2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy vs 2026 Kia Sorento SX
On paper, the 2026 Kia Sorento SX wins on $10,710 less, 2 MPG better, 49 more lb-ft torque. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 291 vs 281 hp, 21 vs 23 MPG.
The Palisade Calligraphy leads on AWD. The Sorento SX leads on $10,710 less, 2 MPG better. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 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 Kia Sorento SX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $53,000 | $42,290 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.8L V6 | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 291 hp | 281 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automated manual |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.8 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,100/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,506 lbs | 4,074 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 114.2" | 110.8" |
| Length | 196.7" | 189.6" |
| Width | 77.8" | 74.8" |
| Height | 68.9" | 66.9" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy and 2026 Kia Sorento SX?
The 2026 Kia Sorento SX starts at $42,290, $10,710 less than the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy at $53,000. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $188/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy is the stronger pick when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Who should choose the 2026 Kia Sorento SX?
The 2026 Kia Sorento SX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $10,710 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Sorento SX 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 Kia Sorento SX?
The 2026 Kia Sorento SX rates 23 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy or 2026 Kia Sorento SX?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy produces 291 hp, 10 more than the 2026 Kia Sorento SX at 281 hp. The 2026 Kia Sorento SX also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 262 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy runs a 3.8L V6; the 2026 Kia Sorento SX uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy, FWD on the 2026 Kia Sorento SX.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy bigger than the 2026 Kia Sorento SX?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy is 7.1″ longer at 196.7″ vs 189.6″. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy has a 3.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy and 2026 Kia Sorento SX have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy comes with AWD, while the 2026 Kia Sorento SX uses FWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Palisade trims, Kia trims, Kia Sorento trims
The Palisade–Sorento Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Palisade and Sorento compare. The $-10,710 gap adds up to $188/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy runs a 3.8L V6; the 2026 Kia Sorento SX uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 10 hp difference (291 vs 281) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Kia Sorento SX adds 49 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 262), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy comes with AWD; the 2026 Kia Sorento SX uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Kia Sorento SX saves roughly $174/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $870.
Living With the Palisade vs the Sorento
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy weighs 432 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy when you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted. Choose the 2026 Kia Sorento SX when you want to keep $10,710 in your pocket and the 2026 Kia Sorento SX 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 Kia or any dealership.