2026 Hyundai Palisade SUV is More for the Money

After raising three children, I was looking forward to getting a two-seater sports car. But six grandkids and three great-grandkids later, an eight-passenger SUV became a more practical choice. My recent test drive in the Hyundai Palisade SUV showed that it is a realistic preference for large families, thanks to its spacious and refined premium luxury.

Although the three-row SUV segment can accommodate large groups, a vehicle needs more than just space and seats to compete in this segment; it must make a statement in terms of design, comfort, and technology. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy does that and more, delivering a level of sophistication that appeals to discerning families, whether they planned for that size or not.

Following its complete redesign in 2023, the 2026 model received a strategic mid-cycle upgrade to maintain its competitive edge against rivals such as the Honda Pilot, Toyota Grand Highlander, and its corporate cousin, the Kia Telluride. The enhancements offer more premium luxury and features at a value-conscious price.

The 2026 Palisade enhanced its curb appeal with a bolder front grille, full-width LED daytime running lights, and slightly blockier styling. It evolves subtly in its second generation, featuring a longer wheelbase for increased interior space. The top-of-the-line Calligraphy trim (I tested) is more luxurious and comes with unique 20-inch alloy wheels, exclusive dark chrome accents, and elegant badging.

After stepping inside, the cabin feels more like an upscale luxury brand. The centerpiece is a curved panoramic display housing two 12.3-inch screens, one for the digital cluster and the other for the touchscreen. Materials are impressively crafted with soft-touch Nappa leather, matte-finished wood, and metallic trim. The Calligraphy adds a redesigned center console with a shift-by-wire dial and elegant ambient lighting.

Powertrain/Performance: The 2026 Palisade, powered by a smooth 3.8-liter V6 engine generating 287 horsepower, is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. HTRAC all-wheel drive is standard on Calligraphy. A new “Smart” drive mode learns your habits and adjusts throttle, shift patterns, and torque distribution accordingly.

The Palisade was comfortable and stress-free on drives around town, and the six-cylinder delivered adequate power for merging. On the highway, it performed best. It provided a strong sense of safety and confidence thanks to Hyundai’s Highway Driving Assist 2, which managed distance and lane centering. All models feature Hyundai’s comprehensive SmartSense safety suite, which includes Highway Driving Assist, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Around View Monitor.

Models/Pricing: The Palisade lineup includes seven trims, starting with the well-equipped SE ($41,035) and culminating in the near-luxury Calligraphy ($56,160). For 2026, a new Hybrid model joins the lineup, pairing a 2.5-liter turbo engine with electric motors that produce 329 horsepower.

Fuel Economy: The standard six-cylinder model has an EPA-estimated fuel economy rating of 19 city/25 highway mpg.

Visit Decisive Media Network for a complimentary subscription to my auto blog, where you can find updated car-buying tips and reviews on new cars, SUVs, and trucks. Randi Payton, Decisive Media Network.