2024 Hyundai Palisade Pros vs Cons, & How it Stacks Up to Competitors

Looking for a 3-row SUV that hauls the whole crew in comfort? One that keeps you safe and pampered on the road? The 2024 Hyundai Palisade might just fit the bill. But before you fall for its fancy features, get the full scoop.

In this guide, we'll break down what you may love about the Palisade - the spacious interior, the high-tech gadgets, the top safety ratings. But also where it falls short, like with just okay gas mileage, tricky gear selector, and no hybrid option. Get ready for a clear, no-jargon recap of the highlights and letdowns. We will analyze the 2024 Hyundai Palisade pros vs cons and compare it to its close competitors so you can decide if this family-friendly SUV is a match.

Key Takeaways

• The 2024 Palisade brings a premium, family-friendly experience to the SUV scene. Inside, you'll find luxury touches, advanced tech, and top safety ratings - the total package. For those seeking a well-equipped hauler, the Palisade makes a strong case.

• Downsides? Fuel economy is just average, and there's no hybrid or electric option yet. For drivers prioritizing MPGs and eco-friendliness, those could be sticking points.

• With six trim levels, the Palisade fits different budgets and tastes. But next to rivals like the Honda Pilot, there's a trade-off between the Palisade's luxury offerings and efficiency considerations. The Pilot may appeal more to eco-minded drivers.

What We Like: Ten Pros of the Palisade

The 2024 Hyundai Palisade is a top contender for a family-friendly vehicle, boasting numerous features that enhance comfort, technology, and safety. Be it for a cross-country road trip or daily commutes, the Palisade assures a blend of luxury and practicality.

Sporting an upscale interior that rivals premium brands, advanced tech for on-the-go connectivity, and top-notch safety ratings, this SUV transcends being just a mode of transportation—it transforms into a sanctuary on wheels.

1. Spacious and Confrontable Interior

Inside the Hyundai Palisade, you'll find a roomy, well-designed cabin that aims to keep you comfortable. Up front, the seats offer good support with lumbar adjustment for the driver. The second row bench has plenty of space, sliding and reclining flexibility. After the base SE, higher trims come with second row captain's chairs for added comfort. The driver gets an elevated view with ample headroom and front shoulder room. The controls feel solid and easy to use. Throughout the cabin, nice soft-touch surfaces and aluminum trim give an upscale vibe. All in all, the Palisade welcomes you with a cozy, inviting interior whether you're driving across town or across the country.

Front and rear seats both have have a generous amount of headroom, front legroom, and with the available panoramic dual-pane sunroof, the Palisade ensures a comfortable journey for all occupants.

The 2024 Hyundai Palisade doesn't skimp on luxury either. Inside, you've got options from basic cloth upholstery up to exquisite quilted leather depending on the trim. A heated steering wheel is standard on the Limited trim and higher. The fancier Limited to Calligraphy Night Edition models (range topping calligraphy trim) really pamper you with opulent touches and more standard features. The add heated 2nd and 3rd row seats, leather trimmed seats on the Limited and Premium Nappa Leather on the Calligraphy trims.

Up front, the seats aim to spoil with available heating, ventilation and 8-way power adjustment. The heated second row seats and split-folding third row seats keep flexibility high. Getting in and out is a breeze. Even the third row seats focus on comfort with contoured cushions and power functions so everyone can ride happy. Whether second or third row, the Palisade cares about keeping all passengers cozy and content.

2. Spacious Three Row Seating & Cargo Space

And unlike some 3-row SUVs, the Palisade's third row can actually fit adults with a little second row tweaking. The Palisade has more third row leg and shoulder room than other three row SUVs like the Mazda CX-90, Ford Explorer and Toyota Highlander:

3nd row leg room/shoulder room (inches)

• Palisade: 31.4/55

• CX-90: 28.5/48.5

• Ford Explorer: 25/49

• Toyota Highlander: 22.5/50

Cargo Capacity:

The Palisade offers generous cargo space, making it practical for hauling gear or luggage. Behind the third row, there's room for groceries or small bags.

But where the Palisade really excels is versatility. Fold the third row down and space expands for suitcases, sports equipment, even small furniture. Fold the second row too and you can easily transport bulkier stuff.

The power liftgate with hands-free access also makes loading and unloading a breeze. No fumbling for keys or wrestling heavy liftgates.

