2026 Hyundai Palisade Elite
By Lorenzo Bianchi February 26, 2026
2.5L Smartstream Turbo Hybrid AWD with 245 kW and 460 Nm.
Locally developed Australian damper and steering tune.
Eight-seat SUV priced from $76,500 MLP.
Elite Joins the Flagship Line Up
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Elite expands Hyundai Australia’s large SUV portfolio, joining the Calligraphy variants as a new range entry point. Priced from $76,500 Manufacturer’s List Price and arriving in March 2026, the Elite positions itself as an attainable eight-seat alternative within the flagship Palisade family.
Unlike a pared-back specification, the Elite is defined by a unique exterior and interior treatment. It retains the Palisade’s upright proportions and commanding presence, yet introduces distinct visual cues to separate it from the more lavish Calligraphy.
Distinctive Exterior Treatment and Proportions
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Elite features a dedicated front grille design, new lower bumper treatments and side skirts, along with black wheel arches that lend a tougher edge to its silhouette. Five-spoke 20-inch alloy wheels in a black and machined finish complete the stance.
Viewed in profile, the Palisade’s long wheelbase and squared-off rear emphasise interior volume. The black detailing around the lower body visually lowers the mass, while silver roof rails and crisp shoulder lines maintain the SUV’s premium tone. Six exterior colours are offered, including Creamy White, Ecotronic Grey and Abyss Black.
Eight Seat Cabin and Digital Architecture
Inside, the Elite shares its twin 12.3-inch digital cluster and multimedia displays with Calligraphy variants. The screens are integrated into a horizontal dashboard architecture that stretches across the cabin, reinforcing width.
Black leather upholstery combined with premium cloth trims define the Elite’s interior environment. Acoustic front door glass and privacy glass for second- and third-row occupants contribute to a quieter cabin. A 14-speaker BOSE premium audio system is standard.
Digital Key 2 enables smartphone-based locking and engine start functionality. Tri-zone climate control, heated first and second-row outboard seats, and a full-size alloy spare wheel are included within the standard specification.
Next Generation Turbo Hybrid Powertrain
Powering the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Elite is the Smartstream 2.5-litre turbocharged hybrid system paired with all-wheel drive and a six-speed automatic transmission. The combined output is rated at 245 kW and 460 Nm, with combined fuel consumption listed at 6.8 L/100km.
The hybrid system introduces EV-like functions such as Interior Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) and Stay Mode, enabling electronics and climate control operation without the engine running. Braked towing capacity is rated at 2,000 kg.
Australian Chassis Development and Safety
Hyundai engineers collaborated with the local Australian tuning team to develop bespoke passive damper and steering calibrations for local conditions. The front suspension utilises a strut layout with lightweight components and a reinforcing strut ring, while the rear multi-link suspension features passive self-levelling dampers.
Hyundai SmartSense® technologies include Smart Cruise Control 2, Highway Driving Assist 2, Lane Keeping Assist and a Driver Monitoring System. Eight airbags are fitted.