Hyundai’s vehicle lineup for years lacked large SUVs. But with the introduction of the ’20 Palisade, the Korean brand no longer comes up short in the hot-selling segment.
The new three-row utility vehicle adheres to Hyundai’s heritage of providing great value and generous standard features at a sticker price below most competing models, with a few surprises and lux-like touches thrown in. It lands on this year’s Wards 10 Best User Experiences list based on a winning combination of of extensive electronic amenities, innovative creature comforts and comprehensive available driver-assists.
The infotainment screen, instrument panel and head-up display are well designed, with info that’s easy to grasp at a glance, while their associated controls are user-friendly. The home screen “widgets” on the 10.25-in. (26-cm) in-dash infotainment screen also can be selected and rearranged to suit the driver’s preference.
The ’20 Palisade has nearly every connectivity feature drivers and passengers need, including Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, Hyundai’s Blue Link telematics system (although no in-cabin Wi-Fi), and online search for the built-in navigation system is provided by Blue Link. The vehicle has charging outlets in all three rows.
An intercom system lets the front-seat occupants communicate with third-row passengers without shouting, while a quiet mode shuts off the rear speakers so front passengers can listen to music without disturbing those in back. One-touch sliding second-row seats simplify getting in and out of the third-row for kids and adults alike, while novel retractable cupholders in the center console saves valuable bin space.
Retractable cupholders save space.
In addition to the customary driver-assist features, the Palisade is available with a unique Blind View Monitor that projects an image in the instrument panel of what’s behind either to the left or right side of the vehicle when a turn signal is activated.
Blind View Monitor projects image in instrument panel.
Another new feature is an available Ultrasonic Rear Occupant Alert that scans the rear seats to detect movements so children and pets aren’t inadvertently left inside and alert the driver via an instrument cluster warning, a honk of the horn if they leave the vehicle and even messages on the driver’s smartphone via Hyundai’s Blue Link.
Hyundai has a history of providing straightforward infotainment systems and practical connectivity at a competitive price. With the ’20 Palisade, it packs this into a stylish and well-appointed midsize SUV that makes it a 10 Best UX winner and a formidable new entrant in this popular segment.
'20 Hyundai Palisade
