The 2025 New York International Auto Show brought the spotlight to Hyundai and Volkswagen, as both automakers introduced redesigned and all-new models with bold styling, advanced technology, and major upgrades to performance and capability. Hyundai showcased the all-new 2026 Palisade, including a new off-road XRT PRO version and a fuel-efficient hybrid variant, while Volkswagen took the wraps off the powerful new 2026 Tiguan Turbo. These unveilings signal a continued push toward innovation and versatility in the competitive SUV market.
The redesigned 2026 Hyundai Palisade made a commanding debut with a bolder, more upright exterior that immediately distinguishes it as the brand’s premier three-row SUV. Thanks to a prominent vertical LED light signature, active air shutters, and a wide horizontal grille, the Palisade now feels more assertive and refined. Its longer wheelbase and body create a more spacious silhouette, while new aerodynamic enhancements result in an impressive 0.31 drag coefficient—one of the lowest in its class.
The larger dimensions enhance interior usability with easier access to all three rows. Inside, the horizontal dashboard design, soft-touch materials, and premium finishes elevate the cabin’s overall ambience. Convenience is everywhere: from the dual 12.3-inch curved display setup, 15-watt wireless phone charger, and rear camera washer, to power-folding and reclining third-row seats. Every occupant, in every row, benefits from USB-C ports, new relaxation seating, and available heated and ventilated functions.
Safety and technology are equally impressive. A new dual-camera built-in event data recorder automatically captures incidents around the vehicle, and Hyundai’s advanced SmartSense safety suite includes an upgraded rear occupant alert system, UV-C sanitizing tray, and a digital rearview mirror with an integrated wide-angle camera.
For adventurers seeking capability beyond the pavement, the all-new XRT PRO model expands the Palisade’s appeal. This is the most off-road-focused Palisade yet and marks the debut of Hyundai’s XRT PRO designation. It boasts a 1-inch lift, improved ground clearance and approach angles, and a new electronic limited-slip differential for true off-road ability. A bold front-end design with exposed orange recovery hooks, a tougher lower bumper, and matte black exterior trim reinforces its adventurous persona.
Hyundai didn’t stop at mechanical upgrades. Inside, the XRT PRO receives unique leatherette seating with exclusive stitching, ambient lighting, and a premium Bose® sound system. Key comfort features like heated front and second-row seats, a 115V power outlet, and a power sunroof further enhance its appeal as a premium off-road-ready SUV. It also retains the full range of Hyundai’s latest technologies and safety systems.
For the first time, the Palisade lineup includes a hybrid variant aimed at families seeking greater fuel economy without sacrificing power or space. The new hybrid system delivers a combined 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque, along with a targeted fuel consumption of 7.0 L/100 km and a range of over 900 km on a full tank. With an estimated 4,000 lbs. of towing capacity, it maintains the utility expected from a three-row SUV.
Volkswagen brought added excitement to its best-selling compact SUV with the unveiling of the new 2026 Tiguan Turbo Highline R-Line. Building on the third-generation Tiguan’s new styling and improved interior, this trim adds a significant performance bump thanks to an uprated version of VW’s EA888 2.0L turbocharged engine. With 268 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque—an increase of 67 hp over the base engine—the Turbo delivers a more athletic and confident driving experience.
This enhanced engine benefits from stronger internals, a larger turbo, and increased fuel injection pressure. It’s paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard 4MOTION® all-wheel drive. Weight reductions of up to 170 pounds over the previous generation improve efficiency and handling, and driving dynamics are further refined by the inclusion of paddle shifters and performance-optimized software tuning.
The Tiguan Turbo Highline R-Line isn’t just about performance. The interior features top-of-the-line upgrades such as Varenna leather seating with massage function, a new 15-inch MIB4 infotainment display, Digital Cockpit Pro, and a repositioned shifter that frees up console space. Drivers can customize their experience using the Driving Experience Dial, which integrates ambient lighting and drive modes. Passenger safety is also a top priority, with 10 airbags and VW’s full IQ.DRIVE® driver assistance suite included as standard.
Hyundai and Volkswagen both used the stage at the 2025 New York International Auto Show to redefine what drivers can expect from their top-tier SUVs. Hyundai’s Palisade now offers more luxury, space, technology, and off-road readiness than ever before, while Volkswagen’s Tiguan Turbo delivers thrilling performance in a package packed with cutting-edge tech and upscale refinement. Together, these unveilings show how far mainstream SUVs have come—combining versatility with innovation to meet a wide range of lifestyles and preferences.
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