2026 Hyundai PALISADE: Find Your Perfect Trim
2026 Hyundai PALISADE: Find Your Perfect Trim
2025 Hyundai KONA Electric: Where Technology Meets Value
2025 Hyundai KONA Electric: Where Technology Meets Value
From SE to Calligraphy, there's a PALISADE for you
Choosing the right Hyundai PALISADE trim shouldn't require a spreadsheet. The 2026 lineup progresses logically from the well-equipped SE with a starting MSRP of $39,435[1] to the luxurious Calligraphy at MSRP $54,560, with each step adding meaningful features rather than forcing expensive packages.
In this guide, we’ll help you and your family understand what matters at each trim so that you can find the sweet spot between budget and desired features.
SE: The strong foundation (starting MSRP $39,435 FWD / $41,435 AWD)
The PALISADE SE is proof that premium features and exemplary three-row practicality come standard. It features eight-passenger seating and 10 standard airbags, helping to maximize capacity and safety for large families or carpooling duties.
The 3.5L V6 engine delivers 287 horsepower and up to a 5,000-pound towing capacity[2], providing plenty of power for family adventures. LED signature lighting helps ensure you can see and be seen, while the Hyundai SmartSense safety suite comes standard. Hyundai’s Parking Distance Warning[3] makes parking easier.
Technology features will similarly exceed your expectations with the 12.3-inch touchscreen navigation and Highway Driving Assist[4]. Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™[5] eliminate the need to mount phones and cut power cord clutter. The PALISADE SE features six USB-C ports throughout all three rows — enough juice for laptops, not just phones.
Finally, Hyundai makes it possible to improve or add software-enabled features on the new PALISADE SE through Over-the-Air (OTA) updates[6].
What’s available on other trim levels: Smart Liftgate[7], leather seating surfaces, and Advanced Rear Occupant Alert[8] (though basic door-logic monitoring is included, reminding you to check the rear seats if the rear doors were opened at the start of your trip). For budget-focused families who can handle these minor trade-offs, the SE delivers tremendous space, technology, convenience and value.
SE highlights:
- Eight-passenger seating standard
- 3.5L V6 with up to 5,000 lbs towing capacity
- SmartSense safety suite
- 12.3-inch touchscreen navigation
- Highway Driving Assist
- LED signature lighting
- Wireless phone connectivity
- Six USB-C ports
- OTA update capability
Best for: Families needing maximum space, high-level safety standards, and essential technology and convenience features, all at an affordable price point.
SEL: Technology to impress (starting MSRP $41,940 FWD / $43,940 AWD)
The SEL (coming late 2025) brings daily convenience improvements that more than justify the expense. The Smart Liftgate transforms loading from a two-hand operation — or kicking your foot in the right place — to automatic bliss. Bridge-type roof rails add cargo-carrying capability for those weekend adventures.
A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster replaces the more traditional gauges, providing configurable displays. H-Tex (synthetic leather) seating surfaces replace cloth, providing easier cleaning and a more premium feel. The eight-way power driver's seat with lumbar support addresses comfort during daily commutes, while heated front seats quickly warm occupants on cold mornings, and the wireless device charger eliminates a cable while keeping compatible phones powered.
Advanced Rear Occupant Alert upgrades from standard door monitoring to radar-type sensors that help detect actual child movement. This technology enhances child detection, providing multiple warning levels, including smartphone alerts through Bluelink.
Seven-passenger seating with second-row captain's chairs becomes standard, improving third-row access and second-row comfort. Manual window curtains for the second row help block strong sunshine on bright days.
SEL additions:
- Smart power liftgate
- Bridge-type roof rails
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- H-Tex-trimmed seating surfaces
- Heated front seats
- Eight-way power driver's seat with lumbar support
- Wireless device charger
- Second-row captain's chairs
- Second-row manual window curtains
Best for: Families seeking the right balance of convenience features and affordability, and those who would prefer captain's chairs for the second row.
Ready to learn more?
