The Ultimate Guide to the Hyundai Palisade

Finding the perfect family SUV can feel like a huge task. You need space, safety, technology, and a vehicle that fits your budget without feeling like a compromise. Enter the Hyundai Palisade, a three-row SUV that has made a significant impact on the market since its debut. It’s designed for families who need versatility but don’t want to sacrifice style or comfort. This vehicle consistently ranks high in its class, offering a premium experience at a mainstream price point. Whether you’re navigating school drop-off lines, embarking on a cross-country road trip, or just handling daily errands, the Palisade aims to make every drive a pleasure. This guide will cover everything you need to know about this popular SUV.

Key Takeaways

• The Hyundai Palisade is a three-row SUV known for its blend of luxury, space, and value.
• It offers multiple trim levels (SE, SEL, XRT, Limited, Calligraphy) to suit different needs and budgets.
• Standard features include a powerful V6 engine, advanced safety technology, and a user-friendly infotainment system.
• Its spacious and upscale interior provides ample room for up to eight passengers and significant cargo capacity.
• Hyundai’s outstanding warranty adds to its long-term value proposition, making it a smart choice for families.

Exploring the Hyundai Palisade Trim Levels

Hyundai offers the Palisade in a variety of trim levels, ensuring there’s a perfect fit for nearly every family’s needs and budget. Each trim builds upon the last, adding more features, luxury, and technology. The lineup starts with the well-equipped SE, moves up to the popular and customizable SEL, ventures into rugged style with the XRT, and culminates in the near-luxury experiences of the Limited and Calligraphy models. Understanding the differences between these trims is key to choosing the right Hyundai Palisade for you. The base SE model is anything but basic, offering a strong foundation of features that many competitors reserve for higher trims. As you move up, you unlock access to amenities like a larger touchscreen, premium audio systems, and advanced driver-assistance features, transforming the Palisade from a practical family hauler into a truly premium vehicle.

SE Trim: The Value-Packed Starting Point

The entry-level SE trim sets a high standard for the Hyundai Palisade lineup. It comes packed with features that make it an exceptional value right from the start. Under the hood, you’ll find the same potent 3.8L V6 engine that powers every Palisade, so you never have to compromise on performance. The SE comfortably seats eight passengers with its standard second-row bench seat. Key features include a large 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, which is a standout offering for a base model. It also includes an impressive suite of Hyundai SmartSense safety features, such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go. Even at this accessible price point, the SE provides the core experience that makes the Palisade so appealing: space, power, and modern technology.

SEL Trim: The Perfect Balance of Features and Price

The SEL trim is often considered the sweet spot in the Hyundai Palisade family. It builds upon the SE’s solid foundation by adding a host of desirable convenience and comfort features. The SEL comes standard with seating for seven, thanks to second-row captain’s chairs, although the eight-passenger bench is available as an option. Key upgrades include proximity key with push-button start, an eight-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, and dual-zone automatic climate control. The SEL also introduces more sophisticated materials, like the H-Tex™ trimmed seating surfaces that offer a durable and upscale feel. Perhaps most importantly, the SEL trim unlocks the optional Premium Package, which adds a significant number of luxury features, such as a power sunroof, the premium Harman Kardon audio system, and additional driver-assistance technologies like the Blind-Spot View Monitor.

XRT Trim: Rugged and Ready for Adventure

For those who want their family SUV to have a more adventurous and assertive look, the Hyundai Palisade XRT is the perfect choice. Based on the SEL trim, the XRT adds a unique and rugged styling package that sets it apart from the rest of the lineup. It features exclusive 20-inch XRT wheels with a dark finish, bold black exterior accents, including the front grille, roof rails, and lower door garnish. The XRT also includes a standard power sunroof, adding to its premium feel. While the mechanical components remain the same as other Palisade models, meaning you still get the reliable V6 engine and a smooth ride, the XRT’s aesthetic is all about confidence and capability. It’s an ideal option for families who appreciate a tougher, more outdoorsy design without needing the full off-road hardware of a dedicated trail vehicle.

Limited Trim: A Touch of True Luxury

The Limited trim elevates the Hyundai Palisade into near-luxury territory. It incorporates all the features from the SEL with the Premium Package and adds even more high-end amenities. The interior is where the Limited truly shines, featuring premium Nappa leather seating surfaces that are both beautiful and comfortable. Both the driver and front passenger enjoy enhanced seat adjustments, and the driver’s seat includes a memory system. The second-row seats are ventilated, a rare feature in this class, and the third-row seats are power-folding, making it effortless to reconfigure your cargo space. Technologically, the Limited trim adds a Head-Up Display (HUD) that projects key driving information onto the windshield, and the 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system creates an immersive sound experience. A dual-pane sunroof and ambient interior lighting complete the upscale atmosphere.

