2026 Palisade… Am I the Only One Who’s Not a Fan?

I feel like I might be in the minority here. The 2026 Palisade just doesn’t look as good to me as the 2025 model. When the first one came out, I wasn’t really into the taillights, but the front grille and headlights got better over time. I was hoping the 2026 version would mix the 2025 Palisade front with Telluride-style taillights—that would have been perfect for me. Instead, I actually like the taillights more than the headlights this time around. I do like the boxy style, but I wish they’d refine it a little so it doesn’t look too square in future models. Just my thoughts… No hate, I still think the Palisade is a great-looking SUV.

It kinda looks like a 2007 Ford Flex haha

BlueCarEnthusiast said:
It kinda looks like a 2007 Ford Flex haha

You know what? I was trying to figure out what it reminded me of, and you nailed it. Thanks haha.

I liked the older models more. The newer ones are too square for my taste.

Unclewaffl3s said:
I liked the older models more. The newer ones are too square for my taste.

I get that. I actually like square designs, which is why I’m also considering the Santa Fe. I think they did a great job with the boxy look on that one.

@DanStakes
If you like that style, you’ll probably love the redesigned Telluride. From the leaked photos, it looks really good. I have the new Santa Fe, and I can see myself moving to the Telluride next time.

@Dolph
My wife really liked the Santa Fe when she tried it out. She felt comfortable in it and loved the space. The more I see it, the more I like it too. I think she’s already decided, and I’m okay with that.

@DanStakes
That’s great. I have the 2024 2.5T Calligraphy, and I love it. If you want more power, go for the 2.5T. Otherwise, the hybrid is a solid choice too.

This actually seems to be the general opinion right now. A lot of people feel the same way about the new design.

I’m the opposite haha. I always liked the Telluride front end and the Palisade rear. Now that I own a 2022 Calligraphy, I think the rear end looks even better. Way sharper than a lot of other SUVs. I do prefer the chrome on the 2023-25 models, but overall, I think the 2020-22 models looked better. We can at least agree the 2026 design is a bit weird. Maybe it’ll grow on me.

At first, I wasn’t into it, but the 2026 design is growing on me. That said, I still like my 2023 more.

I can’t stand it. The new Santa Fe and Palisade both look too boxy. I’m happy sticking with my 2023 Palisade Calligraphy.

I actually love the 2026 design. I’m really into tech, and I’ve used wireless Android Auto and CarPlay in my BYD—it completely changes how you use the infotainment system. Plus, the 2026 Palisade is getting a bunch of tech upgrades, not just a new look. To me, it’s a no-brainer over the current model.

I totally agree. I had a 2019 Santa Fe, and the 2025 version just looked awful to me—like a hearse. That’s what pushed me to get a Palisade instead. Might have to find something different by 2030 haha.

@NexoNomad
Yeah, I think some of these new SUV designs are hit or miss. The Santa Fe took a risk, and it worked, but the Palisade… I don’t know yet. Maybe it’ll grow on me, but for now, I’m just not sold.