2021 Hyundai Palisade vs 2022 Hyundai Tucson

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade Ultimate Calligraphy distinguished itself with a unique grille pattern, revised exterior lighting, and additional lower body trim. It featured unique 20-inch alloy wheels and upgraded interior detailing, including a simulated suede headliner. The only other exterior change for 2021 was the addition of standard LED headlights for models that previously lacked them. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim gave the Palisade a more luxurious appearance, drawing attention with its unconventional styling. Inside, the cabin was adorned with quilted and stitched premium Nappa leather, making it appear more expensive than its actual price.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson rode on a new platform and was offered in a long-wheelbase version in North America, providing two rows of seating and an expanded cargo area. It sported Hyundai's new vehicle face, with a parametric grille hiding LED daytime running lights and Bi-LED headlights. The Tucson's side profile mirrored the Hyundai Elantra's design, featuring a silver D-pillar for a floating roof effect. The rear showcased toothy LED taillights, helping it stand out among compact SUVs. Depending on the trim, the Tucson rode on 17- or 19-inch alloy wheels, with high-end models featuring premium fascias, gloss black pillars, and a panoramic sunroof. The interior was well-appointed, with stain- and odour-resistant cloth seats, sport combination seats, and leather-trimmed options available.

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 various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, Snow, 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 Hyundai Tucson offered two powertrain variants: a 2.5-litre four-cylinder engine with 187 horsepower and a hybrid powertrain with a turbocharged 1.6-litre engine and an electric motor, delivering 226 combined horsepower. The hybrid powertrain was more powerful and efficient, with a fuel consumption rating of 6.4 L/100 km combined. The Tucson's all-wheel-drive system performed well in off-road testing, similar to Subaru's reactive AWD system. The upcoming plug-in hybrid version promised even more power, with an estimated 261 horsepower and a 13.8-kilowatt-hour battery.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered a spacious and comfortable interior, with eight-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, and separate climate controls for third-row passengers. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and support, and the third-row seat was more accommodating than most in its class. The Palisade boasted 509 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expandable to 2,447 litres with the second-row seats folded. The hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience for loading cargo.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson's interior was well-appointed, with a six-way power-adjustable driver's seat as standard and an eight-way version available on higher trims. Heated front seats were standard, with ventilated front seats and heated rear seats available. The Tucson's new platform allowed for increased passenger and cargo space, with 1,095 litres of cargo space behind the rear seats. The rear featured a 60-40 split-folding bench seat, providing flexibility for passengers and cargo.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems: an 8-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen requiring a wired connection. 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 2022 Hyundai Tucson came with an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, six-speaker audio system, and smartphone connectivity. Higher trims offered a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation and a fully digital instrument cluster. The touchpoints on the centre console were responsive, though some drivers found them challenging to use while driving. The Tucson also featured steering wheel controls and voice commands for added convenience.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping systems as standard. It also featured a rear occupant alert system and active blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems. 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.

The 2022 Hyundai Tucson's safety features included forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, automatic high beams, and a driver attention monitor. Additional features like blind-spot warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control were available. The Tucson's safety suite was comprehensive, rivaling that of luxury SUVs. Hyundai backed the Tucson with a 5-year/100,000-kilometre limited warranty.