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Hyundai brings the flagship Palisade Calligraphy Hybrid to Australia
Hyundai Motor Company Australia has confirmed the arrival of the second generation Palisade, launching the three-row flagship in a single, top-spec Calligraphy Hybrid guise. Priced from AUD 89,900 (around US 59,338 at current exchange rates), the Australian line-up differs from the US market by offering only the hybrid flagship rather than a full range of trims. This positions the Palisade in Australia as a premium family SUV with hybrid efficiency as a headline selling point.
Powertrain and performance
The Australian Palisade is powered by the new 2.5 T-GDi Hybrid system with a dual-motor configuration designed to maximize regenerative braking and electric assist. Combined output is rated at 245 kW and 460 Nm, roughly 329 hp and 339 lb-ft of torque. Hyundai highlights EV-like driving characteristics, a class-leading hybrid all-electric range target, and practical features such as Vehicle-to-Load or V2L for powering appliances and devices. The Stay Mode function uses the high-capacity hybrid battery to run the infotainment and climate control while parked with the engine off, a useful feature for camping and long stops.
Locally tuned ride for Australian roads
Hyundai Australia worked with HMC engineers to develop a unique damper tune to suit local conditions, promising improved ride comfort and stability across varied surfaces. The second-generation Palisade is larger in every dimension compared with the outgoing model, offering more cabin space and a longer wheelbase for passenger comfort and cargo practicality.
Interior, seating and technology
The Calligraphy Hybrid arrives with an emphasis on premium interior features and family-friendly versatility. Buyers can choose either a standard eight-seat layout with three seats in the second and third rows or an optional seven-seat configuration that replaces the middle row with two individual captain chairs and adds Walk-in tilt functionality for easier third-row access. All models include Relaxation Comfort Seats in the first and second rows and powered third-row seats that fold, dive, slide, and recline for flexible cargo and passenger arrangements. Highlights include a panoramic curved display cockpit that combines a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch infotainment screen, plus a 12-inch head-up display, a three-spoke steering wheel with a column-type gear selector, and an island-style center console with abundant storage, cupholders, wireless charging and multiple USB outlets.
Equipment and convenience highlights
- 2.5 T-GDi Hybrid dual-motor powertrain, 245 kW / 460 Nm (329 hp / 339 lb-ft) - Vehicle-to-Load functionality and Stay Mode for parked power - Panoramic curved 12.3 + 12.3-inch display cockpit and 12-inch HUD - Relaxation Comfort Seats in rows one and two, powered third row - Seven or eight-seat configurations with versatile seating modes
Design, colors and trim choices
Hyundai offers eight exterior colors including Abyss Black Pearl, Creamy White Pearl, Shimmering Silver Metallic, Ecotronic Grey Pearl, Cast Iron Brown Pearl, Galaxy Maroon Pearl, Classy Blue Pearl and Robust Emerald Pearl. Interior upholstery comes in four combinations designed to complement exterior hues, with Brown Pure Tone, Dark Navy with Light Gray, Dark Charcoal with Brown Stitch, and Black Pure Tone available depending on choice of finish.
Market positioning and context
Although the Australian starting price is notably higher than the US base Palisade MSRP, Australia receives the top Calligraphy specification as the sole entry, and importantly the hybrid powertrain that is not currently offered in the US market. That gives Hyundai Australia a compelling premium family SUV to compete with other flagship three-row crossovers that emphasize efficiency, tech and comfort. For buyers who value hybrid fuel economy, advanced in-cabin tech, and flexible seating, the new Palisade Calligraphy Hybrid is an attractive option.
Quick takeaway
The Palisade Calligraphy Hybrid arrives in Australia as a well-equipped, hybrid-first flagship offering that prioritizes interior space, comfort and efficiency. It may carry a premium price, but the local suspension tuning, V2L and Stay Mode features, and comprehensive tech package make it a strong contender in the large family SUV segment. What do you think of Hyundai choosing to bring only the hybrid flagship Down Under?
Source: autoevolution
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