Hyundai Palisade 2025 Review: Luxury Three-Row SUV Test
Hyundai Palisade 2025 Review: Luxury Three-Row SUV Test
The Hyundai Palisade 2025 is setting a new benchmark in the luxury three-row SUV segment. With its bold redesign, enhanced tech features, and refined driving dynamics, the 2025 model aims to compete with premium brands while retaining Hyundai’s value-driven philosophy. After spending extensive time behind the wheel, we’re diving deep into every aspect of this family-friendly powerhouse—from its plush interior and commanding performance to safety innovations and real-world usability. If you’re in the market for a spacious, feature-packed SUV that doesn’t require a luxury price tag, the Hyundai Palisade 2025 deserves your full attention.
Exterior Design: Bold, Modern, and Commanding
The 2025 Palisade features a dramatic evolution in styling. Hyundai has refined its “Sensuous Sportiness” design language, giving the SUV a more aggressive and upscale appearance. The front fascia now sports a larger cascading grille with a mesh pattern and integrated LED lighting, including new vertical DRLs that frame the headlamps. These changes not only enhance visibility but also give the Palisade a stronger visual presence on the road.
From the side, the Palisade maintains its upright SUV stance with a long wheelbase and short overhangs, improving both cabin space and maneuverability. The 20-inch alloy wheels (standard on Limited and Calligraphy trims) are now redesigned with a two-tone finish, adding a touch of sophistication. Flush door handles and frameless side mirrors improve aerodynamics and contribute to a sleeker profile.
At the rear, the most noticeable update is the full-width LED light bar, now with animated turn signals and sequential lighting. This design element is not only stylish but also improves visibility at night. The rear bumper has been restyled with a faux skid plate and integrated exhaust finishers, further emphasizing the SUV’s rugged-luxury character.
Interior: A Premium Three-Row Experience
Step inside the 2025 Palisade, and you’re greeted by a cabin that rivals luxury SUVs costing tens of thousands more. Hyundai has significantly upgraded materials, replacing hard plastics with soft-touch surfaces, real metal accents, and available Nappa leather upholstery. The attention to detail is evident in the stitching, padding, and ambient lighting options that create a serene and upscale atmosphere.
The second-row captain's chairs (available on Calligraphy and Limited trims) are a standout feature. With heating, ventilation, power reclining, and a walk-through function, they make rear access to the third row much easier. Even with the second row pushed back, third-row passengers enjoy legroom that exceeds many competitors. Adults up to 6 feet tall can sit comfortably for shorter trips—a rarity in this segment.
Hyundai has also optimized cargo space. Behind the third row, you get 18.2 cubic feet—enough for a couple of suitcases. Fold the third row, and capacity jumps to 47.5 cubic feet. With both rear rows folded flat, the Palisade offers a maximum of 86.8 cubic feet of cargo volume, ideal for road trips, moving gear, or transporting large items.
Infotainment and Technology
The 2025 Palisade comes standard with a dual 12.3-inch display setup: one for the digital instrument cluster and another for the infotainment system. This panoramic display setup is both visually impressive and functional. The infotainment system runs on Hyundai’s latest version of the Blue Link platform, offering wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and over-the-air (OTA) updates.
Additional tech highlights include:
- Hyundai Digital Key 2: Unlock and start the vehicle using your smartphone or smartwatch.
- Augmented Reality Navigation: Real-time camera overlay shows directional cues on the road ahead.
- Wireless charging pads for front and rear passengers.
- 14-speaker Bose premium audio system with noise cancellation.
- Heated and ventilated second-row seats available with rear touchscreen controls.
The voice recognition system has been improved and supports natural language commands. Whether you're asking for directions, changing the climate settings, or playing your favorite playlist, the system responds quickly and accurately.
Performance and Driving Dynamics
Under the hood, the 2025 Palisade is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 295 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission. While not the most powerful in its class, this powertrain delivers smooth acceleration and confident passing ability, especially on highways.
Front-wheel drive comes standard, but all-wheel drive (HTRAC) is available on all trims and highly recommended for those in colder climates or who tow frequently. The AWD system includes Terrain Mode with settings for Snow, Sand, and Mud, enhancing traction and stability off-road or in poor weather.
Hyundai has tuned the suspension for comfort, and it shows. The Palisade soaks up bumps and potholes with ease, delivering a ride quality closer to a luxury sedan than a large SUV. Steering is light and precise, making city driving and parking much easier than expected for a vehicle of this size.
For those who need to tow, the Palisade can pull up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. This makes it suitable for hauling small boats, campers, or trailers—perfect for active families.
Fuel Efficiency: Real-World Numbers
The 2025 Palisade achieves an EPA-estimated 19 mpg city and 26 mpg highway with front-wheel drive. AWD models drop slightly to 18 mpg city and 25 mpg highway. While these numbers aren't class-leading, they’re competitive given the vehicle's size and V6 engine.
During our test drive, we averaged 23 mpg on a mixed route of city streets, suburban commutes, and highway cruising. With an 18.8-gallon fuel tank, that translates to a driving range of approximately 430 miles—more than enough for long weekend getaways without frequent refueling.
