2022 Kia EV6 vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

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 standard LED headlights were a new addition for 2021, enhancing the vehicle's visual appeal. 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 feel more expensive than its price suggested.

In contrast, the 2022 Kia EV6 presented a sportier and more svelte design, reminiscent of a Ford Mustang Mach-E. It was visually lower and wider, with a highback tail and a lip spoiler that doubled as a lightbar. The wheels were pushed to the corners, giving the body a curvaceous look similar to a Porsche 911. The headlights traced a V-shaped pattern, and the wedgy profile was accentuated by an angled roofline and twin ducts in the rear spoiler. The EV6's design was bold and industrial, with features like recessed lights and a chrome trim that added a touch of sparkle. The interior boasted dual 12-inch screens, a floating centre console, and seats covered in suede and leather, creating a futuristic and enjoyable driving environment.

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, 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 suspension provided excellent body-motion control, making it enjoyable to drive, though not particularly sporty. The Palisade was undemanding in typical driving scenarios, with ample power and easy handling. It also boasted a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms (5,000 pounds).

The 2022 Kia EV6, tested in the GT-Line e-AWD configuration, featured two electric motors delivering 320 horsepower and 446 pound-feet of torque. It accelerated to 60 mph in a claimed 4.6 seconds and offered impressive cornering capabilities. The upcoming GT trim promised even more power with 576 hp. The EV6's regenerative braking system allowed for one-pedal driving, and its drive modes were easily adjustable. However, the EV6's driving range was disappointing in cold weather, achieving only 65 percent of Kia's estimated range. Charging was efficient, with the ability to accept up to 240 kW, but real-world charging times were longer than Kia's claims.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space and accessibility. It featured eight-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated second-row captain’s chairs, and a more accommodating third-row seat. The Palisade offered ample in-cabin storage and a hands-free Smart Liftgate. Cargo space measured 509 litres behind the third-row seats, expanding to 2,447 litres with the second-row seats folded.

The 2022 Kia EV6 provided generous legroom and headroom, with reclining rear seats and air vents. However, its cargo space was limited, with 690 litres behind the seats and 1,322 litres when folded. The EV6's towing capacity was 1,043 kilograms (2,300 pounds), and it featured an onboard power generator for added utility.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems, with the Ultimate Calligraphy trim featuring a 10.25-inch touchscreen, SiriusXM, HD Radio, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. It included wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, and a head-up display. The Palisade's technology was user-friendly and comprehensive.

The 2022 Kia EV6's infotainment system was simple and quick, with a 360-degree surround-view camera and a head-up display with augmented reality. The GT-Line Package 2 included a 14-speaker Meridian stereo and a remote parking assist system. The EV6's tech was impressive without being overwhelming.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, with features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and lane-keeping systems. It earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA. The Highway Driving Assist was a standout feature, providing smooth and sophisticated assistance.

The 2022 Kia EV6 lacked published safety test results but offered standard features like forward collision avoidance assist, lane keep assist, and rear occupant alert. Higher trims included blind spot monitoring and 360 cameras.