When comparing it to competitors the Palisade holds its own on cargo capacity:

(behind front seats/behind 2nd row/behind third row seat)

• Palisade: 86.4/45.8/18.0

• CX-90: 74.2/40.0/14.9

• Explorer: 87.8/47.9/18.2

• Highlander: 84.3/48.4/16.0

3. Good overall Driving Dynamics

According to Consumer Reports, the handling of the Hyundai Palisade is characterized by its responsive steering, well-tuned suspension, minimal body roll, stability control system, agility, and performance across different road conditions. These characteristics contribute to a comfortable, stable, and safe driving experience, making the Palisade a solid choice for drivers seeking a well-rounded and capable SUV. (Reference Source: Consumer Reports)

According to Autoblog, The suspension helps control body motions, and the steering is precise, making for a comfortable ride. Overall, the Palisade provides a good balance of power and handling for a three-row SUV. (Reference Source: Autoblog)

J.D. Power rates vehicles based on verified consumer reviews and rated the driving experience of the palisade as excellent with a score of 87/100 palisade. In contrast the Honda Pilot received 86/100, and the Nissan Pathfinder received 83/100. The Kia Telluride received 90/100. (Reference Source: J.D. Power)

4. Advanced Technology Features

The 2024 Hyundai Palisade stands as a technological powerhouse, featuring:

• A 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system that serves as your digital command center

• Seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to stay connected to your favorite apps and services on the go

• A Harman Kardon premium audio system in higher trims, providing crystal-clear sound throughout the cabin.

The tech features of the Palisade include:

• Multiple USB ports for all charging requirements

• A wireless charging pad for Qi-compatible devices

• A head-up display to maintain crucial information within your field of vision

• Remote functionalities through the Hyundai Blue Link app service, including the ability to lock, unlock, and start your vehicle remotely, and even park it using the Remote Smart Parking Assist (RSPA) feature. (Limited and higher trims)

5. Good Safety Features and Driver Assist

Safety is paramount in any family vehicle, and the 2024 Hyundai Palisade doesn’t disappoint. It boasts an impressive amount of driver assist and safety features including:

• LED headlights

• Automatic emergency braking

• Blind-spot monitoring

• Lane-keeping assist

• Rearview camera

• Adaptive cruise control

• Driver attention warning

• Rear cross-traffic alert

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (forward collision warning)

If you want even more protection, higher Palisade trims add extras like Blind-Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, and rear cross traffic alerts, and rear parking sensors. They give that extra security blanket on the road. The comprehensive airbag system joins the safety party too - we're talking driver knee airbag, second row rear side airbags, the works. All told, Hyundai built this SUV like a fortress of safety. The Palisade aims to fully shield you and yours out there.

6. Good Safety Ratings

Safety is paramount in any family vehicle, and the 2024 Hyundai Palisade doesn’t disappoint. It boasts an impressive safety rating with a five-star NHTSA rating, and a Top Safety Pick award from the IIHS, putting it at the forefront of vehicle safety. (FYI - The 2023 Hyundai Palisade received a Top Safety Pick+. The plus is added when headlights offer better visibility.) (Reference Sources: NHTSA, IIHS)

7. Good Road and Wind Noise Isolation

Wind noise is reduced to the acoustic-laminated glass used in the windshield and front side windows. It has good road isolation to help dampen road noise in different conditions. Combined with advanced soundproofing materials, Palisade's aerodynamic design, and well-sealed cabin, The vehicle offers a serene and comfortable driving experience.

8. Good Resale Value

High resale value means you vehicle depreciated less overtime and helps protect you investment from losing value. The palisade does not disappoint in this regard. J.D. Power put the resale value of the 2024 Palisade at 87/100. Although the Honda Pilot and Kia Telluride faired a bit better with 92/100, the Palisade managed to beat out most of its main competitors and was tied in the #3 spot in its class level. That makes it a solid investment in its class. (Reference Source: J.D. Power).

The first year of ownership has the largest impact on depreciation. I ran the Palisade through Edmunds cost to own calculator to see what the depreciation percentage is. It showed a depreciation average of roughly 22%. It varies based on your location because it factors in state and local sales tax. But anything around 20% is not bad for the first year.

9. Nice Assortment of Trim Levels

There is a nice range of Palisade models to choose from ranging in price from $38,045 to $55,245. With a $17,200 price difference between the base SE trim and the Calligraphy Night Edition, and with varied equipment in each, you should be able to find a trim that suits your needs.

• SE - Starting at $38,045

• SEL - Starting at $40,795

• XRT trim - Starting at $43,195

• Limited - Starting at $49,345

• Calligraphy - Starting at $51,745

• Calligraphy Night Edition - Starting at $55,245

Base SE Trim and SEL Trim

The base SE Palisade starts strong with LED headlights, 18-inch alloys, and three-zone climate control and holds eight passengers with a second row bench seat. But stepping up to the SEL adds more pampering. It comes with 8-way power driver seat, 2nd-row captain’s chairs, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and synthetic leather upholstery. It has an optional Premium Package for an extra $4,950 that makes it truly lux.

