The 2021 Hyundai Palisade is a strong contender in the midsize three-row crossover segment. The spacious cabin provides plenty of room for passengers along with a generous cargo area. The SUV comes with a long list of standard and optional features and offers advanced safety systems. Sharing a platform with the Kia Telluride, the Palisade stands outs with its upscale styling and on-road performance. Families will love the well-thought-out conveniences and interior comfort.

The Palisade is receiving rave reviews and will be a worthy opponent in the SUV/crossover wars. There is one glaring weakness, though, that may be a deal-breaker for those shopping for a high-performance SUV.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade is available in four trim levels that include the SE, SEL, Limited, and the high-end Calligraphy edition. With a base price of $33,365, the Palisade SE includes power-folding rear seats that accommodate eight occupants. Standard features include selectable driving modes, adaptive cruise control, and LED headlights. The infotainment system has five USB ports, wireless Apple Car Play, Bluetooth capability, and HD radio with a rear seat mode for passengers.

The SEL trim allows for captain’s chairs in the second row, reducing occupancy to seven passengers. A powered sunroof, adjustable heated driver’s seat, and dual-zone climate control are a few of the upgraded features included in this level. The Convenience package and Premium package provide countless options for the driver looking for a fully-loaded reliable SUV.

The Limited trim has an MSRP of $46,265 and comes with Nappa leather seating, a 360-degree camera system, and ambient cabin lighting. Luxurious feature upgrades complement the sunroof and heated/ventilated front seats and second-row chairs.

The Calligraphy is the all-new high-end model that defines luxury with a starting price of $48,890. The upscale interior showcases a leather-covered steering wheel and quilted leather door panels. The standard all-wheel drive SUV comes with puddle lamps, alloy wheels, and dedicated front and rear treatments.

The Palisade’s biggest weakness

All 2021 Hyundai Palisade models come with a 3.8-liter V6 engine that outputs 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. Power is dispersed evenly to either the front or all four wheels with the standard 8-speed automatic transmission.

Despite the rave reviews, the biggest weakness came down to a lack of engine options, according to AutoTrader. With only one powertrain available, families with a packed car may be looking for more power. Offering smooth and composed performance may not be enough for those wanting more muscle behind their ride.

Car and Driver brought the Palisade out to the test track with it achieving 0 to 60 mph in 6.9 seconds. Although adequate in its performance, it ranked slower than most of the competition in its class. Since all trim levels are equipped with the same V6 engine and automatic transmission, desired features will be the deciding factor when it comes to the Palisade. 

U.S. News didn’t feel performance would be an issue, saying, “The engine hauls the Palisade up to speed briskly, and it offers ample power for climbing hills and passing other vehicles on the highway.” They also said, “throttle response is quick, and the transmission executes smooth yet prompt gear changes.”

Is the Hyundai Palisade worth considering?

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade admirably handles all types of driving conditions. The SUV is made for long car trips with its comfortable interior, high-end features, and a suspension system that absorbs that bumps of the road. There is plenty of storage space with underfloor compartments and a floating center console.

The lack of powertrain options shouldn’t be enough to dissuade you from checking out the new Palisade. U.S. News stated that “The 2021 Hyundai Palisade is one of those rare vehicles with no obvious flaws… already on par with the best of the best.”