2022 Chevrolet Suburban vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade Ultimate Calligraphy stood out with its distinctive grille pattern, revised exterior lighting, and unique 20-inch alloy wheels. The upgraded interior detailing, including a simulated suede headliner, added to its luxurious feel. Standard LED headlights were a new addition for the year, enhancing the vehicle's modern look. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim made the Palisade appear more upscale than its price suggested, drawing mixed reactions due to its unconventional styling. Inside, the premium Nappa leather and suede headliner created an impression of luxury, making it a standout in the midsize three-row SUV class.

In contrast, the 2022 Chevrolet Suburban adopted Chevrolet's full-size truck design language, giving it a supersized appearance with a tall hood and long proportions. The RST trim featured a striking Cherry Red Tintcoat exterior, 22-inch wheels, and a monochromatic black grille, contributing to its sporty look. Inside, the Suburban offered a spacious cabin with varying levels of luxury depending on the trim. The RST model boasted Jet Black perforated leather seats with Victory Red stitching, but the predominantly black interior felt somewhat dark despite the chrome accents. The Suburban's design emphasized customization and practicality, appealing to those seeking a large, versatile SUV.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade was equipped with a 3.8-litre V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. It offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, and Sport, along with a Snow mode and a Lock function for improved traction. The Palisade achieved a fuel efficiency of 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. Its firmer suspension provided excellent body-motion control, making it enjoyable to drive without sacrificing comfort. The Palisade's towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms, with a new seven-pin trailer pre-wiring connector for 2021.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban offered three engine choices: a 5.3-litre V8 with 355 horsepower, a 6.2-litre V8 with 420 horsepower, and a 3.0-litre turbodiesel inline-six with 277 horsepower. All engines were paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The 6.2-litre V8, featured in the RST trim, provided effortless power and acceleration, making it ideal for towing. The Suburban's maximum towing capacity was 3,765 kilograms with the Max Trailering Package. The independent rear suspension improved ride quality and increased cargo space, while the 4WD system offered versatility for various driving conditions.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space and accessibility, offering a comfortable and plush cabin, especially in the Ultimate Calligraphy trim. The front seats were power-adjustable, with heated and ventilated options for the first two rows. The third-row seat was more accommodating than most in its class, and the Palisade provided ample in-cabin storage. Cargo space measured 509 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,447 litres with the second and third rows folded. The hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience, although it could be disabled if desired.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban boasted impressive interior space, accommodating up to nine occupants with the optional front-row bench seat. The third row offered adequate headroom and legroom, and access was excellent. Cargo space was a standout feature, with 1,175 litres behind the third row and a maximum of 4,097 litres with the second and third rows folded. The power-sliding centre console and hidden storage drawer added practicality. However, the Suburban's size made it challenging to maneuver and park in tight spaces, and the electronic push-button transmission controls required adjustment for those used to a column-mounted shifter.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems, with an 8-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen display. Both systems allowed pairing of two smartphones via Bluetooth, but only the 8-inch setup offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim included a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, navigation, and Blue Link connected services. Additional features included wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, and a head-up display. The surround-view camera system aided parking and maneuvering.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban featured a range of technology options, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster standard on LT trims and above. Google built-in, including Google Maps and Google Assistant, was also standard on these trims. The Chevrolet Infotainment 3 System with an 8-inch touchscreen was standard on the LS, while a 10.2-inch system was available on higher trims. Wireless device charging and a WiFi hotspot were standard on LT trims and above. The Suburban offered multiple camera views, including a "transparent trailer" view, enhancing its tech appeal.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping systems as standard. The rear occupant alert system and Safe Exit Assist added to its safety credentials. The Highway Driving Assist provided smooth and sophisticated adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, ensuring peace of mind for families.

The 2022 Chevrolet Suburban featured the Chevy Safety Assist suite, including automatic emergency braking, forward-collision warning, and pedestrian braking. Additional standard features included lane-keeping assistance and a rear-vision camera. Optional safety features included adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and a head-up display. The Suburban received a four-star overall safety rating from the NHTSA, with strong scores in front and side crash protection.