SEL Convenience: Added comfort (starting MSRP $43,370 FWD / $45,370 AWD)
SEL Convenience adds features that enhance daily comfort. The conventional power sunroof brings natural light into the cabin, making it feel more spacious and airy. An eight-way power passenger seat with lumbar support means both front occupants enjoy customized comfort.
Digital Key 2 Premium[9] represents significant convenience technology. Your compatible smartphone or smartwatch becomes your key, unlocking the PALISADE SEL Convenience with a touch of the handle as you approach. The MyHyundai app with Bluelink allows you to share digital keys with family members — perfect for households with multiple drivers or when lending the vehicle to relatives.
SEL Convenience additions:
- Conventional power sunroof
- Eight-way power passenger seat with lumbar support
- Digital Key 2 Premium
Best for: Families wanting extra comfort features and modern convenience technology.
SEL Premium: Upmarket features (starting MSRP $45,300 FWD / $47,300 AWD)
SEL Premium adds ventilated front- and second-row seats, heated second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel. The driver's memory seat system remembers preferences for multiple drivers.
The Surround View Monitor[10] and Blind-Spot View Monitor[11] are significant safety upgrades. The Blind-Spot View Monitor turns on when using your turn signal: a camera view in the gauge cluster shows exactly what's in your blind spot, which is particularly welcome on a large vehicle such as a three-row SUV. The Surround View Monitor provides a bird's-eye perspective for parking, while Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist-Reverse[12] can automatically brake to help prevent accidents when backing up.
Auto-dimming, power-folding outside mirrors can reduce glare and help protect against parking lot damage. The 64-color ambient lighting and HomeLink®[13] garage door opener add daily convenience touches.
SEL Premium additions:
- Surround View Monitor & Blind-Spot View Monitor
- Ventilated front- and second-row seats
- Heated second-row seats
- Heated steering wheel
- Driver memory seat
- Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist - Reverse
- 64-color ambient lighting
- HomeLink®
- Auto-dimming, power-folding mirrors
Best for: Tech-savvy families wanting advanced safety features and premium seating comfort amenities.
XRT PRO: Trail ready (starting MSRP $49,870 AWD only)
The XRT PRO transforms the PALISADE into an adventure-ready vehicle without sacrificing family comfort. HTRAC AWD comes standard with Terrain Mode Select, offering Snow, Mud, and Sand settings. The electronic limited-slip differential and increased ground clearance to 8.4 inches enhance capability on rough roads.
All-terrain tires provide grip on varied surfaces, while red front and rear tow hooks add both function and rugged visual distinction. The XRT PRO also includes a factory-installed tow hitch.
Inside, unique XRT PRO styling creates a rugged atmosphere while maintaining comfort. The Bose®[14] Premium Audio system and Surround View Monitor prove adventures don't mean sacrificing technology. H-Tex-trimmed seating surfaces with heated front seats ensures comfort in any weather.
XRT PRO exclusive features:
- HTRAC AWD standard
- Terrain Mode Select (Snow/Mud/Sand)
- Electronic limited-slip differential
- +1 inch ground clearance (8.4 inches total)
- All-terrain tires
- Red tow hooks (front/rear)
- OEM factory tow hitch
- Unique XRT PRO exterior styling
- Bose® Premium Audio
- Surround View Monitor and Blind-Spot View Monitor
- 115V power outlet
Best for: Active families who venture off paved roads or need enhanced winter capability.
Limited: Up-scale appearance and features (starting MSRP $49,770 FWD / $51,770 AWD)
The PALISADE Limited turns up the luxury three-row SUV wow factor further still. Leather seating surfaces replace synthetic materials throughout all three rows. The third row gains heating helping to ensure every passenger enjoys the comfort of warm seating on cold days. A 115V power outlet supports laptops and small electronics.
The PALISADE Limited adds a dual-pane sunroof, while Half Mirror Daytime Running Lights (DRLs) create an elegant front appearance. Twenty-inch alloy wheels and gloss black lower moldings create a distinctive exterior presence. Inside, the premium melange headliner and pillars create an upscale atmosphere.
