The Hyundai Palisade is a midsize SUV that has quickly become one of Hyundai’s most notable and successful vehicles since its debut. Designed to offer comfort, space, technology, and value, the Palisade appeals to families and individuals looking for a capable and refined three-row SUV. It competes in a crowded segment but stands out with its premium styling, upscale interior, and strong list of standard features. From road trips to daily commuting, the Hyundai Palisade offers a well-balanced blend of practicality and sophistication that continues to attract attention across the SUV market.
Overview of the Hyundai Palisade
A Midsize SUV Built for Comfort and Versatility
The Hyundai Palisade is a three-row crossover SUV that sits at the top of Hyundai’s SUV lineup. First introduced for the 2020 model year, the Palisade was created to replace the Hyundai Santa Fe XL. It was developed to meet the rising demand for spacious and family-friendly vehicles with a strong focus on comfort and technology. With seating for seven or eight passengers, depending on configuration, the Palisade is ideal for families or groups who need room without sacrificing style or performance.
Exterior Design and Appearance
Bold, Modern, and Refined
The Hyundai Palisade is known for its bold exterior styling. It features a large, cascading front grille, sleek LED headlights, and a strong body profile with clean lines. Its wide stance and sculpted panels give it a commanding road presence that sets it apart from other SUVs in its class. The rear design is equally refined, with vertically stacked taillights and tasteful chrome accents. Available in multiple trims and with various color options, the Palisade allows drivers to personalize its look while enjoying a modern design.
Interior Comfort and Space
A Spacious Cabin Designed for Families
Step inside the Hyundai Palisade, and the first thing you notice is the upscale and roomy interior. It offers three rows of seating with options for either a second-row bench or captain’s chairs, depending on the trim. This allows the Palisade to seat up to eight passengers comfortably.
The materials used in the cabin include soft-touch surfaces, available leather upholstery, and refined finishes that give the SUV a premium feel. Higher trims offer luxurious features such as quilted leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and ambient interior lighting. Storage space is generous, with a large cargo area and several clever storage compartments throughout the cabin.
- Standard 8-inch or available 12.3-inch touchscreen display
- Heated and ventilated front and second-row seats (on select trims)
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Power-folding third-row seats (available)
- Multiple USB ports and wireless charging
Technology and Infotainment
Smart Features for a Connected Drive
The Hyundai Palisade is packed with modern technology to keep drivers and passengers connected, informed, and entertained. Every trim comes with a user-friendly infotainment system that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A high-resolution digital instrument cluster and an optional head-up display add a high-tech feel to the driving experience.
Passengers in all rows can enjoy features like multiple charging ports, a conversation mirror for easy communication with rear passengers, and the available intercom system. There’s also an available Harman Kardon premium sound system for audiophiles seeking exceptional in-car audio.
Performance and Engine
Powerful and Smooth Driving Experience
Under the hood, the Hyundai Palisade is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces around 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and offers both front-wheel-drive and all-wheel-drive configurations. This combination delivers smooth acceleration and confident handling, making the Palisade a pleasure to drive on both highways and city streets.
The Palisade also includes multiple drive modes such as Comfort, Sport, Smart, and Snow that adjust the vehicle’s performance and handling characteristics based on driving conditions and driver preference. With its strong engine and comfortable ride, the Palisade strikes a balance between power and refinement.
Safety Features and Ratings
Advanced Safety for Peace of Mind
Safety is a top priority in the Hyundai Palisade. It comes equipped with Hyundai’s SmartSense suite of driver-assistance technologies. These include features designed to prevent accidents and enhance the driver’s awareness on the road.
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Safe Exit Assist
The Palisade has received high safety ratings from various testing organizations, making it a trustworthy choice for families. Its structural design, airbags, and technology all work together to ensure maximum protection in the event of a collision.
Trim Levels and Options
Multiple Configurations to Match Different Needs
The Hyundai Palisade is offered in several trim levels, each offering different combinations of features and finishes. The main trims typically include:
- SE: The base model, with a strong list of standard safety and technology features.
- SEL: Adds more comfort and convenience options, such as heated seats and push-button start.
- XRT: A sportier look with unique exterior styling and roof rails.
- Limited: Includes premium upgrades like Nappa leather, a dual sunroof, and ventilated rear seats.
- Calligraphy: The top-tier model with exclusive design touches and high-end materials.
Each trim level allows buyers to choose the level of luxury and convenience that best fits their lifestyle and budget. Even the base model offers a competitive range of features compared to many rivals.
Fuel Efficiency and Practicality
Efficient for Its Class
Considering its size and power, the Hyundai Palisade offers decent fuel economy for a midsize SUV. The front-wheel-drive version typically achieves around 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, while the all-wheel-drive model is slightly lower. Its fuel efficiency is competitive within the segment and helps keep running costs manageable for families who drive frequently.
Practicality is also a key strength of the Palisade. It offers up to 86.4 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third rows folded down, and the hands-free smart liftgate adds convenience when loading items.
The Hyundai Palisade is a standout SUV that combines spaciousness, advanced technology, safety, and comfort in a well-designed package. Whether you’re transporting a large family or seeking a stylish and capable vehicle for everyday use, the Palisade delivers excellent value and performance. With its refined interior, bold design, and impressive list of features, it continues to be a smart choice for those seeking a dependable and luxurious midsize SUV. If you’re looking for a well-rounded vehicle with plenty of space and a premium feel, the Hyundai Palisade deserves serious consideration.