2022 Hyundai Palisade vs 2022 GMC Terrain

The 2022 GMC Terrain underwent a series of updates, including refreshed front styling, new wheel designs, and updated taillights and interior trim. The introduction of the AT4 trim level added a bolder grille design, black 17-inch alloy wheels with sport-terrain tires, and AT4 badges. A steel skid plate was installed under the front end to protect vital components, catering to those who might take the "small off-road SUV" claim seriously. The test vehicle featured Ebony Twilight metallic paint, a black leather interior, and was equipped with several packages, bringing the MSRP in Canada to $44,757. Despite the upscale appearance, the Terrain's interior materials and execution reflected its entry-level status, with some design choices, like the pushbutton transmission controls, proving less intuitive.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade, as Hyundai's SUV flagship, presented an elegant and striking exterior design, shedding any past criticisms of being derivative. Its distinctive lines, prominent grille, and sculpted wheel arches added visual interest, while the continuous strip of glass surfaces gave the impression of a floating rear roof. Inside, the Palisade offered a polished and elegant cabin with high-quality materials and finishes. The top-of-the-line Ultimate Calligraphy model was particularly stunning, featuring a Steel Graphite paint and black interior combination. The fit and finish were near-luxury levels, making the Palisade a worthy flagship in design and execution.

The 2022 GMC Terrain was powered by a turbocharged 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine, producing 170 horsepower and 203 pound-feet of torque. While the engine's power was adequate, it required learning to ride the torque swell for satisfaction. The nine-speed automatic transmission helped keep the Terrain in the torque band, but the absence of the previously available turbocharged 2.0-litre engine was felt. The Terrain's off-road capabilities were limited, with the AT4 model offering 20.1 centimetres of ground clearance. The ride was smooth on highways and city streets, but the sport-terrain tires lacked grip in curves. Fuel economy was reasonable, with a combined rating of 9.0 litres per 100 kilometres.

In contrast, the 2022 Hyundai Palisade featured a naturally aspirated 3.8-litre V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. The V6 offered a baritone rumble and no turbo lag, providing ample power for family use. The Palisade's curb weight ranged from 1,991 to 2,004 kilograms, and it handled nicely with its four-wheel independent suspension. The Palisade could tow up to 2,267 kilograms with trailer brakes. While not the most fuel-efficient, with a combined rating of 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres, the trade-off was a powerful and smooth driving experience.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered a roomy interior for a compact crossover, with power-adjustable front seats, heated front seats, and a heated steering wheel. The back seat provided ample legroom and support, and the AT4 trim featured perforated leather upholstery with caramel-colour contrast stitching. Cargo space measured 838 litres behind the second row, expanding to 1,792 litres with the rear seat folded. The Terrain also included a large storage bin under the trunk floor and the ability to fold the front passenger seat for longer items.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade excelled as a minivan replacement, offering comfortable seating throughout the cabin. The third row provided easy access and cupholders, while the second-row captain's chairs were comfortable. The front row featured ample storage, including two compartments in the centre console. Luggage space measured 509 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,447 litres with both rows folded. The Palisade's gear selector was a compact shift-by-wire setup, and the dual-panel sunroof on the Ultimate Calligraphy trim improved the ambiance. Heated and ventilated seats, a hands-free liftgate, and power-folding third-row seats were standard on higher trims.

The 2022 GMC Terrain offered two infotainment systems, with the SLT, AT4, and Denali trims featuring an 8-inch touchscreen. Both systems included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM, and GMC Connected Services. The Infotainment Package II added connected navigation, improved voice recognition, and a Bose audio system. The voice recognition system was praised for its accuracy, while the Bose speakers were less impressive. The Tech Package included a head-up display, park assist sensors, and a surround-view camera system.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade showcased Hyundai's technological prowess, with a standard 1920 x 720 colour touchscreen and a 630-watt Harman Kardon audio system on higher trims. The infotainment system included wired Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and satellite radio. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim featured a Qi wireless charging pad, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a head-up display. Hyundai's Blue Link connected car system was standard on higher trims, offering remote engine start and vehicle monitoring.

The 2022 GMC Terrain came standard with the GMC Pro Safety Package, including forward-collision warning, pedestrian detection, and lane-keeping assist. The Pro Safety Plus Package added adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The Terrain received mostly "Good" crash-test scores from the IIHS, with a "Marginal" rating in a new side-impact test. The NHTSA had not evaluated the Terrain's crashworthiness at the time of review.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade boasted a comprehensive list of safety features, including seven airbags, anti-lock braking, and electronic stability control. Advanced driver assistance features included blind-spot collision avoidance, rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance, and forward collision-avoidance assist. The Palisade earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.