Calligraphy Trim: The Pinnacle of Palisade Sophistication

At the very top of the lineup sits the Calligraphy trim, the ultimate expression of what the Hyundai Palisade can be. The Calligraphy takes everything from the Limited and adds exclusive, top-tier touches. It is the only trim that comes standard with Hyundai’s HTRAC All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. Externally, you can identify the Calligraphy by its unique grille design, exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels, and premium lighting signatures. The interior is where it truly distinguishes itself, with quilted leather door panels, a microfiber-suede headliner, and a premium cargo sill plate. One of its most notable features is the driver’s “Ergo-Motion” seat, which uses air cells to provide enhanced comfort and reduce fatigue on long drives. The Calligraphy also includes a full-display digital rearview mirror and advanced reverse parking collision-avoidance assist, making it the most technologically advanced and luxurious Palisade you can buy.

Design and Exterior Styling

The Hyundai Palisade makes a bold statement with its exterior design. It manages to look both substantial and sophisticated, avoiding the bland, utilitarian look of some three-row SUVs. The front end is dominated by a large, cascading grille that varies in finish depending on the trim level, from the blacked-out version on the XRT to the premium chrome on the Calligraphy. This is flanked by a distinctive lighting signature, with vertical LED daytime running lights that create an unmistakable presence on the road. The overall profile is strong and well-proportioned, with clean lines and subtle character creases that add a sense of motion. The Palisade’s design isn’t just for show; it’s also aerodynamic, contributing to a quieter ride and better fuel efficiency. From the stylish alloy wheels to the integrated rear spoiler, every element feels thoughtfully designed to create a cohesive and upscale appearance.

Interior Space and Comfort

Step inside the Hyundai Palisade, and you’ll immediately be impressed by the sense of space and quality. The cabin is one of its strongest selling points, offering a near-luxury feel across all trim levels. The dashboard is elegantly designed, with a wide, horizontal layout that enhances the feeling of spaciousness. Materials are high-quality, with soft-touch surfaces and attractive finishes throughout. Seating is available for seven or eight passengers, depending on whether you choose the second-row captain’s chairs or the bench seat. Both configurations provide easy access to the third row, thanks to a simple one-touch button that slides the second-row seat forward. Adults can fit comfortably in all three rows, a claim not all competitors can make. Ample headroom and legroom, combined with available features like heated and ventilated seats in the first and second rows, ensure that every passenger travels in comfort.

Cargo Capacity and Versatility

Beyond passenger comfort, the Hyundai Palisade excels in practicality and cargo management. It’s designed for the realities of family life, which often means hauling a lot of stuff. Behind the third row, you’ll find a generous 18 cubic feet of cargo space, which is enough for a large grocery run or several carry-on bags. Need more room? The third-row seats are easy to fold down, expanding the cargo area to an impressive 45.8 cubic feet. For those moments when you need to transport furniture or a load of home improvement supplies, folding down both the second and third rows opens up a cavernous 86.4 cubic feet of space. The Palisade also includes thoughtful storage solutions, such as a large under-floor compartment in the cargo area, perfect for keeping valuables out of sight or organizing smaller items.

Technology and Infotainment

Hyundai has equipped the Palisade with a modern and intuitive suite of technology that rivals those found in much more expensive vehicles. The centerpiece of the dashboard is a stunning 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, which is standard on every single trim. This is a significant advantage, as many competitors offer smaller screens on their base models. The system is responsive, with crisp graphics and a logical menu structure that’s easy to navigate. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing for seamless smartphone integration. The Palisade is also packed with USB ports throughout all three rows, ensuring everyone can keep their devices charged. Higher trims offer even more tech, including a wireless charging pad, the fantastic Harman Kardon audio system, and an innovative in-car intercom system called Driver Talk, which allows the driver to speak to rear passengers through the audio system without shouting.

