Main theme: In this episode, the podcast panel gives their first impressions of the 2026 Hyundai Palisade. How does the redesign of this popular SUV stack up in a rather competitive SUV segment? Does the update balance fuel economy and power delivery? And do some of the luxury appointments come at a premium price?
The team delves into what they like the most and the least about the Palisade, which leads to some focused discussions on how Consumer Reports selects the version of each vehicle we test—in this case, the top-of-the-line Calligraphy trim—and what could be deal-breakers in an otherwise satisfying vehicle. In the end, the discussion leads to why, with a number of positive attributes, we may not advise anyone to buy this model.
Read the Hyundai Palisade first drive.
Audience Questions
• Are the cars selected by Consumer Reports members only those recommended by CR?
• How to navigate “bait & switch” financing when buying a new car?
