Hyundai’s latest Palisade has just hit the scene, and while it’s undeniably more luxurious and refined than its predecessor, there’s a surprising twist that’s got car enthusiasts talking: it’s slower than the old model. Yes, you read that right. Despite its upscale makeover, the new Palisade has taken a step back in the speed department, leaving some to wonder if it’s still the powerhouse it once was. But here’s where it gets controversial: does the added luxury justify the trade-off in performance? Let’s dive in.
The 2026 Palisade XRT Pro AWD, with its 3.5-liter V6 engine, has packed on an extra 369 lbs (167 kg) compared to the previous version. That additional weight, combined with a slight dip in power—4 horsepower and 2 lb-ft of torque less than before—has resulted in a noticeable slowdown. Car and Driver’s tests revealed a 0–60 mph time of 8.1 seconds, a far cry from the old model’s impressive 6.4 seconds. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just the straight-line speed that’s affected. The new Palisade feels more leisurely across the board, with slower in-gear acceleration and a quarter-mile time that’s 1.3 seconds behind its predecessor.
For instance, the run from 0–70 mph now takes a relaxed 10.4 seconds, and even a rolling start from 5–60 mph clocks in at 8.4 seconds. In-gear acceleration? It’s down too. The new model needs 4.0 seconds to go from 30 mph to 50 mph in top gear, compared to the first-gen’s 3.2 seconds. And from 50 mph to 70 mph, it takes 5.8 seconds, versus the old model’s 4.3 seconds. These numbers might not matter to everyone, but for those who appreciate a bit of zip, it’s a significant shift.
But here’s the silver lining: Hyundai has introduced a hybrid model that’s saving the day for speed enthusiasts. The hybrid powertrain pairs a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, delivering a combined 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque. This setup slashes the 0–60 mph time to a much more spirited 6.6 seconds, proving that you can have luxury and performance in one package—if you’re willing to pay for it.
So, is the new Palisade’s slower speed a dealbreaker, or is the added luxury worth the trade-off? And does the hybrid model truly bridge the gap between comfort and performance? These are the questions sparking debates among car enthusiasts. What’s your take? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your thoughts on this bold new direction from Hyundai.
