The 2026 Hyundai Palisade: A Familiar Face on the Road
So, here’s the deal: the 2026 Hyundai Palisade has been spotted cruising around Southern California, and let me tell ya, it’s looking a whole lot like a certain British luxury SUV we all know—the Range Rover. Yep, I said it. This second-gen three-row SUV, codenamed LX3, feels like a cheeky take on that iconic silhouette and rear end. Hyundai’s tried to slam luxury and budget together, with a starting price around $39,000—compare that to a Range Rover’s $90k-plus price tag, and it’s clear where they’re aiming.
When I first heard about this, I couldn’t help but chuckle. It’s like when you see a kid in high school wearing the same outfit as their best friend but trying to add a unique twist. The Palisade’s definitely got the details right, even if the whole look is a little… well, derivative. With tech upgrades and a sweet new hybrid option in the works, it’s trying its best to balance luxury without breaking the bank—but you can’t shake that air of imitation, can you?
A Boxy Look That Cuts Just Right
The first thing that jumps out at you is the Palisade’s silhouette. It’s got that boxy, upright stance that feels a little too familiar, like standing next to your friend’s dad who’s wearing the same suit. The side profile? Oh man, it’s practically lifted from the Range Rover handbook. Flat roofline, neat window lines from A- to D-pillar, and minimalist body surfacing—it’s all there, blending right in while trying to stand out.
And the rear? That’s where Hyundai’s mimicry really struts its stuff or, let’s be real—steals the spotlight. You’ll notice those vertical LED taillights and that sculpted tailgate, both of which give off serious luxury vibes while keeping things practical. You know, like when you open the fridge and find a delicious, fresh dessert, but you realize it’s just whip cream and Jell-O instead of the homemade pie you were expecting. But hey, still tasty.
Inside the Hyundai: A Hint of Class
Hop inside the Palisade, and you’ll see Hyundai’s not only trying to channel Range Rover vibes; they’re looking toward Genesis as well. It’s a surprising mix—a little fancy, a little functional. Those dual 12.3-inch displays tucked under a sleek curved panel? Fancy. The warm wood trim and ambient lighting? Total mood-setters. It’s like the difference between getting an IKEA sofa and something custom-made—it looks good, but you know what it’s really trying to be.
Now, about that wheelbase… Hyundai has stretched it by 2.7 inches, and let me just say, the second- and third-row legroom feels considerable for families. You can fit up to nine (if you’re in South Korea), which is perfect for carpooling to the kids’ soccer games or family road trips. The seating arrangements allow for captain’s chairs or a more traditional bench setup—so you’re ready for anything, whether you’re just dropping off the kids or stacking in some friends for an epic getaway. Trust me—I’ve done both!
Performance Under the Hood
Now, let’s talk about what’s happening under the hood. Hyundai’s rolling out a new 3.5-liter V-6 engine packing a solid 287 hp, or you can opt for a hybrid set-up that pairs a 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder with electric motors, cranking out 329 hp. Think about that when your buddy brags about their diesel fuel efficiency—30+ mpg on the highway is nothing to snicker at! You’ll be zooming along while spending less time at the pump.
Both engine options come paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, and there’s the option for all-wheel drive. What’s that mean? You could be adventuring on some off-road trails or simply powering through snow come winter without a hitch. Quick story: I once got caught in a surprise snowstorm during a road trip, and I had to rely on my car’s AWD. It was a sigh of relief to see how it performed—I only wish I’d had the palisade with me then!
The Launch and What It Means for Hyundai
Mark your calendars! The Palisade is set to launch in the summer of 2025, and it’s definitely creating some buzz. Priced at a fraction of what you’d pay for a Range Rover, it’s aiming to be the “poor man’s Range Rover.” But let’s be real—Hyundai’s not just cutting costs; they’re also packing in features that could sway budget-conscious families looking for that upscale SUV aesthetic.
Sure, it might raise some eyebrows with the apparent imitation, but it’s jumping into a crowded field with the Mazda CX-90 and Toyota Grand Highlander. I mean, wouldn’t it be nice to roll up to the family barbecue and have everyone think you hit a homerun with your car choice? Sometimes a sharp-looking SUV is what you need to elevate your status among friends—am I right?
So, What Are Others Saying?
Now, the automotive community has a mixed bag of opinions about the Palisade. Some argue it’s simply clutching at luxury straws, while others appreciate the practicality paired with a dash of glamour. What’s your take? Will you give this a spin when it hits showrooms?
FAQ
What’s the starting price for the 2026 Hyundai Palisade?
The starting price is expected to be around $39,000, making it a much more affordable option compared to the Range Rover.
What engine options will be available?
You’ll have a choice between a new 3.5-liter V-6 and a hybrid pairing a 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder with electric motors. The latter claims to provide over 30 mpg on the highway—pretty sweet, huh?
When will the 2026 Hyundai Palisade be available?
The expected launch is in the summer of 2025, so keep your eyes peeled!
How does the Palisade compare to other SUVs?
It’s aiming to compete with the likes of the Mazda CX-90 and Toyota Grand Highlander, particularly focusing on that luxury feel without the high price tag.
What are the interior features like?
The interior includes dual 12.3-inch displays, wood trim, and an ambient lighting system, trying to create a near-luxury vibe for all passengers.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
This might just be a wild card in the SUV game. Hyundai’s coming in hot, mixing some high-end aesthetics with a practical approach. Honestly though, if they can pull off that balance, they might just change the landscape for budget-conscious families looking for a stylish ride. At the end of the day, who doesn’t want a little luxury in their life that won’t break the bank?
I can’t wait to see one of these on the road. What about you? Will you take a chance on the new 2026 Hyundai Palisade? Let’s chat about it!
