The midsize 3-row SUV category is stacked with excellent options to choose from, making it difficult for those in the market for one to choose. The Toyota Highlander, Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, and Kia Telluride are all great choices, but what about the 2023 Hyundai Palisade? The Palisade is a highly regarded SUV because of its numerous trim level options. But which trim level is best? Read on to find out. 

An overview of the 2023 Hyundai Palisade

Overall, the 2023 Hyundai Palisade has garnered excellent reviews from numerous outlets. Kelly Blue Book, for example, labeled it as a top choice in the midsize 3-row SUV category. The reviewers at KBB were complementary of its interior, which feels luxurious and spacious enough for the whole family. The 2023 Palisade also features numerous trim options, but it starts at a great value that makes it accessible to those looking for a great value. 

The reviewers did note that not everyone is enthusiastic about the styling of the 2023 Palisade. Perhaps it has something to do with the front grille that looks a bit aggressive for such a family-friendly vehicle, or maybe it’s the new shape of the headlights. Either way, many people love the design, but other people can’t stand to look at it. 

The 2023 Palisade comes standard with 3-row seating for up to 8 passengers, Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and USB-C ports to recharge your devices in the first and second rows. As far as safety features go, the Palisade is packed, even in the base model. It comes standard with automatic high beams, automatic emergency braking, full-speed adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and so much more. These features are why it was rated an IIHS Top Safety Pick+. The 2023 Hyundai Palisade starts at $34,950.

Which trim option is best?

When deciding between trim options for the 2023 Palisade, the best trim depends on your unique needs and tastes. If you’re looking to stay on budget, the base trim (SE) is an excellent option, as it still comes loaded with the numerous critical safety and tech features mentioned above. The SEL package, which starts at $37,950, gets you innovative features like a hands-free smart liftgate, a wireless cell phone charger, heated front seats, and captain’s chairs in the second row. 

Next is the XRT, which starts at $40,250 and includes a power sunroof, 20-inch alloy wheels, and added dark finishes to the exterior, according to AutoTrader. The second-highest tier is the Limited package, which starts at $46,500. The Limited package adds rain-sensing wipers, heated second-row seats, a heads-up display, and Hyundai’s Highway Driving Assist. 

If your definition of the best trim comes fully loaded with all the features, you may be interested in the Palisade Calligraphy. It builds on the Limited package, adding all-wheel drive, rear-accent lighting, more stylish 20-inch wheels, and puddle lamps to see the ground around the front doors when exiting. The Calligraphy package only costs $2,400 more than the Limited, and the all-wheel drive enhancement is probably enough to make that worthwhile for those who live in snowy climates or plan to drive in rugged terrain. 

For most people buying the 2022 Hyundai Palisade, the SEL package will give you the best value and the most valuable features to enhance your ride. 

Car and Driver and Autotrader agree on the SEL

When looking at the trim options for the 2023 Palisade, Car and Driver and Autotrader agree that the SEL is the best option. The main reason is that it provides the most desirable and useful features at a reasonable price. The SEL gives you a power-adjustable driver’s seat, optional captain’s chairs in the second row, a wireless smartphone charger, a proximity key fob, and more. 

The SEL trim starts at $37,950, which is about $10,000 cheaper than the Calligraphy trim, making it a more accessible option for those who want something beyond the base trim but don’t need all the bells and whistles of the top package. 

The midsize 3-row SUV category is stacked with excellent options to choose from, making it difficult for those in the market for one to choose. The Toyota Highlander, Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, and Kia Telluride are all great choices, but what about the 2023 Hyundai Palisade? The Palisade is a highly regarded SUV because of its numerous trim level options. But which trim level is best? Read on to find out.