Is the 2026 Palisade Worth the Price Hike? Trim, Features, and MPG Breakdown
Is the 2026 Palisade Worth the Price Hike? Trim, Features, and MPG Breakdown
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Is the 2026 Palisade Worth the Price Hike? Trim, Features, and MPG Breakdown |
Hyundai has raised the stakes and the price for its flagship three-row SUV. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade starts $1,735 higher than the outgoing model, but this increase comes with a complete redesign, including a longer wheelbase, a more luxurious interior, and a major new addition: a hybrid powertrain.
For families seeking space, comfort, and now efficiency, the new Palisade is more compelling than ever.
The 2026 Palisade SE (FWD) now starts at $40,430, including the $1,495 destination charge up from $38,695 for the 2025 base model.
At the top of the lineup, the Calligraphy trim sees a significant jump:
- V-6 model: Starts at $55,555
- New hybrid version: Starts at $57,775
All-wheel drive, branded as HTRAC, adds $2,000 across all trims.
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Is the 2026 Palisade Worth the Price Hike? Trim, Features, and MPG Breakdown |
Hyundai has reshuffled the trim structure:
- The XRT trim is discontinued (previously priced at $44,545)
- Replaced by the new SEL Convenience, offering enhanced value
- Introduced is the XRT Pro a rugged new off-road-focused trim available only with AWD
The XRT Pro stands out with:
- 1.0-inch increased ground clearance
- Improved approach and departure angles
- Trim-exclusive limited-slip rear differential
- More aggressive styling cues
It’s a bold move into light off-roading territory for a family SUV.
For 2026, the Palisade expands beyond gas-only power. The Palisade Hybrid debuts with a sophisticated setup:
- Turbocharged 2.5L four-cylinder engine
- Paired with two electric motors integrated into the 6-speed automatic transmission
- Total system output: 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque
This marks the first time the Palisade offers electrified propulsion a welcome step toward improved fuel economy without sacrificing capability.
The hybrid lineup begins with the SEL trim at $45,155 and includes:
- SEL Premium
- Limited
- Calligraphy
AWD is optional on all hybrid trims for an additional $2,000.
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Is the 2026 Palisade Worth the Price Hike? Trim, Features, and MPG Breakdown |
While the hybrid gains strong output, the traditional 3.5L V-6 engine sees a small drop in performance:
- Now rated at 287 hp and 282 lb-ft of torque (down slightly from before)
Still, it remains smooth, refined, and well-suited to towing and highway cruising.
The 2026 Palisade is longer and more spacious, with a redesigned cabin that emphasizes premium materials, modern tech, and improved ergonomics. Details include:
- Updated dashboard layout
- Enhanced infotainment and driver-assist systems
- Higher-quality soft-touch surfaces and ambient lighting
It’s a cabin designed to compete with near-luxury rivals like the Kia Telluride and Honda Pilot.
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Is the 2026 Palisade Worth the Price Hike? Trim, Features, and MPG Breakdown |
Availability: Gas First, Hybrid Later:
- The gas-powered 2026 Palisade begins arriving at dealers this month
- The hybrid variant will follow later in 2025, expanding choices for eco-conscious families
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