2024 Hyundai Palisade Review: Spacious, Value-Focused SUV
content: Introduction to Hyundai's Family Hauler
Shopping for a three-row SUV under $40,000 means balancing space, features, and driving comfort. After testing the 2024 Hyundai Palisade XRT, I confirm its standout value proposition that families prioritize. Hyundai's largest SUV carries forward its 2023 refresh unchanged, offering distinctive styling and luxury features without premium pricing. With 86 cubic feet of maximum cargo space and available captain's chairs, it solves the core pain point of growing families: practical versatility.
Why does this matter? In a segment crowded by Toyota Highlanders and Honda Pilots, the Palisade delivers more standard tech and space per dollar. Its 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty adds peace of mind competitors can't match. Having tested every trim from SE to Calligraphy, I'll show where the Palisade excels and where rivals might edge it out.
Core Value Breakdown
- Pricing Advantage: Starts at $36,400 ($45,100 for XRT shown)
- Best-in-Class Cargo: 18 cu.ft (behind 3rd row) → 86 cu.ft (seats folded)
- Standard Features: 12.3" touchscreen, navigation, 3-zone climate control
- Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs across all trims
Design & Exterior Features
Hyundai's bold lighting signature defines the Palisade's road presence. The XRT trim (new for 2023) enhances this with blacked-out elements:
Standout Visual Elements
- Multi-layer LED lighting arrays (distinctive but complex daytime running light pattern)
- Black polished grille (XRT-specific, replacing chrome)
- Satin door accents and rugged lower body cladding
- Standard cross rails (though they add noticeable wind noise)
Key observation: The roof height stays lower than competitors like the Kia Telluride, making garage parking less stressful. While the "off-road" styling suggests capability, note the XRT lacks any mechanical upgrades for rough terrain.
Performance & Driving Dynamics
Every Palisade uses the same powertrain:
Drivetrain Specifications
| Component | Specification |
|---|---|
| Engine | 3.8L V6 (naturally aspirated) |
| Output | 291 hp / 262 lb-ft torque |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD standard, AWD optional |
Driving Experience Notes:
- Acceleration feels adequate but requires deep throttle input in Comfort mode
- Paddle shifters help access power quickly during highway merges
- Suspension absorbs bumps effectively despite no adaptive dampers
- Steering offers surprising linearity for a large SUV
Fuel economy remains a weakness:
- 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway (FWD)
- 19 mpg city / 23 mpg highway (AWD)
After pushing it on backroads, I believe Hyundai could create a sport-tuned N Line variant. The chassis shows untapped potential for drivers wanting engagement.
Interior & Comfort
Step inside and the Palisade's space advantage becomes undeniable:
Cabin Layout Highlights
- Physical buttons for climate/drive modes (superior to touch-only interfaces)
- Captain's chairs (XRT and above) with adjustable armrests
- Third-row access easier than most rivals, though width limits it to two children
- Materials variance: Lower trims use more hard plastics versus Calligraphy's premium surfaces
Practical Touches Families Love:
- Standard rear window shades (XRT and above for 2024)
- USB ports in all rows
- Safe Exit Assist prevents door openings into traffic
Seating & Cargo Dimensions
| Measurement | Specification |
|---|---|
| Legroom (2nd row) | 42.4" |
| Cargo (3rd row up) | 18 cu.ft |
| Cargo (max) | 86 cu.ft |
Technology & Safety
Infotainment System
- 12.3" touchscreen standard on all trims
- Wired Apple CarPlay/Android Auto (no wireless option)
- Free navigation using HD Radio traffic data (no subscription)
- Digital key smartphone access
Menu design deserves praise: Icons are self-explanatory, reducing manual consultations during driving.
Safety Suite
- Highway Driving Assist (combines adaptive cruise + lane centering)
- Driver Attention Warning
- Blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert
My critique: Safety alert graphics look too similar at a glance. Hyundai should differentiate icons for quicker recognition.
Trim Comparison & Value Analysis
Where Each Model Shines
| Trim | Starting Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| SE | $36,400 | Budget-focused buyers |
| XRT | $45,100 | Style-conscious families |
| Calligraphy | $51,000 | Luxury seekers |
Why the XRT hits the sweet spot:
- Aggressive styling without $6k premium
- Standard captain's chairs
- Added 2024 features: ambient lighting, rear shades
Competitor context: The Toyota Highlander XSE costs $2,300 more but offers sport-tuned suspension. Choose Palisade for space, Highlander for dynamics.
Verdict: Who Should Buy It?
The 2024 Palisade remains a top choice for families prioritizing interior volume and features per dollar. Its V6 provides confident towing, while the cabin's thoughtful layout reduces road-trip stress.
Actionable Buyer Steps
- Test drive in Sport mode using paddle shifters to assess responsiveness
- Compare cargo layouts with seats folded (bring strollers/sports gear)
- Negotiate using Hyundai's current incentives (often 0.9% APR financing)
Where it falls short: Fuel economy trails hybrids like the Highlander Hybrid (35 mpg). Consider the upcoming 2025 Palisade Hybrid if efficiency is critical.
"The Palisade proves spacious family transport needn't cost $60,000. It's the anti-luxury luxury SUV."
Which feature matters most to your family—cargo space, tech, or driving comfort? Share your deal-breakers below!
Advanced Resources:
- Consumer Reports' Reliability Survey (check Palisade's 2024 predicted score)
- Hyundai Palisade Forums (real-world owner mods/maintenance tips)