Power-folding/sliding third-row seats make switching between passenger and cargo configurations convenient. The Bose® 14-speaker audio system delivers premium sound quality, while the OEM factory-installed tow hitch adds towing capability.
Limited exclusive features:
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Dual-pane sunroof
- Half Mirror DRLs
- Leather seating surfaces (all rows)
- Third-row power-folding/sliding seats
- Third-row heated seats
- 115V power outlet
- Gloss black lower moldings
- OEM factory tow hitch
Best for: Families wanting upscale amenities without luxury brand pricing.
Calligraphy: For luxury amenities (starting MSRP $54,560 FWD / $56,560 AWD)
Sitting at the top of the PALISADE lineup, the Calligraphy is a worthy flagship. Genuine Nappa leather seating surfaces in three color options pair with a suede headliner for an atmosphere matching SUVs that could cost thousands more. The Ergo Motion driver's seat provides massage functionality. The front- and second-row seats with Relaxation Mode plus front-row leg extensions transform waiting time into rest time.
Exclusive technology defines Calligraphy. The integrated front and rear Dash Cam[15] provides added security without using aftermarket Dash Cams. Digital rearview mirror[16] helps provide clear rear visibility regardless of cargo or passengers. The 12-inch Head-Up Display shows you important driving information within the windshield so you can keep your eyes on the road. Highway Driving Assist 2[17] adds lane-change capability, while Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist[18] actively helps to prevent lane-change accidents.
Twenty-one-inch alloy wheels create a commanding presence, while unique Calligraphy exterior accents distinguish this trim at a glance.
Calligraphy exclusive features:
- 21-inch alloy wheels with unique accents
- Nappa leather seating surfaces (3 colors)
- Suede headliner
- Integrated Dash Cam (front/rear)
- Digital rearview mirror
- 12-inch Head-Up Display
- Ergo Motion driver's seat
- Front- and second-row seats with Relaxation Mode
- Highway Driving Assist 2
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
Best for: Families wanting maximum features, exclusive technology, and uncompromising luxury.
Hybrid options: Efficiency meets capability
In addition to the standard V6 engine, four trim levels — SEL, SEL Premium, Limited and Calligraphy — are available with Hyundai's advanced hybrid powertrain. Adding approximately $2,220 to the starting MSRP, the 2.5L turbocharged hybrid powertrain produces 329 combined horsepower — more than the standard V6. The base Hybrid Blue SEL reaches 35 MPG highway with an EPA-estimated range of up to 619 miles[19].
The hybrid offers an up to 4,000-pound towing capacity[20] (versus 5,000 pounds for the V6). Stay Mode allows you to use climate control and infotainment while parked without running the engine.
The perfect PALISADE: Making your decision
Consider daily routines when choosing trims. If mornings involve juggling children and gear, the SEL's power liftgate can be especially helpful. Drivers with long commutes might prioritize SEL Premium's ventilated seats and advanced safety tech. Those venturing off-road should consider XRT PRO, while luxury seekers will appreciate Limited or Calligraphy.
And remember, all trims include Hyundai's comprehensive warranty and Bluelink+[21] connected services for even more value.
Frequently asked questions
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[1] Hyundai vehicle MSRP excludes freight charges, tax, title, and license fees. Freight charges and actual dealer prices may vary.
[2] Towing capacity varies by configuration. 5,000 lb. maximum towing capacity requires a trailer equipped with trailer brakes. See Owner’s Manual for proper use and additional information.
[3] Standard on all trims. Do not rely exclusively on Parking Distance Warning. Parking Distance Warning is a supplemental system and the driver must still be attentive and exercise caution when parking. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
[4] Standard on SE, SEL Convenience, SEL Premium, XRT PRO and Limited trims. Highway Driving Assist (HDA) is for highway use only and can help keep the vehicle centered in its lane while maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead only when the lane markings are clearly visible on the road and should not be used in poor weather, heavy or varying traffic, or on winding or slippery roads. HDA will not work under all circumstances and will not prevent loss of control. Driver remains responsible to slow or stop the vehicle to avoid a collision. See Owner’s Manual for further details and limitations.
