2025 Hyundai Palisade Review

2025 Hyundai Palisade Review: Luxury Three-Row Value Revolution

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade redefines luxury three-row SUV value by delivering premium features, exceptional build quality, comprehensive technology, and industry-leading warranty coverage at prices that challenge traditional luxury brand assumptions.

Executive Summary

The refreshed 2025 Hyundai Palisade represents the pinnacle of Korean automotive excellence, combining sophisticated design, premium materials, advanced technology, and comprehensive safety features that rival German luxury SUVs while maintaining accessible pricing that makes luxury features available to mainstream buyers. Hyundai's transformation from value brand to luxury competitor reaches its zenith in the Palisade.

Our extensive testing reveals a three-row SUV that successfully challenges established luxury brands through superior feature content, better warranty coverage, and more comprehensive technology integration at significantly lower prices. The Palisade proves that luxury doesn't require premium badge pricing, creating new expectations for what buyers should receive in the three-row luxury segment.

Luxury Democratization: The Palisade includes features like ventilated captain's chairs, panoramic sunroof, premium audio systems, and advanced driver assistance technologies as standard or available equipment at prices where competitors offer basic cloth seats and minimal features.

Korean Innovation: Hyundai's advanced engineering, sophisticated design, and comprehensive warranty coverage demonstrate how Korean automotive brands have evolved to compete directly with established luxury manufacturers while maintaining superior value propositions.

Key Specifications

Refined Performance and Luxury Dynamics

Advanced V6 Engine Technology

The 2025 Palisade's 3.8-liter V6 engine produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, providing smooth, refined power delivery that prioritizes comfort and sophistication over maximum performance. The naturally aspirated design eliminates turbo lag while providing linear acceleration that makes loaded driving predictable and confidence-inspiring for luxury-oriented families.

The V6's character emphasizes smoothness and refinement over outright performance, with calibration that prioritizes quiet operation and seamless power delivery. The engine provides adequate performance for highway driving and family hauling while maintaining the refined character expected in a luxury-oriented SUV.

Luxury-Calibrated Transmission and AWD

Hyundai's eight-speed automatic transmission has been specifically calibrated for luxury comfort, providing smooth, imperceptible shifts that enhance the premium driving experience. The transmission includes multiple driving modes that adjust shift timing and throttle response to match different driving preferences and conditions.

The available HTRAC all-wheel-drive system operates seamlessly and includes multiple terrain modes that adjust power distribution and system behavior for different surfaces. Snow mode enhances winter driving confidence, while the system's operation is refined enough to maintain the luxury character that Palisade buyers expect.

Luxury Ride Quality and Handling

Suspension tuning prioritizes ride comfort and noise isolation over ultimate handling performance, creating characteristics that excel for luxury family use. The independent front and rear suspension provides controlled body motions while maintaining excellent ride quality over various road surfaces that luxury buyers encounter during daily driving.

Luxury Interior and Premium Technology

Premium Cabin Design and Materials

The 2025 Palisade's interior represents Hyundai's most successful interpretation of accessible luxury, featuring premium materials, sophisticated design, and attention to detail that rivals vehicles costing $20,000 more. The cabin design emphasizes horizontal lines, quality materials, and logical organization that creates a luxurious environment without pretentious complexity.

Material selection throughout the cabin demonstrates Hyundai's commitment to premium quality at accessible pricing. The available Nappa leather seating feels genuinely luxurious with sophisticated stitching patterns and soft surfaces that rival German luxury competitors. Wood trim and metal accents appear substantial and well-integrated throughout the cabin.

Three-Row Luxury Configuration

The available captain's chairs in the second row provide exceptional luxury and comfort with individual armrests, heating, ventilation, and power adjustment that creates first-class passenger experiences. The captain's chair configuration includes easy walk-through access to the third row, making passenger access more convenient than bench seat alternatives.

Third-row accommodations provide adequate space for adult passengers, with comfortable seating that works well for families with teenagers or occasional adult passengers. Power-folding operation makes cargo conversion effortless, while the wide opening and reasonable load floor height facilitate loading family equipment.

Advanced Luxury Technology

The Palisade's technology suite includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, comprehensive vehicle settings, and cloud-based services that enhance convenience and connectivity. The system operates with excellent responsiveness and includes over-the-air update capability that keeps software current.

