Alexander Mitich

2021 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy AWD - Tremendous Value, Premium Experience

The Hyundai 2020 Palisade is a midsize SUV , totally new . It offers three rows of seats - with good space, even for adults and up to eight passengers -, a V6 engine and luxury details that place it in a place from which it can compete with high-end vehicles. Its 10-inch center screen with clear graphics, wireless charger for mobile, seven USB ports, ventilation in the second row of seats and standard security systems, are just some of the elements that put the Palisade in a place - privileged.

Just looking at the Hyundai Palisade highlights its front grill , whose design is reminiscent of a waterfall. It's a distinctive look in a segment where similarities abound. The headlamp design also stands out - separate headlamps and the iconic headlights vertically - combining horizontal and vertical lines that contribute to its unique character . If we take our gaze from front to back, we observe some sides that give it presence and that allow us to guess the space that we will find when entering the cabin. From the C-pillar, it keeps the roof line high, without falling abruptly, something that contributes to a large cargo area, especially if we think of three rows of seats.

When entering the cabin, the first thing we notice is the details and the quality of the materials . On the model I had for testing, the upholstery was leather, including Nappa leather , perforated and diamond-stitched . The use of textures and colors creates a warm and relaxed atmosphere, which also has practical details. For example, to move the seats in the second row - available with captain's style chairs - you just need to press a button; and folding down the seats in the third row of seats is also a simple task. Space is generous and there are plenty of areas to support a drink - 16 cup holders-, the mobile phone, a tablet or storing objects that should be kept out of sight, including a covered area under the boot floor. Likewise, the space in the cargo area is ample : 21 cubic feet behind the third row and 87 cubic feet folding down the third row of seats. As if all this were not enough, the Palisade can tow up to 5,000 pounds.

The steering is smooth and it is an easy vehicle to carry through traffic. Accelerates from 0-60 mph in 7.6 seconds - segment average. Its acceleration is firm and continuous, without hesitation in the change of gears. The same goes for braking, even in emergency situations where the Palisade maintains line and composure, transmitting that confidence to the driver.

The cabin is quiet and the controls on the center console are within easy reach of the driver. In the case of my test vehicle, visibility was very good . The headrests on the seats did not interrupt my vision to the rear, and anyway, I could always count on the support of the rear camera and the Blind View Monitor system that complemented the standard system, Blind Spot Collision Assist , which gave me a visual of the blind spot every time you activated the low beam.

I also liked the possibility of having two Bluetooth devices connected at the same time , which allows, for example, to use one connection for the mobile and the other for streaming audio.

Another element that I found very useful is the instrument that notifies the driver that each seat belt in the seats in which there are passengers is being used. It is an additional security measure, which is appreciated.

The Palisade also features an industry first, an innovative ceiling- mounted vent diffuser design that can provide different options for air diffusion, which can be directed to a specific point, partially directed, or fully directed to ventilate at the passengers. This new air diffuser design provides quieter air conditioning flow , draft-free operation, more even air distribution, and the ability for a fixed stream of air when needed.

The navigation system is one of the most advanced in technology and the Palisade offers the possibility of using Android Auto or Apple CarPlay. The Infinity® audio system features Clari-Fi ™ and QuantumLogic ™. The Clari – Fi system works in real time to reconstruct the audio details that are lost in digitally compressed music, while the QuantumLogic ™ extracts the signals from the original recording and redistributes them into authentic, multi-dimensional reproducible sound that is clear. , refined and with many details. The result is a more robust and enjoyable listening experience when traveling on the road.

Taking inspiration from aircraft technology , the Palisade's windshield projection system, available upon request, and called the Heads-Up Display (HUD) projects a virtual image onto the windshield , helping the driver keep their eyes on the road. . The component employs a mirror system combined with a full color TFT LCD screen, and has brightness adjustment to ensure perfect visibility both day and night. All driving information such as speed, Smart Cruise Control status , navigation, Blind-Spot Collision Avoidance Assist), Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist , speed limits, Lane Following Assist, and audio system information are projected at an ideal virtual distance for maximum readability.

Another system that caught my attention was Driver Talk , a type of intercom that allows the driver to communicate independently with the second or third row of seats by tuning the audio system into talk mode. The system also allows, in the first row, the driver and his companion to travel listening to music, and that the audio is canceled in the second and / or third row of seats where perhaps the passengers could go sleeping. To activate it, look for Rear Sleep Mode.

In the case of the AWD, the Palisade offers Hyundai's system called HTRAC®, developed as a multi-mode system that has Normal, Sport, Smart and the new Snow options , with which the driver can better control the vehicle in almost any circumstance.

This vehicle is a gem . Its price / value ratio makes it an incredibly attractive option for anyone looking for a three-row SUV. If that's the case, be sure to visit a Hyundai dealer and give it a try.

Feature-rich

Infotainment UI/UX

Overall value

Not quite the feel of solidity like some competitors

Somewhat divisive styling

Specs:

Engine: 3.8L V6

Drivetrain: AWD

Power: 291 hp

Torque: 262 lb-ft

Transmission: 8-Speed Automatic

Fuel Economy (City/Highway/Comb.): 19/24/21 MPG