[5] Apple CarPlay is a registered trademark of Apple Inc. Android Auto is compatible with Android phones running Android 6.0 or higher. Android Auto may not be available on all devices and is not available in all countries or regions. Additional apps may be required. Android and Android Auto are trademarks of Google LLC.
[6] Over-the-Air (OTA) software updates are available and complimentary to original purchasers and lessees of new 2026 Bluelink-equipped Hyundai models (“Eligible Models”). Map and multimedia OTA updates are available and complimentary to original purchasers and lessees of Eligible Models for an initial three-year term, after which fees apply. Three-year term starts from new vehicle date of first use. OTA updates require an Eligible Model and an active Bluelink account subject to the Connected Services Terms and Conditions. Only use Bluelink features and corresponding devices when safe to do so. Cellular and GPS coverage is required. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. Bluelink services rely on digital wireless telecommunications technology outside of Hyundai’s control. Bluelink is dependent on 4G LTE cellular networks controlled and maintained by third-party wireless carriers. If and when these networks change and/or discontinue service, or their underlying technology required to support Bluelink becomes obsolete, then the connected services will not work and Hyundai will be forced to cancel impacted subscription services.
[7] The Smart Liftgate will open when the smart key is within 40 inches of the detection area for at least 3 seconds. Radio transmitters and other vehicle smart keys may interfere in normal operation of the feature. See Owner’s Manual for further details and limitations. Make sure you close the liftgate before driving.
[8] Standard on SEL, SEL Premium, XRT PRO, Limited and Calligraphy. When the vehicle is parked and the engine has been turned off, the Advanced Rear Occupant Alert (AROA) can help to alert the driver if it detects movement from a child or pet. Upon exiting and locking the vehicle, AROA may provide visual, audible, and/or Bluelink alerts if the interior overhead sensor detects movement. AROA is not a substitute for driver attentiveness. Never leave a child or pet unattended in a vehicle. Bluelink notification requires a Bluelink-equipped vehicle with an active Bluelink account. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
[9] Digital smartphone key requires a compatible smartphone and an appropriately equipped Hyundai vehicle. Not all smartphones are compatible. Hyundai vehicle must be equipped with smart key with push button start, wireless device charging, and Audio Video Navigation System 5.0 (or newer) or Display Audio 2.0. Tap to lock/unlock function works on front doors only. Requires MyHyundai with Bluelink app and active Bluelink account. Please visit www.MyHyundai.com for information on compatible devices. Features and specifications subject to change. See your Owner’s Manual for additional details and limitations.
[10] Standard on SEL Premium, XRT PRO, Limited and Calligraphy trims. Surround View Monitor (SVM) is a parking support system. SVM cannot completely eliminate blind spots, may not detect every object and does not warn of moving objects. Always check surroundings before moving vehicle. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
[11] Standard on SEL Premium, XRT PRO, Limited and Calligraphy trims. Blind-Spot View Monitor (BVM) assists driver in changing lanes by providing a live view of the blind spots on either side of the vehicle and an audible alert if another vehicle is detected. Turn signal must be activated and other system limitations apply. Do not rely exclusively on BVM. It is the driver's responsibility to be aware of the surroundings and ensure it is clear before changing lanes or directions. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
[12] Standard on SEL Premium, XRT PRO, Limited and Calligraphy trims. Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist – Reverse (PCA-R) can alert the driver of a potential hazard while reversing by providing an audible warning and/or applying braking. PCA-R is active when the vehicle is in reverse and operating at low speeds. Never rely exclusively on PCA-R. PCA-R cannot prevent all collisions and may not provide alerts or braking in all conditions. Always look over your shoulder and use your mirrors to confirm rear clearance. There are limitations to the function, detection, range and clarity of the system. See Owner's Manual for feature details and limitations.
[13] HomeLink is a registered trademark of Gentex Corporation.
[14] Bose is a registered trademark of Bose Corporation.
