The MotorBiscuit team always enjoys opportunities to spend time with the Hyundai Palisade. We’ve driven the rugged XRT, loaded Limited, and top-spec Calligraphy trims to get to know this SUV on a deeper level. See what you should consider with the 2023 Hyundai Palisade. 

Updated on 06/23/2023 for freshness.

What is so great about the 2023 Hyundai Palisade? 

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade attracts a variety of buyers because it’s loaded with premium comfort and luxurious features. However, it has a few pros and cons to consider. For example, it doesn’t tow as much as the larger Ford Expedition. 

However, it has more interior space than the Nissan Armada. It could be sportier, but it’s agile and easy to maneuver in tight areas. It’s luxurious and full of value, like the Kia Telluride, with even more to offer. Check out a few of our takeaways to see if it’s the right fit for your family. 

1: Pro: The 2023 Hyundai Palisade is comfortable 

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade excels in driver and passenger comfort. The front rows have massive leather seats with tons of adjustability. Even the passenger can have the same adjustment controls. The seats are heated and ventilated too. 

You’ll find that the second row offers the same amount of comfort with plenty of knee room. You can easily stretch out and relax. Adults can fit in the second row without any fuss and get their own climate controls. 

The third row lacks a bit of padding but makes up for it with the ability to recline! Adults and kids around 5’1″ have plenty of space in the third row. Plus, there are plenty of cup holders and USB ports to go around. 

We found that the automatic climate control is solid and effective. You rarely need to adjust the controls during cold mornings or warm afternoons. However, the ventilated seats could be stronger. 

Also, the Pasliade provides an incredibly smooth ride over the pavement with just a little body roll around tight curves. The Quiet Mode limits the front speakers to a max volume of 25, and you can relax with the Sounds of Nature. 

2. PRO: The Hyundai Palisade has amazing tech 

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade is incredibly smart with unique, intuitive features. For example, the Quiet and Sounds of Nature functions take the stress out of commuting. Plus, the intercom feature amplifies your voice over the rear speakers for all of your passengers to hear. 

If you get a perfect idea while driving, you can record a voice memo to remember it later. The digital gauge cluster displays your blind spots while turning, and the remote park assist function works with the keyfob and your phone. 

Stay energized with the ergonomic seats that support your posture to keep you refreshed and energized during longer trips. Also, you can customize the ambient interior lighting and infotainment buttons. 

A 12.3-inch infotainment screen with built-in navigation comes standard. The digital gauge cluster has upgraded graphics, and the head-up display is easy to customize. Also, the hands-free liftgate and power-folding seats are convenient. 

3. PRO: The 2023 Palisade interior stands out 

We’re in a day and age where some people complain that every vehicle looks and feels the same. However, the 2023 Hyundai Palisade stands out with an innovative and attractive design. The textured leather pops of chrome trim and contrast stitching catch the eye. 

The dual-pane sunroof allows the front row and rear passenger to control how much natural light enters the cabin. The second pane is massive, with the right amount of tint to block bright rays. 

The second-row seats can be heated and ventilated. Also, heated seats are optional in the third row. The automatic climate controls are pretty intelligent too. 

There are tons of cubbies and trays for storing personal items in the front row, but the second and third rows don’t have access to storage bins. Also, there is a bonus cubby built into the rear cargo area. 

1. CON: The Palisade could have a better fuel economy 

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade doesn’t have a hybrid or PHEV variant to save on fuel. It gets an EPA-estimated 19 mpg in the city and up to 27 mpg on the highway. But adding AWD reduces these figures by one or two mpg. 

While off-roading, we saw our fuel economy drop down to 11 mpg! However, the standard 3.8-liter V6 engine with 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque is hard to resist. According to Edmunds, it can accelerate from 7.6 seconds. 

The Sport Mode provides faster response times and a more confident braking response to make routine errands pretty exciting. It may use more fuel, but it’s worth it.

2. The Palisade is louder than expected 

While the 2023 Hyundai Palisade provides a premium, luxurious feeling, it’s a little loud at higher speeds. Once you get above 50 mph, a noticeable amount of wind and road noise enters the cabin. 

This is when the intercom feature comes in handy to ensure all of your passengers, even those in the third row, can hear you. Also, the premium audio system could be improved. 

3. CON: The Hyundai Palisade XRT could use more off-roading upgrades 

While the 2023 Hyundai Palisade XRT includes rugged upgrades, it doesn’t improve its capabilities by much. The black 20-inch wheels, roof rails, and skid plates look great. 

The setup doesn’t include a suspension lift, and the ground clearance is only 7.9 inches. Also, it’s equipped with regular street tires.

It features AWD, which is nice for slippery conditions, and the AWD lock mode splits the power between the front and rear wheels. You can also see how much traction each wheel has, which is extremely helpful at times.

It has driving modes for Eco, Sport, Smart, Comfort, and Snow but doesn’t have anything dedicated to mud or off-roading. It rides pretty rough over gravel and dirt roads, and the engine started to whine while climbing steep obstacles. 

The boxy Kia Telluride might be better for off-roading thanks to it’s higher ground clearance and shape, but the Palisade is more comfortable and athletic.

We’re still getting to know the 2023 Hyundai Palisade. Stay tuned for our full review of all the specs, benefits, and potential drawbacks.