Hey there, car enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL and explore what makes it a standout choice in the competitive SUV market. We'll cover everything from performance and features to its overall value proposition. If you're in the market for a spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped SUV, the Palisade SEL deserves a closer look. This review aims to provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. Buckle up, and let's get started!

Overview of the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL is a mid-size SUV that successfully balances practicality, comfort, and style. Positioned as a step up from the base trim, the SEL offers a compelling mix of features without breaking the bank. It's designed to cater to families and individuals who need ample space, modern technology, and a touch of luxury. The Palisade SEL is known for its impressive interior space, offering three rows of seating and a generous cargo area, making it ideal for road trips, family outings, and everyday errands. Compared to its competitors, like the Kia Telluride, Toyota Highlander, and Honda Pilot, the Palisade SEL holds its own, often praised for its value and well-rounded package. Hyundai has clearly focused on providing a user-friendly experience, with intuitive controls and a comfortable ride. The SEL trim is particularly appealing, as it strikes a sweet spot between affordability and desirable features. You get a lot for your money, making it a popular choice in the segment. The Palisade SEL's design also contributes to its appeal. The exterior is sleek and modern, with a bold front grille and stylish LED lighting. Inside, the cabin is well-appointed, with quality materials and a thoughtful layout. Hyundai has truly created a vehicle that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. You'll find it easy to live with day-to-day, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The combination of space, comfort, and features makes the 2022 Palisade SEL a strong contender in its class, and it's definitely worth considering if you're looking for a new SUV.

Key Features and Specifications

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL boasts a range of impressive features and specifications that enhance its appeal. Let's break down some of the key elements that make it a standout choice:

• Engine and Performance: The Palisade SEL is powered by a robust 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering a strong 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive shifts. Front-wheel drive (FWD) is standard, but all-wheel drive (AWD) is available for those seeking enhanced traction and control, especially in challenging weather conditions. The Palisade SEL offers a comfortable and composed ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road with ease. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, and the engine provides plenty of power for merging onto highways or passing other vehicles. Fuel economy is competitive for its class, with estimates around 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway for the FWD model.
• Interior and Comfort: Inside the Palisade SEL, you'll find a spacious and well-designed cabin. The SEL trim typically offers seating for seven or eight passengers, depending on whether you opt for captain's chairs in the second row. The seats are comfortable and supportive, even on long drives. The interior materials are of good quality, and the layout is intuitive. The Palisade SEL provides ample legroom and headroom in all three rows, making it suitable for families. Features like dual-zone automatic climate control, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and heated front seats add to the comfort and convenience. The design of the dashboard and center console is modern and user-friendly, with easy-to-reach controls and a large touchscreen display.
• Technology and Infotainment: The Palisade SEL comes equipped with a range of advanced technology features. The infotainment system includes a touchscreen display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, Bluetooth connectivity, and multiple USB ports. Higher trim levels often include a larger touchscreen, a premium sound system, and a wireless charging pad. Hyundai's infotainment system is known for its user-friendly interface and responsive performance. The system's integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto allows you to easily access your smartphone's apps and features on the touchscreen display. Other available tech features may include a digital instrument cluster, a surround-view camera system, and a head-up display.
• Safety Features: Safety is a top priority in the Palisade SEL. It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. These features help to enhance driver awareness and prevent accidents. The Palisade SEL has consistently received high safety ratings from organizations like the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). These ratings reflect Hyundai's commitment to safety and make the Palisade SEL a smart choice for families.

Driving Experience and Performance

Let's get into the nitty-gritty of how the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL performs on the road. Guys, the Palisade SEL offers a driving experience that's both comfortable and capable. The 3.8-liter V6 engine provides plenty of power for daily driving tasks. Merging onto highways and passing other vehicles is a breeze, thanks to the engine's responsive nature. The 8-speed automatic transmission complements the engine well, providing smooth and timely shifts. You won't feel any jerky movements, which adds to the overall comfort of the ride. The Palisade SEL's suspension is tuned for comfort, effectively absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road. This makes it a great choice for long road trips, as you and your passengers will be less fatigued. The steering is light and easy, making it maneuverable in city driving situations. Parking and navigating tight spaces is relatively straightforward. While it's not a sports car, the Palisade SEL handles confidently, with minimal body roll. The available all-wheel-drive system enhances traction and stability, particularly in inclement weather conditions. This gives you added peace of mind when driving on slippery surfaces or in challenging terrains. Overall, the Palisade SEL offers a balanced driving experience. It's not overly sporty, but it's not meant to be. Instead, it prioritizes comfort, practicality, and ease of use, making it an excellent choice for families and anyone seeking a comfortable and capable SUV. The Palisade SEL's performance is well-suited for a variety of driving scenarios, from daily commutes to weekend adventures. The combination of a powerful engine, a smooth transmission, and a comfortable ride makes it a pleasure to drive. The Palisade SEL offers a driving experience that is well-rounded and user-friendly, making it a practical and enjoyable choice for a mid-size SUV.

