In this Review, I drive the top of the line Calligraphy around a wide variety of roads and then head off road in the new for 2026 XRT Pro.
Hyundai put a lot of work into the second generation Palisade. Join me to break it all down and show you all around this new family sized crossover SUV.
Views on Vehicles focuses on new car reviews and news, presented by Robin Warner, a perennial car nut. The reason for the channel’s focus becomes crystal clear when you look at Robin’s experience. He spent five years of his adult life as an engineer: four years in traction and stability control calibration, and little over a year in vehicle dynamics. He also spent 15 years of his adult life as an editor at various magazines, including stints at Car and Driver, Road & Track, and Autoweek.
The TTAC Creators Series tells stories and amplifies creators from all corners of the car world, including culture, dealerships, collections, modified builds and more.
A transcript of the video, summarized by AI and edited by a staffer, is below.
[Image: Robin Warner]
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Transcript:
The video covers a first drive of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade, specifically the top Calligraphy trim. The reviewer is in California with Hyundai to test the second-generation model, which is nearly 200 inches long and offers seven trims, including the new off-road-oriented XRT Pro.
The exterior design is more refined, with vertically stacked lighting, a bold grille, and polished trim elements. The Palisade now uses a new 3.2-liter V6 producing 287 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic and either front- or all-wheel drive. Though slightly down on power from the previous 3.8-liter, the change is intended to meet stricter emissions standards.
Inside, the SUV emphasizes comfort and technology. The Calligraphy trim offers massaging front seats, a curved dual 12.3-inch display setup, wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, a Bose stereo, head-up display, wireless charging, and extensive seat-folding options that maximize cargo space. Second-row seating is comfortable for adults, while the third row is tighter but manageable.
Driving impressions highlight smooth and refined power delivery, with adequate acceleration and a linear power band. The ride is soft and quiet, with improved cabin insulation and thicker glass compared to the first generation. Steering is light and body roll is noticeable, but overall comfort and stability are prioritized over sportiness. The Palisade can tow up to 5,000 pounds.
The reviewer also tests the XRT Pro on a short off-road course, demonstrating the usefulness of terrain modes (snow, mud, sand), camera displays, and suspension articulation. The vehicle handles gravel, hills, and uneven terrain competently.
Overall, the second-generation Palisade maintains its role as a family-friendly three-row SUV with more refinement, comfort, and technology, while offering modest updates to performance and off-road capability.
