Reviewing the All-New Hyundai Palisade

Entering its robust second generation, the Hyundai Palisade has evolved significantly since its initial development and introduction as the brand’s premier full-size SUV. Built as a spacious 5-door crossover utility vehicle, the Palisade has firmly established its footprint globally. For this review, I spent time behind the wheel of the high-spec Calligraphy variant, a machine that redefines comfort. Notably, this is one of the most comfortable luxury SUVs I have driven, equipped with captain chairs featuring integrated massage functions that turn long journeys into effortless relaxation.

From the outside, the Palisade presents a bold, architectural silhouette with a commanding presence. Its scale is substantial. It measures 16.60 feet in overall length (specifically 5,060 mm for standard specifications and 5,065 mm for the Calligraphy trim), stands 5.79 feet tall with roof racks, and spans 6.49 feet in overall width. To put its footprint into perspective, it occupies a physical road presence comparable to a BMW X5.

The front fascia is characterised by striking LED daytime running lights, positioning lamps, and full LED projection headlights flanking a prominent horizontal grille. Lower down, active air flaps and a front silver skid plate accentuate its rugged yet refined posture. Along the sides, clean body panel character lines flow towards the rear, where LED rear combination lamps and a wrap-around skid plate complete the aesthetic. Key exterior differences between tiers include wheel selections. Lower-spec models ride on 18-inch alloy wheels with a standard front design, whereas higher trims scale up to 20-inch or 21-inch alloy wheels, paired with body-coloured cladding and acoustic glass for the first and second rows.