Safety Features and Ratings

Family safety is a top priority for any SUV buyer, and the Hyundai Palisade delivers with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features. Every Palisade comes standard with Hyundai’s SmartSense package, which includes a range of driver-assistance technologies designed to prevent accidents. This includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection, which can automatically apply the brakes if it detects an impending collision. Other standard features include Lane Following Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Driver Attention Warning. Higher trims add even more advanced systems, such as the Blind-Spot View Monitor, which displays a live video feed of your blind spot in the instrument cluster when you activate your turn signal. These features, combined with its strong crash-test performance, have earned the Palisade top safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).

Powertrain and Performance

Every Hyundai Palisade is powered by a smooth and capable 3.8-liter V6 engine. This engine produces a robust 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, providing plenty of power for all driving situations. Whether you’re accelerating onto a highway, passing another vehicle, or climbing a steep hill with a full load of passengers and cargo, the Palisade never feels strained. The engine is paired with a slick-shifting eight-speed automatic transmission that delivers power smoothly and efficiently. The ride quality is excellent, with a suspension tuned for comfort that easily soaks up bumps and imperfections in the road. While it’s a large vehicle, the Palisade is surprisingly easy to drive, with light, accurate steering and composed handling that inspires confidence. It strikes a fantastic balance between a comfortable, quiet cruiser and a responsive, capable hauler.

Towing Capacity and HTRAC AWD

For families with boats, campers, or trailers, the Hyundai Palisade offers impressive towing capabilities. When properly equipped with the available dealer-installed trailer hitch, every Palisade model is rated to tow up to 5,000 pounds. This is a significant capacity for its class, making it a truly versatile vehicle for weekend adventures. To enhance its all-weather capability, the Palisade is available with Hyundai’s HTRAC All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system. This intelligent system constantly monitors driving conditions and distributes power between the front and rear wheels to optimize traction. HTRAC AWD not only provides added confidence when driving in snow, ice, or heavy rain but also improves handling on dry pavement. It includes a selectable Tow Mode, which adjusts the transmission’s shift logic and power delivery to provide a more stable and controlled towing experience.

Fuel Economy

For a large, three-row SUV with a powerful V6 engine, the Hyundai Palisade delivers respectable fuel economy figures. The front-wheel-drive (FWD) models are the most efficient, with an EPA-estimated rating of 19 MPG in the city, 26 MPG on the highway, and 22 MPG combined. Opting for the HTRAC All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system results in a slight dip in efficiency, as is typical with AWD systems. The AWD models are rated at 19 MPG in the city, 24 MPG on the highway, and 21 MPG combined. These numbers are competitive within the segment and mean you can enjoy the Palisade’s space and power without constant, costly trips to the gas station. The vehicle’s large fuel tank also gives it a generous driving range, making it an excellent choice for long family road trips.

Pricing and Value Proposition

One of the most compelling aspects of the Hyundai Palisade is its incredible value. It offers a combination of space, features, and quality that is typically found in SUVs from luxury brands, but at a much more accessible price point. The starting price for the base SE trim is highly competitive, and even when you move up to the top-tier Calligraphy trim, the Palisade still represents a significant bargain compared to similarly equipped luxury competitors. This strong value proposition is a core part of Hyundai’s brand identity. They pack their vehicles with standard features that other automakers charge extra for, from the large touchscreen to the comprehensive safety suite. When you consider the entire package—the stylish design, the upscale interior, the powerful engine, and the industry-leading warranty—the Hyundai Palisade stands out as one of the best values in the automotive market today.

Hyundai Palisade Specs and Trims

Ownership and Long-Term Value

Owning a Hyundai Palisade is made more appealing by Hyundai’s commitment to long-term value and owner peace of mind. The most significant factor here is Hyundai’s legendary warranty, often referred to as America’s Best Warranty. It includes a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty. This extensive coverage is a testament to the confidence Hyundai has in its product quality and can save owners a significant amount of money on potential repairs down the road. Furthermore, Hyundai includes three years or 36,000 miles of complimentary maintenance, which covers normal, factory-scheduled services like oil changes and tire rotations. This program helps reduce the initial cost of ownership and ensures your Palisade is well-maintained from the start. These factors, combined with the Palisade’s solid resale value, make it a financially smart choice for the long term.

