Whatâs New for 2026
- Bold, Range Roverâesque styling: A boxier, more upright silhouette with stacked LED headlights and taillights, chrome accents, and intricate 21-inch wheels on the Calligraphy trim
- Roomier proportions: The new model is 2.5 inches longer with a 2.7-inch longer wheelbase, enhancing legroom and cargo space
- First-ever hybrid option: A turbocharged 2.5âŻL four-cylinder hybrid offers 329 hp and better fuel economy compared to the standard 3.5âŻL Vâ6 (287 hp)
Calligraphy Trim Highlights
The Calligraphy trim is the top-tier offeringâhereâs what sets it apart:
- Premium interior and tech: Dual 12.3" curved displays, soft-touch Nappa leather, ambient lighting, massaging seats, ventilated second-row, power-folding third row, and a 14-speaker Bose audio option
- Advanced connectivity & safety: Digital Key 2.0, built-in dash cams, wireless CarPlay/Android Auto, and a full suite of Hyundai SmartSense driver assists
- Enhanced towing and AWD features: Calligraphy trim includes fasciaâconcealed tow hitch, HTRAC AWD with terrain modes (mud, sand, snow), plus Tow Mode that improves towing performance
Pricing & Powertrain Options
| Model Variant | Starting Price |
|---|---|
| Calligraphy (gas AWD) | $55,555 |
| Hybrid Calligraphy AWD | $57,775 |
- Hybrid pricing is about $2,220 above the gas version; AWD adds ~$2,000 unless standard (as on XRT Pro)
- Hybrid offers improved mpg (~34 mpg combined projected) and total system torque of 339âŻlb-ft, with ~4,000 lbs towing capacity versus 5,000 lbs for Vâ6 versions
Pros: What Makes It a Family Dream SUV?
- SUV that feels like a lounge: Quiet, spacious, upscale interior design heavy on premium materials and creature comforts
- Tech-forward features even in top trim: Dashcams, digital keys, OTA updates, high-end Bose sound, and full wireless integration
- Versatile powertrain lineup: A powerful Vâ6 for towing, a hybrid for fuel economy, and AWD system built for various driving conditions
- Elegant styling with presence and distinction: The boxier aesthetic stands out compared to bland SUVs, especially in the premium trims
Considerations & Potential Drawbacks
- Styling may be polarizing: Some feedback notes the design is too boxy or resembles older models like a Ford Flex; opinions vary widely
- Calligraphy pricing rivals luxury SUVs: With MSRP pushing toward $58K for hybrid AWD, it's encroaching on entry-level luxury SUV territory.
- Expect fewer adventurous options in US: The Korean-market nine-seat bench version may not make it stateside, and some features could be region-specific
Verdict: Family Dream SUV?
Yesâin many respects. The Calligraphy hybrid AWD strikes a superb balance of luxury, space, technology, and daily usability. Its well-appointed interior, hybrid efficiency, and high-tech features make it a standout in the family SUV market.
If your priorities are exceptional comfort, safety, connectivity, and upscale feel without stepping into full luxury-badge pricing, the 2026 Palisade Calligraphy is an excellent contender. But if youâre looking for daring design or aspirational badges, you may still glance toward luxury brands.