[15] Standard on Calligraphy trim. The legality of recording, storing and using videos and/or audio recordings from the Dash Cam depends on the laws and regulations applicable in the jurisdiction where you operate the vehicle. The user is solely responsible for consulting and complying with all applicable laws and regulations. Hyundai does not have access to any recordings or data gathered via the Dash Cam. Several factors can impact Dash Cam performance and the Dash Cam may not record in all situations. The driver should not control the Dash Cam while driving. See your Owner’s Manual for additional details and limitations.
[16] Do not rely exclusively on full-display rearview mirror. Full-display rearview mirror is a supplemental system and the driver must still be attentive and exercise caution when driving with it. See Owner's Manual for further details and limitations.
[17] Standard on Calligraphy trim. Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA 2), when used in conjunction with Lane Following Assist, Lane Change Assist, Cut-in Assist, and Smart Cruise Control, is for highway use only and can help keep the vehicle centered in its lane while maintaining a safe distance from the vehicle ahead only when the lane markings are clearly visible on the road and should not be used in poor weather, heavy or varying traffic, or on winding or slippery roads. HDA 2 will not work under all circumstances and will not prevent loss of control. Driver remains responsible to slow or stop the vehicle to avoid a collision. See Owner’s Manual for further details and limitations.
[18] Standard on Calligraphy trim. Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA) can assist the driver by warning of other cars in the blind spot region. While your turn signal is on, it can alert you visually, by sound and/or by haptic feedback as well as apply corrective steering to help prevent an unsafe lane change if a collision is detected. It senses the rear side territory of the vehicle when it is traveling over approximately 25 mph. There are limitations to the function, range, detection and clarity of the system. It will not detect all vehicles or objects in the blind spot. Its operation depends on the size, distance, angle and relative speed difference between your car and other cars. BCA may not operate if sensors are obscured in any way. Do not rely exclusively on BCA. BCA is a supplemental system, and the driver must still be attentive and exercise caution when driving. It is important to always signal, look over your shoulder and through your mirrors before changing lanes. It is the driver’s responsibility to be aware of the surroundings and ensure it is clear before changing lanes or directions. See Owner’s Manual for further details and limitations.
[19] Estimated 619-mile driving range for 2026 PALISADE Hybrid Blue SEL FWD and Hybrid Blue SEL Premium FWD based on a full tank of gas (18.2 gallons) and EPA-estimated 34 Combined MPG. Estimated ranges for other trims vary. 2026 PALISADE Hybrid Blue SEL FWD and Hybrid Blue SEL Premium FWD: 33 City/35 Hwy/34 Combined MPG. 2026 PALISADE Hybrid Limited FWD and Hybrid Calligraphy FWD: 31 City/32 Hwy/31 Combined MPG. 2026 PALISADE Hybrid SEL, Hybrid SEL Premium, Hybrid Limited and Hybrid Calligraphy AWD: 29 City/30 Hwy/29 Combined MPG. All figures are EPA estimates and for comparison purposes only. Actual range and mileage will vary based on factors including vehicle options, driving conditions, driving habits and the vehicle’s condition.
[20] Towing capacity varies by configuration. Maximum towing capacity requires a trailer equipped with trailer brakes. See Owner’s Manual for proper use and additional information.
[21] Bluelink+ is available to purchasers and lessees of new 2024 Bluelink-equipped Hyundai models. Not available on all models and trims. Bluelink+ requires an active Bluelink account subject to the Connected Services Terms and Conditions. Only use Bluelink features and corresponding devices when safe to do so. Cellular and GPS coverage is required. Fees apply for map and multimedia over-the-air (OTA) updates after an initial three-year period of complementary updates. Three-year term starts from the new vehicle date of first use. Features, specifications, and fees are subject to change. Bluelink services rely on digital wireless telecommunications technology outside of Hyundai’s control. Bluelink is dependent on 4G LTE cellular networks controlled and maintained by third-party wireless carriers. If and when these networks change and/or discontinue service, or the underlying technology required to support Bluelink becomes obsolete, then the connected services will not work and Hyundai will be forced to cancel impacted subscription services.
