Our folks at MToday from South Korea captured an interesting prototype of the next-gen Hyundai Palisade in South Korea. Looking at the front you will notice new orange stripes as DRL’s, which is clearly different to what we have seen in the current prototypes (white DRL for non US-models). It is clear that Hyundai will use this orange DRL in the next-gen Palisade as Kia already did with the Telluride or the recently updated K5.
Palisade Exterior Design & Styling
The 2026 Palisade, codenamed LX3, is poised to build upon the success of its predecessors with a design that’s both refreshing and familiar. The crossover showcases clean, angular styling, drawing inspiration from the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SUV’s striking redesign. However, the Palisade stands apart with its unique headlight and tail-light configurations, a more prominent grille, and a reworked side-window profile that accentuates its increased length.
Innovative Platform & Spacious Interior
Underneath its bold exterior, the Palisade is rumored to be built on a new platform featuring a longer wheelbase. This change aims to enhance interior space, allowing the Palisade to better compete with rivals like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander. Additionally, uncamouflaged Hyundai badging on its new wheel design hints at the brand’s confidence in this exciting model.
Palisade Powertrain & Performance Upgrades
The buzz around the 2023 LA Auto Show suggested significant mechanical upgrades for the Palisade. These rumors are now gaining traction, with the prototype suggesting two new engines: a 2.5-liter Hybrid powertrain and a turbocharged 3.5-liter V6, set to replace the current 3.8-liter engine. This evolution indicates Hyundai’s commitment to combining performance with environmental consciousness.
Left: KDM-spec Palisade / Right: US-Spec Palisade
The current Palisade lineup offers a selection of gasoline engines, but the 2026 model marks the introduction of a hybrid variant, signifying Hyundai’s strategic move towards sustainable mobility. This new model is not just an upgrade in terms of power; it’s a statement of Hyundai’s vision for the future of family-friendly transportation.
Conclusion: Next-gen Palisade to be a New Era for the 3-Row Crossover Market
In summary, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade is shaping up to be a game-changer in the 3-row crossover market. With its blend of innovative design, advanced technology, and a commitment to sustainability, Hyundai is set to further solidify its position as a leader in the automotive industry. As anticipation builds, the Palisade LX3 stands as a beacon of Hyundai’s progressive approach to automobile design and engineering.