Hyundai Palisade vs. Competitors

The three-row SUV segment is one of the most competitive in the industry, but the Hyundai Palisade consistently holds its own against top rivals like the Kia Telluride, Honda Pilot, and Toyota Grand Highlander. Its closest competitor is its corporate cousin, the Kia Telluride, with which it shares a platform and powertrain. The choice between the two often comes down to styling preference, as the Telluride has a boxier, more rugged look compared to the Palisade’s more elegant and sophisticated design. Against the Honda Pilot and Toyota Grand Highlander, the Palisade often wins on interior luxury and overall value. While the Pilot and Grand Highlander are known for their reliability and practicality, the Palisade provides a more premium cabin experience and a longer list of standard features for the money. The Palisade’s superior warranty is also a major advantage over its Japanese rivals.

The Palisade as the Ultimate Family Vehicle

What makes the Hyundai Palisade the ultimate family vehicle? It’s the way it successfully combines so many essential attributes into one stylish package. The spacious interior means there’s room for everyone to stretch out, and the ample cargo space can handle everything from sports equipment to luggage for a week-long vacation. The abundance of USB ports and thoughtful features like the Driver Talk intercom show that Hyundai understands the needs of a modern family. Safety is paramount, and the Palisade’s comprehensive suite of standard driver-assistance features provides peace of mind on every journey. It’s also comfortable and quiet, turning stressful commutes and long road trips into more pleasant experiences. The fact that it does all of this while looking great and offering tremendous value is the reason it has become such a popular choice for families across the country.

Ready for Winter Driving?

For those living in colder climates, the Hyundai Palisade is a capable and reassuring winter vehicle, especially when equipped with the HTRAC AWD system. The AWD system provides enhanced traction on snowy and icy roads, helping to prevent wheel slip and maintain control. The Palisade also offers a dedicated “Snow Mode” in its drive mode selector, which adjusts throttle response and power distribution to further optimize performance in slippery conditions. Available features like heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and heated second-row seats make cold morning starts much more bearable. When fitted with a good set of winter tires, the Palisade becomes a confident and secure vehicle for tackling even the toughest winter weather, ensuring your family can get where they need to go safely and comfortably.

A Perfect SUV for Road Trips

The Hyundai Palisade seems almost tailor-made for long-distance family road trips. Its combination of a quiet, comfortable ride and a spacious cabin makes it an ideal highway cruiser. The powerful V6 engine provides effortless passing power, while features like Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go can significantly reduce driver fatigue on long stretches of highway. Passengers in all three rows will appreciate the comfortable seating and available amenities. The large infotainment screen with navigation makes finding your way easy, and the numerous USB ports keep everyone’s devices powered up for entertainment. With its generous cargo capacity, you won’t have to compromise on what you bring along. For even more inspiration on planning family adventures, you might find interesting ideas and destinations, as discussed on https://versaillesblog.com/, to make your road trip even more memorable.

Conclusion

The Hyundai Palisade has firmly established itself as a leader in the competitive three-row SUV segment, and for good reason. It successfully blends style, space, technology, and performance into a single, compelling package that offers undeniable value. From the well-appointed base SE model to the ultra-luxurious Calligraphy trim, there is a Palisade for every family and every budget. Its upscale and incredibly spacious interior, long list of standard features, and top-tier safety ratings make it a smart and practical choice. When you add in Hyundai’s industry-best warranty and complimentary maintenance program, the Palisade isn’t just a great vehicle to drive—it’s a wise investment for your family’s future. If you are in the market for a versatile, comfortable, and feature-packed family SUV, the Hyundai Palisade should be at the very top of your test-drive list.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Does the Hyundai Palisade have a third row?
A: Yes, all Hyundai Palisade models come standard with three rows of seating. They can be configured to seat either seven or eight passengers, depending on the trim and selected options.

Q: What is the gas mileage on a Hyundai Palisade?
A: A front-wheel-drive (FWD) Hyundai Palisade gets an EPA-estimated 22 MPG combined. The all-wheel-drive (AWD) models are rated for 21 MPG combined.

Q: Is the Hyundai Palisade a luxury SUV?
A: While the Hyundai Palisade is not technically a luxury brand vehicle, its higher trims (Limited and Calligraphy) offer features, materials, and a level of refinement that directly compete with many luxury SUVs, but at a more affordable price.

Q: Can the Hyundai Palisade tow a boat?
A: Yes. When properly equipped, every Hyundai Palisade has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, which is sufficient for many small to medium-sized boats, campers, and trailers.

Q: Which is better, the Palisade or the Telluride?
A: The Palisade and Kia Telluride are built on the same platform and share the same powertrain, so they are very similar. The choice often comes down to personal preference in interior and exterior styling. The Palisade is often seen as more elegant, while the Telluride has a more rugged aesthetic.