2026 Hyundai Palisade First Drive Review: The Hybrid Is the One to Get

2026 Hyundai Palisade First Drive Review: The Hybrid Is the One to Get

Hyundai’s Three-Row SUV Moves Upmarket

Ever since Hyundai pulled the wraps off the redesigned Palisade at last year’s New York Auto Show, anticipation has been high to see whether this crucial three-row SUV could build on its success and maintain its edge in the fiercely competitive midsize segment. After spending time behind the wheel, it’s clear Hyundai has delivered a meaningful evolution. To experience the breadth of the lineup, we tested both the V6-powered XRT Pro and the range-topping Ultimate Calligraphy Hybrid, each built at Hyundai’s Ulsan, South Korea, facility. In Canada, pricing starts at $57,799 for the ruggedly styled XRT Pro, while the more luxurious and electrified Ultimate Calligraphy Hybrid commands $65,699.

 Two Personalities: XRT Pro or Ultimate Calligraphy

The leap from the 2025 Hyundai Palisade to the all-new 2026 model goes well beyond a simple redesign; it marks a complete shift in character. Gone is the softer, sculpted look of its predecessor, replaced by a sharper, more architectural design language. With its longer wheelbase, upright proportions, and boxier stance, the new Palisade projects a planted, upscale presence that feels distinctly more European in its execution. This new design philosophy is especially evident in the lineup’s split personality. The XRT Pro embraces rugged capability with exclusive 18-inch alloy wheels, all-terrain Continental tires, added ground clearance, red recovery hooks, darkened trim, and matte-black accents that give it an unapologetically adventurous edge. By contrast, the Ultimate Calligraphy takes a far more polished approach, distinguished by exclusive 21-inch wheels, chrome detailing, and body-coloured cladding that elevate its premium curb appeal. Viewed as a whole, the transformation is unmistakable. A taller front fascia with stacked lighting elements, paired with a rear lightbar and vertical taillamps, reinforces the Palisade’s newfound confidence. Hyundai has traded the approachable family-crossover aesthetic for something bolder, more luxurious, and unmistakably aimed at moving its flagship SUV further upmarket.

A Cabin That Pushes Hyundai Further Upmarket

Slip inside the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy, and it becomes immediately clear that Hyundai is aiming well beyond the mainstream three-row SUV segment. The cabin is shaped by near-luxury ambition, with a clean, architectural layout centred around a sweeping curved display that seamlessly merges the digital instrument cluster and infotainment touchscreen into a single, elegant focal point. Premium soft-touch materials are complemented by tasteful wood accents, metallic trim, and subtle ambient lighting that adds warmth without feeling overdone. Practicality remains central to the experience. Standard eight-passenger seating reinforces the Palisade’s family-first purpose, while available second-row captain’s chairs add convenience with one-touch tilt-and-slide access to the third row. Occupants are treated to thoughtful details throughout, including available heated and ventilated second-row seats, a power-folding and reclining third row with available heating, and ample USB-C charging ports in every row. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, paired with a rich 14-speaker Bose Premium audio system, while features like a digital rearview mirror and advanced Rear Occupant Alert add meaningful peace of mind. The XRT Pro takes the same impressive cabin foundation and gives it a tougher personality. Darker trim finishes, contrast stitching, and more durable materials create an environment better suited to outdoor gear and all-weather use. While its focus shifts toward durability, it sacrifices none of the technology, space, or convenience found in the Calligraphy. Both trims also excel in family usability, with clearly marked ISOFIX anchors and wide-opening doors that make installing child seats and accessing all three rows refreshingly straightforward.

V6 Familiarity or Hybrid Power

Under the hood, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade introduces a two-pronged powertrain strategy that caters to very different buyers: a traditional naturally aspirated V6 for those who value familiarity, and a new hybrid setup that points clearly toward Hyundai’s electrified future. The gasoline-powered model replaces the outgoing 3.8-litre V6 with a slightly smaller 3.5-litre unit, producing a healthy 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Paired to an eight-speed automatic transmission and Hyundai’s standard HTRAC all-wheel-drive system in Canada, it delivers dependable performance with solid refinement. While capable and flexible, the transmission can occasionally hesitate when required to accelerate quickly, muting some of the engine’s potential. Still, it excels where utility matters most, offering up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity; ideal for hauling recreational gear or a weekend camper.

The Hybrid Feels Like the Better Match

The real standout, however, is the all-new hybrid. Built around a turbocharged 2.5-litre four-cylinder paired with electric motors, it produces an impressive 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque through a six-speed automatic transmission. On paper, it may have fewer gears, but on the road, it feels markedly more responsive. Throttle inputs are met with immediate acceleration, making highway passing and city launches feel effortless. While the powertrain note under hard acceleration lacks character, its smooth, quiet delivery and abundant low-end torque make it the more refined and satisfying choice for most Palisades drivers.

Comfortable, Confident, and More Capable

Out on the road, both versions of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade deliver a composed and confidence-inspiring driving experience. The SUV feels securely planted, with well-controlled body motions and steering that strikes an effective balance between smoothness and precision for the segment. Ride comfort is clearly a priority, and the suspension does an admirable job of soaking up broken pavement and potholes, particularly in the XRT Pro, whose setup feels especially compliant over rougher surfaces. That said, the XRT Pro’s upgrades go beyond comfort. With all-terrain tires and an Electronic Rear Limited Slip Differential, it’s genuinely capable of venturing beyond pavement, whether that means tackling gravel backroads, snowy conditions, or heading confidently toward a remote campsite.

The Hybrid Makes Its Case on Fuel Economy

Efficiency, however, is where the hybrid makes its strongest case. Officially rated by Natural Resources Canada at 8.1 L/100 km combined, Hyundai estimates the total range could exceed 900 kilometres on a full tank. In our colder-weather testing, we averaged 9.5 L/100 km; still a substantial improvement over the V6. It may not rival a dedicated hybrid like a Toyota Prius, but for a three-row SUV of this size, the gains are significant. By comparison, the XRT Pro returned roughly 12.7 L/100 km, a reminder that its added capability comes with a noticeable penalty at the pump.

Final Verdict: A Stronger Palisade With a Clear Standout

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade is a meaningful evolution of Hyundai’s flagship three-row SUV. With bolder styling, a more upscale and thoughtfully designed cabin, and the choice of a capable V6 or an impressive new hybrid powertrain, it feels more refined and competitive than ever. Both trims deliver the comfort, confidence, and practicality families expect, though the hybrid stands out with its stronger performance and efficiency. Altogether, the new Palisade builds on its strengths while pushing further upmarket, solidifying its place as one of the most compelling choices in the midsize three-row SUV segment.

Disclaimer: Hyundai has lent us the vehicle as a press loan. We have no affiliation with Hyundai Canada. The above reflects our personal opinion of the cars referred to above.