Hyundai has also improved engine efficiency through revised intake and exhaust tuning, along with an enhanced start-stop system that’s less intrusive than previous versions. The system shuts off the engine at stoplights and restarts seamlessly when the brake is released.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
Safety is a cornerstone of the 2025 Palisade. It comes standard with Hyundai SmartSense, a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). Key features include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Safe Exit Assist: Warns passengers if a vehicle is approaching from behind when opening doors
- Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2): Combines adaptive cruise control and lane-centering for semi-autonomous highway driving
- Remote Smart Parking Assist: Allows the vehicle to park itself with a smartphone app
- Surround View Monitor with Parking Guidance
In crash testing, the Palisade is expected to earn top ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA, continuing its strong safety legacy. The reinforced frame, multiple airbags, and advanced crumple zones enhance occupant protection in the event of a collision.
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade is available in five trim levels: SE, SEL, Limited, Calligraphy, and the new Calligraphy Ultimate. Prices range from $38,950 for the base SE to $58,450 for the top-tier Calligraphy Ultimate.
SE ($38,950)
The SE trim offers excellent value with standard features like LED headlights, 18-inch wheels, cloth upholstery, an 8-inch touchscreen, and key safety tech. It's ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking a capable three-row SUV.
SEL ($42,450)
The SEL adds convenience features such as heated front seats, dual-zone climate control, power driver’s seat, and an upgraded infotainment system with wireless connectivity. It strikes a balance between affordability and comfort.
Limited ($48,750)
Stepping up to Limited brings luxury up a notch with leather upholstery, 20-inch wheels, panoramic sunroof, ventilated front seats, and a 12.3-inch digital cluster. The Limited also includes a hands-free power liftgate and rain-sensing wipers.
Calligraphy ($52,950)
The Calligraphy trim is the luxury flagship, featuring unique grille and bumpers, quilted Nappa leather, wood trim, and a premium Bose audio system. It also adds advanced safety features like Highway Driving Assist 2 and rear occupant alert.
Calligraphy Ultimate ($58,450)
This new top trim includes everything from the Calligraphy plus a rear entertainment system with dual screens, premium carpeted floor mats, and enhanced ambient lighting. It’s designed for families who want every comfort and convenience feature available.
Spaciousness and Family-Friendly Features
As a three-row SUV, the Palisade’s core mission is family transportation. Hyundai has paid special attention to features that make life easier for parents and caregivers. The second row includes LATCH anchors on both outboard seats, and the third row has two additional sets, allowing up to six child seats (though space is tight with all installed).
There are 12 cupholders throughout the cabin—yes, twelve—ensuring everyone has a place for their drink. USB-C ports are available in all three rows, with fast-charging capability in the front and second row. The power-folding third row can be operated from the cargo area or via a button near the driver’s seat, making it easy to switch between passenger and cargo configurations.
Parents will appreciate the available rear occupant alert system, which reminds drivers to check the back seats when exiting the vehicle. Combined with ultrasonic rear occupant monitoring (which detects movement in the rear seats), this feature adds an extra layer of safety.
Competitors in the Three-Row SUV Segment
The 2025 Palisade competes with other popular midsize three-row SUVs such as the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, and 2025 Ford Explorer. Here’s how it stacks up:
vs. Toyota Highlander
The Highlander offers strong reliability and fuel efficiency (especially in hybrid form), but its interior feels less premium than the Palisade’s. The Palisade provides more standard tech and luxury features at a similar price point.
vs. Honda Pilot
The 2025 Pilot has been completely redesigned and now offers more power and a more rugged look. However, the Palisade still leads in interior refinement, infotainment quality, and available luxury features.
vs. Kia Telluride
As platform siblings, the Palisade and Telluride share many components. But the Palisade leans slightly more toward luxury with its smoother ride, quieter cabin, and more advanced tech features. The Telluride has a bolder exterior and slightly better resale value, but the Palisade feels more upscale inside.
vs. Ford Explorer
The Explorer offers more power, especially with the ST or Timberline trims, and a stronger towing capacity. However, its interior quality and ride comfort fall short compared to the Palisade. The Palisade also offers better standard safety tech.
Real-World Ownership Experience
Owners of the Hyundai Palisade consistently praise its comfort, space, and value. The 2025 model builds on this reputation with even more refinement. Routine maintenance is competitive, with most services falling below $100 for oil changes and inspections.
Hyundai’s warranty remains one of the best in the industry: 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper coverage and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain protection. Additionally, Hyundai includes 3 years of complimentary roadside assistance and 3 years of Blue Link connected services.
Depreciation is moderate; the Palisade holds its value better than many non-luxury brands but not quite as well as Toyota or Honda. However, the lower starting price offsets this, giving buyers more bang for their buck over time.
Off-Road and All-Terrain Capability
While the Palisade is primarily designed for on-road comfort, the available HTRAC AWD system includes terrain modes that improve traction in slippery or off-pavement conditions.