2025 Hyundai Palisade Configurations: Trim Levels, Features, and How They Compare

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade is a three-row midsize SUV offered in multiple trim levels, each targeting a different mix of budget, feature priority, and buyer preference. Understanding how those configurations are structured — what changes from one trim to the next, and what stays the same — is the foundation of any smart shopping decision.

How Hyundai Structures the Palisade Lineup

Hyundai organizes the Palisade into a stacked trim hierarchy. Each level adds features to the one below it, so you're not choosing between unrelated packages — you're choosing where on a single ladder to stop.

For 2025, the Palisade is available in these trim levels:

Every Palisade trim uses the same powertrain: a 3.8-liter V6 engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. There is no hybrid or turbocharged option in the Palisade lineup for 2025. Horsepower is rated at approximately 291 hp across all trims.

All-wheel drive (AWD) is optional rather than standard on most trims, which affects both price and capability. Hyundai's AWD system on the Palisade is an active on-demand setup — it primarily runs in front-wheel drive and engages the rear wheels when slip is detected or when the driver selects a terrain mode.

What Changes Trim to Trim

SE — The Entry Point

The SE is the base configuration. It comes standard with features that were once considered mid-grade: an 8-inch touchscreen (or available 12.3-inch digital cluster depending on package), basic driver-assist systems, three-zone climate control, heated front seats, and seating for eight using a second-row bench.

The SE trades away some comfort and technology refinements to hold the lowest price point.

SEL — The Volume Seller

The SEL adds meaningful upgrades over the SE: a larger touchscreen, a second-row USB-C ports, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and ventilated front seats. The SEL also introduces the option to configure the second row as a captain's chair layout (7-passenger), which trades one seat for easier third-row access and added comfort.

This trim is typically where most buyers land, balancing feature content against cost.

XRT — The Appearance Package with Function 🛻

The XRT is Hyundai's outdoor/rugged-aesthetic trim. It shares the same drivetrain as other trims but adds blacked-out exterior elements, all-terrain tires, unique 20-inch wheels, and a dark interior theme. Mechanically, it's not a true off-road vehicle — the suspension and ground clearance remain similar to the rest of the lineup — but the XRT does offer a terrain mode interface and a more utility-focused personality.

It appeals to buyers who want a bolder look without moving to a body-on-frame SUV.

Calligraphy — The Luxury Tier

The Calligraphy is the top trim and the most feature-dense configuration. It adds Nappa leather upholstery, a quilted headliner, a 12-speaker Bose audio system, a head-up display, rear-seat entertainment screens (on some packages), a surround-view camera system, and Highway Driving Assist 2 (a more capable hands-free highway assist feature).

The Calligraphy comes standard as a 7-passenger configuration with second-row captain's chairs. It also includes the most complete suite of ADAS (advanced driver-assistance systems) in the lineup, including forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alerts — most of which are present in lower trims as well, but more fully developed here.

What Stays the Same Across All Trims

Regardless of configuration, every 2025 Palisade shares:

• The 3.8L V6 / 8-speed automatic combination
• Three rows of seating
• Standard forward collision-avoidance assist
• Rear parking sensors
• A towing capacity of approximately 5,000 lbs (when properly equipped with the tow package, which is available on select trims)

Cargo space behind the third row is consistent across trims — roughly 18 cubic feet — expanding significantly when the third row is folded.

Variables That Shape Which Configuration Makes Sense

A few factors determine which trim is worth considering for any given buyer:

Seating needs. If you regularly carry seven or more passengers, the bench-seat configurations matter. If third-row access is a priority, captain's chairs in the second row make a practical difference.

Climate and terrain. AWD adds cost but also capability in snow, rain, or loose surfaces. FWD is sufficient for most driving in mild climates.

Technology priorities. The gap between the SE and Calligraphy is substantial in terms of driver assistance, audio, and display technology. Buyers who don't use those features won't benefit from paying for them.

Package availability. Hyundai often offers optional packages within each trim that bundle certain features — like sunroofs, advanced safety tech, or towing prep — at a lower cost than if those items were à la carte. Package availability can vary by region and dealer allocation. 🔍

Price sensitivity. Each step up the trim ladder carries a price premium. The difference between an SE and a Calligraphy can be substantial — often $10,000 or more depending on options and AWD selection.

The Piece That Depends on You

The 2025 Palisade lineup is well-defined in terms of structure. What isn't defined is how those configurations map to your driving patterns, your household size, your local weather, and what you're willing to spend to get features you'll actually use.

Two buyers looking at the same Calligraphy trim can reach completely different conclusions about whether it's worth it — based entirely on how they drive, where they live, and what their alternatives are.