The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Hybrid blends power, refinement, and efficiency in a stylish three-row SUV package. This second-generation Palisade electrifies the lineup with a turbocharged four-cylinder engine augmented by electric motors, resulting in an impressive 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque that feels effortlessly strong on demand. Beyond its powertrain upgrade, this hybrid flagship carries over all the design enhancements and interior luxury found in its gas-only counterpart.
Hyundai invited journalists to experience the top-of-the-line Calligraphy trim during a scenic drive through the Texas Hill Country, leaving many impressed with its smooth performance, comfortable ride, and family-friendly practicality within a luxurious cabin.
A Bold Stance and Premium Touches:
The redesigned Palisade makes a striking visual statement with a bold, boxy stance enhanced by sharp LED lighting and a prominent grille that exudes confidence without appearing overbearing. Its elongated wheelbase and subtly swept profile hint at the expanded interior space within. Hyundai manages to deliver an interior brimming with premium touches that belie its price point, creating exceptional value in this segment.
Driving Experience: Efficiency Meets Engagement:
On winding Texas roads, the Palisade Hybrid demonstrated impressive handling capabilities. It confidently tackled steep grades, maintaining composure through corners while delivering smooth acceleration without noticeable lag. The Drive Mode Select system offers Eco for prioritizing fuel efficiency and Sport for sharper throttle response and more engaging gear changes (although with a minor impact on gas mileage).
The available self-leveling suspension system effectively cushions the ride over bumps, aided by excellent sound deadening. This results in an exceptionally quiet cabin that isolates occupants from road imperfections. Even transitions between electric and gasoline powertrains happen seamlessly, further contributing to a refined driving experience. While this is not a vehicle designed for off-road adventures, the standard gas Palisade lineup now includes a rugged XRT Pro trim catering to those seeking more robust capabilities.
Powertrain Synergy:
The hybrid system’s seamless integration of electric motors and the turbocharged four-cylinder engine creates an exceptional driving experience. It delivers both commendable fuel economy and spirited acceleration – a balance often difficult to achieve in hybrids. A key contributor is the choice of a six-speed automatic transmission over a continuously variable transmission (CVT), resulting in smoother, quieter gear shifts.
Pressing the accelerator reveals immediate response without hesitation, making highway merging effortless. The transition between gas and electric powertrains goes unnoticed by most drivers, smoothly blurring the line between traditional gasoline engines and hybrid technology. Braking performance is equally impressive, bringing this substantial SUV to a confident and controlled stop.
Fuel Economy for Long Journeys:
EPA-estimated fuel economy figures are notably strong: up to 35 mpg for front-wheel drive models and 30 mpg for all-wheel drive configurations. Hyundai further underscores the Palisade Hybrid’s practicality with an estimated combined gas and electric driving range of up to 619 miles. For families, this translates into fewer fuel stops on long road trips and reduced running costs overall.
Interior Comfort and Convenience:
The Palisade Hybrid’s cabin exudes a premium ambiance, showcasing soft-touch materials that elevate the feeling of luxury. Heated and ventilated front seats paired with three-zone climate control ensure occupant comfort across all rows. Laminated glass and exceptional sound insulation minimize road and wind noise intrusion, fostering a serene environment even at highway speeds – facilitating relaxed conversation in the front while children slumber peacefully in the rear.
The Calligraphy trim takes luxury further with quilted Nappa leather upholstery and a suede headliner, injecting an air of opulence rarely found at this price point. The standout ergo motion driver’s seat offers periodic massage functions to alleviate fatigue during long drives, while a unique “relaxation mode” extends out a leg rest when stationary for added comfort during school pickup or practice wait times. This thoughtful inclusion also extends to the second-row captain’s chairs.
Ambient lighting, wood trim accents, and contrast stitching throughout the cabin further enhance its upscale appeal. The Palisade Hybrid successfully positions itself as a strong contender in terms of interior quality, rivaling vehicles costing considerably more.
Ample Space for Everyone:
The spacious cabin accommodates up to eight passengers comfortably. Access to the third row is simplified thanks to second-row seats that slide forward and tip up with ease. While adults might find prolonged stays in the rearmost seat less desirable beyond short trips, it still provides adequate space for all but the tallest passengers. The inclusion of heated seats in top trims further elevates the comfort level for those occasionally occupying this row.
User-Friendly Technology:
A single curved display seamlessly integrates both a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, providing a cohesive and modern look. The intuitive infotainment system incorporates navigation, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto connectivity with responsive controls and well-organized menus.
A premium 14-speaker Bose audio system elevates the entertainment experience, while each row features high-power USB-C charging ports and there’s a convenient Qi wireless charging pad for front-row occupants. A standout feature in the Calligraphy trim is the integrated front and rear dashcam system – an uncommon offering in this segment.
Hybrid Versatility:
The Palisade Hybrid takes advantage of its electric capabilities with a unique “Stay Mode.” While parked, it allows the climate control and infotainment systems (including charging ports) to run solely on battery power instead of consuming fuel.
Cargo space is versatile and plentiful. With all three rows in use, there’s 19.1 cubic feet for groceries or luggage. Folding the third row expands capacity to 46.3 cubic feet, ideal for weekend adventures or hauling bulky items. Finally, with both the second and third rows folded flat, a maximum cargo volume of 86.7 cubic feet accommodates larger furniture pieces or bicycles with ease. A deep center console that splits open in the middle provides easy access to its storage compartment, which doubles as a UV-C sterilization area capable of eliminating germs in a mere ten minutes.
The Best Palisade Hybrid for You:
While the luxurious Calligraphy trim is tempting, the SEL Premium trim (priced at $47,250 with front-wheel drive) strikes an excellent balance between features and value. Adding all-wheel drive brings the price to $49,250, a worthwhile investment for those experiencing snowy winters. This package adds heated and ventilated rear seats along with ventilated front seats – key upgrades that significantly enhance passenger comfort without breaking the bank. The Palisade Hybrid SEL Premium emerges as a compelling choice for buyers seeking refined features and upscale ambiance at a competitive price point.
