The facelifted Hyundai Palisade has just been introduced to the SA market. We went to the launch event of the refreshed model to learn more.
Hyundai Automotive covers the full spectrum of SUVs. From the small and budget friendly Venue to the large and luxurious Palisade, the company has something for just about every buyer. And it’s a good thing, too, as half SA new-car passenger sales in 2022 consisted of SUVs.
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Range Leader
At the very top of Hyundai’s SUV portfolio stands the Palisade. The facelift Hyundai Palisade was unveiled internationally last year and follows suit with a local introduction this week.
The newer model doesn’t differ markedly when compared to its predecessor. From a visual perspective the most obvious change has taken place up front. A newly shaped central grille dominates the vehicles ‘face’. We think that the Palisade comes across as decidedly ‘American’ in its outward appearance.
The new look has also been given some ‘menace’ by taking on a darker hue. This new face brings the Palisade closer in line with other SUV offerings from the brand such as the Tucson and Creta. Other, less obvious changes include a slightly reshaped rear bumper as well as a new set of alloys. Incidentally, these measure 20-inches in diameter and are shod with Bridgestone footwear.
Uplifted Specification
Hyundai SA has taken the opportunity to real uplift the standard specification of the facelift Hyundai Palisade. The older version certainly didn’t lack, but the standard features list on the newer car is quite extensive.
There is just a single trim level, called Elite. This essentially means that the Palisade comes with just about every mod-con and toy you can think of. The car’s standard touchscreen infotainment screen is now 12,3 inches across, and the same measurement can be applied to the digital instrument cluster.
The infotainment system has Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as well as wireless charging with faster charging capabilities. The system also allows for the simultaneous connection of two devices. Any tunes you choose to play/stream through the system will be delivered by a new 12-speaker Infinity sound system.
A nifty feature that we have not experienced before is the ability of the driver to chat to other passengers through the audio system. Handy for when the little ones in the rear-most seats are pretending to ignore you.
Standard Features
The driver’s seat is 10-way electrically adjustable, while both front chairs boast seat heating and cooling, oh, the same is true of the outer seats of the second row. There are a number of physical charging ports, and cup holders, littered throughout the cabin.
The list of standard features also includes dual sunroofs along with tri-zone climate control: dual front with another control in the rear console. There are also privacy blinds on the rear windows as well as rear parking sensors and a rear-facing camera that can be used in conjunction with an overhead view.
The list of standard items just seems to go on and on. We’ll spare you the full breakdown of safety items save to say that it has seven airbags and received five stars in the ANCAP tests. The only choice to make when you’ve decided to buy a Palisade is between seven and eight seats.
Single Powertrain
While the features’ list is extensive, there is just a single powertrain option in the facelift Hyundai Palisade. Hyundai SA has kept its tried and trusted 2,2-litre turbodiesel. This engine produces 142 kW along with a peak of 440 N.m of torque. An eight speed automatic transmission directs power to all four wheels.
On The Road
Hyundai SA presented the replacement model to local media at an event in the Western Cape. We got a short stint behind the wheel, which was our first taste of the Palisade. We liked the high-up driving position and we can see why this would be an easy choice for families that like to explore the country by road. The cabin feels premium and has enough space for all family members to stretch out.
Typically, on a ride and drive event, two journalists share a vehicle. On this occasion we were three to a car, which allowed all occupants to experience the rear quarters for a spell. Seated back there we found plenty of legroom to stretch out, and to recline the rear seat to catch 40 winks on the motorway section of the drive.
Summary
At this price (see below) the Hyundai Palisade doesn’t have any real rivals. Other (unibody) products from competitor brands are either much more expensive or much smaller. It’s a really interesting niche that Hyundai SA finds itself in. But, as representatives at the launch pointed out, over 250 Palisades have been sold since first introduced locally in 2021. That’s a number that some brands would gladly accept as yearly sales, let alone for the most expensive model in their portfolio.
Facelifted Hyundai Palisade Pricing
Palisade (seven seats) Elite: R1 099 900
Palisade (eight seats) Elite: R1 099 900
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