The Hyundai’s largest SUV was seen again during winter testing. The three-row prototype, which is a corporate “cascading grille”, made the 18-inch black wheels with Nokian winter tires look small due to its sheer size. This issue will be addressed by the production version, which will feature larger alloys.
Although you may think that the test vehicle was only equipped with the black fabric pieces for camouflage purposes, closer inspection will reveal an additional layer of concealment on the C-pillar. We also see similar rivets holding the add-on piece in place on the wheel arches. The side skirts are also odd. They appear to be missing, which is usually an indication that the prototype is still in its early stages of testing.
Hyundai’s largest SUV will have a thinner upper headlight and a chunkier, squarer lower light. This is a nod to the 2019 Santa Fe. Although the side profile is similar to the smaller SUV’s, the quarter glass seems to be larger due to the larger rear end that can accommodate extra passengers.
As an official debut of Hyundai’s flagship SUV is unlikely this year, don’t be surprised if you don’t see it soon. The company’s largest high-riding SUV will be the seven-seat Santa Fe XL, due in 2019. If the trademark filing relates to the eight-seat SUV, the larger model may bear the “Palisade” moniker when it arrives.
The model will come equipped with Logic’s most powerful engines, as it will require a lot of power to move heavy metal. The biturbo 3.3-liter V6 engine will be found under the massive hood, producing up to 365 horsepower. It may match the output of the Genesis G80 or G90 luxury models.
A sister company, Kia, is working on an even larger SUV that will be positioned above the Sorento. It could also ride on the same rear wheel-drive platform as its new K900. It has been seen multiple times and will likely be called ” Telluride”, after its namesake.