The 2023 Hyundai Palisade is a fantastic midsize-to-large SUV that really caters to Malaysian family needs. It boasts a spacious three-row seating layout, comfortably accommodating up to 8 people – perfect for our local multi-member households. The interior space is cleverly designed too; the second-row seats slide at the touch of a button, making it easy for third-row passengers to get in and out. Boot space is impressive for the class, even with all three rows in use, there's still room for some luggage.
Under the hood, you've got a 3.5L V6 naturally aspirated engine paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, churning out 294 horsepower. The power delivery is smooth and ample, more than capable of handling Malaysia's diverse road conditions.
When it comes to safety, the Palisade comes standard with Hyundai's SmartSense suite, packing features like adaptive cruise control, lane keep assist, and blind-spot monitoring – the whole shebang. It even scored a full five-star rating in ASEAN NCAP testing, which is always reassuring.
Inside, the cabin uses quality materials, and there's a nice 10.25-inch touchscreen that supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The three-zone independent climate control is a godsend, especially given Malaysia's sweltering heat.
Exterior-wise, it's got a bold, modern look with Hyundai's signature grille up front flanked by LED headlamps, giving it a premium vibe overall.
As an imported vehicle, its pricing in the Malaysian market is quite competitive. It offers better value for money compared to similar Japanese and European SUVs. Plus, Hyundai Malaysia backs it with a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, so owners can drive with added peace of mind.
All in all, this one's a standout choice for families who need plenty of space but aren't willing to compromise on comfort or tech features.
