Hyundai continues to dominate the SUV market with a diverse lineup of models that offer style, value, and innovation. From compact crossovers to full-size family haulers, Hyundai’s SUVs are packed with smart technology, excellent safety features, and eye-catching design. But which one stands out as the best Hyundai SUV in 2025? In this guide, we’ll explore what makes the Hyundai Palisade the top choice, including its key features, performance specs, pricing, and expert tips for shoppers.
Overview of the Best Hyundai SUV in 2025 – The Hyundai Palisade
In a field of impressive options like the Tucson, Santa Fe, and Kona, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade emerges as Hyundai’s flagship SUV—and arguably its best overall. This three-row midsize SUV combines high-end features, a premium cabin, and a smooth ride with a competitive price point, making it ideal for families and drivers seeking both utility and refinement.
Available in trims including SE, SEL, XRT, Limited, and the luxury-level Calligraphy, the 2025 Palisade offers versatile configurations, seating for up to eight, and advanced tech and safety systems that rival luxury competitors.
Key Features
Interior Comfort and Design
Step inside the 2025 Hyundai Palisade and you’ll immediately notice the upscale atmosphere. Even the base trims feature soft-touch materials, an intuitive layout, and a quiet cabin. Upper trims include quilted leather seats, real wood accents, and ambient lighting that elevate the experience.
Key interior highlights include:
- Power-adjustable heated front seats (standard)
- Heated and ventilated second-row captain’s chairs (available)
- Tri-zone climate control
- Panoramic sunroof (available)
- Available Nappa leather upholstery
The third row is roomy enough for adults, and access is made easy with a one-touch sliding second-row system.
Technology and Connectivity
The 2025 Palisade comes loaded with Hyundai’s latest tech offerings. Even the base SE trim includes a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a large 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, along with multiple USB-C ports and Wi-Fi hotspot capability.
Higher trims feature:
- Integrated navigation with real-time traffic
- Harman Kardon premium audio system
- Rear-seat intercom and Quiet Mode
- Hyundai Digital Key 2 (use your smartphone as a key)
OTA (over-the-air) software updates ensure the system stays current over time.
Safety and Driver Assistance
Hyundai continues its commitment to safety with a full suite of SmartSense driver assistance features, standard across all Palisade trims. These include:
- Forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian and cyclist detection
- Lane keeping assist and lane following assist
- Blind-spot collision-avoidance assist
- Rear cross-traffic collision avoidance
- Adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go
- Highway Driving Assist (standard on most trims)
The Palisade consistently earns top safety scores, including IIHS Top Safety Pick+ ratings.
Performance and Engine Options
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade is powered by a reliable and refined 3.8-liter V6 engine, delivering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission, the V6 provides smooth and confident acceleration whether cruising around town or merging onto the highway.
Front-wheel drive is standard, while Hyundai’s HTRAC all-wheel drive is available across the lineup for added traction in rain, snow, or light off-roading.
Fuel Economy
The Palisade delivers respectable fuel efficiency for a midsize three-row SUV:
- FWD: 19 mpg city / 26 mpg highway
- AWD: 19 mpg city / 24 mpg highway
Handling and Ride Quality
The Palisade offers a smooth, composed ride with well-tuned suspension that absorbs bumps and keeps the cabin serene. It handles confidently for its size, with responsive steering and minimal body roll in turns. The available AWD system enhances stability on slick roads, and the Palisade remains quiet and composed even at highway speeds.
Interior and Practicality
Seating and Space
With seating for up to eight passengers (seven with captain’s chairs), the Palisade offers generous space across all three rows. Legroom is plentiful, and the cabin design maximizes comfort and accessibility.
The power-folding third row and sliding second row make configuration easy for passengers and cargo.
Cargo and Versatility
Cargo capacity is another strength:
- 18 cubic feet behind the third row
- 45.8 cubic feet behind the second row
- 86.4 cubic feet with all rear seats folded
With flat-folding seats, a hands-free smart liftgate, and underfloor storage, the Palisade is ideal for road trips, errands, and hauling gear.
Pricing and Availability
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade remains competitively priced for a three-row SUV that offers near-luxury amenities:
- SE Trim: Starting around $39,000
- SEL Trim: Around $42,000
- XRT Trim: Around $45,000
- Limited Trim: Around $49,000
- Calligraphy Trim: From $52,000
All trims are backed by Hyundai’s industry-leading 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty, offering unbeatable long-term value.
Tips for Buying the Best Hyundai SUV
Consider Trim Levels Carefully: Each trim offers significant feature differences. The SEL is great for value, while the Calligraphy delivers true luxury.
Test Drive with a Full Load: If you’re buying the Palisade for family use, test it with several passengers to assess comfort and cabin functionality.
Look for Lease Offers: Hyundai frequently offers aggressive lease and finance deals, especially on higher trims.
Ask About AWD: If you live in a snowy region or plan to drive off-pavement, the HTRAC AWD system is worth the upgrade.
Check for Incentives: Take advantage of regional offers, loyalty discounts, or military and recent graduate bonuses.
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade earns its title as the best Hyundai SUV by offering a rare combination of style, practicality, comfort, and premium features—all at a competitive price. From families needing space to professionals seeking refinement without the luxury badge markup, the Palisade delivers on every front. With outstanding safety, warranty coverage, and daily usability, the Palisade stands as Hyundai’s top SUV—and one of the best in its class.