Differences between Hyundai Palisade Models: 2022 vs. 2021

The Hyundai Palisade is one of the newest SUVs in the market. There are some differences between the 2021 and 2022 models.

This vehicle offers differences for each model year, which attempts to give you more of what you want each year, as most models do. No matter which version of the Palisade you select, this SUV offers three rows of seats, plenty of room for eight passengers, and a versatile cargo area. This model is an upscale SUV that competes in the mainstream midsize three-row crossover segment. Do you want to enjoy a 2022 or 2021 model of this SUV? Let’s find out.

The Ratings are In

When comparing these two models by U. S. News and World Report, we find the 2022 version of the Palisade is the top-rated model in the midsize SUV segment. Overall, the newer model ranks higher than the previous model. Looking at the pros and cons of these two model years, we find:

2022 Pros/Cons

Pros

• • Comfortable ride
  • Plenty of engine power
  • Intuitive tech features

Lots of room for people and cargo

Cons

• Average fuel mileage rating

2021 Pros/Cons

Pros

• Refined ride and handling
• Spacious interior
• Comfortable seats
• User-friendly infotainment system
• Plenty of standard safety features

Cons

• Average fuel economy rating

These two versions of the Hyundai Palisade are the same size, making them extremely similar. To find out what makes them differ from each other, we need to dive into the changes made to give us the latest version of this SUV.

What’s new for the 2022 Version?

The latest model of the Palisade has more standard safety features than the previous version. These upgrades are what make it a newer model. The legal safety tech found in the latest model includes:

• Automatic emergency braking
• Lane-keep assist
• Driver attention warning
• Automatic high beams
• Rear parking sensors
• Full-speed adaptive cruise control
• Rear occupant alert
• Turn signal mirrors*
• Blind-spot monitoring*
• Rear cross-traffic alerts*
• Safe Exit Assist*

* Indicates a safety feature that is new for 2022.

The 2021 Version Offered Several Upgrades

Although the 2021 Hyundai Palisade is one of the newer models in the market, it does offer improvements over the 2020 version. Even though we aren’t comparing the 2020 model in this article, it helps to know aspects of the evolution of this SUV. New items for the 2021 model include:

• Addition of the to-level Calligraphy trim
• Wireless smartphone integration standard across the board
• LED headlights and HD radio standard
• SEL trim adds a sunroof and LED interior lighting
• Trailer pre-wring goes from a 4-pin to a 7-pin connection

These added items carried over to the 2022 version of this midsize SUV, making it an SUV that works great for your family and brings you the features you want to enjoy. Now that we know some of the evolutionary steps in this SUV’s journey let’s look at the standard items offered.

Standard Features for the 2021 Palisade

The base model is the SE trim, and it gives you a robust package of features to make it easy and pleasant to take your family out for a drive. This base model comes with:

• Automatic on/off LED headlights/daytime running lights
• 18-inch alloy wheels
• One-touch sliding second-row seats
• Keyless entry
• Push-button starting
• 8-inch infotainment system
• Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
• Adaptive cruise control with stop/go functionality
• Lane-keeping assistance
• Automatic emergency braking
• Pedestrian detection
• Rear parking sensors
• Heated side mirrors
• Eight-passenger seating
• Cloth upholstery
• 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty

This is an excellent package of items that can make driving around with your family more enjoyable than you might expect.

What Does the 2022 Version Bring for Your Drive?

If you’re looking at the latest model of the Hyundai Palisade, you’ll find a package of items that are similar to the 2021 version. The newest SE model includes:

• 18-inch alloy wheels
• LED projector headlights
• 8-passenger seating
• One-touch sliding second-row seats
• 8-inch infotainment system
• Wireless Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
• USB ports in the first and second rows
• List of safety features mentioned above
• 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty

Once again, you see a package of items at the base trim, making this an SUV that can be great to drive when you’re out on the road with your family.

Both Models Use the Same Powertrain

Regardless of the model year you choose, the Palisade uses the same powertrain. This system is a 3.8-liter V6 engine mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. You’ll find 291 horsepower and 262 lb.-ft. of torque with this SUV. This midsize SUV can tow up to 5,000 pounds, and it delivers 19 city/26 hwy mpg in FWD models and19 city/24 hwy mpg when you add AWD to the mix.

Which Version of the Palisade is Right for You?

This is an exciting question to answer. If you want to pay a little less for the model you buy, the 2021 version costs nearly $1,000 less than the newer 2022 model. You’ll also likely find the remaining 2021 models with excellent rebates, pricing discounts, and potential financing programs. On the other hand, if the added safety tech is worth the slightly higher price, you might want to go with the later version of this midsize Hyundai SUV. Either way, you’ll have a vehicle that fits your family that can be ideal for every driving experience.

What if You want a Higher Trim Level?

Thankfully, because these two models are so similar, they have the same trim levels for you. This also means the pricing structure is nearly the same. The 2022 version of the Palisade Calligraphy begins at $48,740, while the 2021 model comes at $47,695 as the starting price. With this top trim, you’ve got an SUV with leather upholstery and a ton of upscale features that can make this SUV easier for you to drive. Head over to your local Hyundai dealer and find out which Palisade models they have for you to go and enjoy. Will you drive one from 2021 or 2022?