2021 Hyundai Palisade review

Family outgrown a mid-sized SUV? The 2021 Hyundai Palisade could be the answer

Australia is already well-served for Hyundai SUVs but the range has now been bolstered with an all-new large SUV. The Palisade joins the Kona, Tucson and Santa Fe, continuing Hyundai’s penchant for naming SUVs after swanky tracts of American real estate.

Available in seven- or eight-seater options, the Palisade shares much of its DNA with the Santa Fe, although its 135mm larger wheelbase allows for more interior space. Most large 4WD eight-seaters are based on a robust ladder frame chassis, while the Palisade’s monocoque design is engineered to give a more car-like driving experience.

How much does the 2021 Hyundai Palisade cost?

The simple model line-up consists of the Palisade and Highlander variants, with either a 3.8-litre V6 petrol engine and 2WD, or a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel and AWD. Both engines are matched to a conventional eight-speed automatic. Pricing starts at $60,000 for the petrol, climbing to $64,000 for the diesel Palisade, while the Highlander petrol starts at $71,000 and the diesel rounds out the range at $75,000.

At almost five metres long and 1.7 metres tall, it’s an imposing vehicle. And in eight-seater form it also tips the scales at over 2000kg – around 200kg more than the diesel Santa Fe. Passenger comfort is a big focus, with a remote control for the air-con, vents for all three rows, and a microphone in the audio system that lets the driver talk to passengers.

What tech does the 2021 Hyundai Palisade come with?

It also has an audio muting function designed to let children take a nap. USB ports are fitted into the backrest of the front seats, with seven in total allowing the whole clan to use or charge their personal devices. No fewer than 16 drinks holders mean the Palisade rivals the much-loved Ford Territory for storage solutions.

Five top-tether child seat anchor points are fitted to the eight-seaters and all models feature Hyundai’s latest suite of safety tech under its Smartsense safety banner. A key feature is blind spot collision avoidance assistance, which can employ the vehicle’s electronic stability control system to help avoid a collision from the front, side or rear.

While our test vehicle was finished inside with a tactile, light-coloured leather that contributed to its premium look, those with young children may have concerns regarding its practicality and how it would look after a few years of the clan clambering in and out.

The light colours do contribute to the interior’s feeling of spaciousness, however, and the design is clean and uncluttered. Mounted buttons sit flush in the centre console, replacing the conventional gear selector, and an integrated 10.25-inch touchscreen forms part of the dash.

How does the 2021 Hyundai Palisade drive?

On road the Palisade feels nimbler than its ample dimensions suggest. The turning circle is only slightly larger than the Santa Fe’s and the lightly-weighted steering feels direct at low speed, making parking easier. Around town, the Palisade soaks up road irregularities and provides a compliant ride. The suspension setup is just as effective out on the open road and does a great job minimising body roll and pitching.

Performance from the diesel under normal driving conditions is excellent. It remains refined and efficient – on test we saw a return of 8.3L/100km. When pushed along, though, there’s not a lot in reserve and the diesel Palisade needs every ounce of its 440Nm to propel its considerable mass.

Is the 2021 Hyundai Palisade a good car?

In top-spec form the 2021 Hyundai Palisade might even pinch a few sales from the premium seven-seater brands. It’s well-appointed and definitely stands out from the crowd.

Pros: Quiet cabin; seat and ride comfort
Cons: Limited luggage area when third row is in use