The following is a summary of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade lineup based on the detailed walkaround and review provided by the Vagabond Builds YouTube channel.
The Top-Level Summary
The 2026 Palisade lineup effectively splits the personality of this SUV into two distinct vibes. The XRT Pro (starting around $51,000) is the rugged specialist designed for rocky terrains and a tougher aesthetic. The Calligraphy (starting around $58,000) is the high-end luxury cruiser designed to offer a premium experience that rivals much more expensive European brands.
Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro
The Rugged Adventurer
Off-Road Capability: It boasts an extra inch of ground clearance (8.4 inches vs. 7.4 inches) and comes equipped with an electronic limited-slip differential and off-road tuned suspension to handle actual trails.
Durable Exterior: It features functional recovery hooks, matte black plastic wheel trims designed to take a beating from rocks, and all-terrain tires on 18-inch rims.
H-Tex Interior: Instead of delicate leather, it uses "H-Tex" synthetic seating surfaces designed for maximum durability and easy cleaning after an outdoor excursion.
Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy
The Luxury Cruiser
High-End Tech: This trim is loaded with a Heads-Up Display (HUD), a live-feed rear-view camera, and built-in Alexa integration—features you won't find on the more basic trims.
Premium Comfort: It features genuine Nappa leather, massage seats for the driver, and heated and ventilated seats for both the first and second rows.
Sophisticated Styling: It swaps the rugged plastic for body-colored painted wheel wells, massive 21-inch wheels, and a dual-panel sunroof that opens up the entire cabin.
The Comparison: Head-to-Head
| Feature | XRT Pro | Calligraphy |
| Ground Clearance | 8.4 Inches | 7.4 Inches |
| Seating Material | H-Tex (Synthetic) | Nappa Leather |
| Sunroof | Single Moonroof | Dual Sunroofs |
| Cargo Controls | Manual 3rd Row | Full Electric 3rd/2nd Row |
| Wheels | 18" All-Terrain | 21" Road-focused |
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