Hyundai Palisade, Features and refinement make this all-new SUV worth checking out

THE NEW, THREE-ROW Hyundai Palisade puts established midsized SUVs on notice with its sharp design, spacious interior, full roster of features, and starting price below $36,000. Before we buy our own, we rented one from Hyundai to get a first look. Hyundai Palisade, Features and refinement make this all-new SUV worth checking out

This Korea-built model is the mechanical sibling to the impressive U.S.-built Kia Telluride. Like the Kia, the Palisade seems thoroughly balanced and without overt flaws. It checks all the right boxes for its class, with dimensions, power, and towing on a par with its chief rivals.

The engine and transmission combination is smooth, with predictable power delivery and plenty of muscle in reserve. The engine sounds polished even when revved. Driver-selectable modes— including Eco, Comfort, Sport, Smart, and Snow—help fine-tune the desired engine response and traction. The Comfort mode feels a bit mildmannered, as reflected most in leisurely downshifts.

Twist the dial to Sport and the Palisade becomes more eager, with sharper throttle response. We enjoyed the Smart setting, which reacts to how the vehicle is driven to progress automatically through the settings. It saves fuel when cruising but is eager to accelerate when needed. Large front doors make for easy access. The seats are below hip height for an average-scaled driver, making it effortless to step into the SUV. The seats are wide, mildly bolstered, heated, vented, and rather comfortable.

The Palisade’s interior feels upscale. Thoughtful details include USB ports in the backs of the front seats and slick cup holders. A handy button to get the second row out of the way for easy access to the third row is also nice. The controls are clearly labeled, and most of them are simple to use, which is a Hyundai hallmark.

Buyers can get either a bench or two individual seats for the second row, which makes the Palisade a seven- or eightpassenger vehicle. Even the space in the third row is relatively decent for the class. Every trim level comes with FCW, AEB with pedestrian detection, LKA, adaptive cruise control, a driver attention monitor, and a rear occupant alert to prevent leaving a child or pet behind.

We haven’t found much to complain about so far. The ride is mostly compliant and controlled, although we noticed a hint of firmness— especially when the Palisade is equipped with 20-inch wheels, which come on most trims.

The touch screen can be a far reach for some drivers, and the push-button gear selector is unintuitive. The Palisade is a big, tall vehicle, so it’s not particularly nimble, but at least the body roll through turns is limited.

Like the Kia Telluride, the Palisade looks poised to give the current crop of midsized three-row SUVs a serious run for their money. Despite its relatively accessible price, the Hyundai’s upscale features and finish mean it can be an alternative to a luxurybrand SUV, too.

Sources:

https://www.kbb.com/hyundai/palisade/

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