Premium features include a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system that delivers exceptional sound quality throughout the cabin, creating an immersive listening experience that rivals luxury competitors. Wireless device charging, multiple USB ports, and 12V outlets accommodate modern family connectivity needs.

Safety Leadership and Warranty Excellence

Crash Test Excellence

The 2025 Palisade achieves the highest safety ratings from both major testing organizations, earning IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation that demonstrates comprehensive protection across all test scenarios. This achievement places the Palisade among the safest vehicles in any segment, not just three-row SUVs.

Standard safety equipment includes nine airbags throughout all three rows, including dual-stage frontal airbags, side-impact airbags for front passengers, side curtain airbags covering all three rows, and driver knee airbags. The Palisade's body structure incorporates advanced high-strength steel construction.

Hyundai SmartSense Technology

Hyundai SmartSense comes standard on all Palisade models, providing comprehensive safety technologies that enhance both protection and convenience. The Highway Driving Assist system provides semi-autonomous driving capability that rivals luxury competitors while being included at much lower price points.

Industry-Leading Warranty Coverage

Hyundai's warranty coverage represents the most comprehensive protection in the automotive industry, with 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain coverage and 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty that exceed all luxury competitors. This coverage provides peace of mind that German luxury brands cannot match, while demonstrating Hyundai's confidence in long-term quality and reliability.

Premium Features and Luxury Technology

Calligraphy Luxury Trim Analysis

The Palisade Calligraphy trim represents exceptional luxury value, including features that typically cost $15,000+ in options on German luxury SUVs. Standard Calligraphy features include quilted Nappa leather seating, ventilated captain's chairs, panoramic sunroof, 12.3-inch digital cluster, premium Harman Kardon audio, and comprehensive driver assistance technologies.

Interior appointments in Calligraphy trim rival vehicles costing twice as much, with wood trim, metal accents, and soft-touch surfaces throughout. The attention to detail includes ambient lighting, premium floor mats, and distinctive design elements that create a truly luxurious environment.

Long-Term Luxury Value

Total Cost of Luxury Ownership

The Palisade's comprehensive warranty coverage significantly reduces repair costs compared to luxury competitors, while lower insurance costs and competitive maintenance expenses create total ownership costs that are substantially lower than traditional luxury three-row SUVs.

Trim Levels and Pricing

The 2025 Palisade is available in multiple trim levels, each offering different features and equipment. The base model starts at the lower end of the $37,000 - $52,000 range and includes essential features, while higher trims add luxury amenities, advanced technology, and performance upgrades.

Value-conscious buyers will find the mid-level trims offer the best balance of features and price, while those seeking maximum capability or luxury should explore the top-tier options.

Luxury Three-Row Value Analysis

Premium SUV Competitive Comparison

Against Acura MDX: The Palisade offers superior value with more luxury features standard at $12,000 less, while the MDX provides sportier driving dynamics and Acura's premium brand cache. The Palisade's comprehensive warranty coverage provides significant advantages for long-term ownership.

Against Infiniti QX60: Similar luxury positioning with the Palisade offering better value, more standard features, and superior warranty coverage. Both target luxury buyers seeking value, but the Palisade provides more comprehensive feature content at lower pricing.

Against Lexus GX: The Palisade offers modern luxury features and better fuel economy at $22,000 less, while the GX provides off-road capability and Lexus reliability reputation. The Palisade appeals more to luxury-oriented families who prioritize features and value.

Detailed Performance and Driving Dynamics

Engine Performance Analysis

The 2025 Palisade's 3.8-liter V6 engine provides refined power delivery that prioritizes smoothness and sophistication over maximum performance. The naturally aspirated design eliminates turbo lag while providing linear acceleration that makes loaded driving predictable and confidence-inspiring for luxury-oriented families. The engine produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque with calibration that emphasizes quiet operation and seamless power delivery.

The V6's character emphasizes smoothness and refinement over outright performance, with calibration that prioritizes quiet operation and seamless power delivery. The engine provides adequate performance for highway driving and family hauling while maintaining the refined character expected in a luxury-oriented SUV. The power delivery is linear and predictable, making it easy to drive in various conditions while providing confident acceleration and highway merging capability.

