All about the new Hyundai Palisade 2026: design, technology and performance
Discover the Hyundai Palisade 2026 – the ideal SUV for vacations, city and off-road
Sometimes, a successful journey begins with choosing the right car. And when it comes to comfort, technology and safety, the new Hyunda Palisade 2026 establishes itself as a benchmark in the world of large SUVs. Its imposing lines, refined interiors and state-of-the-art technology make it an ideal choice for families, groups of friends or any customer who wants to combine luxury with functionality.
Officially launched in North America at the prestigious New York International Auto Show 2025, the new Palisade comes to continue the success of the previous version, which reached record sales figures in 2024. Now larger, more powerful and more versatile, this SUV comes equipped for any challenge – whether we are talking about long highway trips.
At our PHP rent a car Cluj office, we are happy to present this exceptional model, which redefines the standards for modern SUVs. Get ready to learn the most interesting details in this article about a vehicle that brings the best of current automotive technology.
An imposing design for a top SUV: the exterior of the new Hyundai Palisade 2026
With a bold style and impressive proportions, the new Hyundai Palisade 2026 is an SUV that attracts all eyes from the first appearance. Designed to reflect the prestige of a top model, the exterior of this vehicle is a clear statement of refinement, strength and modernity. It is the kind of SUV that is not only seen, but truly stands out, whether you are in an urban parking lot or at the foot of the Apuseni Mountains.
The front is dominated by a robust and elegant grille, framed by a new concept of LED daytime running lights with vertical graphics and a central horizontal light signature. This ensemble gives the car a wider, more stable stance, while details such as active air intakes in the lower bumper complement the sophisticated look with clear functionality. The flat hood and vertical front line blend harmoniously with a straighter A-pillar, outlining a strong and well-proportioned side profile.
Seen from the side, the new Palisade impresses with its generous dimensions: a longer wheelbase, shorter overhangs and an extended cabin at the rear. All these changes contribute to a premium, balanced and imposing silhouette. The large wheels from others, available up to 21 inches, perfectly fill the wheel arches, providing a solid road presence worthy of a top SUV. At the same time, the forward-sloping D-pillars and large glazed surfaces add dynamism and bathe the third row of seats in light, understanding and passenger visibility and comfort.
The rear of the model is dominated by a vertical light signature and an additional stop lamp located high on the roof line, which perfectly complements the design language. The straight lines, high shoulders and the aerodynamic shape of the glazed area contribute to a solid, balanced and modern image, without compromising interior space. And details such as integrated roof rails and sculpted body shapes add a touch of refinement and functionality.
In addition, as well as having a choice of no less than 10 carefully selected exteriors, from classic Abyss Black Pearl or Creamy White Pearl shades to expressive Robust Emerald Pearl, Earthy Brass Matte or Galaxy Maroon Pearl tones. Each color highlights the bold design and elegant contours of this exceptional SUV.
Comfort, refinement and cutting-edge technology – the interior of the new Hyundai Palisade 2026
At first glance, the imposing exterior of the new Hyundai Palisade 2026 captivates the eyes. But its real magic begins the moment you climb aboard. The interior of this large-class SUV is an oasis of comfort and elegance, specially designed to transform every journey, long or short, into a pleasant, relaxing and fully connected experience with technology.
The cabin of the Palisade 2026 impresses with its space and sense of refinement. Thanks to a longer body and an extended wheelbase compared to the previous generation, access to the car is easier, and passengers in all three rows of seats benefit from more legroom, more freedom of movement and a heightened feeling of airiness. The dashboard has a horizontal design, with soft-touch materials and carefully crafted finishes, inspired by the elegant ambience of modern homes.
The center console was designed not only to provide functionality, but also to contribute to the feeling of space and comfort. Its ergonomic shape supports the driver’s natural movements, and premium details – from fine textures to the way physical controls are integrated – emphasize the luxurious character of the cabin. A generous range of functionalities is within reach of all passengers: an open tray for storage, a 15W wireless charging stand with a fan for cooling devices, and USB-C ports in each row.
