I Explored the High

In the past, a week was usually sufficient to thoroughly explore a new vehicle’s technological features. However, when I spent time with the Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy, I realized I had only begun to uncover its potential. The newly revamped, slightly elongated 2026 Palisade has an appearance that could rival luxurious competitors like the Range Rover. Rich in advanced features and positioned at the top of the Palisade lineup, Calligraphy models are making a significant move into the luxury market.

All Palisade variations come equipped with a panoramic infotainment display, triple-zone climate control, and an array of sophisticated driver assistance technologies. Still, the Calligraphy model, priced around $59,000, elevates the experience with exclusive features such as a complete Nappa leather interior and massage-function front seats, which also provide adjustable lower leg support. Additionally, the “Relaxation Mode” for the second-row captain’s chairs creates an ambiance suggesting a chauffeur is present. However, it was the state-of-the-art technology integrated into the Palisade Calligraphy that truly impressed me.

The self-parking function activated by the key fob, an expansive heads-up display displaying crucial information, a smart analog-digital rearview mirror, and semi-automated lane-changing capabilities are just a few standout attributes of this spacious SUV.

The 2026 Palisade includes Highway Driving Assist (HDA) as a standard feature, offering a well-designed advanced driver assistance system (ADAS). HDA initiates lane-keeping assistance automatically at speeds of 40 mph and subtly adjusts steering to prevent unintentional lane deviations. Engaging adaptive cruise control triggers HDA, combining both features.

While activating HDA, I compared it to a game of bumper bowling—drivers must keep their hands on the steering wheel but can observe how effectively HDA operates. The results are surprising. At 65 mph, it adeptly navigates straightaways and curves, keeping the Palisade, a significant model in Hyundai’s portfolio, perfectly centered. If desired, drivers can confidently rely on Highway Driving Assist 2, which offers even greater autonomy.

Exclusive to the Calligraphy trim, HDA 2 enhances its features with lane-change assist. By simply activating the turn signal, the vehicle determines whether the lane change is safe before proceeding. Although initially unnerving, it is reassuring to know that the system will not execute a lane change without clear action from the driver. During my testing, HDA 2 proved to be remarkably reliable.

Like many of the advanced features in Hyundai’s latest Palisade, the blind-spot view monitor (BSVM) can feel somewhat disconcerting at first. Whenever the turn signal is activated, a substantial circular display appears in the gauge cluster, showing a live feed from the side mirror camera. At high speeds, this view can appear as a blur, making it initially jarring. Initially, I perceived the BSVM as a novelty, but after some time, I came to appreciate its utility.

When I change lanes on the highway, I typically check all three mirrors and look over my shoulder to ensure safety, since it’s common for drivers to overlook a vehicle in their blind spot. The BSVM directly addresses this concern, proving effective in practice. Over time, I integrated the BSVM feed into my lane-change routine. It also proves valuable when reversing in tight situations, such as maneuvering around an obstacle in a narrow driveway, reducing the risk of mishaps.

The concept of head-up displays (HUD) was popularized by Oldsmobile in 1988 with the Cutlass Supreme Indy 500 Pace Car, which projected speed onto the windshield. Fast forward to nearly four decades later, HUDs are still somewhat niche, appearing only in select models like the Palisade Calligraphy—though Hyundai argues they should be standard.

The dashboard features a recessed screen that projects vital information onto the windshield, allowing the driver to see it as if hovering in front of the vehicle. Beyond speed, the HUD can display ADAS alerts, navigation directions, and caller information. Users can customize the height and brightness of the display. While it might be excessive to show all this data simultaneously, the ability to see your speed without looking down is a significant benefit in reducing distractions.

This setup allows drivers to maintain their focus ahead rather than diverting their attention to the gauge cluster for speed checks. Like the backup cameras that have become essential, I believe HUDs should be standard equipment, given their capability to quickly convey information amidst the many distractions of modern driving. I found this technology to be impressively effective, though using polarized sunglasses can diminish its readability.

Self-parking capabilities can be an uphill battle in marketing, as illustrated by Ford’s discontinuation of its Active Park Assist. Consequently, Hyundai might benefit from reevaluating the name of its Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) feature in the Palisade Calligraphy. Rather than performing complex parking maneuvers, RSPA helps the vehicle move forward or backward smoothly to escape tight parking scenarios.

Everyone has experienced the frustration of returning to a car after shopping only to find another vehicle dangerously close, making entry nearly impossible. In moments like these, drivers often feel compelled to squeeze into the car no matter the potential damage incurred. Enter Remote Smart Parking Assist: by activating the engine remotely with the key fob and pressing a button to either move forward or backward, a simple solution to a common dilemma is at hand. The system functions effectively, allowing the Palisade to stop instantly when the button is released, with a digital limit on how far the car can travel. I did have a bit of fun pretending the substantial SUV was a remote-controlled toy, but that feature unfortunately did not work.

I’m suggesting that Hyundai might consider changing the name of the Palisade variant from “Calligraphy” to “Chauffeur.” This model goes far beyond typical first-row seating, offering a luxurious experience with heated and cooled cushions, alongside various massaging options including the desirable “Whole Body” setting. The multitude of buttons and adjustments takes some time to master but can lead to blissful comfort.

Once you get the settings right, you can engage what Hyundai refers to as “Relaxation Mode.” This feature reclines the seatback, elevates the bottom cushion, and extends a leg support for ultimate comfort. This setup is perfect for unwinding while waiting on others. The second row is also spacious enough for stretching, and using the passenger-side controls allows additional room for front-seated occupants.

Everyone who experienced these luxurious settings commented on how it evokes a true chauffeur-like experience. Every seat in the Palisade is designed for comfort, even in the third row with adjustable heating options. Although certain power functions may operate slowly, this comfort-focused technology is certainly appealing.