2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy vs 2025 Ford Escape Platinum
37 more hp and 18.2″ longer vs $20,650 less and 6 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 287 vs 250 hp, 20 vs 26 MPG.
The Palisade Calligraphy leads on 37 more hp, 18.2″ longer. The Escape Platinum leads on $20,650 less, 6 MPG better. 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 | 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy | 2025 Ford Escape Platinum |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $56,560 | $35,910 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 2.0L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 287 hp | 250 hp |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 280 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 18 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 31 |
| Combined MPG | 20 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 19.0 gal | 15.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,872 lbs | No published data |
| Wheelbase | 116.9" | 106.7" |
| Length | 199.4" | 181.2" |
| Width | 78.0" | 74.1" |
| Height | 69.5" | 66.0" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP | No published data |
| 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 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy and 2025 Ford Escape Platinum?
The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum starts at $35,910, $20,650 less than the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy at $56,560. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $364/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy?
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy is the stronger pick when the extra 37 hp matters for your commute or driving style; you want the larger footprint for passengers or cargo.
Who should choose the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum?
The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum is the stronger pick when you want to keep $20,650 in your pocket and the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $485/year less on fuel; you prefer a smaller vehicle that is easier to park and maneuver.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy or 2025 Ford Escape Platinum?
The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum rates 26 combined MPG, 6 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy or 2025 Ford Escape Platinum?
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy produces 287 hp, 37 more than the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum at 250 hp. The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum also leads in torque at 280 lb-ft vs 260 lb-ft. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy runs a 3.5L V6; the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy bigger than the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum?
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy is 18.2″ longer at 199.4″ vs 181.2″. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy has a 10.2″ 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 Escape 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 Escape trims
The Palisade–Escape Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Palisade and Escape compare. The $-20,650 gap adds up to $364/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 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy runs a 3.5L V6; the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum uses a 2.0L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy has 37 more hp (287 vs 250), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Ford Escape Platinum saves roughly $485/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $2,425.
Living With the Palisade vs the Escape
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy is 18.2″ longer, which translates to more room inside but a larger footprint in parking lots and garages. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy has a 10.2″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy when the extra 37 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2025 Ford Escape Platinum when you want to keep $20,650 in your pocket and the 2025 Ford Escape 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.