Interior Design, Comfort, and Features

The interior of the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL is designed to provide a comfortable and welcoming environment. The materials used throughout the cabin feel high-quality, and the overall design is modern and stylish. You'll find a well-laid-out dashboard with easy-to-reach controls. The seats are supportive and provide good comfort, even on long drives. The SEL trim typically offers a range of features designed to enhance the passenger experience. These features include:

• Seating and Space: The Palisade SEL offers ample space for passengers in all three rows. The second-row seats often feature captain's chairs, which provide extra comfort and ease of access to the third row. Even adults can comfortably sit in the third row, making the Palisade SEL a true three-row SUV. Legroom and headroom are generous throughout the cabin, ensuring that everyone has enough space to relax. The design of the seats and the overall layout of the interior contribute to a sense of spaciousness.
• Infotainment System: The Palisade SEL comes equipped with a user-friendly infotainment system. The touchscreen display is intuitive and responsive, making it easy to navigate through various features. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration allows you to seamlessly connect your smartphone to the system. You can access your favorite apps, make calls, send texts, and listen to music directly from the touchscreen display. The system also includes Bluetooth connectivity, allowing you to stream audio and make hands-free calls. The infotainment system is a key element of the Palisade SEL's appeal, providing a convenient and enjoyable user experience.
• Comfort and Convenience Features: The Palisade SEL is packed with comfort and convenience features that enhance the driving and passenger experience. These features can include dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, a power-adjustable driver's seat, and a sunroof. Dual-zone climate control allows the driver and front passenger to set their preferred temperatures independently. Heated front seats provide added comfort during colder weather conditions. A power-adjustable driver's seat allows the driver to easily find the ideal driving position. Other available features might include a wireless charging pad, multiple USB ports, and a premium sound system. These features create a comfortable and enjoyable environment for both the driver and passengers.
• Cargo Space: The Palisade SEL offers impressive cargo space, making it a practical choice for families and individuals with active lifestyles. With all the seats in use, there's still a decent amount of cargo space behind the third row. Folding down the third-row seats expands the cargo area significantly, providing ample space for luggage, groceries, or other items. The second-row seats can also be folded down to create an even larger cargo area. The Palisade SEL's cargo capacity makes it a versatile vehicle for various needs, from daily errands to weekend getaways. The interior design of the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL prioritizes comfort, convenience, and functionality. It's a thoughtfully designed space that caters to the needs of both drivers and passengers, making it a pleasant place to spend time. The combination of spaciousness, high-quality materials, and advanced features makes the Palisade SEL a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment.

Technology and Safety Features

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL is packed with cutting-edge technology and a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to provide a secure and connected driving experience. Let's explore some of the key highlights:

• Infotainment and Connectivity: The Palisade SEL features an intuitive infotainment system with a touchscreen display. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration is standard, allowing you to seamlessly connect your smartphone. You can access your favorite apps, make calls, send texts, and listen to music directly from the touchscreen display. Bluetooth connectivity is also included, enabling you to stream audio and make hands-free calls. The system often includes multiple USB ports for charging devices, ensuring everyone stays connected. Higher trim levels may offer a larger touchscreen, a premium sound system, and a wireless charging pad, enhancing the overall entertainment experience.
• Driver-Assistance Technology: Hyundai prioritizes safety, and the Palisade SEL reflects this commitment with a range of advanced driver-assistance features. Standard features typically include forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning with lane keep assist, adaptive cruise control, and blind-spot monitoring with rear cross-traffic alert. These features help to enhance driver awareness and prevent accidents. Forward collision warning alerts the driver to potential front-end collisions, while automatic emergency braking can help to mitigate or avoid an impact. Lane departure warning and lane keep assist help to keep the vehicle centered in its lane. Adaptive cruise control automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a safe distance from the car in front. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert help to detect vehicles in blind spots and warn of approaching traffic when backing up. These driver-assistance features work together to provide an extra layer of safety, making the Palisade SEL a secure choice for families.
• Safety Ratings: The 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL has consistently received high safety ratings from reputable organizations. It has earned top scores from the IIHS (Insurance Institute for Highway Safety) and the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration). These ratings reflect the vehicle's structural integrity, its ability to protect occupants in a crash, and its effectiveness in preventing accidents. The strong safety ratings provide peace of mind, knowing that the Palisade SEL is designed to protect its occupants in the event of a collision.