For lovers of impeccable sound, Hyundai offers an optional Bose audio system with 14 speakers, which envelops the entire cabin in a rich and natural sound ambience, an option that PHP rent a car Cluj Avram Iancu airport company recommends because it is excellent for long trips or moments of relaxation. And on the visual and informative side, the driver has at his disposal a curved digital dashboard, with two 12.3-inch diagonal screens, which offer navigation, driving information and multimedia functions, all at a glance.
The Palisade interior is not only beautiful and technological, but also extremely comfortable. The Relaxation seats in the front and second row are a remarkable novelty, offering a generous degree of recline, extendable footrest and ventilation, ideal for moments of rest on long routes. The standard 8-seat capacity can be replaced with captain's chairs in the second row, for added comfort and easy access to the third row. And for added convenience, the rear seat is electrically foldable, sliding and reclining, with a heating function – a rarity even in the premium segment.
The available upholstery materials range from textile and synthetic leather to genuine leather or premium Nappa leather, in a diverse range of colors: black, two-tone gray, brown or navy, so that each customer can choose their favorite atmosphere. The XRT versions add a touch of originality through textures and patterns inspired by elements from nature.
Power, refinement and efficiency – the engines of the new Hyundai Palisade 2026
Under the imposing and elegant design of the new Hyundai Palisade 2026 hides a completely new range of engines, designed to meet the varied needs of modern drivers. Whether you want classic gasoline power or a hybrid option with extended autonomy and low consumption, Palisade gives you the freedom to choose what suits you best.
The standard version of the SUV is equipped with an all-new 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine, developing up to 287 hp and an estimated maximum torque of 353 Nm. This power unit is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, equipped with a dual-chamber torque converter, which ensures smooth and efficient power delivery. Customers can choose between a front-wheel drive version or the HTRAC all-wheel drive system, ready for difficult roads, capricious weather and mountain escapades.
For those looking for performance with added efficiency, the PHP rent a car airport Cluj Napoca agency recommends its customers the hybrid variant that is introduced for the first time in the Palisade range. Under the hood is a 2.5-liter turbocharged, inline-four-cylinder engine, assisted by two electric motors integrated into the 6-speed automatic transmission housing. Together, these components generate an estimated total power of up to 329 hp and a maximum torque of 460 Nm, impressive figures that make the Palisade Hybrid a dynamic, quiet and surprisingly fast model for a large SUV.
But the advantages do not stop there. The hybrid variant promises low consumption, with an estimated range of over 990 km and a consumption of under 8 l/100 km on the highway, which makes it ideal for long and economical trips. In addition, the towing capacity of up to 1,800 kg (for the hybrid version) and 2,268 kg (for the V6) offers flexibility for active families who want to transport campers, boats or other recreational equipment.
Both versions of the new Palisade benefit from advanced soundproofing, with laminated windshield and side windows, sound-absorbing materials in the engine compartment and under the floor, as well as a fine-tuning of the powertrain, which ensures a linear and refined response in any situation. The result? A calm, refined and extremely comfortable driving experience, regardless of the engine chosen.
Hyundai Palisade 2026 – Intelligent safety for every journey
When it comes to passenger protection, the new Hyundai Palisade 2026 raises the standards in the family SUV segment. With a full suite of advanced active and passive safety technologies, the model is designed to anticipate dangers and react quickly, giving the driver added confidence and peace of mind on the road.
The new generation Palisade comes equipped with Hyundai SmartSense, an impressive set of driving assistance systems, which include functions such as:
Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) – automatic emergency braking with extended function for intersections, pedestrians, cyclists and dangerous turns;
Blind-Spot Collision Warning – blind spot monitoring with warning and automatic intervention when needed;
Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist – detection of rear traffic during reversing maneuvers;
Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist-Reverse – automatic braking when detecting obstacles during parking;
Remote Smart Parking Assist – the ability to automatically park the vehicle, using the remote control, without the driver being in the car;
Lane Following Assist – automatic lane keeping;
Navigation-Based Smart Cruise Control – speed adaptation based on information from the navigation system, ideal for winding highways;
Safe Exit Assist – automatic door warning and locking if a vehicle approaching from behind is detected when passengers want to get out of the car;
Forward Attention Warning – monitors the driver’s attention and issues warnings if it detects inattention or risky behavior.
