Hyundai Palisade 2.5 Turbo HEV Calligraphy (2026) vs Kia Carnival 1.6L SX+ Turbo Hybrid AT (2025)
A full spec-by-spec comparison of Hyundai Palisade 2.5 Turbo HEV Calligraphy (2026) vs Kia Carnival 1.6L SX+ Turbo Hybrid AT (2025) — engine, performance, dimensions, features and price, with the differences highlighted to help you decide.
| Specification | Hyundai Palisade 2.5 Turbo HEV Calligraphy (2026) Hyundai ₱3,980,000 | Kia Carnival 1.6L SX+ Turbo Hybrid AT (2025) Kia ₱3,498,000 |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Model Year | 2026 | 2025 |
| Warranty | 5-years/200,000km | 5 years or 160,000 kms |
| Availability | Current | Current |
| Engine & Drivetrain | ||
| Engine Type | Inline-4 | Inline-4 |
| Displacement | 2497cc | 1598cc |
| Valvetrain | DOHC 16-Valve | 16 Valve |
| Aspiration | Turbocharged | Turbocharged |
| Fuel Type | Hybrid | Hybrid |
| Max Power | 334 PS | 242 PS |
| Max Torque | 422 Nm | 367 Nm |
| Transmission | Automatic 6-Speed | Automatic 8-Speed |
| Drivetrain | AWD | FWD |
| Body & Dimensions | ||
| Body Type | Large Crossover SUV | MPV AUV |
| Segment | Crossover | Van |
| Construction | Unibody | Unibody |
| Exterior Colors | Graphite Grey, Abyss Black, Creamy White, Moonlight Blue Sierra Burgundy Pearl | Aurora Black Pearl, Snow White Pearl, Ceramic Silver |
| Doors | 5 | 5 |
| Seating Capacity | 2+2+3 | 7 |
| Length (mm) | 5065 | 5155 |
| Width (mm) | 1980 | 1995 |
| Height (mm) | 1805 | 1740 |
| Wheelbase (mm) | 2970 | 3090 |
| Curb Weight (kg) | 2275 | 2141 |
| Fuel Tank (L) | 72 | 72 |
| Chassis, Wheels & Brakes | ||
| Front Suspension | MacPherson Strut w/Coil Spring | MacPherson Strut w/Coil Spring |
| Rear Suspension | Multi-link with Coil Spring | Multi-link with coil spring |
| Front Wheels | 21 | 19 |
| Rear Wheels | 21 | 19 |
| Front Tires | 265/45R21 | 235/55R19 |
| Rear Tires | 265/45R21 | 235/55R19 |
| Front Brakes | Disc | Disc |
| Rear Brakes | Disc | Disc |
| Steering Type | EPS | EPS |
| Steering Column | Tilt & Telescope | Tilt & Telescope |
| Tire Pressure Monitoring | Yes | No |
| Differential Lock | No | No |
| Safety | ||
| Anti-lock Braking (ABS) | Yes | Yes |
| Electronic Brakeforce Distribution | Yes | Yes |
| Brake Assist | No | No |
| Parking Sensors | Yes | No |
| Stability Control | Yes | No |
| Traction Control | Yes | No |
| Forward Collision Mitigation | No | No |
| Blind Spot Warning | No | No |
| Hill Start Assist | Yes | Yes |
| Hill Descent Control | No | No |
| Auto Stop/Start | No | No |
| Driver Airbag | Yes | No |
| Knee Airbag | Yes | No |
| Passenger Airbag | Yes | No |
| Front Curtain Airbags | Yes | No |
| Rear Curtain Airbags | Yes | No |
| Rear Side Airbags | Yes | No |
| Engine Immobilizer | Yes | Yes |
| Security Alarm | Yes | Yes |
| Door Locking | Central Locking | Central Locking |
| Vehicle Dynamic Control | — | No |
| Comfort & Convenience | ||
| Air Conditioning | Automatic Climate Control Dual Zone | Automatic Climate Control Dual Zone |
| Rear A/C Vents | No | No |
| Seat Material | Leather | Leather |
| Parking Brake | EPB | EPB |
| Key Type | Keyless Entry | Keyless Entry |
| Push-Button Start | Yes | No |
| Cruise Control | Yes | Yes |
| Multi-Info Display | Yes | No |
| Paddle Shifters | Yes | No |
| Reverse Camera | Yes | No |
| Auto Headlights | No | No |
| Power Windows | Yes | Yes |
| Power Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Remote Trunk Release | No | Yes |
| Eco Mode | No | No |
| Antenna | yes | no |
| Infotainment & Audio | ||
| Speakers | 14 | 6 |
| Touchscreen | Yes | Yes |
| Navigation | Yes | No |
| Bluetooth | Yes | Yes |
| Apple CarPlay | Yes | Yes |
| Android Auto | No | No |
| USB | No | No |
| AUX Input | No | No |
| AM/FM Radio | Yes | Yes |
| CD Player | No | No |
| DVD Player | No | No |
| MP3 Playback | No | No |
| iPod Support | No | No |
| SD Card Slot | No | No |
| Lighting | ||
| Headlights | LED | LED |
| Fog Lights | No | Yes |
| Daytime Running Lights | Yes | Yes |
Hyundai Palisade 2.5 Turbo HEV Calligraphy (2026) vs Kia Carnival 1.6L SX+ Turbo Hybrid AT (2025): which should you buy?
For a Filipino buyer weighing luxury versus practicality, the Hyundai Palisade 2.5 Turbo HEV Calligraphy commands a premium at ₱3,980,000 but delivers a far stronger powertrain – 334 PS and 422 Nm from a 2.5‑L turbo‑hybrid inline‑4, paired with an AWD system and a 6‑speed automatic. Its larger crossover SUV body, 7‑seat 2+2+3 layout, and upscale exterior color options make it ideal for families who need extra cargo space, occasional off‑road confidence, and a more upscale driving experience. The Kia Carnival 1.6L SX+ Turbo Hybrid AT, priced at ₱3,498,000, is about ₱482,000 cheaper, offers 242 PS and 367 Nm, and comes with front‑wheel drive and an 8‑speed automatic. Its MPV AUV body and fixed 7‑seat configuration suit buyers who prioritize city commuting, fuel‑efficiency and a lower entry cost over outright performance. Both carry a 5‑year warranty (Hyundai: 200,000 km; Kia: 160,000 km) and are currently available. Choose the Palisade if you want higher power, AWD capability, and a more premium SUV feel; opt for the Carnival if budget, slightly better fuel economy and a straightforward MPV layout are more important for daily Philippine driving.
Frequently asked questions
Which model is cheaper?
The Kia Carnival 1.6L SX+ Turbo Hybrid AT is cheaper at ₱3,498,000 compared to the Hyundai Palisade’s ₱3,980,000 price.
Which vehicle has more power?
The Hyundai Palisade 2.5 Turbo HEV Calligraphy produces 334 PS and 422 Nm, out‑matching the Kia Carnival’s 242 PS and 367 Nm.
Is there an advantage in drivetrain?
The Palisade features all‑wheel drive (AWD) for better traction, while the Carnival is front‑wheel drive (FWD), which is adequate for city use but less capable in challenging road conditions.
Which is more practical for a large family?
Both seat seven, but the Palisade’s 2+2+3 layout and larger crossover SUV body give more flexible cargo space, whereas the Carnival offers a conventional MPV layout that may be easier for everyday city loading.