Levels of “New”

Each year, dozens of vehicles are described as “completely new,” but truly all-new vehicles are much rarer.

• Carryover models have no changes to design or powertrain, and very little (if any) change to features or options.

• Refreshed models typically retain the same engines, transmissions, and features, but receive cosmetic updates such as new grilles, bumpers, wheels, and lighting.

• Face-lifted models get minor changes to sheetmetal, along with updated upholstery, interior finishes, and infotainment systems. Wheelbase and track remain unchanged, though overall length may increase by up to an inch.

• A redesign may involve changes to structural hard points, such as wheelbase, track width, or height, though the powertrain often carries over.

Chassis

The 2026 Palisade is genuinely new. The first telltale sign: a wheelbase that’s over 2.5 inches longer. Track width increases by about half an inch, front and rear. Beyond dimensions, the Palisade rides on a new chassis designed to provide a stronger passenger cell.

Aerodynamics also improve — the coefficient of drag drops from 0.33 to 0.31, excellent for an SUV.

Brakes are larger for 2026:

• Front: 13.6 inches (vs. 13.4 in 2025)

• Rear: 12.8 inches (vs. 12.0 in 2025)

Tires are larger on the Calligraphy trim, now 265/45R21 (previously maxed at 245/50R20 for 2025).

Dimensions

• Overall length increases by about 2.5 inches, matching the wheelbase growth and maintaining minimal overhang.

• Width grows by a few tenths of an inch.

• Height is up by more than half an inch.

• Curb weight increases by less than 200 pounds.

Interior space gains across all rows:

• +0.8 in front headroom

• +0.1 in front legroom

• +0.7 in front hip room

• +0.2 in front shoulder room

• +0.6 in rear headroom

• +0.6 in rear legroom

• +0.2 in rear shoulder room

• +0.7 in third-row legroom

• +1.6 in third-row hip room

• +0.4 in third-row shoulder room

Passenger volume increases by more than 6.5 cubic feet.

Cargo volume grows slightly in all configurations, with the largest gain behind the third row:

• 19.1 cu. ft. (up from 18.0 cu. ft.)

Styling

The 2026 Palisade adopts a chunkier, more angular look, drawing from the 2025 Santa Fe’s redesign.
Five bold vertical daytime running lights give it a distinctive front-end signature.
Wheel arches are now squared off and more aggressive.

Safety

• Second-row outboard seats gain pretensioners and height-adjustable belts for improved crash protection and better fit.

• A new center airbag protects the driver and front passenger from colliding in a side impact.

• A rear camera washer keeps the view clear when reversing.

• Advanced features like Surround View Monitor, Blind Spot Monitor, and Parking Collision Avoidance Assist have broader availability in 2026.

Powertrain

• The 3.5L V6 returns with slightly reduced horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic.

• New for 2026: a 2.5L turbo hybrid version producing 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque, mated to a 6-speed automatic.
  (EPA fuel economy estimates are not yet available.)

• A locking rear differential is now standard on the XRT Pro.

Models

New for 2026 is the XRT Pro off-road trim, featuring:

• 8.4-inch ground clearance (1 inch higher than other HTRAC AWD trims; 0.5 inches more than 2025 AWD models)

• Electronically controlled limited-slip rear differential

• Forward-view camera for off-road navigation

• Drive modes: Mud, Sand, and Snow

• Red recovery hooks front and rear

• Rugged fascia and trim for visual toughness

Features

• Remote window operation is now available, allowing all windows to be lowered via the key fob.

• Power-folding side mirrors are now offered on SEL Premium, Limited, and Calligraphy trims.