Fleet Auto News took three models of the Hyundai Palisade extra-large SUV for test drives were really surprised by the size. It’s a big car for novated lease buyers and there aren’t many options in this category. The ‘King of the Road’ is one vehicle of similar size and space. If you don’t need the 4X4 off-road capability of the Landcruiser, and like the space, then the Palisade would be a perfect alternative.
The Palisade’s sibling, the Santa Fe, is a large SUV which transports a family of five in comfort and has no problem slipping two adults into the third row for the occasional outing. So we were wondering (like we do when watching American movies with the ubiquitous black SUVs), why would you need something bigger? After driving three different models we don’t have an answer. But we wouldn’t argue against having an extra-large SUV either.
Here’s the models we drove:
- Palisade 7 seat Highlander 2.2 Diesel
- Palisade 8 seat 3.8 Petrol
- Palisade 8 seat Highlander 2.2 Diesel
We preferred the 8 seat Highlander model as a family car because it gives you a proper boot. You’ll see in the video that we took it to Bunnings and carry stuff in the boot. With the third row of seats folded down there’s plenty of space for shopping; and for storing things that won’t fit in your house.
You could almost convince yourself into the extra-large Hyundai Palisade if you have a small house, or live in a unit. Because the boot is the same size as a small storage shed and it may save you some money by using it to hide the Christmas decorations and ski gear 10 months of the year.
If I was a transporting people in the Hyundai Palisade (like a chauffeur) the 7 seat would be the pick because it gives you a ‘Captains’ seat setup in the rear which is very luxurious and spacious.
Choosing between the petrol and diesel engines is a Head or Heart decision. We loved the responsiveness of the petrol but it’s only available in 2WD and it swallowed the juice so quickly you’ll question your motives each time you visit the bowser. The diesel engine felt like driving a tortoise. Slow, steady, reliable, strong. And it comes in 4WD which we’ll need when we use the ski gear stored in the boot. Our head wins when we compare the historical the pump prices.
We hope you enjoy the video. Your can check out the pricing and cost to own in the 2022 Novated Leasing Guide.
