Hyundai Palisade: A Comprehensive Overview of Features, Performance, and Competitors in the US Market
The Hyundai Palisade has rapidly established itself as a leading contender in the midsize SUV segment in the United States. Introduced to the US market in 2019, the Palisade is Hyundai's flagship SUV, designed to cater to families and drivers seeking a blend of comfort, technology, and versatility. With its bold exterior styling, spacious three-row seating, and a suite of advanced safety and convenience features, the Palisade competes directly with established rivals such as the Kia Telluride, Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Ford Explorer. Its appeal lies not only in its premium design and robust feature set but also in its value proposition, offering a luxurious experience at a competitive price point.
The Hyundai Palisade is a midsize SUV that has garnered significant attention in the US for its blend of style, comfort, and advanced technology. Designed to accommodate up to eight passengers, the Palisade offers a spacious interior, a smooth ride, and a host of standard and available features that cater to both families and individuals seeking a reliable and refined vehicle. Since its launch, the Palisade has been praised for its upscale cabin, intuitive infotainment system, and strong value proposition. Hyundai continues to refine the Palisade, ensuring it remains a top choice in a highly competitive segment.
Exterior Design and Presence
The Hyundai Palisade stands out with its bold and sophisticated exterior styling. The front grille is prominent, flanked by distinctive LED headlights and a sculpted hood that gives the SUV a commanding road presence. The side profile features clean lines and available 20-inch alloy wheels, while the rear is characterized by vertical LED taillights and a wide stance. The Palisade's design is both modern and timeless, appealing to a broad range of buyers who appreciate aesthetics as much as practicality.
Interior Comfort and Space
Inside, the Palisade impresses with its spacious and well-appointed cabin. Depending on the configuration, the SUV can seat seven or eight passengers, with ample headroom and legroom in all three rows. The materials used throughout the interior are of high quality, with available options such as quilted Nappa leather, heated and ventilated seats, and a dual-pane sunroof. The Palisade's third row is notably roomy compared to many competitors, making it a practical choice for larger families or those who frequently transport passengers.
Technology and Infotainment
Hyundai equips the Palisade with an impressive array of technology features. The standard infotainment system includes a large touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, multiple USB ports, and Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims offer a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, navigation, premium audio systems, wireless device charging, and a head-up display. The user interface is intuitive, and the system responds quickly to inputs, enhancing the overall driving experience.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the Palisade is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available for those seeking enhanced traction and stability. The Palisade delivers a composed and comfortable ride, with well-tuned suspension that absorbs road imperfections effectively. Despite its size, the SUV handles confidently, making it suitable for both city driving and long highway journeys. Towing capacity is rated at up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped, adding to its versatility.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Safety is a top priority for Hyundai, and the Palisade comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of standard driver assistance features. These include forward collision avoidance assist, blind-spot collision avoidance assist, rear cross-traffic alert, lane keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and a rearview camera. Higher trims add features such as a surround-view monitor, parking sensors, and a blind-spot view monitor. The Palisade has received high safety ratings from major testing organizations, further reinforcing its reputation as a family-friendly SUV.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The Palisade is available in several trim levels, including SE, SEL, XRT, Limited, and Calligraphy. Each trim offers a unique combination of features and amenities, allowing buyers to choose the model that best fits their needs and budget. As of 2025, the starting price for the Palisade SE is around $38,000, with the fully loaded Calligraphy trim reaching approximately $53,000. The value proposition is strong across the lineup, with even the base model offering a generous list of standard features.
Fuel Economy
The Palisade delivers competitive fuel efficiency for its class. The EPA estimates for the front-wheel-drive version are approximately 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway, while all-wheel-drive models achieve slightly lower figures. These numbers place the Palisade in line with many of its rivals, making it a practical choice for daily commuting and family road trips.
Comparison Table: Hyundai Palisade vs. Key Competitors
| Model | Starting Price (USD) | Seating Capacity | Engine | Horsepower | Max Towing (lbs) | Fuel Economy (mpg, city/hwy) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hyundai Palisade | $38,000 | 7-8 | 3.8L V6 | 291 | 5,000 | 19/26 |
| Kia Telluride | $38,500 | 7-8 | 3.8L V6 | 291 | 5,500 | 20/26 |
| Toyota Highlander | $39,000 | 7-8 | 2.4L Turbo I4 | 265 | 5,000 | 22/29 |
| Honda Pilot | $39,500 | 7-8 | 3.5L V6 | 285 | 5,000 | 19/27 |
| Ford Explorer | $38,500 | 6-7 | 2.3L Turbo I4 | 300 | 5,600 | 21/28 |
Ownership Experience and Reliability
Hyundai is known for offering one of the best warranties in the industry, which adds peace of mind for Palisade owners. The SUV has received positive reviews for its reliability, low maintenance costs, and overall ownership satisfaction. Regular updates and strong dealer support further enhance the ownership experience.
Recent Updates and Future Outlook
For the 2025 model year, the Palisade receives subtle design updates, new technology features, and enhanced connectivity options. Hyundai continues to listen to customer feedback, making incremental improvements that keep the Palisade competitive. As the demand for midsize SUVs remains strong, the Palisade is well-positioned to maintain its status as a top choice in the segment.
Final Thoughts
The Hyundai Palisade offers a compelling combination of style, space, technology, and value. Its well-rounded nature makes it suitable for a wide range of buyers, from growing families to individuals who appreciate comfort and versatility. With its strong safety credentials, refined driving experience, and competitive pricing, the Palisade stands out as a leader in the midsize SUV category.
References
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