Hey there, fellow car enthusiasts! Let's dive deep into the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL, shall we? This mid-size SUV has been making waves, and for good reason. It's a fantastic blend of space, comfort, and features, all wrapped up in a stylish package. If you're in the market for a family-friendly vehicle that doesn't skimp on the good stuff, the Palisade SEL deserves a serious look. I've spent some time behind the wheel, poured over the specs, and dug through the reviews to give you the lowdown. So, buckle up, and let's explore what makes the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL a compelling choice for so many.

Overview: What Makes the Palisade SEL Stand Out?

First off, the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL is the sweet spot in the Palisade lineup, offering a compelling balance of features and value. It slots in between the base SE and the higher-end trims, giving you a taste of luxury without breaking the bank. Think of it as the Goldilocks of the Palisade family—just right. You get a spacious interior, a powerful engine, and a long list of standard equipment, all while keeping the price competitive. This combination has made the Palisade a favorite among families and anyone who needs a versatile vehicle. One of the main reasons people are drawn to the Palisade is its impressive cabin space. It comfortably seats up to eight passengers, providing ample room for everyone to stretch out and relax, even on long road trips. The third-row seats are surprisingly accommodating, which is a major plus compared to some competitors where the back row feels more like a penalty box. Beyond its practicality, the Palisade SEL also boasts a sleek and modern design that turns heads. Hyundai has really stepped up their game in recent years, and the Palisade is a prime example of their design prowess. The exterior is bold and confident, with a distinctive front grille, stylish LED lighting, and a well-proportioned silhouette. Inside, the cabin is equally impressive, with high-quality materials and a thoughtfully designed layout. Overall, the Palisade SEL is an appealing package, blending practicality, style, and value, which makes it a standout choice in its class. For those who want more than basic features without going all-out, this trim is the ticket.

The Palisade SEL's appeal extends beyond its generous interior and eye-catching design; it’s also packed with a slew of tech and safety features that enhance the driving experience. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a large touchscreen display that's easy to navigate, so you won’t feel like you are always fumbling around to get where you want to go. It includes smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring that you can seamlessly connect your devices and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation tools. The SEL trim often includes features such as a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, adding a touch of luxury and comfort to your daily commute. Safety is paramount, and the Palisade SEL comes equipped with an array of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These features, such as lane-keeping assist, adaptive cruise control, and automatic emergency braking, are designed to enhance safety and provide added peace of mind on the road. The Palisade SEL is a well-rounded package that delivers on various fronts, which makes it a standout choice for families and anyone seeking a versatile and feature-rich SUV. When you choose the SEL, you are getting a vehicle that prioritizes both comfort and safety, making it a reliable and enjoyable option.

Interior and Comfort: Space, Features, and Amenities

Alright, let's talk about the inside of the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL. This is where the Palisade truly shines. Step inside, and you'll immediately notice the spaciousness. It’s a cabin designed with comfort in mind, offering plenty of room for both passengers and cargo. The seats are supportive and well-cushioned, and the second-row captain's chairs (available in some configurations) provide even more comfort and ease of access to the third row. The materials used throughout the interior feel premium, and the overall design is modern and inviting. The dash layout is clean and intuitive, with a large touchscreen display that controls the infotainment system. This makes it easy to access all your favorite features and apps. The Palisade SEL also boasts a long list of standard features, including a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, adding a touch of luxury to your everyday driving experience. Passengers in the second and third rows will also appreciate the generous legroom and headroom, making long trips more comfortable for everyone. In addition to passenger comfort, the Palisade excels in cargo capacity. With the rear seats folded down, you have a vast amount of space to haul luggage, groceries, or whatever else you need to transport. And even with all seats in use, there's still a decent amount of cargo space behind the third row. Hyundai has really nailed the balance of space and comfort in the Palisade SEL, making it an ideal choice for families and anyone who values a roomy and well-appointed interior.

Beyond just the physical space, the Palisade SEL is loaded with features designed to enhance your comfort and convenience. The infotainment system is a highlight, with a large touchscreen display that's easy to use and provides access to a range of features. It includes Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, allowing you to seamlessly integrate your smartphone and access your favorite apps, music, and navigation. The climate control system is effective, keeping the cabin at a comfortable temperature, no matter the weather outside. The SEL trim often includes additional features such as a sunroof, power liftgate, and premium audio system, further enhancing the overall driving experience. Hyundai has clearly put a lot of thought into the details, from the placement of the controls to the quality of the materials used. The result is a cabin that feels both luxurious and practical. The 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL is a standout in its class, offering a winning combination of space, comfort, and features. The interior is designed to make every journey enjoyable, whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a family road trip. It’s a great place to spend time, and it's one of the main reasons why the Palisade has become such a popular choice. The SEL trim is the sweet spot, giving you all the essentials, plus some nice upgrades without making you go broke.

