We just recently had the R1.1 million Ford Everest on test and now find ourselves once again in the leathery pews of another seven seater SUV with the same price tag. They’re rivals, albeit similar in some ways yet very different in others. While the Everest had some serious offroad chops, the Hyundai is more of a luxury softorader.
You can get the Hyundai Palisade R2.2 Elite AWD in seven or eight seater configuration and in 2023 spec, it includes a large change upfront. That’s the very prominent, hugely aggressive new grille. The rear is more subtle fettled bumpers, taillights, and a shark fin aerial replaces the bee sting previously seen. Then there are new 20 inch alloy hoops, a dual sunroof and LED headlamps. Also new, puddle lamps and rear fog lamps. Hop aboard and you’ll encounter a larger 12-inch multimedia screen, a 12-speaker Infinity sound system and a host of driving modes including, Eco, Normal, Sport and Sand. Also present, wireless phone charging and three rows of USB chargers so literally everyone can get jacked. Also jacked is safety gear with a rear door curtain, smart power tailgate, reverse guiding lamps, surround view monitor and then the assistance systems such as lane follow assist, rear seat alarm, safe exit alarms and more. The cabin overall feels premium, and is a great living space for occupants and driver. And if you’re in that particular pew, you’ll have access to the the 142kW/440Nm 2.2-litre 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine. It’s adequate, and smoothly delivers its payload via the eight-speed auto box. The steering is responsive and well-weighted, and the suspension does an excellent job of soaking up bumps and potholes. Of course, it’s not going to handle like a sports car, but then again, what SUV does?
The 2023 Hyundai Palisade is a fantastic SUV that’s well worth your consideration. It looks great, it’s packed with features, and it drives surprisingly well. If you’re in the market for a three-row SUV, you’d be doing yourself a disservice if you didn’t give the Palisade a test drive.
