The 2025 Hyundai Palisade for Your Next Long Haul: An Objective Deep Dive into Its Road Trip Capabilities

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade continues to assert its position as a formidable contender in the three-row SUV segment, often challenging conventional perceptions of luxury. Designed with a keen eye for upscale appeal, the Palisade, especially in its higher trims like the Calligraphy, comes packed with amenities and materials that give it a decidedly premium feel. This in-depth analysis will explore how the Palisade’s features and performance translate into a compelling package for families and individuals embarking on road trips.

While the Palisade carries over mostly unchanged for 2025 after a significant refresh in 2023 and the introduction of the sleek Calligraphy Night Edition for 2024, its foundational strengths remain highly relevant. We will delve into its performance capabilities, advanced safety systems, interior comfort, and technological offerings, all crucial factors for any long journey. Our aim is to provide an objective, detailed evaluation, emphasizing real-world usability and value for the consumer.

In the competitive landscape of three-row SUVs, where it faces rivals such as the Kia Telluride, Subaru Ascent, and Toyota Grand Highlander, the Palisade distinguishes itself with a compelling blend of features and refinement. For those considering a vehicle that excels in comfort, safety, and technology over long distances, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade presents a strong case, offering a near-luxury experience without the exorbitant price tag typically associated with it.

“2026 Hyundai Palisade Front Right Quater NYC” by Raszbeary is licensed under CC BY 4.0

1. **Sophisticated Design and Near-Luxury Ambiance**

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade, with its “Malibu-adjacent name,” consistently positions itself as the most upscale model within the Hyundai lineup. It actively “challenges traditional thinking about what it means to be a luxury car,” providing an experience that often blurs the lines between mainstream and premium vehicles. This inherent sophistication is evident from the moment one approaches the vehicle, hinting at the refined experience within.

Inside, the Palisade truly shines, especially in its range-topping Calligraphy trim, which is “stuffed with near-luxury amenities, and some downright swanky materials.” The attention to detail in material selection and finish contributes significantly to the vehicle’s upscale ambiance. From Nappa leather seats to soft-touch surfaces on “all of the high-touch areas,” the cabin design elevates the driving and riding experience, making long journeys considerably more enjoyable and less fatiguing.

This commitment to an elevated design and material quality means that “the Palisade falls just short of true luxury, but it gives a good enough impression of a much pricier vehicle that you probably won’t care what badge is on the grille.” It’s a statement about value, offering a high-end feel and aesthetic without demanding a corresponding premium brand price. The overall interior environment is consistently praised, with one reviewer noting, “The interior is a nice place to be. We almost always get comments from friends and acquaintances who have not been in it before.”

Car Model Information: 2024 Hyundai PALISADE Calligraphy
Name: Hyundai Palisade
Manufacturer: Hyundai Motor Company
Production: 2018–present
ModelYears: 2020–present
Class: Mid-size crossover SUV
BodyStyle: Sport utility vehicle
Related: Kia Telluride
Predecessor: Hyundai Santa Fe#Maxcruz
Layout: Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout,Front-engine, four-wheel-drive layout
Chassis: Unibody
Caption: Second-generation Palisade
Categories: 2020s cars, All-wheel-drive vehicles, All Wikipedia articles written in British English, All articles with bare URLs for citations, All articles with unsourced statements
Summary: The Hyundai Palisade (Korean: 현대 팰리세이드) is a mid-size crossover SUV manufactured and marketed by Hyundai Motor Company since late 2018, replacing the Maxcruz (also known as Santa Fe XL outside of South Korea) as the flagship SUV under the Hyundai brand. The term palisade means a fence of defensive stakes or a series of coastal cliffs — the latter recalling the neighborhood of Pacific Palisades, Los Angeles or the nearly forty mile Hudson River palisade, running north from opposite Manhattan.

Get more information about: Hyundai Palisade

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Hyundai Model: Palisade
Price: $36,990 Mileage: 52,577 mi.

“21 Hyundai Palisade SEL” by HJUdall is licensed under CC CC0 1.0

2. **Spacious and Adaptable Interior Comfort**

When it comes to accommodating passengers on extended trips, the Hyundai Palisade’s cabin stands out as “one of the larger interiors within the three-row SUV segment.” This generous space is a primary asset for road trips, ensuring that occupants can stretch out and remain comfortable even after several hours on the road. The design prioritizes passenger well-being, which is critical for mitigating fatigue during long journeys.

