Introduction
The 2021 Hyundai Palisade has become a leading option in the highly competitive midsize SUV segment. Lauded for its sophisticated design, premium amenities, cutting-edge technology, and family-friendly functionality, the Palisade offers a high-end experience without the luxury brand price tag.
Whether you’re a growing family looking for spacious third-row seating, a road trip enthusiast prioritizing comfort and storage, or a commuter desiring tech-rich convenience, the Palisade is an exceptionally well-rounded choice. Its spacious interior provides 21 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row.
Expanding to 87 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down. The standard bench layout offers generous seating for up to eight passengers, while optional second-row captain’s chairs reduce seating to seven but increase comfort and accessibility to the third row.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.8L V6, 291 hp @ 6,000 rpm, 262 lb-ft torque @ 5,200 rpm |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic with SHIFTRONIC manual mode |
| Drivetrain | Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) standard; All-Wheel Drive (AWD) optional |
| Fuel Economy (FWD) | 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined |
| Fuel Economy (AWD) | 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined |
| Seating Capacity | Up to 8 passengers (7 with optional second-row captain’s chairs) |
| Cargo Volume | 18.0 cu ft (behind 3rd row); 45.8 cu ft (3rd row folded); 86.4 cu ft (2nd & 3rd rows folded) |
| Towing Capacity | Up to 5,000 lbs |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 18.8 gallons |
| Length | 196.1 inches |
| Width | 77.8 inches |
| Height | 68.9 inches |
| Wheelbase | 114.2 inches |
| Ground Clearance | 7.9 inches |
| Curb Weight | 4,127–4,387 lbs (varies by trim and drivetrain) |
| Warranty | 5-year/60,000-mile basic; 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain |
Trim Levels & Key Features
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| SE | $32,675 | 8-passenger seating, 8-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto, LED headlights |
| SEL | $35,325 | Heated front seats, power-adjustable driver seat, proximity key, optional sunroof |
| Limited | $45,275 | Leather upholstery, ventilated front and rear seats, 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, HUD |
| Calligraphy | $46,200 | Unique exterior styling, quilted leather seats, ambient lighting, AWD standard |
2021 Hyundai Palisade
The 2021 Hyundai Palisade is a full-size SUV that combines upscale design, versatile performance, and family-friendly features. As Hyundai’s largest passenger vehicle, it offers three rows of seating for up to eight passengers, or seven with optional second-row captain’s chairs.
Under the hood, the Palisade is powered by a 3.8-liter Atkinson-cycle V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 355 Nm of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, while all-wheel drive is available for enhanced traction.
The 2021 model introduced the luxurious Calligraphy trim, featuring premium materials and advanced technology. Safety is a priority, with features like forward collision-avoidance assist, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keeping assist. The Palisade earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award, reflecting its strong safety credentials.
Exterior Design and Styling
Visually, the Palisade exudes confidence and class with its assertive yet refined aesthetic. The wide cascading front grille, a defining Hyundai design trait, is complemented by bold vertical LED daytime running lights and a unique headlight arrangement that gives the front fascia a distinctive look. Sculpted body lines add to the SUV’s dynamic stance, while chrome accents and satin silver trim on higher trims underscore its upscale intentions.
Wheel options range from standard 18-inch alloys to optional 20-inch wheels that fill out the wheel arches with authority. Roof rails, integrated turn signals in the mirrors, and an available hands-free smart liftgate with auto open all contribute to the Palisade’s form-meets-function appeal. The overall look is muscular yet elegant, conveying utility without sacrificing modern sophistication.
Interior Comfort, Space, and Craftsmanship
Step inside the Palisade and you’re greeted with a spacious, quiet, and impressively refined cabin. Hyundai’s attention to detail is apparent in every stitch and surface. Soft-touch materials cover key areas, while higher trims boast luxurious upgrades like Nappa leather, suede headliners, and woodgrain trim. The Palisade’s cabin design draws comparisons with significantly more expensive luxury SUVs.
The driver and front passenger enjoy power-adjustable, heated, and ventilated seats, while rear passengers can also access heated and ventilated outboard seats in higher trims. Available tri-zone climate control ensures all passengers ride in personalized comfort.
Storage space is another highlight. Behind the third row is a class-competitive 18 cubic feet of cargo space, which expands to 45.8 cubic feet with the third row folded and a cavernous 86.4 cubic feet with both rear rows stowed flat. The Palisade also includes underfloor storage and a power-folding third row for convenience.