Transmission and Drivetrain Excellence

Hyundai's eight-speed automatic transmission has been specifically calibrated for luxury comfort, providing smooth, imperceptible shifts that enhance the premium driving experience. The transmission includes multiple driving modes that adjust shift timing and throttle response to match different driving preferences and conditions. The system operates with sophisticated calibration that provides seamless power delivery without the harsh shifts that can detract from luxury experiences.

The available HTRAC all-wheel-drive system operates seamlessly and includes multiple terrain modes that adjust power distribution and system behavior for different surfaces. Snow mode enhances winter driving confidence, while the system's operation is refined enough to maintain the luxury character that Palisade buyers expect. The system provides excellent traction in various conditions while maintaining the smooth, refined driving experience that defines the Palisade's character.

Luxury Ride Quality and Handling

Suspension tuning prioritizes ride comfort and noise isolation over ultimate handling performance, creating characteristics that excel for luxury family use. The independent front and rear suspension provides controlled body motions while maintaining excellent ride quality over various road surfaces that luxury buyers encounter during daily driving. The suspension system effectively absorbs road imperfections while maintaining stability and control.

The Palisade's handling characteristics provide predictable and stable behavior that works well for most driving situations, while the available all-wheel-drive system enhances traction in adverse weather conditions. The vehicle's stability control systems work seamlessly to maintain control during emergency maneuvers, while the suspension tuning provides additional comfort and handling refinement for luxury applications.

Advanced Technology and Connectivity

Hyundai Infotainment System

The 2025 Palisade features one of the most advanced infotainment systems in the three-row SUV segment, with a 12.3-inch touchscreen display that provides comprehensive functionality with intuitive operation. The system includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, allowing seamless smartphone connectivity without cables. The interface is well-organized with logical menu structures that minimize driver distraction while providing access to all vehicle functions.

The system's voice recognition capabilities allow hands-free operation of many functions, which is particularly valuable when driving in traffic or on highways. The available navigation system provides detailed mapping with real-time traffic information and route optimization. The system can store multiple destinations and provides turn-by-turn directions with clear visual and audio guidance for family travel and work applications.

Connectivity and Smart Features

The Palisade includes comprehensive connectivity features including multiple USB charging ports, wireless charging pad, and Bluetooth connectivity for multiple devices. The available Wi-Fi hotspot provides internet connectivity for passengers during longer trips, while the Hyundai app provides remote access to vehicle functions including remote start, door lock/unlock, and vehicle status monitoring. The app can provide real-time fuel level, tire pressure, and maintenance reminders, helping owners stay on top of vehicle care and planning.

The available Digital Key feature allows drivers to use their smartphone as a key, providing convenience and security for modern luxury vehicle ownership. The system includes key sharing capabilities that allow owners to grant temporary access to family members or service providers without providing physical keys. The system's security features ensure that access can be revoked remotely if needed, providing peace of mind during family use.

Advanced Driver Assistance Technology

The Palisade's Hyundai SmartSense provides comprehensive safety technologies that operate with sophisticated calibration and minimal false alarms. The Forward Collision-Avoidance system uses radar and camera technology to detect potential frontal collisions and can apply the brakes automatically if the driver doesn't respond to warnings. The system includes pedestrian and cyclist detection, providing additional protection in urban environments where these hazards are common.

The Highway Driving Assist system provides semi-autonomous driving capability that rivals luxury vehicles while being available at mainstream three-row SUV pricing. The system combines adaptive cruise control with lane centering to provide hands-free driving assistance on highways. The system operates with sophisticated calibration that provides smooth, natural steering inputs while maintaining safe following distances and lane positioning.

Interior Design and Luxury Comfort

Interior Design and Material Quality

The Palisade's interior design represents Hyundai's most successful interpretation of accessible luxury, featuring premium materials, sophisticated design, and attention to detail that rivals vehicles costing $20,000 more. The cabin design emphasizes horizontal lines, quality materials, and logical organization that creates a luxurious environment without pretentious complexity. The design is elegant and understated, focusing on comfort and functionality rather than ostentatious styling.

The interior design emphasizes horizontal lines and open architecture that creates a sense of spaciousness while providing logical organization for storage and convenience features. The available ambient lighting system provides subtle illumination that enhances the luxury atmosphere during evening driving, while the available panoramic sunroof brings natural light into the cabin during daytime driving. The interior's attention to detail and material quality creates an environment that feels more expensive than the vehicle's pricing suggests.

