Fresh spy photos of the Hyundai Palisade High Roof have surfaced online thanks to our colleagues at Healer TV, showing a completely undisguised prototype wearing Korean domestic testing plates. Importantly, this test vehicle is widely believed to be the production version of the Palisade High Roof concept unveiled at the Seoul Mobility Show, signaling that Hyundai is moving beyond the concept stage.
Unlike MPVs or vans, the Palisade High Roof remains firmly based on Hyundai’s flagship SUV architecture, but with a stronger focus on rear-seat luxury and executive comfort. The raised-roof configuration seen in the spy shots closely mirrors the High Roof concept’s design intent, reinforcing expectations of an imminent production model.
Hyundai Palisade High Roof: What the Spy Photos Reveal
Notably, industry insiders believe this test vehicle could represent the production-ready version of the Palisade High Roof concept, which Hyundai previously unveiled at the Seoul Mobility Show. The overall proportions, raised roof treatment, and luxury-focused direction seen in the spy photos closely mirror that concept, suggesting Hyundai is moving toward showroom reality rather than an experimental showcase.
The latest spy shots reveal several key design changes that differentiate the High Roof from the standard Palisade:
Raised Roof Design
The most noticeable update is the significantly raised roof, a signature feature of Hyundai’s High Roof models. This extension improves rear-seat headroom and allows for a more lounge-like interior layout, catering to VIP and chauffeur-driven use cases.
Boxier Rear Profile
While the front end largely resembles the next-generation Palisade, the rear appears more upright and squared-off. This design enhances interior space and signals a shift toward an MPV-inspired silhouette rather than a conventional SUV stance.
Larger Rear Glass Area
Spy images also suggest expanded rear windows, which would improve cabin openness and passenger comfort. This is consistent with luxury shuttle and executive transport design priorities.
Expected Interior Upgrades and Features
Although the interior has not been photographed, industry expectations point toward substantial upgrades over the standard Palisade:
- Individual captain’s chairs in the second row
- Power-adjustable ottoman-style seating
- Premium leather upholstery and wood trim
- Ambient lighting with multiple color options
- Large infotainment and rear-seat entertainment screens
- Enhanced sound insulation for a quieter cabin
Hyundai may also introduce business-class-style rear seating, positioning the Palisade High Roof as a more affordable alternative to premium luxury vans.
Powertrain and Mechanical Expectations
The Palisade High Roof is expected to focus on electrification, aligning with Hyundai’s latest powertrain strategy. Current indications suggest that the model will be offered exclusively with a hybrid powertrain, prioritizing fuel efficiency, smooth power delivery, and reduced emissions.
The hybrid setup is likely to be paired with an automatic transmission and tuned specifically for refinement rather than outright performance. Given its luxury-oriented mission, Hyundai may also recalibrate the suspension for a softer, more composed ride quality, especially for rear-seat passengers.
Market Positioning and Rivals
With the Palisade High Roof, Hyundai appears to be targeting buyers who want premium space without stepping into ultra-luxury brands. Expected rivals include:
- Toyota Alphard and Vellfire
- Lexus LM
- Kia Carnival High Roof
- Mercedes-Benz V-Class (select trims)
This move could strengthen Hyundai’s presence in the luxury people-mover segment, particularly in Asian and Middle Eastern markets where chauffeur-driven vehicles are in high demand.
Launch Timeline and Expectations
Based on the level of camouflage and road testing, the Hyundai Palisade High Roof could make its official debut in late 2026 or early 2027. Initial availability is expected in South Korea, with select global markets to follow.
Pricing is likely to sit well above the standard Palisade but remain competitive compared to premium MPVs from luxury brands.
