Hyundai Palisade Buying Guide (2024-2026)
Choosing a three-row SUV can feel overwhelming, but Hyundai’s flagship makes the process easier by combining space, feature-rich trims, and now a hybrid option. Use this guide to decide which Palisade best fits your family, commute, and budget.
Why the Palisade Stands Out
The Palisade debuted as Hyundai’s largest passenger vehicle in 2024, delivering three rows of seating for up to eight occupants and replacing the Santa Fe XL – its name even references a coastal cliff line for a sense of strength and stability. When it launched, it became Hyundai’s “largest passenger vehicle” and remains so today, making it an ideal option for growing families who need extra room without sacrificing drivability.
Interior Comfort & Quiet
Families appreciate road-trip serenity, and the Palisade delivers with a “remarkably quiet cabin that minimizes road noise” (HotCars). Its seating can be configured for either seven (captain’s chairs) or eight people, offering genuine adult-sized space in every row.
What’s New for 2025-2026?
- The 2026 model year ushers in refreshed styling, a stronger 3.5-liter V-6 (287 hp), and an all-new hybrid combining a 2.5-liter turbo engine with two electric motors for a projected highway economy above 30 mpg (Amarillo Hyundai).
- Six core gasoline trims remain (SE, SEL, XRT, Limited, Calligraphy, XRT PRO), while hybrid buyers get SEL Premium, Limited, or Calligraphy levels (HyundaiUSA).
- Starting prices now range from about $39,435 to $54,560 before destination and fees (HyundaiUSA).
Engines, MPG & Towing
| Model Year | Powertrain (hp / lb-ft) | Drivetrain | EPA City / Hwy / Comb | Max Towing |
| 2024-2025 | 3.8 L V6 (291 / 262) | FWD | 19 / 26 / 22 mpg (Headquarter Hyundai) | 5,000 lb |
| 2024-2025 | 3.8 L V6 (291 / 262) | AWD | 19 / 24 / 21 mpg (Sterling McCall) | 5,000 lb |
| 2026 Gas | 3.5 L V6 (287 / 260) | FWD / AWD | 21 / 28 est. / 24 comb* | 5,000 lb |
| 2026 Hybrid | 2.5 T + 2 e-motors (329 / 399) | FWD | 33 / 35 / 34 mpg (Hyundai Hybrid) | 4,000 lb |
*Hyundai has not finalized the EPA figure; 21 mpg combined is Hyundai’s preliminary estimate.
Fuel-Tank Range
With an 18.8-gallon tank, the 2024 FWD Palisade can drive “up to 413.6 miles on a full tank” (Star Hyundai of Abilene). AWD trims can still cover nearly 395 miles, so cross-country treks are no problem.
Trim-Level Cheat Sheet
| Trim | Key Upgrades | Who It’s For |
| SE | 12.3-in touchscreen, Hyundai SmartSense safety | Value buyers needing eight seats |
| SEL | Power driver seat, optional captain’s chairs | Families who want comfort without luxury pricing |
| XRT | Black 20-in wheels & unique grille (Patterson Autos) | Adventurous styling without price jump |
| Limited | Quilted leather, digital gauge cluster | Luxury on a budget |
| Calligraphy | Nappa leather, head-up display, Remote Smart Parking Assist | Near-luxury seekers |
| XRT PRO (’26) | All-terrain tires, recovery hooks | Occasional off-roaders |
| Hybrid SEL Premium | Panoramic display, eco Drivetrain | Long-distance commuters |
| Hybrid Calligraphy | Bose 14-speaker audio, relaxation seats | Eco-minded luxury buyers |
Safety
The Palisade consistently ranks as a Top Safety Pick, offering robust crash protection and a comprehensive suite of driver aids. In IIHS testing, it scored “Good” in small-overlap and side crash tests , though the updated moderate overlap test highlighted “poor rear-passenger head/neck protection” (IIHS). Hyundai SmartSense helps mitigate accidents with Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision Warning, and Highway Driving Assist.
Technology & Convenience
- Even the base SE receives a 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and wireless updates.
- Limited and Calligraphy trims add a hands-free Smart Liftgate and power-folding third row that expands cargo to 86.7 cu ft when seats are lowered (HyundaiUSA).
- Up to seven USB-C ports and Passenger Talk intercom keep every rider connected and heard (Hyundai of Union County).
Warranty & Ownership Perks
Hyundai backs the Palisade with a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 3-years/36,000 miles of complimentary maintenance , eclipsing many rivals. Shoppers can buy entirely online through Hyundai Click to Buy , financing, trading, and even scheduling home delivery in one place (HyundaiUSA).
How the Palisade Compares
Hyundai’s three-row competes against the Honda Pilot, Toyota Grand Highlander, and its corporate cousin, the Kia Telluride. While Telluride leans rugged, the Palisade “leans toward luxury with heated Nappa leather seating and upscale ambient lighting” (Patterson Autos). The new 2026 hybrid also gives Hyundai an efficiency edge over V-6-only competitors.
Buying Tips
- Decide on seating : need eight seats? Stick to bench-seat trims (SE/SEL).
- Balance economy vs. cost : the 2026 Hybrid costs more up front but could save ~ $500/yr in fuel for 15k miles driven.
- Shop dealer programs: many stores offer college-grad, first-responder, and military discounts – some “recorded up to 16 Top Safety Pick awards” for Hyundai across the line-up (Preston Hyundai).
- Use the 3-Day Worry-Free Exchange if you second-guess your choice – Hyundai will swap the vehicle within 72 hours (HyundaiUSA).
Final Word
With luxury-grade materials, family-first tech, and warranty peace of mind, the Hyundai Palisade remains one of the strongest values in the three-row SUV market. Whether you favor a fuel-efficient hybrid or the proven 3.8-liter V-6, there’s a trim that will fit your lifestyle and budget—so schedule a test drive, fold down the power third row, and see why so many shoppers are making Hyundai’s flagship their next family hauler.
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