Seating and Comfort Features

The Palisade's seating provides exceptional comfort and support for all passengers, with available 12-way power adjustment and memory functions for the driver's seat. The available heated and ventilated front seats provide year-round comfort, while the available heated and ventilated rear seats provide additional comfort for passengers. The seats' construction provides excellent support during both city driving and highway cruising, with materials that feel substantial and well-finished.

Rear seats offer generous legroom for the segment, with comfortable seating that accommodates adult passengers for longer trips. The available captain's chairs in the second row provide exceptional luxury and comfort with individual armrests, heating, ventilation, and power adjustment that creates first-class passenger experiences. The captain's chair configuration includes easy walk-through access to the third row, making passenger access more convenient than bench seat alternatives.

Storage and Convenience Features

The Palisade's interior includes numerous storage compartments designed for convenience and functionality, including large door pockets, center console storage, and multiple cup holders throughout the cabin. The available center console includes a large storage bin with USB charging ports, while the available wireless charging pad provides convenient device charging without cables. The cargo area includes multiple tie-down points and a cargo cover for privacy and security.

The available cargo management system includes dividers and organizers that help maximize cargo space utilization for family gear and equipment. The vehicle's storage solutions demonstrate thoughtful design that accommodates modern family lifestyle needs while maintaining the elegant styling that defines the Palisade's character. The power liftgate includes height adjustment and hands-free operation, making it easy to access the cargo area when carrying packages or family equipment.

Safety Technology and Protection

Hyundai SmartSense Safety Suite

The Palisade comes standard with Hyundai SmartSense, which includes comprehensive safety technologies designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants. The Forward Collision-Avoidance system uses radar and camera technology to detect potential frontal collisions and can apply the brakes automatically if the driver doesn't respond to warnings. The system includes pedestrian and cyclist detection, providing additional protection in urban environments where these hazards are common.

The Lane Following Assist system helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane during highway driving, reducing driver fatigue during long trips. The system includes lane departure warning that alerts drivers when the vehicle begins to drift out of its lane, while the steering assist provides gentle correction to help keep the vehicle in its lane. The system operates with sophisticated calibration that provides smooth, natural steering inputs without being intrusive or annoying.

Advanced Safety Features

Available safety features include Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist that can automatically steer the vehicle away from potential side collisions, while Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist helps prevent accidents when backing out of parking spaces. The available Safe Exit Assist prevents doors from opening when vehicles are approaching from behind, protecting passengers from potential accidents when exiting the vehicle.

The available Surround View Monitor provides a 360-degree view around the vehicle, making parking and maneuvering in tight spaces easier and safer. The system includes multiple camera angles that can be selected based on driving conditions, providing confidence during various driving scenarios. The system's display is clear and easy to interpret, helping drivers navigate safely in challenging situations.

Crash Safety and Protection

The Palisade has earned top safety ratings from both the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). The vehicle's advanced body structure incorporates high-strength steel and aluminum components that provide excellent crash protection while maintaining structural integrity. The five-star NHTSA rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation reflect excellent crash protection and advanced safety technology integration.

Standard safety equipment includes comprehensive airbag coverage throughout the cabin, including dual-stage frontal airbags, side-impact airbags for front passengers, side curtain airbags covering all three rows, and driver knee airbags. The vehicle's advanced restraint systems work together to provide optimal protection for all occupants during various crash scenarios. The Palisade's safety performance demonstrates Hyundai's commitment to comprehensive protection across all price points.

Ownership Experience and Long-term Value

Hyundai Reliability and Quality

Hyundai's reliability has improved dramatically over the past decade, with the current Palisade generation showing good initial quality ratings and fewer reported issues compared to previous models. The advanced platform and proven powertrains contribute to dependable operation that builds confidence in the Hyundai brand transformation. The vehicle's construction quality and component selection help minimize maintenance requirements while providing reliable operation over the long term.

Hyundai's extensive dealer network provides convenient service access throughout the United States, with most dealers offering modern facilities and customer service that enhances the ownership experience. The brand's maintenance schedules are designed to minimize inconvenience for busy families, with most routine service items requiring minimal time and effort. The available extended warranty options provide additional peace of mind for owners who plan to keep their vehicle for many years of family use.

