Well, Hyundai USA did it.
Starting with a little $4,995 Excel hatchback in 1986, Hyundai has relentlessly gone from "me too" to "FOLLOW ME"…and a 40 billion dollar market value.
They did it with a relentless focus on "How do we make it better every year?".
And it worked. These guys can compete with anyone in the carpool lane these days.
Bob Jackson
Today they make 11 different vehicles ranging from the roughly 20K Venue on up to our tester this week, their 3-row AWD premium Palisade in top-end $53,650 "Calligraphy" trim…a vehicle so plush that it rivals their upscale Genesis.
This is a 3-row SUV that even in its mid to high $30,000 entry-level trim still brings a lot to your party.
You'll get a 291 HP 3.8 liter V-6 with an 8-speed automatic that can get you up to 26 MPG and tow up to 5,000 lbs., seating for 7 or 8, 18" alloys, second-tow USB and HVAC controls, Bluelink with no monthly fee, WiFi, one-touch access to the 2nd row, a 60/40 reclining third row, smart cruise, lane-centering, a full array of front and rear collision / parking / cross-traffic / pedestrian warnings, and Hyundai's "Safe Exit Assist"…a feature that locks the rear doors when unloading if it detects approaching traffic. Whew. That's a lot of content for a base SE model.
Bob Jackson
So what does stepping up to the top-of-the-line Calligraphy get you? Just about everything else.
20" alloys, roof rails, a hands-free liftgate, premium heated and ventilated Nappa leather with 8-way power and a 4-way lumbar massage, heated second and third row seating, premium audio and an in-vehicle intercom system, a dual panel sunroof, acoustic glass, wireless charging, a heads-up display and multi-configurable ambient lighting. Like I said…just about everything that a Genesis would give you.
Bob Jackson
The Palisade has a corporate cousin over at KAI…the Telluride. They're pretty similar vehicles. Some owners have told me that they think the Palisade has a slightly softer ride…and others simply prefer the styling.
Whichever you choose, I'm guessing that you won't be hearing "Are we there yet" quite as often…as those in the rear will probably be enjoying the ride just as much as you are!
Bob Jackson
