Hyundai Palisade Redesign Challenges Kia Telluride’s Popularity

The automotive landscape is shifting as the newly redesigned 2026 Hyundai Palisade emerges to challenge the long-standing popularity of the Kia Telluride. Both three-row SUVs have garnered attention for their family-friendly features, but the Palisade’s recent upgrades could sway potential buyers. As it stands, the Palisade now incorporates fresh styling and improved technology, while the Telluride remains unchanged for the time being.

The 2026 Palisade is priced starting at $41,035, including destination fees, whereas the 2025 Telluride begins at a more affordable $37,885. Both models seat up to eight passengers and come equipped with standard features such as LED headlights, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Telluride offers synthetic leather upholstery as a standard feature, enhancing its premium feel compared to the Palisade’s cloth seating. Although the Telluride’s lower price is attractive, the Palisade justifies its higher price with additional features like wireless smartphone connectivity and advanced safety technology.

At the top end of their respective ranges, the Telluride SX-Prestige costs $52,885, while the Palisade Calligraphy is priced at $56,160. The Palisade includes luxury features such as a massaging driver’s seat and front and rear dashcams, which are not available on the Telluride.

Performance and Efficiency

The Palisade’s new offerings include a standard 287-horsepower V6 engine and a turbocharged hybrid option with 258 horsepower. While specific fuel economy estimates for the hybrid are not available, it is anticipated to achieve in the low to mid-30s for miles per gallon. The Palisade’s new V6, however, has faced criticism for being less powerful than its predecessor, as the vehicle is now heavier. Edmunds’ testing revealed it took 8.8 seconds to reach 60 mph, making it one of the slower options in the three-row SUV category.

In contrast, the Telluride features a 291-horsepower V6 engine that provides better acceleration, reaching 60 mph in just 7.5 seconds. It also boasts an estimated fuel economy of 22 mpg combined. Currently, buyers must choose between the Telluride’s superior acceleration and the Palisade’s potential for better fuel efficiency with its hybrid option.

Interior Comfort and Cargo Capacity

The Palisade excels in comfort, providing a quiet ride and a spacious interior. It offers impressive legroom and headroom in all three rows, making it ideal for families. The Telluride is also designed for comfort, but the Palisade’s enhancements in seating and driving dynamics give it a slight edge.

Cargo space is ample in both SUVs. The Palisade can accommodate 19.1 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 86.7 cubic feet when both rear rows are folded down. The Telluride offers slightly more cargo space on paper, but the difference is negligible in everyday use.

According to Edmunds, the second-generation Palisade refines an already competitive SUV, making it a strong contender in the three-row segment. While Kia has plans for a redesign of the Telluride, details remain scarce.

As consumers weigh their options, the choice between the newly enhanced Palisade and the established Telluride will be crucial. Each vehicle has its strengths, making it essential for buyers to consider their specific needs before making a decision.