The SEL Premium Package takes luxury to the next level by adding:

• 20” alloy wheels

• 12.3” digital instrument cluster

• Front parking sensors

• 3rd row USB outlets

• Surround view monitor

• Blind spot view

• Highway driving assist

• Upgraded forward collision avoidance

• Harman Kardon audio

• Power sunroof

• Ventilated front & second row seats

• Heated second row & steering wheel

• In-car intercom

• Homelink

This SEL is packed with pampering luxury features! It is Car and Drivers preferred trim and is touted as the sweet spot in the Palisade range.

Limited and Calligraphy Trims

If luxury is your thing, the Limited and Calligraphy trims reach the peak of Palisade pampering. We're talking high-end features for comfort and techies alike. The Calligraphy at $51,435 stands as the jewel in the crown - think black premium leather inside, exclusive black wheels, and blacked out exterior details like the roof rails.

Both trims seat seven, so you get plenty of cargo space. The layout focuses on comfort and easy third row access too. These top-tier Palisades aim to surround you in opulence and high-tech convenience.

10. High Ratings by Experts

KBB placed the Palisade at #5 in there "Best 3-Row SUV" It beat out close competitors like the Honda pilot at #6, Toyota Highlander and Grand Highlander, and the Subaru Ascent. MotorTrend has it at the number #1 spot in there list. (Reference sources: KBB, MotorTrend)

J.D power has it at #5 for upper midsize SUVs at 81/100. This is based on consumer reviews backed by VIN verified vehicle owners.

What We Question: Three Cons of the Palisade

However, even the most comprehensive vehicles have their shortcomings, and the 2024 Hyundai Palisade isn’t an exception. Despite its numerous strengths, certain aspects might cause potential buyers to reconsider.

Most notably, its mediocre fuel economy and the absence of an electrified powertrain option may sway some towards other options in the burgeoning SUV market.

1. Mediocre Fuel Economy

Fuel efficiency matters for many buyers. And that's one area where the 2024 Palisade could let some folks down. The base front-wheel drive model gets an EPA-estimated 19/26/22 mpg city/highway/combined. Opt for AWD (all-wheel-drive) and those numbers drop a touch.

The 3.8 liter, six-cylinder engine with an eight speed automatic transmission and 291 horsepower with 262 lb.-ft. of torque is largely the issue. It is a powerful engine and pushes the Palisade from 0-60 in just over 7 seconds. If you want more power it will cost a bit more at the pump. Some may say it is a good tradeoff.

Overall, the Palisade earns average fuel economy marks for a mix of driving. For buyers hyper focused on MPGs, the Palisade's thirst could be a turn-off.

Although mediocre, many of the highly rated competitors are not far off. The Honda Pilot gets an EPA rating of 19 city/27 highway mpg, and the Kia Telluride gets 20/26 (Same engine as the Palisade) . On the other hand, the Mazda CX-90 gets 24/28 mpg, the Subaru Crosstrek gets 27/34 mpg and the Ford explored gets 21/28 mpg. This is why I said "mediocre" and not terrible.

2. Tricky Gear Selector

The Palisade's gear selector may seem tricky at first. It uses push buttons instead of a standard shifter. For drivers used to a classic gear lever, this setup could feel unintuitive. Operating it takes a different approach compared to a regular shifter. Some controls in the Palisade may also feel less intuitive. You may need some practice to get the hang of the unique gear selector. But once you get some seat time, the push button system should start to feel more natural.

3. No Electrified Powertrain Option

With environmental awareness at an all-time high, some may see the Palisade lacking without a hybrid or electric option. As automakers add more fuel-sipping hybrid models, the Palisade sticks with traditional gas engines only. For eco-focused buyers seeking max MPGs and lower emissions, the missing hybrid variant could be a deal-breaker. With no electrified powertrain choice, the Palisade misses a chance to reduce carbon footprints for those wanting green options. In an era where hybrid tech is increasingly expected, the Palisade's gas-only lineup may turn off buyers eyeing greater efficiency and sustainability.

Final Thoughts

After checking out the 2024 Palisade inside and out, one thing's clear: this 3-row SUV shines as a luxurious, high-tech, and safe family hauler. But average gas mileage and no hybrid pick could be dealbreakers for some buyers. Whether the Palisade's cushy interior and fancy tech make up for those downsides comes down to what you value most. Drivers prioritizing MPGs and eco-friendly options may want to look at other rides. For families seeking upscale amenities and the latest features, the Palisade could be an ideal fit. At the end of the day, you have to weigh its plush perks against potential fuel efficiency concerns and decide what best fits your family's needs. Taking it for a test drive could seal the deal.

Note: This article is based on our research and expert reviews. We are not affiliated with Hyundai or any other automaker and do not receive any compensation for our reviews. This information is based on our opinions and the opinions of the expert reviewers we have referenced.