Hyundai’s 21st century renaissance began nearly a decade ago when the Korean brand elevated its design language and build quality, shocking consumers and mainstream manufacturers with a newfound vision of design-focused, ultra-competitive vehicles. Fast forward to 2021, and the Hyundai Palisade extends that sense of surprise and delight into the midsize SUV realm, a segment that’s long been dominated by stalwarts like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander.

Palisade offers handsome sheetmetal, though some might have slight styling envy from its Kia Telluride stablemate, which offers less ornate, more purposeful looks.  Hyundai

Along with its Kia-branded Telluride stablemate, the Palisade stands apart with style that defies its competitors’ familiar boxy shapes. Though the Kia version’s design is more contemporary and the Telluride takes a more derivative approach, both flaunt exceptional interiors, marked by quality materials and high-end touches typically found in pricier vehicles. Palisade trim levels have been streamlined for 2021 and are now available in four levels: SE, SEL, Limited and a new top model dubbed Calligraphy. All are powered by a 3.8-liter V6 producing 291 horsepower, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Though only one powerplant covers the entire Palisade lineup, don’t be surprised if Hyundai’s hybrid drivetrain becomes available at a later date.

The entry level SE model, which starts at $33,860 including destination, can be ordered with all-wheel drive for an extra $1,700. Niceties like a leather-wrapped steering wheel, dual-zone climate control and second-row air conditioning controls are not available with SE trim. Step up to the SEL ($36,510) and the standard equipment list grows with a sunroof, eight-way power driver’s seat adjustability, blind spot collision assistance and standard captain’s chairs (which reduce seating capacity from 8 to 7). Reverting to bench seats requires the addition of the $2,400 convenience package (which includes 20-inch alloy wheels, self-leveling rear suspension, a 7-inch digital gauge cluster, wireless device charging and more), and the $3,100 premium package (which adds leather seats, a 10.25-inch touchscreen and other creature comforts), lifting the grand total to $42,010—a significant price and equipment bump in order to fit one more body in the vehicle. 

 The top-of-the-line Palisade Calligraphy is finished with a number of high-quality details including perforated Nappa leather, quilted leather door panels, and a micro-suede headliner.  Hyundai

The Limited ($46,460) brings a dual sunroof, 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster, head-up display and 10.25-inch touchscreen. Limited and above also get supple Nappa leather and the heated seating surfaces add ventilation functionality as well. While third-row seating is standard on all models, the must-have power folding feature only comes standard on Limited and Calligraphy (it’s optional for SEL).  New for 2021, the top-level Calligraphy model ($47,385) adds unique 20-inch wheels and trim fascias, quilted leather door panels, a perforated leather steering wheel and a microfiber-suede headliner. With everything and the kitchen sink thrown in on the Calligraphy edition, the only available options are all-wheel drive ($1,700) and accessories like mudguards and wheel locks. The Limited trim is a good balance between simplicity and convenience; if budget allows, Calligraphy brings an extra level of amenity and polish that luxury lovers will appreciate, but its distinct styling cues (both inside and out) could easily be seen as over the top, especially from a value brand.

The Hyundai Palisade tackles some heavy hitters in its segment. The Toyota Highlander starts at $36,085 and offers a range of powertrain options including a hybrid arrangement that can top $50,000. While Toyota builds upon a rock solid, time-tested platform, the Highlander also benefited from a ground-up refresh in 2020 that helps it feel competitive and contemporary. The Palisade’s third-row seating area is more spacious than the Highlander’s (31.4 inches versus 27.7), thanks in part from a wheelbase that stretches 2 inches longer. The Hyundai’s rear cargo capacity also has a 2 cubic-foot advantage (18 cubic-feet versus 16), though the Toyota offers slightly more volume behind the second row (48.4 cubic-feet versus 45.8). 

 An available dual sunroof opens the Palisade’s cabin considerably, while a generous 42.4 inches of second-row legroom enhance its spaciousness; second and third row seats fold down to enable a considerable 86.4 cubic-feet of space.  Hyundai

The Honda Pilot’s starting price of $32,550 undercuts the Toyota, and tops out at $48,720 with the fully loaded Elite trim package. Running on a slightly wider, longer footprint than the Palisade, the Pilot trades a smidge of front and second-row legroom for cargo capacity (16.5 cubic-feet) while offering slightly more space for third-row occupants (31.9 inches). What the Honda lacks in interior charm and sophistication, it gains in ride quality, delivering a supple and isolated experience for cabin occupants. 

The 2021 Ford Explorer starts at $33,065 and is available in no fewer than six trim levels and three powertrains, from a 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder to a higher performance 3.0-liter EcoBoost V6 and a 3.3-liter V6 hybrid. A fully equipped Explorer Platinum can exceed $54,000. The longest SUV of the bunch, the Explorer offers generous legroom for first and third rows (42 inches and 32.2 inches), and a solid amount of cargo capacity (18.2 cubic-feet). Explorer also benefits from a rear wheel-drive platform, which enables nimbler handling. However, Ford’s interior isn’t quite as meticulously finished as its competitors’.