Hyundai Motor has unveiled the all-new PALISADE SUV in the Middle East and Africa, positioning the three-row vehicle as a premium flagship designed for families, adventurers, and luxury car buyers across the region.
The launch marks what Hyundai executives describe as a “significant milestone” for the company in a market where demand for large, technologically advanced SUVs continues to rise.
A bold new design
The PALISADE’s design sets out to create a commanding presence. A wider stance, upright A-pillar, and elevated hood combine with a bold grille flanked by vertical LED daytime running lights. Large alloy wheels of up to 21 inches reinforce its imposing road presence.
Despite its size, Hyundai says the PALISADE achieves a drag coefficient of just 0.31 Cd, among the lowest in its class, thanks to careful aerodynamic engineering.
“The PALISADE redefines premium driving for our customers in the region,” said Bryan Park, President of Hyundai Motor Middle East and Africa Regional Headquarters. “From its design to its hybrid powertrain, it represents the future of mobility and raises the bar in the premium SUV segment.”
Powertrains and performance
The SUV offers two new powertrain options. The standard is a 3.5-litre V6 direct-injected engine, producing 277 hp and 252 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
For the first time, Hyundai has also introduced a 2.5-litre turbocharged hybrid system for the PALISADE. Combining a turbo engine with two electric motors, the hybrid delivers 329 hp and an estimated driving range of up to 1,107 kilometres.
The HTRAC® All-Wheel-Drive system includes new terrain modes—Mud, Sand, and Snow—aimed at enhancing off-road and all-weather capability.
Safety and driver assistance
Safety is central to the PALISADE’s design, with ten standard airbags, including curtain airbags extending to the third row. The structure incorporates Advanced High-Strength Steel for added rigidity.
Hyundai’s SmartSense suite introduces an expanded range of driver-assistance features. Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist 2, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist are among the highlights.
The SUV also debuts Hyundai’s first built-in two-camera dash cam, capable of recording while driving or when parked.
Luxury and convenience
Inside, the PALISADE offers space for up to eight passengers. A longer wheelbase and expanded dimensions improve legroom, while a curved display integrates a 12.3-inch digital cluster with a 12.3-inch navigation screen.
Luxury touches include Relaxation Seats in the first and second rows, ventilated seating, a Bose® 14-speaker surround system, and a UV-C sterilisation compartment within the console. Passengers benefit from USB-C ports in every row and wireless charging with cooling support.
Hyundai has also introduced Digital Key 2.0, allowing smartphones and smartwatches to control vehicle access and ignition, alongside fingerprint authentication and Over-the-Air (OTA) updates.
Flagship Calligraphy trim
At the top of the range is the Calligraphy trim, aimed at customers seeking maximum luxury. It features premium leather, exclusive design elements, relaxation seating, and distinctive 21-inch alloys.
Enhanced connectivity
The PALISADE integrates Hyundai’s Bluelink connected car services, enabling remote start, climate control adjustment, door locking, and vehicle tracking through a smartphone app.
The PALISADE is now available at Hyundai showrooms across the Middle East and Africa.