The Hyundai Palisade II 2.5T Full Hybrid Automatic, introduced in April 2025, represents the second generation of Hyundai’s flagship three-row SUV. Positioned as a premium offering within the Palisade lineup, this variant combines a turbocharged gasoline engine with a full hybrid electric vehicle (FHEV) system to deliver a balance of power, efficiency, and advanced technology. It builds upon the success of the first-generation Palisade, aiming to compete with established players in the mid-size SUV segment like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot, while offering a more luxurious and feature-rich experience. The Palisade II is primarily targeted towards the North American market, where large SUVs remain highly popular.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Palisade |
| Generation | Palisade II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.5T (329 Hp) Full Hybrid Automatic |
| Start of production | April, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | FHEV (Full Hybrid Electric Vehicle) |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 7 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Gross battery capacity | 1.65 kWh |
| Battery voltage | 300 V |
| Battery technology | Lithium-ion (Li-Ion) |
| Electric motor power (1) | 17 Hp @ 1300-2500 rpm |
| Electric motor Torque (1) | 102 Nm @ 1200 rpm / 75.23 lb.-ft. @ 1200 rpm |
| Electric motor location (1) | Integrated into the transmission |
| Electric motor type (1) | Synchronous |
| Electric motor power (2) | 72 Hp @ 2000-3000 rpm |
| Electric motor Torque (2) | 264 Nm @ 1900 rpm / 194.72 lb.-ft. @ 1900 rpm |
| Electric motor location (2) | Integrated into the transmission |
| Electric motor type (2) | Synchronous |
| System power | 329 Hp |
| System torque | 460 Nm / 339.28 lb.-ft. |
| Power | 258 Hp @ 5800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 103.3 Hp/l |
| Torque | 353 Nm @ 1800-4500 rpm / 260.36 lb.-ft. @ 1800-4500 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | Smartstream |
| Engine displacement | 2497 cm3 / 152.38 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 88.5 mm / 3.48 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 101.5 mm / 4 in. |
| Compression ratio | 12:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.8 l / 7.19 US qt | 5.98 UK qt |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 541 l / 19.11 cu. ft. |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2455 l / 86.7 cu. ft. |
| Fuel tank capacity | 69 l / 18.23 US gal | 15.18 UK gal |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg / 220.46 lbs. |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 1814 kg / 3999.19 lbs. |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 748 kg / 1649.06 lbs. |
| Length | 5060 mm / 199.21 in. |
| Width | 1981 mm / 77.99 in. |
| Height | 1765 mm / 69.49 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2969 mm / 116.89 in. |
| Front track | 1709-1720 mm / 67.28 – 67.72 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1720-1732 mm / 67.72 – 68.19 in. |
| Front overhang | 925 mm / 36.42 in. |
| Rear overhang | 1166 mm / 45.91 in. |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 188 mm / 7.4 in. |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.31 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.9 m / 39.04 ft. |
| Approach angle | 18.6° |
| Departure angle | 21.1° |
| Ramp-over (brakeover) angle | 15.5° |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. Two electric motors drive the front wheels. There is an ability for running in full electric or mixed mode. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 6 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 345×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 325×20 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Tires size | 235/65 R18 106H; 255/50 R20 109V XL; 265/45 R21 108V XL |
| Wheel rims size | 8.0J x 18; 8.0J x 20; 8.5J x 21 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of the Palisade II 2.5T Hybrid is Hyundai’s Smartstream 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder gasoline engine. This engine produces 258 horsepower at 5800 rpm and 260 lb-ft of torque between 1800 and 4500 rpm. The engine utilizes direct injection and a twin-scroll turbocharger to enhance both power and efficiency. Integrated with the engine is a sophisticated full hybrid system comprised of two synchronous electric motors, drawing power from a 1.65 kWh lithium-ion battery pack. The first electric motor delivers 17 hp and 102 Nm (75 lb-ft) of torque, while the second provides 72 hp and 264 Nm (195 lb-ft) of torque. Combined, the system delivers a total output of 329 horsepower and 460 Nm (339 lb-ft) of torque. The powertrain is paired with a six-speed automatic transmission, specifically tuned to work seamlessly with the hybrid system. The transmission’s programming prioritizes smooth transitions and efficient power delivery.
Driving Characteristics
The 2.5T Hybrid powertrain delivers a refined and capable driving experience. The electric motors provide instant torque, resulting in brisk acceleration, particularly from a standstill. The combined output of 329 hp is sufficient for confident highway merging and overtaking. While not as overtly sporty as some competitors, the Palisade II 2.5T Hybrid prioritizes comfort and ease of driving. The six-speed automatic transmission offers smooth and predictable shifts. The hybrid system allows for short periods of all-electric driving at lower speeds, further enhancing fuel efficiency. Compared to a potential non-hybrid 2.5T version, the hybrid offers improved fuel economy and a quieter cabin experience. Compared to higher trim levels with optional all-wheel drive, the front-wheel-drive configuration of this variant may offer slightly less traction in adverse weather conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.5T Hybrid trim typically represents a well-equipped mid-to-upper level offering within the Palisade II range. Standard features generally include leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a premium sound system, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras may include a panoramic sunroof, a head-up display, and premium interior trim materials. The interior design emphasizes spaciousness and comfort, with ample legroom in all three rows.
Chassis & Braking
The Palisade II utilizes an independent suspension setup, with a McPherson strut design at the front and a multi-link system at the rear. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality and good handling characteristics. Stabilizer bars are included at both ends to minimize body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front (345x30mm) and solid discs at the rear (325x20mm). Anti-lock braking system (ABS) is standard, along with electronic stability control and traction control. The steering is a rack-and-pinion system with electric power assistance, providing a responsive and precise feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Palisade II, and particularly the 2.5T Hybrid variant, has been well-received by automotive critics and consumers alike. Reviewers have praised its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and comprehensive suite of features. The hybrid powertrain is lauded for its fuel efficiency and smooth operation. Compared to competitors like the Toyota Highlander Hybrid, the Palisade II often offers a more luxurious interior and a more competitive price point. However, some critics have noted that the Palisade II’s styling is somewhat conservative. Fuel economy figures are expected to be competitive within the segment, offering a significant improvement over non-hybrid Palisade models.
Legacy
The long-term reliability of the Smartstream 2.5T engine and the hybrid system remains to be fully established, as the vehicle is relatively new to the market. However, Hyundai has a growing reputation for building reliable vehicles, and the company offers a comprehensive warranty program. The Palisade II 2.5T Hybrid is expected to hold its value well in the used car market, due to its desirable features and fuel-efficient powertrain. As the automotive industry continues to shift towards electrification, the Palisade II 2.5T Hybrid represents a significant step forward for Hyundai in offering a compelling and technologically advanced SUV option.
