THE new Palisade Hybrid blends sharp design with serious road presence. Photographs courtesy of Hyundai
BLAST

Hyundai’s hybrid giant

DT

Hyundai Motor Philippines has taken a bold step forward with the official launch of the next-generation 2026 Hyundai Palisade, now offered as a hybrid. The new version of this full-size SUV brings together brawny power, modern looks and luxury-level comfort, without ditching its reputation as a solid family car.

After its ASEAN debut in Indonesia last month, the Palisade quietly rolled into the Philippine market this July, bringing along a turbocharged 2.5-liter engine paired with an electric motor. Combined, the system delivers 329 horsepower and 422 Nm of torque, all sent to an all-wheel-drive setup through a six-speed automatic transmission. So, yes, this is a three-row SUV that doesn’t mind sprinting.

Hyundai threw in roof rails, a shark fin antenna, and a sleek dual sunroof setup for good measure. The rear isn’t left out either, LED taillights, a subtle spoiler, and silver trim help round out the SUV’s grown-up attitude.

Its dimensions say a lot about its presence, too, with its 5,080mm length, 1,980mm width, and 1,805mm height, with a 2,970mm wheelbase. It’s big, and it shows.

The Palisade feels more like a lounge on wheels. Nappa leather seats wrap all three rows, and the second-row captain chairs are particularly plush. The third row isn’t an afterthought either, it comfortably seats three, and folds flat at the push of a button when more cargo space is needed.

THE 2026 Palisade’s cockpit features dual 12.3-inch screens, a column shifter, and a clean, tech-forward layout.

The dashboard is just as modern, anchored by a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports both Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, wirelessly. There’s also a matching 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, a heads-up display, and a 14-speaker Bose sound system to keep everyone entertained.

Also included are seven airbags, electronic stability control, trailer stability assist, ISOFIX anchors, and even a rear occupant alert that makes sure no one’s left behind. A 360-degree view monitor and reverse parking collision avoidance assist round out the safety package.

In the Philippines, the Palisade Hybrid is sold in a single variant, the Calligraphy AWD HEV, which sits at the top of the lineup. It’s priced at P3.98 million and comes in four finishes that include Abyss Black Pearl, Ecotronic Gray Pearl, Creamy White Pearl and Robust Emerald Pearl.

Hyundai includes a five-year or 200,000-kilometer general warranty with the SUV. For the high-voltage battery, there’s an eight-year or 160,000-kilometer coverage.

WITH plush captain chairs and a panoramic sunroof, the Palisade’s second and third rows are made for long rides.