The last-year launch of this SUV amazed the automotive world. The Korean manufacturer came up with the biggest crossover so far but the size isn’t the only thing about this model that amazes. It offers an impressive spectrum of amazing design characteristics, which make it arguably one of the best models in the class. It offers a high level of luxury, which comes in a combination with a full load of standard equipment and really cushioned ride. Also, the engine is quite powerful, so there isn’t much to complain about with this model. Therefore, the 2021 Hyundai Palisade won’t change too much, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be novelties.
For the second production year, the Korean manufacturer will offer an interesting novelty, a new range-topping model called Calligraphy. This version will come with even more standard equipment, as well as with loads of unique styling details. Other trim levels will carry on in the same way, though there is always a chance for a couple of nice additions.
2021 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy
Without any doubt, the biggest novelty for the 2021 Hyundai Palisade is the addition of the new Calligraphy trim level. This will be a new range-topping version. Of course, it will come with even more standard equipment than the initial models. Still, we are also about to see a bunch of exclusive styling details.
When it comes to the exterior details, you may count on a new grille pattern, as well as on new bolder 20-inch wheels. Furthermore, the all-wheel-drive will be standard. Changes are about to come on the inside as well. We will see things like a faux-suede headliner, quilted-leather upholstery on the doors and seats, and a perforated leather-wrapped steering wheel. All this seems like a nice upgrade compared to the current flagship version called Limited.
2021 Hyundai Palisade Redesign
Other than more standard and available equipment, the 2021 Hyundai Palisade won’t be much different compared to the initial model. Simply, this is still a pretty fresh model on the market and it already established an excellent position in the segment. Many consider it the best mid-size SUV around, along with the corporal sibling, Kia Telluride.
With more than 114 inches in wheelbase and more than 196 inches in the overall length, this is a fairly large vehicle. At the same time, it is relatively light and quite maneuverable, so the driving experience is pretty nice. Of course, you shouldn’t expect anything sporty, as the complete setup is on the comfort side.
We also like the looks, which follows the brand’s latest design language and includes a massive grille, along with lots of flashy elements all around the vehicle, which make this SUV look pretty luxurious.
Interior
The exterior of this SUV looks great but the cabin looks even better. First of all, it is pretty spacious and we can say that this is actually one of the rare mid-size crossovers that comes with the adult-friendly third row. All three rows are quite spacious, while the seats are massive and comfortable. All this is complemented with a quite impressive interior quality. The materials are very fine, while aesthetics are pretty amazing as well. Add to this a long list of standard and available equipment, as well as pretty good sound insulation and you get a three-row crossover that can make any premium vehicle of this type run for its money, especially when if talk about Limited or Calligraphy trim levels.
Another thing we like about this model is the cargo area, which is also pretty spacious. You may count on about 18 cubic feet of cargo space behind its third-row seats, 45.8 cubic feet with these seats folded, and 86.4 cubic feet of the overall cargo volume. Those are well above average numbers for the class.
Engine
Things under the hood definitely won’t change for the next year. Therefore, the 2021 Hyundai Palisade will carry on with a familiar 3.8-liter V6, which ensures a pretty convenient ride. It features a max output of 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, which is a proper amount of power for a vehicle like this. The acceleration is solid, while the engine seems pretty refined. We also like the 8-speed automatic transmission, which delivers pretty smooth shifts and doesn’t struggle to find the right gear. Of course, base models come with front-wheel drive, while AWD models are also available.
When it comes to fuel economy, this engine returns around 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Those are quite average numbers for the class. Of course, AWD models are notably thirstier.
2021 Hyundai Palisade Release Date and Price
We expect to see the 2021 Hyundai Palisade later in the year, with the base price around 33.000 dollars. Key competitors are models like Mazda CX-9, Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot etc.