A blueprint for the impending U.S. version of Hyundai’s next-generation three-row SUV has been made public with the release of images and specifications.
Hyundai just unveiled the new Ioniq 9, a three-row electric SUV with a unique design. The Korean carmaker is known for its distinctive appearance, with many of its models featuring expressive bodywork and futuristic lighting components. This covers both its gas-fed portfolio, which includes the bigger Palisade and the mid-size Santa Fe, and its electric vehicles. Hyundai has recently disclosed information regarding the Korean version of the latter, which is expected to enter a new generation.
A large grille and striking front lights adorn the opulent look of the departing Hyundai Palisade. The next iteration, which we anticipate will arrive in the US for the 2026 model year, maintains those characteristics. Although it isn’t as obviously ostentatious as the Santa Fe, the Palisade now has a more refined and squarer aspect. Its stacked pair of rectangular daytime running lights and concealed headlights on either side of its box-shaped grille will undoubtedly catch people’s attention in their rearview mirrors.
The complex 21-inch wheels on the Korean model seen in these early pictures would look good on a Genesis vehicle, and the SUV’s sculpted wheel-arch outlines contrast with its largely smooth side surface. The taillights provide a sense of coherence by imitating the front DRLs’ design. Another elegant visual element is the ornamental bezel that climbs up the back roof pillars and seems to link with the roof rails.
The interior of the new Palisade takes on a more luxurious look, including an ovoid dash design that, thankfully, still has tactile controls. The HVAC system below contains identical switchgear, as well as two sound system adjusting knobs and buttons.
The company’s badgeless three-spoke steering wheel, the electronic shifter that is now mounted on the steering column, and Hyundai’s omnipresent curving digital display are all features of the updated interior design. The console has many plugs and a charging pad, and there’s a handy shelf facing the front passenger.
Hyundai claims that the wheelbase of the new Palisade is longer, although it’s unclear how much longer it is than the current 114.2-inch wheelbase. The Palisade should have more space than it had previously, as well as bigger external proportions, however these are still uncertain. Up to nine persons can be accommodated in the seats.
Hyundai claims that the front center console may be raised to make a three-across arrangement for the most persons. Who doesn’t enjoy sitting on a bench? Naturally, we’ll have to wait and see if the U.S. version has that option as well.
We’ll still have to wait till we find out more information and the price of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade that will be arriving in North America, even though we’ve been given a sneak peek. It’s unclear if Hyundai will go to a turbocharged four-cylinder and perhaps provide hybrid or plug-in hybrid versions, as it does with some of its other SUVs, given that the present range only offers a 3.8-liter V-6 with 291 horsepower. Expect costs to rise a bit as well, since the 2025 Palisade starts at about $38,000 and goes up to nearly $55,000.
