Hyundai Palisade Hybrid and Elexio Debut at Beijing Auto Show 2026

Hyundai revealed the Palisade Hybrid and Elexio EV at the Beijing Auto Show. The Palisade offers a 334-hp hybrid powertrain, while the Elexio features a 27-inch screen but 400-volt charging.
At the Beijing Auto Show, our correspondent captured two important Hyundai models: the large Palisade Hybrid and the new electric crossover Elexio. They represent two different development paths for the brand: a classic family SUV moving from diesel to hybrid, and a China-specific EV developed locally, featuring a large screen and a controversial 400-volt architecture.B. Naumkin for .NewsThe Palisade on display looks like a direct response to demand for large family SUVs: angular body, massive shield grille, vertical lighting, and solid proportions push it visually into premium territory. The main change is under the skin: a parallel hybrid system replaces the diesel.B. Naumkin for .NewsAlongside it, Hyundai revealed the Elexio, an electric crossover developed with BAIC Motors for the Chinese market. Unlike global Hyundai models, this car is more tailored to local production and user habits. Photos show a calmer design with a smooth front, pixel lighting, black roof, and a simple, almost minimalist cabin.B. Naumkin for .NewsThe Palisade Hybrid is powered by a 2.5-liter Turbo G-DI engine and an electric motor, delivering a combined 334 hp and 460 Nm, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission. Top trim offers all-wheel drive, while other versions can be front-wheel drive. The FWD variant sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in about 8.1 seconds, quicker than the former diesel.The Palisade remains a large SUV: 5065 mm long, 1980 mm wide, 1805 mm tall, with a 2900 mm wheelbase and 203 mm ground clearance. It seats up to seven, sports two 12.3-inch displays, and high-end trims include Nappa leather, driver massage, second-row captain seats, six USB-C ports, wireless charging, and the Hyundai SmartSense suite.B. Naumkin for .NewsThe Elexio rides on Hyundai’s E-GMP electric platform but uses a 400-volt system instead of the more advanced 800-volt architecture. As a result, charging from 10 to 80% takes about 38 minutes even at a powerful station. The cabin’s key visual highlight is a 27-inch display spanning nearly the entire dashboard, while the traditional instrument cluster is replaced by a projection screen.B. Naumkin for .NewsHyundai showcased two different bets on the future in Beijing. The Palisade Hybrid looks like a mature evolution of a large family SUV: more power, less reliance on diesel, and a focus on comfort. The Elexio, on the other hand, is an experiment for China—technological and eye-catching, but with lingering questions about charging, interface, and electronics. For Hyundai, this is a pivotal moment: the brand can no longer simply bring global models to China; it must create cars adapted to local tastes, market speed, and intense competition from players like BYD, Li Auto, Aito, Zeekr, and others.