2025 Hyundai Palisade – Is This the Best Three-Row SUV Yet?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade is here, and it’s making waves in the fiercely competitive three-row SUV market. With its bold styling, upscale interior, and a host of new tech features, Hyundai’s flagship SUV is ready to take on rivals like the Kia Telluride, Toyota Highlander, and Honda Pilot. But does it have what it takes to stand out? We dive deep into the updates, competitor comparisons, and what YouTubers are saying after their test drives.
What’s New in the 2025 Hyundai Palisade?
Hyundai isn’t holding back with the 2025 Palisade, introducing several key upgrades:
Refreshed Exterior Design
- Bolder grille & LED lighting – A more aggressive front fascia with signature Hyundai styling.
- New wheel designs – Ranging from 18 to 20 inches depending on the trim.
- Updated rear styling – Revised taillights and bumper for a more modern look.
Luxurious & Tech-Packed Interior
- Premium materials – Soft-touch surfaces, available quilted Nappa leather.
- Bigger infotainment screen – A 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto.
- Enhanced safety tech – Highway Driving Assist 2 (HDA2) for semi-autonomous driving.
More Powerful Engine Options
- 3.8L V6 (291 HP) – The same reliable engine but with smoother tuning.
- Possible hybrid variant? – Rumors suggest Hyundai may introduce a hybrid option to compete with the Toyota Highlander Hybrid.
How Does the 2025 Palisade Compare to Its Rivals?
The three-row SUV segment is crowded, so how does the 2025 Hyundai Palisade stack up?
| Feature | 2025 Hyundai Palisade | 2025 Kia Telluride | 2025 Toyota Highlander |
|---|---|---|---|
| Base Engine | 3.8L V6 (291 HP) | 3.8L V6 (291 HP) | 2.4L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder (265 HP) |
| Infotainment | 12.3-inch touchscreen | 12.3-inch touchscreen | 12.3-inch touchscreen |
| Safety Tech | Highway Driving Assist 2, Blind-Spot View Monitor | Highway Driving Assist | Toyota Safety Sense 2.5 |
| Starting Price | Approximately $37,000 | Approximately $36,000 | Approximately $38,000 |
Verdict: The Palisade holds its own with premium features, but the Telluride offers a slightly more rugged design, while the Highlander leans toward fuel efficiency.
YouTubers Weigh In – Test Drive Impressions
Several automotive influencers have taken the 2025 Hyundai Palisade for a spin—here’s what they’re saying:
- Doug DeMuro (YouTube: @DougDeMuro) – “The Palisade continues to be one of the best values in the three-row SUV market, with an interior that feels way more expensive than it is.”
- Alex on Autos (YouTube: @AlexOnAutos) – “Hyundai has fine-tuned the ride quality, making it smoother than the Telluride, but I still prefer the Kia’s styling.”
- The Straight Pipes (YouTube: @TheStraightPipes) – “The new tech upgrades are great, but I wish Hyundai offered a more powerful engine option like a turbo V6.”
Should You Buy the 2025 Hyundai Palisade?
Pros
✔ Luxury-like interior without the luxury price tag.
✔ Excellent safety features with HDA2 and surround-view cameras.
✔ Smooth ride quality perfect for family road trips.
Cons
❌ No hybrid option yet (unlike Toyota Highlander).
❌ V6 engine feels adequate but not thrilling.
❌ Third-row space is good, but not class-l
Final Verdict – Is the 2025 Hyundai Palisade Worth It?
If you want a premium three-row SUV without breaking the bank, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade is a fantastic choice. It offers more tech, better comfort, and a refined driving experience than many competitors. However, if you prioritize fuel efficiency, you might want to wait for a potential hybrid model.
What do you think? Would you pick the Palisade over the Telluride or Highlander? Let us know in the comments!