A vehicle generates buzz even before its launch, with a waiting period already exceeding one year: the Hyundai Palisade Hybrid. SUV enthusiasts have long awaited this model, and it’s finally unveiled.
Despite being a large SUV, it significantly improves fuel efficiency while maintaining strong performance through a combination of an electric motor and a gasoline turbo engine.
Hyundai directly addressed consumer demand for hybrid SUVs, especially amid tightening environmental regulations.
Hyundai recently confirmed that the Palisade Hybrid has passed the Ministry of Environment’s emissions and noise certification, signaling its imminent domestic release. Set to hit the market in the second quarter, this model is expected to shake up the SUV landscape again.
Hybrid system delivers both performance and fuel efficiency
The Palisade Hybrid features a hybrid system pairing a 2.5-liter gasoline turbo engine with an electric motor. The gasoline engine alone delivers up to 262 horsepower, and the combined system output reaches an impressive 334 horsepower. This marks a significant upgrade in driving performance over the existing gasoline model.
What’s notable is the dramatic improvement in fuel efficiency alongside the power boost.
While official figures are yet to be released, industry experts estimate the combined fuel economy to range between 12.5 to 14.5 km/L (29.4 to 34.1 mpg). This matches the efficiency of the Santa Fe Hybrid and is considered excellent for a vehicle of this size.
The Palisade Hybrid also earned low-emission vehicle certification, qualifying it for benefits such as reduced congestion charges, discounted public parking, and tax incentives.
It maintains the interior space and performance expected of a large SUV while minimizing environmental impact.
Increased Size and Weight, Yet Still Efficient
The hybrid system adds weight to the vehicle. The lightest 7-passenger 2WD model has a curb weight of 2,165 kg (4,773 lbs), about 180 kg (397 lbs) more than the gasoline version.
The 9-passenger AWD model weighs 2,260 kg (4,982 lbs), approaching 2.3 metric tons (5,070 lbs). Despite the added weight, the improved fuel economy reflects significant technological advancements.
The Palisade Hybrid maintains the exact dimensions as its non-hybrid counterpart: 5,060 mm (199.2 in) long, 1,980 mm (77.9 in) wide, 1,805 mm (71 in) high, with a wheelbase of 2,970 mm (116.9 in), preserving its roomy interior.
Pricing varies by trim level. The 9-passenger version ranges from 49.82 million KRW to 61.86 million KRW (approximately $38,000 to $47,000), while the 7-passenger model ranges from 50.68 million KRW to 63.26 million KRW (approximately $38,000 to $49,000). The top-tier Calligraphy trim with all options is expected to exceed 70 million KRW (around $53,000).
Popularity That Makes the Wait Worthwhile
Six years after its 2018 debut, the Palisade returns with a hybrid powertrain. While already a major player in the large SUV segment, the hybrid version aims to redefine the category.
A Hyundai insider stated that the Palisade Hybrid is a strategic model that balances practicality, performance, and eco-friendliness. The insider added that high demand may lead to long delivery times.
Current orders may face wait times of over a year. With its strong blend of fuel efficiency, interior space, performance, and eco-conscious engineering, the Palisade Hybrid is quickly earning its reputation as a vehicle worth waiting for.