Performance and Driving Experience: Engine, Handling, and Fuel Economy

Let’s rev up the conversation about the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL’s performance and driving dynamics, shall we? Under the hood, the Palisade SEL packs a punch with a 3.8-liter V6 engine, churning out a respectable 291 horsepower. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive shifts. The combination of power and transmission ensures that the Palisade has plenty of get-up-and-go for everyday driving, whether you're merging onto the highway or navigating city streets. The Palisade SEL offers a composed and comfortable ride, thanks to its well-tuned suspension. It effectively absorbs bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and enjoyable driving experience. The steering is light and precise, making the Palisade easy to maneuver, especially in tight parking situations. While it's not designed to be a sports car, the Palisade handles well for its size, offering confident and predictable handling. Whether you are navigating city streets or cruising on the open highway, the Palisade SEL offers a pleasing driving experience. The engine delivers ample power, and the transmission shifts smoothly, contributing to a comfortable and engaging ride. The Palisade is a vehicle you can confidently rely on for your daily commutes and weekend adventures.

Now, let's talk about fuel economy. The 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL achieves a respectable fuel economy for its class. The EPA estimates that it gets around 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, resulting in a combined fuel economy of approximately 22 mpg. While these figures may vary depending on your driving habits and road conditions, the Palisade SEL offers competitive fuel efficiency compared to its rivals. This makes it a practical choice for families and anyone looking to keep their fuel costs down. Although the Palisade SEL may not win any races, its performance is more than adequate for its intended purpose. It provides a smooth, comfortable ride, with plenty of power for everyday driving. The fuel economy is also reasonable, making it a practical choice for families and anyone looking for a versatile SUV. The Palisade SEL strikes a good balance between performance, comfort, and fuel efficiency, making it a well-rounded and appealing choice for a wide range of drivers. From the powerful V6 engine to the smooth-shifting transmission, the Palisade SEL offers a driving experience that is both enjoyable and practical.

Safety Features and Technology: Keeping You Protected

Safety is a top priority for any family vehicle, and the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL delivers with a comprehensive suite of safety features and advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These features are designed to help prevent accidents and protect occupants in the event of a collision, providing you with added peace of mind on the road. The Palisade SEL comes standard with a wide range of safety features, including forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection, lane-keeping assist, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go capability. Forward collision-avoidance assist can detect potential collisions and automatically apply the brakes if necessary. Lane-keeping assist helps keep the vehicle centered in its lane, while lane departure warning alerts you if you drift out of your lane unintentionally. Adaptive cruise control maintains a safe following distance from the vehicle in front, and it can even bring the vehicle to a complete stop in traffic. These features work together to enhance safety and reduce the risk of accidents.

Beyond these core safety features, the Palisade SEL offers several other advanced safety technologies. Blind-spot collision-avoidance assist monitors your blind spots and alerts you to the presence of other vehicles. Rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist helps prevent collisions when backing out of a parking space or driveway. Safe exit assist prevents passengers from opening the rear doors if it detects approaching traffic. These features provide an extra layer of protection, making the Palisade SEL a truly safe and reliable vehicle. The Palisade also received excellent safety ratings from both the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), further solidifying its reputation as a safe and reliable vehicle. The IIHS awarded the Palisade its prestigious Top Safety Pick+ rating, while the NHTSA gave it a five-star overall safety rating. These ratings reflect the vehicle's ability to protect occupants in the event of a crash and its effectiveness in preventing accidents. The Palisade SEL's focus on safety, combined with its advanced safety features and high safety ratings, makes it a top choice for families and anyone prioritizing safety on the road. You can drive with confidence, knowing that your vehicle is equipped with the latest safety technologies to help keep you and your passengers safe.