Specifically, the second-row legroom is “abundant,” a feature highly appreciated by adult passengers who might feel cramped in lesser vehicles. The seating configurations further enhance this adaptability, with the base SE trim offering eight seats via a standard second-row bench. The SEL trim provides flexibility with either seven or eight seats, while higher trims transition to a seven-seat setup with captain’s chairs in the second row, offering a more individualized and comfortable experience for those key passengers.

Despite some common segment criticisms about third-row space, the Palisade manages to provide a respectable experience. One test-driver noted, “I had my 6-foot-tall companion sit in every row; naturally, he found the first two the most spacious. Still, with the second row in its standard position, he felt comfortable sitting in the rearmost row during a short trip.” This suggests that while it might be “a bit cramped” for adults on very long hauls, it is generally suitable for most family road trip scenarios, particularly for children or shorter adults. The seats themselves are consistently described as “very comfortable,” further enhancing the appeal for extended travel.

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Hyundai Model: Palisade
Price: $36,990 Mileage: 52,577 mi.

“2024 Hyundai Palisade SEL Premium in Abyss Black Pearl, rear left” by Mr.choppers is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0

3. **Powerful and Smooth Driving Dynamics**

Under the hood, every 2025 Hyundai Palisade is equipped with a robust “3.8-liter V-6 engine developing 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque.” This powertrain is coupled with an “eight-speed automatic transmission” as standard across the entire model range. This combination ensures ample power for highway merging, passing maneuvers, and maintaining speed, even when the vehicle is fully loaded with passengers and cargo, a common scenario on road trips.

The Palisade’s “ride and handling balance aided its win in our seven-way three-row SUV comparison test,” indicating its superior on-road manners. Reviewers consistently praise its smooth operation, noting that the “engine is smooth and quiet.” This quietness extends to the cabin, with one owner highlighting, “It’s so quiet on the highway, quieter than the 2018 Toyota Highlander I traded in.” A serene cabin environment is paramount for reducing driver stress and passenger fatigue on long drives, allowing for easier conversation or enjoyment of the audio system.

Performance-wise, the Palisade is responsive, with an “eight-speed automatic transmission [that] is very smooth and predictable.” When tested, a Palisade Calligraphy with AWD accelerated from “0 to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds,” which is a respectable figure for a vehicle of its size. The steering is described as “predictable, not too heavy, not too light,” contributing to a confident driving experience. The ability to use “regular gasoline” for full horsepower is an additional practical benefit for cost-conscious travelers.

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Hyundai Model: Palisade
Price: $36,990 Mileage: 52,577 mi.

4. **Comprehensive Safety and Driver-Assist Systems**

Safety is a paramount concern for any vehicle intended for road trips, and the 2025 Hyundai Palisade delivers with an impressive array of protective features and driver assistance technologies. The vehicle performs “well in IIHS crashworthiness and crash avoidance and mitigation testing,” having received the “institute’s second-highest award, Top Safety Pick” for the 2024 model, with similar strong scores expected for 2025. Additionally, the “NHTSA gave the 2024 Palisade a five-star overall safety, and we expect the same this year,” providing strong reassurance to families.

Hyundai’s commitment to safety is further exemplified by its “SmartSense suite of active safety and driver assist tech,” which comes standard on every 2025 Palisade. This comprehensive suite includes essential features such as “automatic high-beams, front and rear automatic emergency braking, intersection collision mitigation, side cross-traffic alert, blind-spot monitoring, and lane keep assist.” These systems work in concert to actively prevent accidents and mitigate their severity, offering an extra layer of vigilance that is invaluable during long hours on varied roads.

Adaptive cruise control is also standard, which significantly reduces driver fatigue on monotonous highway stretches. Moving up the trim levels, Hyundai enhances the safety package with “emergency evasive steering assist,” a “camera-based blind-spot monitoring system,” and “enhanced adaptive cruise control.” A specific highlight mentioned by an owner is the “Blind Spot View,” a camera system that displays a view of the blind spot on the dash, allowing drivers to “keep your focus on the dash, Heads Up Display and road ahead, have a better view without turning your head,” a truly innovative and useful feature for merging safely.

