Hyundai’s latest addition to the line-up acts as a larger sibling to the Santa Fe XL. The 2020 Hyundai Palisade is the company’s latest large SUV meant for hauling families and cargo comfortably, efficiently, and safely.

The Palisade features an exterior design like no other large SUV on the market. The front fascia adopts styling cues from the brand’s new design language such as the sleek, separated LED daytime running lights. Around back, the Palisade features two vertical LED taillights – another distinct design element never-before-seen on Hyundai’s line of vehicles. Notably, despite the Palisade’s large presence it achieves an impressive aerodynamic coefficient of 0.33, increasing the overall efficiency of the vehicle.

Inside, the Palisade is packed full of utilitarian amenities fit for families. The power folding and reclining third row of seating is accessible via a “One-Touch” feature on the second row seats. For the driver, a 12.3 inch instrument cluster and a 10.25 inch touchscreen located in the center of the dashboard relay important information. For the comfort of both the passengers and driver, a unique in-car intercom allows the driver to communicate with the second or third row exclusively, and a “Rear Sleep Mode” allows the driver to play their own music without disturbing passengers in rear rows. In addition, the large dimensions of the Palisade make it best-in-class for interior room ensuring a comfortable ride.

Powering the Palisade is a 3.8L V6 which produces 291 horsepower and approximately 262 lb.-ft. of torque. Power is transferred to the wheels via an 8-speed automatic transmission and this setup can be paired to either a two wheel- or four-wheel drive drivetrain. One might want to opt for the four wheel drive variant in colder climates since the HTRAC AWD system features a “snow mode” which adjusts front and rear torque distribution based on the conditions with the ability to lock differentials.

To ensure the safety of the driver and occupants, the Palisade comes standard with Hyundai SmartSense. This includes accident-mitigation features such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection, Blind Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Following Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Avoidance Assist, Safe Exit Assist, High Beam Assist, Driver Attention Warning and Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go. Of the list, an interesting feature ensuring passenger safety is the Safe Exit Assist, which uses a radar to detect approaching cars and keeps the doors locked to ensure passengers do not exit the vehicle in live traffic. Hyundai has been increasingly integrating technology into its vehicles and the Blue Link Connected Car System allows owners to control various features, as well as, receive updates on their smartphones regarding their vehicle.

Overall, the Palisade serves as a new contender in the large SUV segment, and one whose technology, performance and safety will make it a popular option for growing families.