The three-row SUV segment is the modern-day family station wagon, a battlefield where practicality, comfort, and safety reign supreme. Families need a vehicle that can haul kids and cargo without fuss, keep everyone entertained on long trips, and provide confidence with the latest safety tech. For years, the Hyundai Palisade has been a standout in this crowded class, offering a near-luxury experience for a mainstream price. It has won over buyers with its combination of upscale design, thoughtful family-friendly features, and an unbeatable warranty. The 2026 model builds on this successful formula, delivering a refined and feature-packed SUV that continues to punch well above its weight class, proving that you don’t need a premium badge to get a premium feel.
Design and Cabin Quality
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade receives a subtle but effective exterior refresh, refining its bold and distinctive look. The updated grille and lighting elements give it a more sophisticated and modern presence on the road. However, the real story begins when you step inside. The cabin is impressively quiet, with minimal intrusion from wind and road noise, creating a serene environment that rivals that of more expensive luxury SUVs.
Hyundai has paid close attention to the details, using high-quality materials throughout the interior. Soft-touch surfaces, convincing woodgrain or metal trim, and well-crafted switchgear contribute to an atmosphere that feels genuinely upscale. Seating comfort is excellent in all three rows. The front seats are supportive for long drives, and the available second-row captain's chairs provide a first-class experience for passengers. Even the third row is usable for adults on shorter trips, which is not something that can be said for all of its competitors.
Powertrain and Driving Manners
Under the hood, the Palisade is powered by a smooth and capable V6 engine. This powertrain provides confident acceleration for city driving and has no trouble getting the large SUV up to highway speeds for merging and passing. The engine is paired with a slick-shifting automatic transmission that operates smoothly in the background, never feeling jerky or indecisive. The combination is well-suited to the Palisade’s mission as a comfortable family hauler.
On the road, the Palisade prioritizes a comfortable and composed ride. Its suspension is tuned to soak up bumps and road imperfections, shielding passengers from the harshness of the pavement. While it's not designed to be a sporty vehicle, the handling is secure and predictable, giving the driver a sense of confidence and control. The light steering makes it easy to maneuver in tight parking lots, and the overall driving experience is relaxed and stress-free, exactly as it should be in a family-focused vehicle.
Tech and Safety Features
Hyundai has packed the 2026 Palisade with an impressive amount of user-friendly technology. The centerpiece is a large, widescreen infotainment display that is bright, responsive, and easy to navigate. Both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing for seamless smartphone integration for maps, music, and messaging. The system strikes a great balance, offering plenty of features without being overly complex or distracting.
Safety is a top priority, and every Palisade comes loaded with an advanced suite of driver-assistance features. This includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, a system that can detect a potential crash and apply the brakes automatically. It also features Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, which can help prevent unsafe lane changes, and Lane Keeping Assist, which provides gentle steering inputs to keep the vehicle centered in its lane. These systems work together to act as a helpful co-pilot, reducing driver fatigue and adding an extra layer of protection.
Family-Friendly Practicality
The Palisade is filled with thoughtful features designed to make family life easier. Cargo room is generous, with a large space behind the third row that can accommodate groceries or strollers. With the second and third rows folded down, the Palisade transforms into a cavernous hauler, ready for a big trip to the hardware store. The third row itself is easy to access, thanks to simple one-touch mechanisms on the second-row seats.
Small-item storage is abundant, with plenty of cupholders, cubbies, and USB ports scattered throughout the cabin to keep everyone’s devices charged and organized. The climate control system is easy to operate, with dedicated controls for rear passengers, preventing arguments over the temperature. Features like the available Driver Talk intercom system, which allows the driver to speak to third-row passengers through the audio system, show a deep understanding of the needs of a modern family.
Ownership Value
One of the Palisade's biggest selling points is the incredible value it represents. This starts with Hyundai's industry-leading warranty, which includes a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty. This provides a level of long-term peace of mind that most competitors simply cannot match. Maintenance expectations are reasonable for the class, with routine service costs being on par with other mainstream brands.
Fuel economy from the V6 engine is competitive for a vehicle of its size, helping to keep running costs in check. The Palisade is offered in several trim levels, allowing buyers to choose the right balance of features and price. The mid-range SEL trim with the available Premium Package is often the sweet spot, offering a wealth of luxury and convenience features at a very compelling price point. The top-tier Calligraphy trim delivers a truly near-luxury experience for thousands less than a comparably equipped premium-badged SUV.