In terms of passive protection, the new Palisade integrates no less than ten standard airbags, including a front center airbag, side airbags for rows 1 and 2, curtain airbags that cover up to the third seat and a driver’s knee airbag. In addition, third-row occupants benefit from seat belts with pretensioners and force limiters, a rare feature in this segment.
The SUV body is built on a very rigid structure, with extensive use of Advanced High-Strength Steel (AHSS) in key areas, which provides superior protection in the event of an impact, without compromising the overall weight of the vehicle. The lower structure has been designed to effectively disperse energy in the event of an accident, helping to reduce deformation and protect the interior space.
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade not only transports your family in absolute comfort, but also protects them with some of the most advanced technologies in the industry, so the PHP rent a car Cluj team assures you that no matter what trip you choose, a short one through the city or a long vacation in the mountains, this SUV is ready to take you safely to your destination.
Hyundai Palisade XRT PRO 2026 – When adventure begins beyond the asphalt
For those who are not satisfied with just the beaten path and want to explore nature in all its splendor, Hyundai is premiering a special and much more capable version of its top SUV: the new Palisade XRT PRO 2026. It is the first Hyundai model to bear the XRT PRO badge, a clear symbol of authentic off-road orientation and performance in difficult terrain conditions.
The new XRT PRO variant was designed for adventurers who want more than a stylish SUV – they want a car that gives them total freedom of movement, whether it is mountain roads, forest paths or muddy trails. Compared to previous XRT models, the PRO version raises the bar with a complete package of hardware and software improvements dedicated to driving on rough terrain.
The exterior design clearly betrays the robust character of the model: the front is dominated by an imposing lower grille, and the red tow hooks – “canyon red” – stand out not only in color, but also in functionality. The front bumper and lower guards have been redesigned to allow a more generous angle of attack, essential when approaching steep slopes or natural obstacles.
Although full technical details regarding the suspension, ground clearance or intelligent traction have not yet been fully revealed, Hyundai promises that the Palisade XRT PRO will be the most capable SUV in its range for real off-road use. Certainly, the HTRAC all-wheel drive and new dedicated driving modes will transform any challenging route into a controlled and safe experience.
For those who love nature trips, camping in remote areas or simply the tranquility of an unpaved road, the Hyundai Palisade XRT PRO offers exactly what you need: a balanced mix between the comfort of a premium SUV and the durability of a true off-roader.
If you like the idea of ??a vacation away from the city, in a place where only truly prepared cars can reach, the XRT PRO is the ideal partner. And if this model becomes available in car rental fleets in Romania, it will certainly attract the attention of those who want to discover nature differently – with confidence, style and total freedom.
Conclusion: Ready for any road, every day
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade is not just a family SUV, but a statement of innovation, safety and versatility. Whether you choose the 3.5-liter V6 engine for classic traction and constant power, or opt for the new 329 hp hybrid system, Palisade offers you a refined, economical and high-performance driving experience. Optimized automatic transmissions, towing capabilities and remarkable interior quietness make it an ideal companion for long roads and family vacations.
In addition to modern engines, the 2026 Palisade also excels in safety, offering an impressive list of advanced SmartSense systems, from automatic braking assistance to driver attention monitoring. With ten standard airbags, including for third-row passengers, and a structure reinforced with high-strength steel, this SUV makes no compromises when it comes to protecting your loved ones.
And for those who feel that true freedom begins beyond the asphalt, the XRT PRO version is the perfect answer. Designed specifically for rugged terrain, this variant commands respect with its robust appearance and technical improvements that recommend it for adventures in nature, where only truly capable cars can reach.
At our PHP rent a car Cluj office, we want to offer our customers not just rental cars, but memorable experiences. That is why we are always attentive to the newest models on the market, and if the Hyundai Palisade XRT PRO arrives in Romania, we will do our best to include it in our fleet. Until then, we are waiting for you with a varied selection of SUVs and premium cars ready to go, whether you are going on a mountain getaway or a weekend trip.
We invite you to rent a car from the PHP Rent a Car car rental office fleet at Avram Iancu Airport in Cluj Napoca.
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