Hyundai Motor Company has officially announced that the Hyundai Palisade achieved its highest annual sales ever, moving a record-breaking 211,215 units worldwide. This landmark performance represents a 27.4% increase over the previous year (165,745 units), driven by the explosive debut of the second-generation model and its innovative hybrid powertrain.
The “1,000km Hybrid” Revolution
The core of this success is the introduction of the All-New Hyundai Palisade, specifically the second-generation model featuring a high-efficiency hybrid system. This new powertrain allows drivers to travel more than 1,000 km on a single refuel, effectively eliminating range anxiety for long-distance family travel.
Performance by the Numbers:
| Feature | 2.5 Turbo Hybrid Specs | Improvement over Gasoline |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel Efficiency | 14.1 km/l (Max) | +45% |
| System Output | 334 Horsepower | +19% |
| Max Torque | 46.9 kgf·m | +9% |
The next-generation hybrid system utilizes a dual-motor setup (P1 and P2). The P2 motor handles driving and regenerative braking, while the P1 motor assists with startup and power delivery. This synergy results in a smoother shifting feel and superior noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) reduction.
Global Dominance: US and Domestic Trends
The market has responded enthusiastically to Hyundai’s flexible powertrain strategy:
- In the United States: The Palisade Hybrid has emerged as a major player. With the recent abolition of the electric vehicle tax credit system, U.S. consumers are flocking to high-efficiency hybrids that offer EV-like fuel savings without the charging burden. Nearly 10,000 hybrid units were sold in the U.S. in just four months.
- In the Domestic Market: Hybrid sales have officially surpassed gasoline. Over the last year, 38,112 Palisade Hybrids were sold in South Korea—nearly 17,000 units more than the gasoline version (21,394).
- Export Strength: Global exports of the new generation exceeded 100,000 units in just eight months of full-scale international availability.
2026 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year
The industry’s highest honors followed the sales success. The All-New Palisade was named the winner of the utility category in the 2026 North American Car of the Year (NACTOY) awards. It secured the title with a commanding 270 points, beating out the Nissan Leaf (135 points) and Lucid Gravity (85 points) by a significant margin.
Flagship Luxury and Enhanced Space
Hyundai increased the physical footprint of the Palisade to cement its status as a flagship SUV. The vehicle is now 65mm longer and 15mm taller, offering a sense of “ample space” with vastly improved headroom and legroom.
Premium Upgrades Include:
- Space Utilization: New front-tilting walk-in functions for the second row and sliding third-row seats for easy boarding.
- Advanced Suspension: For the first time in a Hyundai SUV, Preview Electronically Controlled Suspension is applied, providing an optimal, smooth ride.
- Refined Quietness: Enhanced sound insulation in both the first and second-row door glasses ensures a serene driving experience.
Conclusion: A New Standard for SUVs
With 211,215 units sold, the Palisade is no longer just a contender; it is the benchmark for the large SUV segment. By combining a 1,000 km range with flagship luxury and award-winning design, Hyundai has proven that the hybrid path is the future of the family SUV.
