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There was a time not too long ago when the Hyundai brand was associated with cheap cars and even cheaper quality. Those days are behind us as the Korean company has emerged as a symbol of quality and even… dare we say… luxury. It would have been hard to imagine that word being used to describe a Hyundai when the brand first emerged in America, but we’re on the verge of seeing the culmination of their climb in the new 2020 Hyundai Palisade.
At first glance, the question that many would ask is, “That’s a Hyundai?” It will be one of the most distinctive crossover vehicles on the road when it hits dealerships this summer. The 8-seat beast is a far cry from what the company offered when it launched and will be a direct competitor to the Ford Explorer, Honda Pilot, Nissan Pathfinder, and Chevrolet Traverse.
Compared to those competitors, it’s exterior appeal is comparable at worst. Many will find it to be the most attractive of the bunch with its cascading grill, stimulating curves, and appropriately nimble stance despite the size.
But the thing that’s going to get buyers excited about this vehicle is the interior. Offering the next generation lifestyle and safety technology, the Palisade is every bit of a comfort vehicle that luxury brands are now offering. It exceeds the tech offerings of its direct competitors and makes a strong case to be a considering for those looking at higher end SUVs.
Available options that will tickle the luxury buyer’s fancy include a fully-digital instrument cluster not very unlike the Mercedes offering, 16 cup holders (for families of 8 that need two drinks each), sueded headliner, and all the leather and texture amenities people want in a ritzy ride. It even offers an ultrasonic rear occupant alert that will send you a text message if you leave your kid in the back seat. Seriously.
This video by Cars.com goes over some of the features and interior amenities:
Under the hood, the Palisade will be sporting a 3.8L V-6. The Atkinson-cycle engine produces 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, making it fully capable of moving through traffic with a jet ski in tow. Their HTRAC AWD system offers the driving modes available in most modern SUVs, including a locking differential for truly bad driving conditions. It’s not an off-road vehicle, but it will do its best to not get stuck if forced into the situation.
While no pricing data is out, we expect it to be in line with its competitors, starting in the low- to mid-$30k range and moving up from there based upon build.
It’s clear Hyundai has been listening to drivers. They knew when to get fancy and when to be economical, allowing for an affordable yet luxurious option for big crossover buyers. They hope the Palisade will make it the Summer of Hyundai in 2019.
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