One owner, detailing their experience with safety features, appreciated the “Emergency Steering” assist, which activated when another vehicle unexpectedly entered their path. They also noted the effectiveness of the “Steering Assist and Cruise control on” for highway driving, enabling the vehicle to “almost drive itself on the highway,” which can significantly ease the burden of long-distance travel.

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Hyundai Model: Palisade
Price: $36,990 Mileage: 52,577 mi.

“2020 Hyundai Palisade SEL, front 3.2.20” by Kevauto is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

5. **State-of-the-Art Infotainment and Connectivity**

Modern road trips demand advanced connectivity and intuitive infotainment, and the 2025 Hyundai Palisade is well-equipped to meet these expectations. All models come standard with a “12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen,” which serves as the central hub for all media and navigation needs. This large, clear display is not only “easy to read” but also “very responsive to inputs,” ensuring a smooth and frustration-free user experience, even while on the move.

Seamless smartphone integration is a given, with “Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility” standard across the lineup. This allows drivers and passengers to access their preferred navigation apps, music, and communication tools directly through the car’s interface. Beyond basic integration, the Palisade offers “dual Bluetooth connectivity” and “Wi-Fi hot spot capability,” transforming the vehicle into a mobile office or entertainment lounge, crucial for keeping everyone connected and entertained during long stretches.

To keep devices charged and ready for use, the Palisade thoughtfully provides “three front-row USB ports, and dual second-row ports,” with “third-row USB ports” available on higher trims. This ensures that every passenger, regardless of their seating position, has access to charging, preventing arguments over limited power outlets. While lower trims feature a standard 4.2-inch display in the instrument cluster, higher trims upgrade to a “fully digital 12.3-inch screen,” offering a modern and customizable driver information interface that complements the central touchscreen beautifully.

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Hyundai Model: Palisade
Price: $36,990 Mileage: 52,577 mi.

6. **Premium Comfort and Convenience Features**

Beyond basic functionality, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade elevates the road trip experience with a suite of premium comfort and convenience features designed to pamper occupants. One of the most talked-about amenities, particularly in the Calligraphy trim, is the “massaging driver’s seat with automatic ergonomic support.” This feature can be a game-changer on long drives, helping to alleviate driver fatigue and maintain alertness by providing active comfort and support.

The climate control system is robust and effective, with the “a/c keeps the inside cool for everyone” even in hot climates like Texas. Passengers also benefit from “heated and reclining seats” throughout the cabin, ensuring comfort in varying weather conditions and allowing for optimal relaxation. A particularly thoughtful addition for rear passengers in the summer are the “second-row pull-up window shades,” which provide welcomed relief from direct sunlight and enhance privacy.

Entertainment and practicality are further enhanced by features like the available “12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system,” transforming the cabin into a concert hall on wheels. Practical additions include “cup holders throughout the cabin” and door pockets, although it’s noted that “door pockets of both models are narrow” compared to some rivals. However, the overall emphasis on creature comforts and thoughtful design elements ensures that even the longest journeys in the Palisade are characterized by a high degree of luxury and ease.

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Hyundai Model: Palisade
Price: $36,990 Mileage: 52,577 mi.

hyundai palisade travel experience — Back of a SUV Car · Free Stock Photo, Photo by pexels.com, is licensed under CC Zero

7. **Cargo Practicality for Every Adventure**

While the Palisade excels in passenger comfort, a critical consideration for any road trip vehicle is its ability to handle luggage and gear. The Hyundai Palisade’s cabin is recognized as “one of the larger interiors within the three-row SUV segment,” offering substantial space for its occupants. However, when strictly comparing cargo volume, the Palisade’s “cargo capacity is slightly down compared to rivals,” a point worth noting for those who prioritize maximum hauling over all else.

Despite this slight reduction in ultimate capacity, the Palisade’s interior flexibility often mitigates these concerns. The second and third rows can be configured to optimize for passengers or cargo, offering a versatile space that adapts to different needs. For instance, the respectable third-row space, even if “a bit cramped” for very tall adults on extended journeys, means it can still comfortably accommodate children or smaller adults, leaving the remaining space for cargo.

