Close 2026 Hyundai Palisade Trim Level Comparison
2026 Hyundai Palisade Trim Level Comparison
Shopping for a three-row SUV means you want space, comfort, and tech that works for everyone in the family. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade covers all those bases, but with seven trim levels to choose from, figuring out which one fits your needs takes a bit of homework. This 2026 Hyundai Palisade trim level comparison breaks down what each version brings to the table so you can pick the right match for your family.
- The SE starts around $40,430 and includes standard safety tech, wireless smartphone integration, and seating for eight.
- Mid-range trims like the SEL Premium add ventilated seats, 360-degree cameras, and a heated steering wheel for better daily comfort.
- The Calligraphy tops out near $56,160 with Nappa leather, a head-up display, and unique styling touches that rival luxury brands.
What You Get With the Base SE
The SE trim isn't stripped down. You're getting a 287-horsepower 3.5-liter V6, an eight-speed automatic transmission, and standard front-wheel drive (all-wheel drive is available). Inside, there's a curved dual 12.3-inch display setup that handles your infotainment and gauges. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, so you won't be fumbling with cables.
Safety features include Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go. The SE seats eight people across three rows, and you're looking at 19.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row. Fold those seats down and you've got 46.3 cubic feet to work with.
Moving Up to SEL and SEL Premium
The SEL trim adds heated front seats, a power driver's seat, and second-row captain's chairs as an option (which drops seating to seven but makes third-row access easier). You're also getting a power liftgate and wireless charging for your phone.
Go for the SEL Premium and you'll add ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, a 360-degree camera system, and parking sensors. This is where most families find the sweet spot between price and features. The SEL Premium gives you the comfort upgrades that matter most on longer drives without pushing you into luxury pricing territory.
XRT Pro for Off-Road Capability
If you're someone who takes dirt roads seriously, the XRT Pro deserves a look. This trim sits an extra inch higher than other Palisades, giving you 8.4 inches of ground clearance total. All-wheel drive comes standard here, and you're getting an electronic rear limited-slip differential that helps when traction gets tricky.
The XRT Pro includes terrain-specific driving modes for mud, sand, and snow. There's also a front camera system that shows what's directly ahead of and beneath the hood, which helps when you're crawling over rocks or navigating tight trail sections. All-terrain tires come standard, and the integrated tow hitch is hidden behind a rear bumper panel.
Limited Brings Premium Comfort
The Limited trim starts around $51,370 and brings leather upholstery, 20-inch wheels, and a dual-pane sunroof. You're also getting heated third-row seats (a rare find in this class) and a 14-speaker Bose stereo system. The second-row captain's chairs can be power-adjusted, and ventilated seats are available for both front and second rows.
The towing capacity hits 5,000 pounds with all-wheel drive models, and there's a dedicated tow mode that programs the transmission to hold lower gears longer. The Limited feels more upscale than most competitors at this price point.
Calligraphy Tops the Lineup
At $56,160 to start, the Calligraphy is the most expensive trim in the Palisade lineup, but it's also the most distinctive. Quilted Nappa leather covers the seats, and the cabin gets ambient lighting with customizable colors. The exterior has unique 21-inch wheels and design details that set it apart from other trims.
Inside, you're getting a 12-inch head-up display, an integrated dual-camera dash cam, and Ergo Motion seats for the driver with thigh extensions and massaging functions. The Calligraphy also gets pop-up leg rests for first and second-row passengers, which is a feature you won't find in many other three-row SUVs at any price.
Which Palisade Fits Your Driving Style?
Most families will find what they need in the SEL Premium trim. It balances price with the comfort features that make daily driving easier, especially if you're dealing with kids, sports equipment, and longer road trips. The ventilated second-row seats alone make summer drives more bearable.
If you're someone who spends time on unpaved roads or needs real off-road capability, the XRT Pro is worth the extra cost. For drivers who want the Palisade to feel like a luxury vehicle without the luxury price tag, the Calligraphy brings exactly that. The SE works well if you're watching your budget but still want the space and tech of a modern three-row SUV.
Test Drive the Full Palisade Lineup in Harrisonburg
Reading about trim levels only tells you so much. The best way to figure out which Palisade works for your family is to actually sit in them and take a few for a drive. At Steven Hyundai, we keep a full range of Palisade models on our lot, so you can compare trims side by side. Our team knows these SUVs inside and out and can walk you through the differences in person.
Whether you're upgrading from a smaller crossover or replacing an older three-row, we'll help you match features to how you actually use your vehicle. Stop by our showroom when it works for your schedule, and we'll get you behind the wheel.