Hyundai Motor Company announced a temporary halt in the sales of select new Palisade SUV models in the United States and Canada due to concerns regarding power seat functionality. This decision comes after a tragic incident in Ohio involving the death of a two-year-old child. The affected vehicles are the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Limited and Calligraphy trims, with issues identified in the second- and third-row power seats failing to detect occupants or objects correctly.
Approximately 68,500 vehicles will be recalled, with around 8,000 units in Canada. Hyundai extended its condolences to the family of the deceased child and emphasized that the incident is still under investigation, with limited details available. The company is actively working on a solution for the recall and is offering rental vehicles to affected customers until a permanent remedy is implemented.
Hyundai advised caution when using the second- and third-row power seats and recommended ensuring no individuals or objects are in the seat area before activating the power functions. They are in the process of developing an interim software update, expected to be released by the end of March, aimed at improving the system’s responsiveness to contact, introducing additional safety measures, and overall system enhancements.
The U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration has not provided immediate feedback on the matter.