Last year, the Palisade amazed the automotive world with its impressive level of quality and refinement but the second production year puts the bar even higher. The 2021 Hyundai Palisade comes with the pretty much same design but it introduces a completely new, the most luxurious version. We are talking about the Calligraphy trim level, which brings new styling details, even more, impressive interior materials and loads of additional equipment.
On the other side, the rest of the vehicle remains the same. The 2021 Hyundai Palisade continues with the same overall design, which uses a lot of design solutions that are the same as in Kia Telluride, which is also considered one of the best mid-size crossovers on the market. The engine also remains the same, which is characterized by a sufficient amount of power and a high level of refinement. Also, the rest of the trim level organization remains untouched.
2021 Hyundai Palisade Redesign
When it comes to base design characteristics, things are pretty much the same as in the 2020 model. This means around 114.2 inches in wheelbase, which makes this model the largest Hyundai vehicle we’ve seen so far. The styling also remains the same, which may be polarizing. Still, we are definitely on the side of those who like it.
For the second production year, the Korean manufacturer brings a new version, called Calligraphy. This is the most luxurious trim in the offer and besides lots of additional equipment, it also brings several exclusive styling details. For example, there is a unique grille design, while 20-inch wheels look more aggressive compared to standard models. Also, there are some pretty unique lighting elements. There are several exclusive details on the inside as well, but we will get on them in a moment. Another thing we should mention is that the 2021 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy comes standard with all-wheel drive.
Interior
As we already mentioned, the new Calligraphy trim also comes with interior changes. Some of the highlights are things like a faux-suede headliner, quilted-leather upholstery on the doors and seats, and a perforated leather wrap on the steering wheel.
Other than that, things have remained pretty much the same. You may count on the same interior layout that is impressive in so many ways. We particularly like the interior quality. The dashboard looks very stylish and luxurious, while the build quality is as impressive. Practically, this cabin is pretty much on par with luxury crossovers, despite it doesn’t wear a premium badge.
Besides amazing quality, this cabin is also very spacious. It comes with three rows of seats and while the first two are really generous with space, the third one is pretty decent as well. The cargo area features 18 cubic feet of cargo space behind its third-row seats, 45.8 cubic feet with these seats folded, and 86.4 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded. That’s more compared to most mid-size crossovers on the market.
Features
Base models are already pretty generous in this aspect, as all models come standard with goodies like an 8-inch touch screen, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, HD Radio, Bluetooth, and five USB ports, as well as with keyless entry. In higher trim levels, you can also get goodies like a 10.2-inch touch screen, navigation, satellite radio, a 12-speaker Harman Kardon stereo, two additional USB ports, wireless device charging, intercom, 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, proximity keyless entry, push-button start, remote start, dual-zone automatic climate control, a panoramic sunroof, ambient interior lighting, and a hands-free power liftgate.
The list of safety features is also pretty long. All models come standard with goodies like forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection, lane keep assist, lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic high-beams and many more.
2021 Hyundai Palisade Engines
Things under the hood remained the same. The 2021 Hyundai Palisade continues with the same 3.8-liter V6 naturally-aspirated engine, which is good for 291 horsepower. It comes in pair with an 8-speed automatic transmission, which sends power to front wheels in standard configuration. Of course, AWD versions are also in the offer.
Driving dynamics are pretty good and this large crossover rides pretty confidently, whether you’re in the city or on the open road. The suspension setup is pretty soft and this SUV is mostly about comfort, while handling seems pretty relaxed. On the other side, fuel economy isn’t very good, though it isn’t that bad either. You may count on about 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway.
2021 Hyundai Palisade Price and Competition
The 2021 Hyundai Palisade starts around 33.700 dollars, while the new Calligraphy trim is available at around 49.000 dollars. When it comes to the competition, some of the key players in the segment are models like Toyota Highlander, Ford Explorer, Mazda CX-9 etc.