This comprehensive review will dive deep into every aspect of the new Palisade, from its controversial front end to its incredibly pampering third row. We’ll explore its new hybrid option, its wealth of standard tech, and the countless thoughtful details that make it a serious contender for the title of best family SUV on the market.
A Bold New Statement: Exterior Design & Styling
The previous-generation Palisade was known for its elegant, almost fluid styling. For 2025, Hyundai has taken a radically different approach. The new design language is all about strength, presence, and a modern, off-road-inspired aesthetic.
Muscular and Squared-Off Proportions
The 2025 Palisade features a dramatically more upright and boxy silhouette. The windshield is nearly flat, the roofline is straighter, and the rear end is squared off, maximizing interior space and giving it a substantial, planted stance. Pronounced wheel arches and sharp character lines along the sides enhance this muscular, purposeful look.
The Polarizing Front End
The most talked-about element is undoubtedly the front fascia. It is dominated by an incredibly wide and tall light bar that seamlessly integrates the daytime running lights and turn signals. When illuminated, it creates a distinctive “H” pattern that is impossible to miss. While some may find it bold and futuristic, others might see it as overly stylized.
A Handsomely Tailored Rear
If the front is divisive, the rear is almost universally praised. The clean, horizontal lines and elegant light clusters give the Palisade a remarkably upscale appearance, drawing favorable comparisons to luxury brands. A clever design trick tucks the rear wiper neatly under a spoiler, cleaning up the rear glass.
A Sanctuary of Luxury and Technology: The Interior
Step inside the 2025 Palisade, and the transformation is even more impressive. The cabin is a masterclass in blending high-quality materials, intuitive technology, and thoughtful design to create a serene and comfortable environment for all occupants.
Dashboard and Infotainment
The centerpiece of the dashboard is a sleek, curved panoramic display that houses both the digital instrument cluster and the central infotainment screen. While it appears as one continuous unit, the two screens are dedicated to their respective functions.
Infotainment System
The central touchscreen is responsive, vibrant, and runs on Hyundai’s latest software. The home screen is highly configurable with widgets for navigation, media, and climate control, allowing for easy access to key functions. It supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and the menu structure is logical and user-friendly.
Gauge Cluster
The digital instrument cluster provides clear, essential driving information. However, it is less customizable than some rivals. You won’t find full-screen navigation maps or extensive media information here, which is a slight missed opportunity given the screen’s real estate.
Innovative Controls and Quirks
Hyundai has packed the Palisade’s interior with unique features that set it apart.
Steering Column Shifter and Start Button
In a departure from the common console shifter, the Palisade uses a steering-column-mounted gear selector. It’s a twist-to-activate dial at the end of a stalk that also integrates the engine start/stop button. This design frees up valuable space on the center console.
Dedicated Climate Control Screen
Instead of burying climate settings in the main infotainment, Hyundai provides a separate, smaller touchscreen just below the central vents. It is dedicated solely to climate functions and is remarkably easy to use, with haptic feedback confirming your inputs.
Physical Button Backup
Flanking the climate screen are physical dials for volume and tuning, along with shortcut buttons for the home screen, map, and parking camera. This blend of touchscreen and physical controls offers the best of both worlds.
Stealth Branding
Look closely at the steering wheel, and you’ll notice the Hyundai ‘H’ logo is missing. In its place are four dots—Morse code for the letter ‘H’. It’s a subtle, sophisticated touch that underscores the attention to detail.
First-Class Comfort and Seating
The Palisade, especially in the top Calligraphy trim, offers seating that rivals luxury vehicles.
First-Row “Relaxation” Seats
The front seats are not only heated and ventilated but also feature a “Relaxation” mode. With the touch of a button, the seat reclines, the bolster adjusts, and a footrest extends, creating a near-horizontal resting position—perfect for waiting during school pickups or road trip breaks.
Spacious and Versatile Second Row
The second row, typically configured as captain’s chairs, offers an abundance of legroom and headroom. The seats are also heated and ventilated and can recline for added comfort. A clever pull-out drawer in the center console provides extra storage.
Power-Operated Third Row
This is a segment-leading feature. The entire third-row bench is power-operated, sliding forward and backward and reclining at the touch of a button. It also features heated seats, an amenity almost unheard of in this class. While legroom is still best suited for children, the power functionality and heating make it the most hospitable third row available.
Powertrain and Performance: Efficiency Meets Power
For 2025, the Palisade introduces a significant new powertrain option that addresses the one common critique of its predecessor: fuel economy.
| Feature | Standard V6 Engine | Available Hybrid Powertrain |
|---|---|---|
| Configuration | 3.8L V6 Gasoline | 1.6L Turbocharged 4-Cylinder + Electric Motor |
| Horsepower | 287 hp | Approx. 330 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | Approx. 350 lb-ft (Est.) |
| Estimated MPG (Combined) | Low 20s | Low 30s |
| Best For | Traditional powertrain feel, lower entry cost | Maximum power and fuel efficiency |
The new hybrid model is the star of the show, offering a substantial boost in both power and fuel efficiency. For families logging high miles, the hybrid’s jump into the low 30s MPG range is a game-changer, providing significant savings at the pump without sacrificing performance.
Standout Features and Family-Friendly Tech
The 2025 Palisade isn’t just about space and power; it’s packed with intelligent technology designed to enhance safety and convenience.
Blind-Spot View Monitor
When you activate the turn signal, a live video feed from a wing-mounted camera projects directly into the instrument cluster, effectively eliminating the blind spot. It’s one of the most useful and confidence-inspiring safety features on any vehicle today.
Digital Rearview Mirror
A simple flick of a switch transforms the standard rearview mirror into a high-definition video display from a rear-facing camera. This provides an unobstructed view of the road behind, even with a fully loaded cargo area or tall rear-seat passengers.
Built-In Dash Cam
The Palisade can be equipped with an integrated dash cam. It can automatically record in the event of a collision or be manually activated to capture a specific event, providing invaluable peace of mind.
Rear Occupant Alert
On the edges of the rear doors are small warning lights. These illuminate if the blind-spot monitoring system detects a vehicle or cyclist approaching from behind when the door is about to be opened, preventing potential accidents.
UVC Sterilization Center
A truly unique feature, the center console compartment contains a UVC light. With the press of a button, it can sanitize small items like your smartphone, keys, or sunglasses—a thoughtful, post-pandemic feature.
Practicality: Storage and Cargo
The boxy new shape pays dividends in practicality. Cargo space behind the third row is generous for the class, making it suitable for a week’s worth of groceries or luggage for a small family. A dual-level cargo floor provides a hidden compartment for valuables. With the third and second rows folded down, the Palisade offers a vast, flat loading area.
Power outlets are plentiful, including multiple USB-C ports in all three rows and a coveted household-style 120V outlet in the second row, perfect for charging laptops or other high-draw devices.
The Verdict
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade is a monumental leap forward. It successfully sheds its predecessor’s skin to emerge as a more confident, capable, and luxurious vehicle. While its bold exterior styling may not be for everyone, there is no denying the appeal of its stunning interior, segment-leading features, and the new, highly efficient hybrid powertrain.
It thoughtfully addresses the needs of modern families with a level of luxury and technological innovation that challenges not only its traditional rivals like the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander but also veers into the territory of premium brands. The 2025 Palisade isn’t just a new model; it’s a compelling new benchmark.
Md Imran Rahimi is the founder and main author of TechScopeHub.in. He is passionate about technology, gadgets, and automobiles, and loves to share simple yet valuable insights with readers. With a focus on honest reviews and clear comparisons, Imran’s goal is to make technology easy and useful for everyone.”