The integration of advanced technology and a robust suite of safety features makes the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL a standout choice in the mid-size SUV segment. Hyundai's commitment to safety and innovation is evident in the Palisade SEL's design, making it a smart and secure option for drivers and their families.

Trim Levels and Value

Let's get down to brass tacks and talk about the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL's trim levels and the value it offers. The SEL trim sits in the middle of the Palisade lineup, offering a compelling blend of features and affordability. Generally, the 2022 Palisade SEL trim offers a great balance of features and value, making it a popular choice. Here's a quick rundown of the trim levels and what you can expect:

• SE: The base SE trim provides a solid foundation, offering essential features at an accessible price point. While it's the entry-level, it still includes a decent array of standard equipment. You'll find features like a touchscreen infotainment system, a suite of advanced safety features, and a comfortable interior. The SE trim is a great starting point for those looking for an affordable, well-equipped SUV.
• SEL: The SEL trim builds upon the SE, adding more features and upgrades. This is often considered the sweet spot for many buyers, as it provides a significant boost in features without a drastic price increase. You can expect features like leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, and upgraded technology. The SEL trim offers a comfortable and well-appointed interior, along with a range of convenient features. It's an excellent choice for those seeking a balance of luxury and practicality.
• Limited: The Limited trim takes things up a notch with even more premium features and upgrades. You'll find features like a panoramic sunroof, a premium audio system, and a more luxurious interior. The Limited trim offers a truly upscale driving experience, with enhanced comfort and convenience. It's ideal for those who want a top-of-the-line SUV with all the bells and whistles.
• Calligraphy: The top-of-the-line Calligraphy trim represents the pinnacle of luxury and refinement. It includes unique design elements, premium materials, and exclusive features. This trim level offers the ultimate Palisade experience, with a focus on luxury, style, and exclusivity.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL offers excellent value for its price. It provides a spacious and comfortable interior, a long list of standard features, and a strong engine. Compared to its competitors, the Palisade SEL often comes out ahead in terms of value. You get a lot of bang for your buck, making it a smart choice for families and anyone seeking a well-rounded SUV. The Palisade SEL's combination of affordability, features, and performance makes it a compelling option in the competitive SUV market.

Pros and Cons

Here’s a quick rundown of the pros and cons of the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL, helping you get a balanced view before making your decision.

Pros

• Spacious Interior: The Palisade SEL offers a generous amount of space for passengers and cargo, making it ideal for families. The third-row seating provides comfortable accommodations for adults, and the cargo area is ample for luggage and other items. The spaciousness is a major selling point.
• Comfortable Ride: The Palisade SEL provides a smooth and comfortable ride, making it a pleasant vehicle for long journeys. The suspension is well-tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, and the seats are supportive and comfortable.
• User-Friendly Technology: The infotainment system is intuitive and easy to use, with a responsive touchscreen and seamless smartphone integration. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, allowing you to easily access your favorite apps. The technology is well-integrated and enhances the driving experience.
• Value for Money: The Palisade SEL offers excellent value for its price, with a long list of standard features and a competitive price point. It provides a lot of bang for your buck, making it a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers.
• Safety Features: The Palisade SEL comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, providing peace of mind and enhancing driver awareness. Features like forward collision warning, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control contribute to a safer driving experience.

Cons

• Exterior Styling (Subjective): While many find the Palisade's design appealing, some may find the styling to be too conservative or not as visually striking as some competitors.
• Fuel Economy: The fuel economy is decent for the class, but it could be better. If fuel efficiency is a top priority, there may be more fuel-efficient options available.
• Limited Off-Road Capability: The Palisade SEL is designed primarily for on-road use. While all-wheel drive is available, it's not designed for serious off-roading. If you frequently drive on rough terrain, other SUVs might be a better choice.

Conclusion: Is the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL Right for You?

Alright, guys, let’s wrap this up. The 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL is a standout SUV that brings a lot to the table. It successfully combines space, comfort, technology, and value. If you're in the market for a mid-size SUV that can comfortably accommodate your family and provide a pleasant driving experience, the Palisade SEL is definitely worth a look. Its spacious interior, user-friendly technology, and long list of standard features make it a strong contender in its class.

However, it's essential to consider your specific needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel efficiency or require significant off-road capabilities, you might want to explore other options. But for those seeking a well-rounded, family-friendly SUV with a focus on comfort and value, the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL is an excellent choice. Make sure to take one for a test drive to experience it firsthand and see if it meets your needs. I hope this comprehensive review has been helpful in your decision-making process. Happy car hunting!