2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy vs 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum
On paper, the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum wins on 2 MPG better, 48 more lb-ft torque. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 291 vs 300 hp, 21 vs 23 MPG.
The Explorer Platinum leads on 2 MPG better, 48 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy | 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $53,000 | $52,965 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.8L V6 | 2.3L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 291 hp | 300 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 10-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 27 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.8 gal | 20.2 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,100/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,506 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 114.2" | 119.1" |
| Length | 196.7" | 198.8" |
| Width | 77.8" | 78.9" |
| Height | 68.9" | 69.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy and 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum?
The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum starts at $52,965, $35 less than the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy at $53,000. That gap is small enough that monthly payments are nearly identical. Focus on which vehicle fits your life, not the sticker.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy is the stronger pick when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the midsize SUV segment.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum?
The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum is the stronger pick when you want to keep $35 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $174/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy or 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum?
The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum rates 23 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy or 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum?
The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum produces 300 hp, 9 more than the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy at 291 hp. The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 262 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy runs a 3.8L V6; the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum uses a 2.3L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy bigger than the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum?
The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum is 2.1″ longer at 198.8″ vs 196.7″. The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum has a 4.9″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Palisade comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Ford Explorer offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Palisade trims, Ford trims, Ford Explorer trims
The Palisade–Explorer Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Palisade and Explorer compare. The $-35 price gap works out to less than $10/month on a typical loan, so the cost difference is negligible. Pick on fit, not on price.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy runs a 3.8L V6; the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum uses a 2.3L I4 Turbo. The 9 hp difference (300 vs 291) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum adds 48 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 262), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum saves roughly $174/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $870.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the midsize SUV segment. Choose the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum when you want to keep $35 in your pocket and the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Hyundai or Ford or any dealership.