The Kia Telluride and Hyundai Palisade stand as two of the most sought-after mid-size SUVs in the US automotive market, boasting high praise for their dimensions, specifications, and critical acclaim.
Built on the same platform and under the umbrella of the South Korean parent company, Kia and Hyundai offer similar yet distinct offerings.
While the Hyundai Palisade debuted in late 2018 followed closely by the Kia Telluride in early 2019, only the latter is manufactured locally in the United States, with the former produced in South Korea, Russia, and Vietnam.
Despite their similarities, Kia’s Telluride has consistently outsold the Hyundai Palisade since its introduction, with minor exceptions such as 2020. Nonetheless, Hyundai seeks to elevate the Palisade’s standing with the impending arrival of its second-generation mid-size SUV, capitalizing on its early adoption of the NACS standard and alliance with Tesla.
Previewed in late February 2024, the all-new 2025 or 2026 Hyundai Palisade draws inspiration from the recently debuted 2024 Hyundai Santa Fe, signaling a significant shift in its design language and technology.
Expected to transition to a new platform, the Palisade is likely to retain its potent V6 engine while embracing electrified powertrain options, positioning itself above the Santa Fe in Hyundai’s lineup.
Despite early glimpses, details about the Palisade’s design and features remain scarce as the model undergoes rigorous testing and development. However, digital renderings by virtual artist Nikita Chuicko offer speculative insights into its potential design direction, leveraging Santa Fe’s influence to envision the Palisade’s evolution.