Practicality extends to smaller storage solutions within the cabin, which are equally important for road trip convenience. While it’s noted that “door pockets of both models are narrow” compared to some competitors, such as the Honda Pilot which is dubbed the “true master of door storage,” the Palisade compensates with numerous cup holders throughout the cabin, ensuring that essentials are always within easy reach for all passengers.

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Hyundai Model: Palisade
Price: $36,990 Mileage: 52,577 mi.

8. **Innovative Convenience Technologies**

Beyond the core infotainment and comfort features, the 2025 Palisade truly shines with a suite of innovative convenience technologies designed to simplify and enhance the road trip experience. One standout feature, particularly on higher trims like the Calligraphy, is the “key-fob-activated remote parking assistance.” This allows the driver to maneuver the vehicle into or out of tight parking spots from outside the car, a brilliant solution for cramped situations often encountered in busy travel destinations.

Another cutting-edge innovation is the “digital key,” which allows owners to “drive this vehicle with your phone, text someone a key and they can too.” This level of smartphone integration moves beyond basic connectivity, offering unparalleled flexibility and convenience for sharing the vehicle among family members or friends during a long journey. The “back lift senses when you’re standing there with packages and automatically opens for you,” further exemplifies Hyundai’s commitment to thoughtful, user-centric convenience.

For family road trips, the Palisade includes thoughtful features like “Quiet Mode,” which “mutes audio in the rear,” allowing front occupants to listen to their preferred media without disturbing sleeping children or rear passengers. Conversely, “Passenger Talk” “allows the driver to send their voice through the rear speakers,” eliminating the need to shout to communicate with third-row occupants. These features highlight the Palisade’s dedication to creating a harmonious and stress-free environment for all travelers.

Even the driver’s comfort receives an innovative boost, as “when you put it in sport mode, the driver seat actually changes position to accommodate the ‘rush’.” While Apple CarPlay requires a cable connection, a “slight bummer” for some, the overall array of advanced, user-friendly technologies ensures the Palisade remains at the forefront of automotive convenience, making every mile more enjoyable and less cumbersome.

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Hyundai Model: Palisade
Price: $36,990 Mileage: 52,577 mi.

“2023 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy AWD Refresh” by Automotive Rhythms is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

9. **Fuel Efficiency Considerations**

For any long-distance traveler, fuel efficiency is a significant factor in vehicle selection, and the 2025 Hyundai Palisade presents a clear picture of its capabilities. The official EPA-estimated fuel economy rating stands at “19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway with FWD,” while “AWD models are rated at 19/24 mpg city/highway.” These figures reflect the reality of a larger three-row crossover SUV, where size and weight naturally impact fuel consumption.

When placed in context with its competitors, the Palisade’s fuel economy is described as “unremarkable.” For example, a rival like the Toyota Highlander, while offering less interior space, “boasts 22/29 mpg city/highway.” This comparison highlights a common trade-off in the segment: greater interior volume and power often come with a slight compromise in fuel economy. However, an important practical advantage for the Palisade is its ability to achieve “full horsepower using regular gasoline,” which can lead to notable savings at the pump over time compared to vehicles requiring premium fuel.

Real-world owner experiences often align with, and sometimes even exceed, these official figures under specific driving conditions. One owner reported an average of “23 – 24 mpg,” with highway mileage typically around “26 mpg cruising at about 80.” More impressively, during a trip at slightly lower speeds of “73 – 74,” they observed “two tanks of gas, that were 100% highway driving, that were over 31 mpg, but that’s unusual.” This indicates that while official numbers provide a baseline, mindful driving can yield better results on extended highway stretches.

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Hyundai Model: Palisade
Price: $36,990 Mileage: 52,577 mi.

“2020 Hyundai Palisade: Full Family Nested” by Automotive Rhythms is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

10. **Robust Reliability and Warranty**

Peace of mind on a road trip is invaluable, and the 2025 Hyundai Palisade offers substantial reassurance through its established reliability and an industry-leading warranty. Hyundai provides a “phenomenal 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty,” a commitment that speaks volumes about the manufacturer’s confidence in its vehicles’ long-term durability. This extensive coverage significantly reduces potential ownership concerns for buyers, especially those planning to keep their SUV for many years and miles.