Powertrain, Driving Experience, and Ride Quality
All Hyundai Palisade trims are powered by a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces a respectable 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission that delivers smooth gear changes and efficient power distribution. The drivetrain is available in either front-wheel drive or Hyundai’s HTRAC all-wheel-drive system, which includes selectable drive modes such as Snow, Sport, Eco, and Smart.
On the road, the Palisade impresses with a refined and composed ride. The suspension easily absorbs most road imperfections, providing passengers with a cushioned experience even on rough pavement. The SUV feels stable and planted, and though it’s not a sporty performer, it exhibits a level of driving confidence that’s rare in this class. Towing capacity is up to 5,000 pounds, more than adequate for boats, trailers, or campers.
Advanced Technology and Infotainment System
The Palisade is packed with tech, starting with a standard 8-inch infotainment touchscreen that includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Upper trims have a 10.25-inch touchscreen featuring built-in navigation, split-screen capability, and access to Hyundai’s Blue Link connected services. The available 12-speaker Harman Kardon premium audio system delivers clear and immersive sound.
Other standout tech features include a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a head-up display that projects key info onto the windshield, and wireless smartphone charging. Multiple USB ports (up to seven), Bluetooth connectivity, and an intercom system that lets front-seat occupants communicate with those in the rear rows further enhance usability. An innovative “Quiet Mode” feature mutes rear speakers for sleeping passengers while keeping front audio active.
Safety Features and Crash Ratings
Safety remains a cornerstone of the Palisade’s appeal. Hyundai equips every Palisade with its SmartSense suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, including:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection
- Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Safe Exit Assist
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop & Go
These features function smoothly and intuitively, helping drivers avoid hazards and maintain better control in various driving conditions. The Palisade earned top safety accolades, including a 5-star overall rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the prestigious Top Safety Pick+ designation from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
Trim Levels, Features, and Pricing Structure
The Hyundai Palisade is available in four main trim levels, each offering increasing levels of comfort and technology:
- SE—This entry-level model still feels far from basic. It includes key features like an 8-inch touchscreen, rear parking sensors, adaptive cruise control, and LED daytime running lights.
- SEL – Adds desirable amenities such as heated front seats, blind-spot monitoring, power-adjustable front seats, dual-zone climate control, and an available Convenience Package with more tech and comfort upgrades.
- Limited—This trim leans heavily into luxury, offering Nappa leather, a dual-panel sunroof, a 10.25-inch infotainment system, ventilated seats, a 360-degree camera system, and ambient interior lighting.
- Calligraphy—Introduced as the range-topping trim, the Calligraphy combines all features from lower trims and adds exclusive details like a unique grille, premium quilted leather, AWD standard, and refined interior flourishes that bring the Palisade into true luxury territory.
Pricing begins at around $33,700 for the base SE and climbs to approximately $48,900 for a fully-optioned Calligraphy. Given the equipment and refinement offered, the Palisade delivers excellent value.
Fuel Economy and Efficiency
The Palisade offers competitive fuel economy for a vehicle of its size and power. EPA estimates are as follows:
- FWD models: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway / 22 mpg combined
- AWD models: 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined
The Palisade balances performance and economy well thanks to the 8-speed transmission and efficient V6 engine. Fuel-saving features such as idle stop-and-go help reduce consumption during city driving.
Conclusion
In a crowded field of midsize SUVs, the Hyundai Palisade shines brightly. It combines a rare combination of space, luxury, technology, and safety in one of the most attractive and well-rounded packages on the market. It offers a compelling alternative to more expensive competitors from premium brands without compromising on design or features.
The Palisade is challenging to beat for buyers looking for a versatile family SUV that feels high-end yet remains affordable. Its thoughtful design, generous standard features, and high-quality build make it a top-tier choice. Whether navigating city streets or heading off for a weekend adventure, the Palisade is a reliable, refined, and remarkably well-equipped companion.
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FAQs
The 2021 Hyundai Palisade has a 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It’s paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
Yes, the Palisade offers HTRAC all-wheel drive as an option on all trim levels, with front-wheel drive being standard.
It seats up to 8 passengers with the second-row bench seat or 7 with the optional captain’s chairs.
Yes, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard on all trim levels of the 2021 Palisade.
The 2021 Palisade is available in four trims: SE, SEL, Limited, and Calligraphy (new for 2021 with luxury features).
