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2020 Hyundai Palisade Review: Perfect for Family Camping Adventures
Hyundai Palisade Family Review: The Ultimate 3-Row SUV Put to the Test
As both a parent and automotive specialist, I've tested countless family vehicles under real-world conditions. The Hyundai Palisade emerged as a standout contender after rigorous evaluation as our primary family hauler, grocery-getter, and even adventure mobile. But does this three-row SUV truly deliver when pushed beyond suburban duties? We took it camping to find out.
Palisade Overview: Hyundai's Flagship Family Hauler
Replacing the Santa Fe XL in Hyundai's lineup, the Palisade represents the brand's most premium three-row offering with seating for seven or eight passengers. Our test model featured second-row captain's chairs—a configuration that proved ideal for family use during our 200+ miles of testing across various conditions.
Key Specifications
- Seating Capacity: 7-8 passengers
- Cargo Space: 18.0 cu.ft behind 3rd row, 86.4 cu.ft with seats folded
- Third-Row Legroom: 31.4 inches
- Powertrain: 3.8L V6 (291 hp) with 8-speed automatic
- Towing Capacity: 5,000 lbs when properly equipped
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Exceptional Family-Friendly Features
While most modern three-row SUVs offer generous equipment lists, the Palisade distinguishes itself with thoughtful details that make daily family logistics noticeably easier.
Smart Storage Solutions
The Palisade's interior designers clearly had families in mind when creating its storage solutions:
- Hidden Console Bin: The covered compartment beneath the shifter became our snack headquarters—keeping treats accessible yet hidden from little eyes
- Modular Center Console: A deep storage well with removable divider tray organizes everything from tablets to emergency supplies
- Cargo Area Compartments: The underfloor bin proved perfect for fragile items or messy gear you want contained
Third-Row Comfort That (Mostly) Delivers
With 31.4 inches of legroom, the Palisade's third row trails segment leaders like the Volkswagen Atlas (33.7 inches) but offers several redeeming features:
- Power recline function for adjustable comfort
- Dedicated USB charging ports
- Multiple storage pockets for small items
- Surprisingly good headroom for taller passengers
Our 9-year-old tester—a veteran of many third-row evaluations—gave it a thumbs up for shorter trips, though adults may find it cramped on longer journeys.
Advanced Safety Technology
Every Palisade comes well-equipped with standard safety features, but several innovations deserve special attention:
Blind Spot View Monitor
This optional system outperforms similar technologies by displaying live camera feeds from both sides of the vehicle in the instrument cluster when turn signals activate. Unlike Honda's LaneWatch (which only shows the right side), this gives complete situational awareness during lane changes.
Rear Occupant Alert System
Hyundai's implementation of rear seat monitoring stands out through its comprehensive approach:
- Ultrasonic sensors detect movement when parked
- Visual dashboard warnings remind drivers to check back seats
- If motion continues after locking, the horn sounds and alerts are sent via Hyundai's Blue Link app
Safe Exit Assist
Available on higher trims, this feature prevents rear doors from opening into approaching traffic—a valuable safeguard for distracted children exiting in busy areas.
The Camping Test: Real-World Cargo Challenges
Our weekend camping trip revealed both strengths and limitations in the Palisade's cargo capabilities:
The Good
- Hands-Free Liftgate: Invaluable when loading with arms full of gear
- One-Touch Second-Row Sliding: Creates easy third-row access even with car seats installed
- Roof Rail System: Provides additional cargo options we didn't need to use
The Limitations
With all seats upright, the 18.0 cubic feet behind the third row proved tight for our family's camping gear. We needed to:
- Fold part of the 60/40-split third row, compromising passenger space
- Stash bags at the base of second-row car seats
- Carefully Tetris-load items to maximize every inch
While we ultimately fit everything, families regularly transporting large loads may want to consider the more spacious Volkswagen Atlas or Kia Telluride.
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Family-Centric Features That Miss the Mark
Not every innovation hit the target in our testing:
Driver Talk Intercom System
This optional feature amplifies the driver's voice to rear passengers but suffers from:
- One-way communication only
- Frequent audio feedback
- Questionable real-world utility compared to simply speaking louder
Third-Row Car Seat Accommodations
The Latch anchor configuration presents challenges:
- Only one set of lower anchors positioned in the middle of the bench
- Two top tether anchors available
- Effectively reduces three seating positions to two when using car seats
Families regularly transporting multiple car-seat-aged children may find this limiting.
Driving Dynamics and Comfort
Beyond practicality, the Palisade delivers a refined driving experience:
- Smooth Powertrain: The 3.8L V6 provides confident acceleration without harshness
- Compliant Ride: Well-tuned suspension absorbs road imperfections
- Quiet Cabin: Excellent noise insulation creates a serene environment
- Confident Handling: Surprisingly nimble for its size in urban environments
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How It Compares to Key Competitors
Model | Third-Row Legroom | Max Cargo Space | Base Price |
---|---|---|---|
Hyundai Palisade | 31.4 in | 86.4 cu.ft | $35,550 |
Volkswagen Atlas | 33.7 in | 96.8 cu.ft | $36,490 |
Kia Telluride | 31.4 in | 87.0 cu.ft | $34,690 |
Final Verdict: Who Should Consider the Palisade?
After extensive testing, the Hyundai Palisade earns our recommendation for:
- Suburban Families: Excellent daily driver with premium comfort features
- Tech-Focused Buyers: Standout safety and convenience technologies
- Value Seekers: More standard features than competitors at similar prices
Families might want to consider alternatives if they regularly:
- Transport large groups with bulky gear
- Need to install multiple car seats in the third row
- Prioritize maximum cargo space above all else
For most families, the Palisade strikes an impressive balance between luxury, practicality, and value—proving itself as more than just a pretty face in the competitive three-row SUV segment.

motorverorachael
Last Updated On Apr, 16-2025