the Palisade's eight-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive provided a refined driving experience. The suspension offered a comfortable ride, and the brakes were upsized for improved stopping distances. The Palisade had a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms and featured Hyundai's HTRAC AWD system with various driving modes.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid featured a 2.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine paired with two electric motors, producing a total of 329 horsepower and 339 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid system optimized power distribution, resulting in impressive performance and fuel efficiency. The advanced eight-speed automatic transmission and propulsion systems contributed to the Palisade Hybrid's fun-to-drive nature. The cabin was quiet, with noise-absorbing carpet and acoustic glass. The steering was sharp, and the pedals provided a responsive driving experience.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade offered a spacious interior with captain's chairs in the middle row and a standard second-row bench seat. The third-row seats were sized for occasional adult use. Passengers had access to USB-C charging ports, cupholders, and air vents. The Palisade's interior was designed for comfort, with heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated second-row seats. The cargo space was ample, with up to 540 litres available with the third row scooted forward and a maximum of 2,455 litres behind the front seats.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid had a total cargo capacity of 2,455 litres, trailing some competitors but offering more than others. The second-row legroom was slightly reduced due to the battery's position, but the cabin remained comfortable. The Palisade Hybrid came standard with a second-row bench seat and seating for eight, with captain's chairs available on higher trims. The interior featured dual-zone climate control, multiple USB-C power outlets, and ample storage cubbies for smaller items.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade came equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a matching 12.3-inch colour touchscreen for the infotainment system. Standard features included onboard navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 12-inch colour head-up display on the Ultimate Calligraphy trim. The Palisade also offered a surround view monitor camera system, integrated dashcams, and an in-car intercom system. The Bose audio system provided excellent sound quality, and a UV-light cleaning system was available for added convenience.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid featured a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen and digital instrument cluster. Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay were supported, along with a Driver Talk intercom system. Higher trims added a 14-speaker Bose stereo and a built-in dashcam. The Palisade Hybrid introduced "Stay Mode," allowing the climate control and infotainment system to run while the gas engine was off. A wireless charging pad was included, although it could overheat on warm days.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade offered a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, forward collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. Additional features like side parking sensors and evasive steering assist were available on higher trims. The Palisade's safety systems performed well during testing, although the cyclist detection system had a 50/50 success rate.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid came standard with advanced driver assistance systems, including blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic assist, and automatic emergency braking. The blind-view monitor was standard on higher trims, and the rear doors featured a safe-exit alert indicator. The Palisade Hybrid's ADAS tech performed flawlessly during testing, providing a safe driving experience.