The Hyundai Palisade made a big splash and positive first impressions on industry critics and consumers alike. It’s a newer addition to the three-row crossover segment and didn’t wait long to soar to the head of the class on the various “top pick” lists. But the Hyundai Palisade sales numbers are out for the first and second quarters of 2023, and they seem to tell a different story. Hyundai Palisade sales metrics are falling a little short lately. It suggests consumers might not be as impressed with the once fan-favorite SUV. However, for those ready to buy, there are three reasons why those sales numbers and thumbs-down consumers are wrong.

July Hyundai Palisade sales figures

The Hyundai Palisade sales figures are lacking in recent months, indicating consumers aren’t finding this three-row SUV as appealing as they once did. GoodCarBadCar shares the latest data for the Palisade, which seemed to start off strong earlier in the year, clocking 6,684 units sold in January and 6,742 in February. Those sales cooled off this summer, though. And the Palisade only sold 5,752 units this July.

The year-to-date comparison for the Hyundai Palisade isn’t all that red-hot, either. Hyundai’s pacing YTD 2023 at 45,199 in 2023, which is a 7.3% deficit from this time last year’s 48,758 units sold. 

But don’t let these sales numbers deter you from considering the 2023 Hyundai Palisade. Below, we’ll share three big reasons why it’s worth a test drive. And they’re certainly value-packed benefits contradicting what the car-buying public might think. 

1. Passenger and cargo space are great

One of the primary reasons why so many consumers and critics applauded the 2023 Hyundai Palisade early on is its spacious cargo and passenger accommodations. There are 18 cubic feet behind the third row alone. Folding those rear seats down provides 87 cubic feet of storage. 

There’s also an underfloor compartment, a giant center bin, a retractable cover, and a second bin in the floor up front. It’s a customizable solution for hauling people, too. Hyundai says you can choose the seven-passenger SUV with captain’s chairs. Or you can opt for the second-row bench seat, accommodating eight passengers. 

2. A decent engine configuration should be impacting Hyundai Palisade sales more

Another reason to love the 2023 Hyundai Palisade is the engine configuration. Every variation of Palisade comes with a 3.8-liter V6 that harnesses 291 hp and offers 262 lb-ft of torque. This powerful engine brings strong performance aesthetics and tap-of-your-foot acceleration. The eight-speed automatic transmission is smooth; you can choose FWD or AWD. 

3. A robust suite of standard equipment and features

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade offers five trims with boosted extras and amenities. Choose from the SE, the SEL, the XRT, the Limited, or the upscale Calligraphy. But no matter what you decide, you’ll be wildly impressed with every Palisade’s full suite of standard features.

Every 2023 Palisade has 18-inch alloy wheels, proximity entry, push-button start, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, integrated navigation, and USB ports in the front and back rows. There’s a healthy roster of standard driver aids, including lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise, forward-collision mitigation, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alerts.

The Hyundai Palisade sales numbers may point to a trending dissatisfaction among consumers this summer. But these three reasons say those sentiments are wrong, and the Palisade is still worth a closer look. Take a test drive and see how you feel about this three-row SUV, along with its impressive cargo and passenger space, powerful engine, and a generous list of standard equipment.