Owner feedback consistently reflects positive experiences regarding the Palisade’s reliability. One long-term owner with 47,000 miles on their 2021 model reported “no failures, electronic or mechanical,” noting only a single recall early on for a “rattle in the rear suspension” that “was fixed with no drama.” Another owner, comparing it to a previous BMW, praised the Palisade’s “non-turbo less complex engine with expected high reliability at a much much much lower maintenance cost,” highlighting the benefits of its well-proven V-6 powertrain.

Hyundai has demonstrably improved its standing in the reliability landscape over the years. As one owner remarked, recalling early Hyundai models, “Fast forward to 2021… I was so pleasantly surprised I fell in love with it and finally bought a new one yesterday.” This sentiment underscores a significant shift in public and owner perception, affirming that modern Hyundais, including the Palisade, are built to last and perform consistently, providing a dependable companion for any journey.

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Hyundai Model: Palisade
Price: $36,990 Mileage: 52,577 mi.

“2020 Hyundai Palisade SE HTrac, rear 8.18.19” by Kevauto is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

11. **Competitive Value Proposition**

One of the most compelling arguments for the 2025 Hyundai Palisade as a road trip vehicle is its exceptional value. It consistently “challenges traditional thinking about what it means to be a luxury car,” providing a near-luxury experience without the exorbitant price tag typically associated with premium brands. “Stuffed with near-luxury amenities, and some downright swanky materials,” particularly in its Calligraphy trim, the Palisade effectively blurs the lines between mainstream and high-end SUVs.

This incredible value is evident when comparing it to direct and indirect competitors. While the Kia Telluride might have a “starting price is several hundred dollars less than the Palisade’s,” the Palisade justifies its cost with a refined interior and features that often surpass expectations for its segment. One owner even traded a BMW M340i for a Palisade, stating, “The Palisade is amazing! It has an incredible comfortable and smooth drive… Besides, the Calligraphy is full of features my beamer didn’t have,” emphasizing the high feature content for the money.

The Palisade offers an array of features that, if sought in a more expensive car, would require significantly greater financial outlay. As one reviewer aptly put it, the Palisade “gives a good enough impression of a much pricier vehicle that you probably won’t care what badge is on the grille.” This blend of upscale feel, extensive features, and competitive pricing, sometimes augmented by favorable financing rates like “1.9% interest rate” reported by an owner, makes the Palisade an extremely attractive proposition for value-conscious buyers seeking a premium experience.

Buyer Beware: Vague Labels with Weak Guarantees — jkexecutives, Photo by website-files.com, is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0

12. **Key Considerations for Potential Buyers**

For those contemplating the 2025 Hyundai Palisade for their next road trip companion, understanding its minor drawbacks alongside its numerous strengths is crucial for an informed decision. While the Palisade generally offers generous space, some adults may find the “third row a bit cramped” on longer excursions, a common characteristic in the three-row SUV segment. Additionally, design choices like the “dual-pane sunroof isn’t as luxe as panoramic glass” might be a small point of contention for some discerning buyers.

Interior controls, while mostly praised, have a few quirks. The center console is noted to be “a bit cluttered,” and while temperature is easily adjusted with physical knobs, “pretty much all of the other climate functions, including the fan speed, are in a mini touch screen. Their location is low on the center console, making them somewhat tricky to utilize while driving.” Furthermore, Apple CarPlay requires a wired connection, which might be “a slight bummer” in an otherwise high-tech cabin.

Driver-assist systems, though comprehensive and highly effective, exhibit occasional behaviors worth noting. The “lane keeping system has a tendency to try to follow expansion joints” and shadows, and the “adaptive cruise control will sometimes pick up a vehicle that has just entered the exit lane and slowed down and hit the brakes” unexpectedly. While these systems significantly enhance safety and reduce fatigue, drivers should remain attentive and understand their operational nuances.

Buying a high-performing used car >>>
Brand: Hyundai Model: Palisade
Price: $36,990 Mileage: 52,577 mi.

Ultimately, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade presents a compelling package for road trippers, excelling in comfort, advanced technology, safety, and overall value. For those prioritizing a sophisticated, feature-rich, and comfortable family SUV without the full luxury price tag, it stands as an excellent choice. Prospective buyers are encouraged to consider how these specific details align with their personal driving habits and passenger needs, perhaps also cross-shopping with competitors like the Kia Telluride or the redesigned 2026 Palisade, which is expected to adopt a more squared-off look.