From base-level family hauler to luxury traveler
Capable of seating up to eight passengers with the right configuration, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade is upping the ante with a fresh new design. Originally introduced back in 2020, the Palisade has grown rather popular, thanks in part to its long list of standard equipment and competitive pricing. The Hyundai Palisade enters its second generation for the 2026 model year, with styling similar to that of the Ioniq 9 EV. The new model is a bit bigger than the outgoing version, and there are new materials and amenities in the mix.
Available in six trim levels, the all-new Palisade can be as simple or posh as you like. The SE model serves as the entry-level trim, while the Calligraphy brings amenities that rival luxury SUVs. Is the top-spec model worth a $15,000 premium, though? Let’s dig in and find out.
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Palisade SE vs Calligraphy pricing
Priced from $39,435, the Palisade SE is one of the more affordable three-row SUVs on the market. At that price, you can expect some upscale features, like a 12.3-inch touchscreen display, paired with basic amenities found in most SUVs. At the top of the range sits the Calligraphy, a model that packs in an impressive amount of premium amenities, albeit with a $54,560 price tag.
The Hyundai Palisade is well-equipped at all trim levels, with standard power and heated side mirrors and LED lighting. In terms of infotainment, a 12.3-inch touchscreen display is standard equipment, as is wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. Safety was clearly a priority in the Palisade’s design, as evidenced by the rather impressive number of standard safety systems. Lane following assist, forward attention warning, and driver attention warning are just a few examples.
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The base SE model keeps things simple, with seating for up to eight passengers, cloth seating, and second and third-row air vents. It also comes with some upscale niceties, like a leather-wrapped steering wheel. Riding high on 18-inch wheels, the base Palisade comes equipped with a two-tone black and silver bumper, black grille with silver accents, and LED lighting.
The price difference between the Palisade’s base trim and top model amounts to $15,125. That’s a hefty chunk of change, no matter what way you cut it, but if you’re looking for a luxury SUV, which usually comes with an even higher price tag, Hyundai’s three-row offering might be your best alternative option.
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The Palisade Calligraphy rivals luxury SUVs
With a price difference exceeding $15,000, one would expect a rather drastic difference between the entry-level SE and range-topping Calligraphy. You wouldn’t be disappointed either, as the Calligraphy rises to challenge even some of the more affordable luxury three-row SUVs. In fact, the differences between the SE and Calligraphy models are readily evident in nearly every aspect of the vehicle.
The Palisade Calligraphy taps in with several upgrades that are easily noticeable at a glance, like a hands-free liftgate and 21-inch wheels. Premium Nappa leather replaces the cloth seating surfaces, while heated and ventilated front and second-row seats and heated third-row seats reinforce that the Palisade is made for all seasons. The Calligraphy ditches the second-row bench seat for captain’s chairs, reducing seating capacity to seven passengers. Finally, a 14-speaker Bose premium sound system makes quite a difference on long weekend drives.
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Palisade performance and efficiency remain consistent
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade kicked off a new generation, and there’s a new engine under the hood as a result. The first generation’s 3.8-liter V6 is officially gone. For better or worse, a 3.5-liter V6 engine and eight-speed automatic transmission arrive in its stead, producing a leisurely 287 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. Both the SE and Calligraphy come with FWD, with the option to upgrade to AWD for an additional $2,000. Both models can tow up to 5,000 lbs., but only the Calligraphy model includes a standard tow hitch.
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Much like in performance, the Hyundai Palisade’s trim levels are mostly even in fuel efficiency as well. All Palisade models except for the XRT Pro are rated for 19 mpg in the city and 24 mpg on the highway when equipped with FWD. Stepping up to AWD reduces fuel economy by one mile per gallon.
Final thoughts
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Three-row SUVs are a hit with American families, and the 2026 Hyundai Palisade’s fresh design could draw some lingering looks. The SE model, priced from $39,435, is already a great value, but if you’re interested in a more lavish lifestyle, the Calligraphy aims to please, starting at $54,560. More athletic wheels, slight adjustments to cosmetic elements, and premium upholstery are just a few of the highlights. If you’re more interested in a basic setup or you simply have a tighter budget, then the Palisade SE has you covered.
About the author
Joseph Pudlewski
Contributing Writer, Autoblog