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

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.

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.

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.

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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