A name inspired by cliffs and a seat for nine
In short: Hyundai’s flagship SUV doesn't just carry passengers; it carries a specific geographic identity. From its name's coastal origins to a unique nine-seat layout that grants access to bus-only lanes, the Palisade blends rugged aesthetics with highly specific regional engineering.
The name 'Palisade' draws inspiration from the Pacific Palisades in Southern California, evoking imagery of coastal bluffs and cliffs. This branding aligns with the vehicle's boxy exterior design, which features vertical rectangular LED headlights, a thin light strip across the grille, and a minimalistic rear fascia. To maintain a clean look, the rear wiper is hidden beneath a roof spoiler, and a faux skid plate conceals the exhaust pipes.
Inside, the cabin is designed for maximum utility and high-tech integration. The dashboard features a wraparound design housing a 12.3-inch touchscreen and instrument cluster, while the gear selector was moved to the steering wheel column to free up space in the center console. A notable regional variation exists in South Korea, where a nine-seat configuration is available. This specific layout includes a folding front center console to create a middle seat, allowing the vehicle to use the country's bus-only lanes.
The vehicle's evolution reflects a shift toward electrification and safety. The second-generation model, unveiled in December 2024, introduced a hybrid powertrain and a 2.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine. While it earned the 2026 North American Utility Vehicle of the Year title, it also faced a significant safety recall in March 2026. This involved a defect in the power-folding seats that failed to detect occupants, leading to a mandatory software update to improve detection and require manual physical switches for folding.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Hyundai Palisade
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