Trim Levels and Pricing: Finding the Right Fit

When it comes to the 2022 Hyundai Palisade, the SEL trim strikes a perfect balance in terms of features and price. It positions itself in the middle of the lineup, offering a compelling blend of value and amenities. The Palisade SE is the entry-level trim, providing the basic essentials. The SEL builds upon the SE, adding a range of features and upgrades that enhance comfort, convenience, and technology. If you are looking for a more luxurious experience, the Limited and Calligraphy trims offer premium features, such as Nappa leather seats, a panoramic sunroof, and a more upscale interior design. The SEL trim is a sweet spot, providing a great value proposition for many buyers. It typically includes features such as a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a larger touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These features significantly enhance the driving experience without significantly increasing the price. The SEL trim also offers the option to add packages with additional features, further customizing the vehicle to meet your specific needs and preferences. The pricing of the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL is competitive within its class, offering excellent value for the features and capabilities it provides. The price typically falls in the mid-range of the Palisade lineup, making it accessible to a wide range of buyers. The exact price may vary depending on the options and packages selected, as well as the dealership and location. However, the Palisade SEL consistently offers an attractive price point, given its spacious interior, advanced safety features, and long list of standard equipment. You can get a lot of bang for your buck with the SEL, so you won't feel like you are being gouged for extra features.

Hyundai often provides various incentives and financing options, making the Palisade SEL even more appealing. These incentives may include cash rebates, special financing rates, or lease deals, further reducing the overall cost of ownership. It's always a good idea to check with your local Hyundai dealership to find out about current promotions and offers. When comparing the Palisade SEL to other mid-size SUVs, it often stands out for its value proposition. It offers a spacious interior, a long list of standard features, and a competitive price, making it a strong contender in its class. When considering trim levels and pricing, it is essential to determine what features are most important to you. If you are looking for a well-equipped SUV with a comfortable interior and advanced safety features, the Palisade SEL is a great choice. The SEL trim strikes a balance between price and features, providing an excellent value for your money. Remember, the best way to determine if the Palisade SEL is the right fit for you is to visit your local Hyundai dealership for a test drive and get a better understanding of the pricing and available options.

Pros and Cons: Weighing the Options

Alright, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty and break down the pros and cons of the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL. Every vehicle has its strengths and weaknesses, and understanding these will help you decide if the Palisade SEL is the right choice for you.

Pros:

• Spacious and Comfortable Interior: The Palisade SEL shines with its generous interior space, offering ample room for passengers in all three rows. The seats are well-cushioned and supportive, making long journeys a breeze. The cabin feels airy and inviting, with high-quality materials and a thoughtfully designed layout. This comfort level makes it perfect for families.
• Long List of Standard Features: The SEL trim is packed with a long list of standard features, including a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, a leather-wrapped steering wheel, and a large touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. These features significantly enhance the driving experience, providing both comfort and convenience.
• User-Friendly Infotainment System: The infotainment system in the Palisade SEL is intuitive and easy to use. The large touchscreen display is responsive and easy to navigate, making it simple to access all your favorite features and apps. The inclusion of Apple CarPlay and Android Auto seamlessly integrates your smartphone, offering a connected and enjoyable driving experience.
• Advanced Safety Features: Safety is a top priority, and the Palisade SEL comes equipped with a comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These features, such as forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control, provide an added layer of protection and peace of mind on the road.
• Competitive Pricing: The Palisade SEL offers excellent value for the features and capabilities it provides. Its price is competitive within its class, making it an accessible option for families and anyone looking for a well-equipped SUV. You will get a lot for your money.

Cons:

• Fuel Economy: While the Palisade SEL offers decent fuel economy for its class, it may not be the most fuel-efficient option. Some competitors offer better fuel economy, which may be a consideration for some buyers. This point is not a deal-breaker, though, and it’s about average for its class.
• Base Model Features: While the SEL trim is well-equipped, some may find the base model features lacking, especially when compared to higher trims. You might wish you sprung for the next level up once you get in.
• Ride Quality: While generally comfortable, the ride quality might not be as smooth as some other vehicles in the class. Some reviewers have noted that the ride can feel a bit firm at times, especially on rough roads. It's not bad, just something to be aware of.

Final Thoughts: Is the 2022 Palisade SEL Right for You?

So, after taking a deep dive into the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL, is it the right SUV for you? Overall, the Palisade SEL is an excellent choice for families and anyone seeking a spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped vehicle. It offers a winning combination of practicality, style, and value, making it a standout in its class. The spacious interior, long list of standard features, and advanced safety technologies make it a highly desirable option. However, it’s always important to consider your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize fuel economy or crave a more luxurious experience, you might want to explore other options. But, if you're looking for an SUV that offers a lot for the money, the Palisade SEL is definitely worth a look. The SEL trim provides a great balance of features and value, making it a sweet spot in the lineup. It gives you almost everything you could want in a mid-size SUV without making you pay a premium price. So, I would recommend taking the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL for a test drive. You can see for yourself the space, the features, and the driving experience. This will help you make an informed decision and see if it's the right fit for your needs. Trust me; it's a vehicle that's hard not to like.