Used Buy: Hyundai Palisade for Under R950k

The Hyundai Palisade is a stylish and practical alternative to the established players in the luxury adventure-SUV sphere but offers a host of tech and features at a competitive price point. We explore this Korean vehicle as a second-hand purchase and list two of its rivals.

Image: Hyundai

When Hyundai launched the Palisade in South Africa in 2021, it was a clear notion of intent that the Korean automaker was reaching for new ground. Slotting in above the Santa Fe as the firm’s flagship model, it offered all the amenities and features of a European SUV but without the often eye-watering asking price. It was Hyundai’s way of showing that a high-end, high-riding, tech-rich SUV could be had for similar money to the Kia Sorento and Ford Everest.

At just under five metres long and with a wheelbase of almost three metres, the Palisade’s size translates into a proper three-row SUV with enough space to seat seven or eight passengers. Whether in the original 2021 guise or the updated version introduced in 2023 (the eight-seater was discontinued soon after), the Palisade carries a strong sense of presence. The update ushered in a more squared-off grille and revised lighting signatures, giving it a slightly more US-inspired look; fitting, as the Palisade was originally developed for the North American market.

Image: Hyundai

Under the bonnet, Hyundai opted for its proven D-series 2.2-litre turbodiesel engine that develops 142 kW and 440 N.m of torque, mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission. It’s a drivetrain combination that does the job with a calm, torque-rich ease. Power is delivered smoothly and, in all-wheel-drive guise, the Palisade offers decent road grip in a variety of conditions.

One of the strongest cards in the Palisade’s deck is its generous level of standard equipment. Thanks to multi-zone climate control and heated and ventilated seats, as well as a comprehensive suite of safety technologies – including adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring and lane-keeping assistance – the Palisade rarely feels short-changed. Wireless charging, multiple USB ports as well as a surround-view monitor add to everyday ease of use.

An area where the (pre-facelifted) Palisade seems to lack, though, is the interior styling. While the perceived build quality is good and the materials are generally upmarket, the instrument cluster and console’s design feel more old-school than contemporary. Despite their functionality, the analogue speedometer and rev counter lack the flair and style seen in newer rivals. Likewise, the layout of the centre console is defined by straight lines, which is useful but not exactly imaginative.

However, the ergonomics are top-class. All the key functions are easy to access, and the buttons and switches are well laid out and intuitive, so you don’t need to scroll through endless menus while driving. In this sense, the Palisade leans more towards function than flair; a practical choice many buyers actually appreciate, and a far cry from the often-confusing systems found in many modern Chinese vehicles.

What to look out for when buying a used Hyundai Palisade

Considering the Palisade first arrived on local shores just four years ago, potential buyers should keep the following in mind. Given its extensive use in various Hyundai and Kia products, the 2.2-litre diesel engine is generally reliable, but it is wise to check the service history for regular oil changes and maintenance, particularly as modern turbodiesels can be sensitive to neglect. While some early models may have had minor issues with infotainment software glitches, these were quickly resolved through updates at the dealership.

A major plus is the Palisade’s seven-year/200 000 km warranty and seven-year/105 000 km service plan, which should still be in play. Assuming a high-mileage 2021 Palisade covered 25 000 km annually between then and now, potential buyers will make the purchase knowing the SUV has a full-service history. Additionally, the acquisition of an aftermarket service or maintenance plan will provide some mechanical peace of mind.

Alternative options

Ford Everest

Based on the latest Ranger bakkie, the new Everest moved upmarket, aiming to appeal to buyers looking for more refinement, improved technology and a greater sense of luxury.

From the outside, the new design makes a strong statement, supported by C-clamp LED headlamps, a wider stance and bold lines. Inside, a large vertical touchscreen takes centre stage, loaded with the brand’s SYNC 4A infotainment system. The higher-end models offer a long list of creature comforts, including a premium Bang & Olufsen sound system, wireless phone charging and climate control. The materials used in the cabin, especially in the more expensive trims, are a big step up from the previous generation.

Available in 4×2 and 4×4, powerplants include a 2.0-litre bi-turbo four-cylinder diesel engine (154 kW/500 N.m) and a potent 3.0-litre V6 turbodiesel unit (184 kW/600 N.m), both paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The V6, in particular, offers plentiful torque, making highway cruising and overtaking effortless. Perhaps crucially, off-road capability remains at the core of the Everest’s DNA. With selectable drive modes, ground clearance of 220 mm, low-range and an 800 mm wading depth, it is a capable performer off the beaten track.

That said, the Everest is no longer seen as a direct rival to the Toyota Fortuner and Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, with its pricing and features aligning with the Palisade’s. In tight city spaces, the Everest’s size can make parking a bit of a chore, although the 360-degree camera system in top-spec models helps.

Image: Ford

Jeep Grand Cherokee L

The fifth-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee L arrived in South Africa in 2022, with the ‘L’ indicative of its seven-seater packaging. Although positioned against traditional rivals like the Toyota Land Cruiser Prado and Land Rover Defender, its seven-seat configuration makes it a viable alternative to the Palisade.

All variants are powered by a 3.6-litre Pentastar V6 petrol engine, delivering 210 kW and 344 N.m through an 8-speed automatic transmission. While this engine’s power delivery is smooth, the

absence of a diesel option may deter some buyers, especially considering the segment’s preference for diesel powertrains.

The L’s off-road credentials are solid, though. All derivatives – Limited, Overland and Summit Reserve – feature Jeep’s Quadra-Trac II 4WD system, but Overland and Summit Reserve add 4×4 Low (Lock), Neutral, full-time Active 4×4 and Quadra-Lift air suspension. The latter setup provides up to 277 mm of ground clearance and a wading depth of 610 mm.

Early examples occasionally experienced automatic transmissions that hunted around the ratios and a light vibration from the drivetrain at motorway speeds. The air-con, too, can blow weakly, even when on its maximum setting.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee’s robust 4×4 systems make it a strong contender in the premium-SUV segment. Still, potential buyers should consider the higher fuel consumption and technical gremlins that could possibly derail the overall ownership experience.