Warranty and Maintenance

All Palisade models come with Hyundai's industry-leading warranty coverage, including 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty, 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, and 7-year/unlimited-mile anti-perforation warranty. This comprehensive coverage exceeds all competitors in the three-row SUV segment and demonstrates Hyundai's confidence in build quality while providing protection that luxury brands cannot match. The warranty coverage provides peace of mind for owners and helps maintain resale value over time.

Hyundai's warranty coverage includes roadside assistance and trip interruption coverage, providing additional support for owners during unexpected situations during family travel. The brand's customer service is known for being responsive and helpful when issues do arise, while the comprehensive warranty coverage means that most unexpected repair costs are covered during the warranty period. The warranty's comprehensive nature helps offset any concerns about Hyundai's reliability and provides confidence for long-term ownership.

Resale Value and Depreciation

Hyundai vehicles, including the Palisade, typically retain their value better than most competitors due to the brand's improved reliability, comprehensive warranty coverage, and strong brand reputation. The combination of advanced technology, comprehensive warranty, and proven reliability makes the Palisade an attractive option for buyers concerned about long-term ownership costs and resale value. The vehicle's strong resale values help offset the initial purchase price over time, making it an excellent long-term investment for three-row SUV buyers.

The Palisade's comprehensive feature content and proven reliability help maintain its appeal in the used car market, providing additional value when it's time to upgrade to a newer model. The vehicle's luxury features and comprehensive warranty create strong demand in the pre-owned market, while the vehicle's strong resale values demonstrate the market's confidence in Hyundai's quality and reliability improvements.

Environmental Impact and Efficiency

Fuel Economy and Emissions

The Palisade's fuel economy ratings are competitive for the three-row SUV segment, achieving 19/26 mpg city/highway with the V6 engine. The vehicle's aerodynamic design and lightweight construction help minimize fuel consumption while maintaining the luxury features and spacious interior that define the Palisade's character. The engine's calibration prioritizes efficiency during highway cruising while providing adequate power for acceleration and passing.

The vehicle's emissions ratings meet current federal standards, and the engine management systems help minimize environmental impact. The Palisade's design philosophy emphasizes durability and long-term use to minimize environmental impact over its lifetime. The vehicle's construction uses high-strength steel and aluminum components that are both lightweight and recyclable, contributing to the vehicle's overall environmental efficiency.

Sustainable Manufacturing

Hyundai's commitment to sustainable manufacturing includes the use of recycled materials in various components and efficient production processes that minimize waste. The Palisade's construction uses high-strength steel and aluminum components that are both lightweight and recyclable, contributing to the vehicle's overall environmental efficiency. The brand's manufacturing facilities implement energy-efficient processes and waste reduction programs, while the vehicle's design philosophy emphasizes durability and long-term use to minimize environmental impact over its lifetime.

The vehicle's design philosophy emphasizes durability and long-term use to minimize environmental impact over its lifetime. The V6 engine's proven reliability means that owners can expect years of efficient operation with minimal environmental impact. The brand's commitment to sustainability extends beyond the vehicle to include renewable energy partnerships and carbon-neutral manufacturing goals, demonstrating Hyundai's commitment to environmental responsibility throughout the vehicle's lifecycle.

Final Luxury Value Verdict

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade earns our highest recommendation with an 8.9/10 rating, representing the most compelling luxury value proposition in the three-row SUV market. Hyundai has successfully democratized luxury by providing premium features, materials, and technology at prices that make luxury accessible to mainstream buyers without the traditional compromises associated with value-oriented offerings.

The Palisade excels for families who want luxury features without luxury pricing, buyers seeking comprehensive warranty protection, and anyone who values substance over badge prestige. The Calligraphy trim provides genuine luxury experiences that rival vehicles costing $20,000+ more while maintaining practical family functionality.

Perfect For: Luxury-seeking families on realistic budgets, buyers prioritizing features over badges, families wanting comprehensive warranty protection, and anyone seeking premium three-row experience without traditional luxury pricing.

Consider Alternatives If: You prioritize brand prestige above features and value, need maximum towing capability, prefer sportier driving dynamics, or want hybrid efficiency options.