The Kia Telluride gets a ton of attention. Ever since its debut in 2020, the model has received more accolades (and sales) than its Hyundai Palisade cousin. For 2027 and its 2nd-generation, the Palisade steps up its game inside and out in order to become more distinct and special, even from the redesigned Telluride. It manages to set itself apart in truly unique ways while also feeling more premium than any Hyundai model that has come before it.Amos KwonI drove the top trim Calligraphy for a week and got to experience the Palisade Hybrid in all its fullness. My test vehicle was a 2026 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy AWD, which carried a base price of $58,780. With its only option—$245 carpeted floor mats—and a $1,600 destination charge, the as-tested price came to $60,625. Here are four things about the vehicle that left the strongest impressions.The Minimalist Monochromatic Door CardAmos KwonThe door card is the interior panel that covers the internal mechanics of the door. The version on the Palisade Calligraphy was the model's most endearing design aspect to me, not because of something it did but because of what it didn't do. It's not overstyled or complex. It's a single color, single texture, and wonderfully executed. I can't think of a door card that warrants so much praise.Amos KwonRather, the leather is sculpted cleanly with just a single seam that runs along the top and punctuated by an ergonomic round door handle. The simple driver's side seat memory buttons do barely anything to interrupt the look of things. The sloping armrest is also a thing of beauty with nothing ornate on it and no contrasting materials. You won't find a better looking door card on any vehicle right now, and in the case of the Palisade Calligraphy, less is most definitely more.The Front Passenger Seat Adjustment ButtonsAmos KwonThe Palisade isn't the only Hyundai model with these buttons. Located on the left side of the front passenger backrest, they're accessible by both the driver and 2nd-row passenger. You can move the entire seat forward/backward and change the incline of the backrest. You can even put it in relaxation mode.I can't count the number of times I've had to reach around the right side of the front passenger seat cushion from the driver's seat to make adjustments for the right rear passenger in row two. This makes it a cinch. I can also move it forward to make room to fold the 2nd row seats down without having to go to the front passenger's door before I load items in the back. It's a simple, non-high tech feature that more vehicles should have. This is how Hyundai thinks, making everyday convenience a reality.The Driver-Focused Center TouchscreenAmos KwonJust about every Hyundai model in the lineup benefits from twin 12.3″ screens for infotainment and instrumentation. The Palisade's center screen ups Hyundai's own game by canting it toward the driver. It's not a dramatic angle, but it's more noticeable from the front passenger seat, not that they can't see it or reach it. It's just clearly angled toward the driver's side. This makes viewing and control much easier for the driver.Amos KwonThe system is already one of the best in the business with easy-to-read menus and quick response times, but its operation is enhanced by a small positional change. Hyundai avoids moving the entire center console to the same angle, and that's a smart design choice that doesn't alter the cohesive look of the dash.The Capsule-Shaped Center ConsoleAmos KwonThe Palisade's center console is different from just about any other model's in 2026. While I wouldn't call it revolutionary, it is both practical and stunning. Its rounded capsule shape manages to look like artwork while still providing ample space for a charging deck, beverages, and other small gear items in the split-top armrest compartment. Even the front portion has a big decorative cap on it with contrast stitching.Amos KwonThe best view, however, might be from the rear seats. You can see the fully ovular shape of the center console, and the stitching runs all the way to the back. Finally, the armest compartment houses a UV light sanitizing feature that disinfects phones, keys, and other high-touch items when the button is pushed and the split top doors are closed. It's a genius feature and one that other high-end vehicles should include.