2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL: A Comprehensive Review

Nov 17, 2025 by Alex Braham 50 views

Hey there, car enthusiasts! Today, we're diving deep into the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL. This SUV has made waves in the family-friendly segment, and we're here to give you the lowdown. We'll explore everything from its performance and features to its overall value proposition. So, buckle up, and let's get started!

Unveiling the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL: An Overview

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL is a mid-size SUV that perfectly blends practicality, comfort, and style. Positioned as a step above the base SE trim, the SEL offers a compelling mix of features without breaking the bank. It's designed to cater to families who need space, versatility, and a touch of luxury without venturing into premium SUV price territory. The Palisade SEL is a three-row SUV, providing ample seating for up to eight passengers, making it ideal for large families or those who frequently transport groups. Its design is both modern and sophisticated, with a bold front grille, sleek lines, and a well-proportioned silhouette that gives it a commanding presence on the road. The SEL trim enhances the base model's appeal by adding several key features that improve the overall driving and passenger experience. These include enhanced technology, comfort upgrades, and driver-assistance systems that boost safety and convenience. Under the hood, the Palisade SEL typically packs a robust V6 engine, delivering sufficient power for both city driving and highway cruising. This combination of space, performance, and features makes the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL a strong contender in its class, appealing to a wide range of buyers looking for a versatile and reliable SUV.

Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty. The Palisade SEL distinguishes itself with its thoughtful design, offering a balance between functionality and aesthetics. The interior is well-crafted, featuring quality materials and a layout that prioritizes ease of use and comfort. The infotainment system is user-friendly, with a large touchscreen display that integrates seamlessly with smartphone connectivity. Moreover, the SEL trim often includes additional features such as a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel, enhancing the driving experience. Safety is also a key focus, with the inclusion of advanced driver-assistance systems such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. These features work together to provide an extra layer of protection, making the Palisade SEL a safe choice for families. Furthermore, the Palisade SEL's practicality extends to its cargo capacity, with plenty of space for luggage, groceries, and other items. The rear seats can be folded down to create even more cargo room, making it easy to accommodate larger items. Overall, the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL stands out as a well-rounded SUV that delivers on its promise of comfort, safety, and versatility, making it a top choice for those looking for a spacious and feature-rich vehicle.

Performance and Driving Experience

Alright, let's talk about what's under the hood and how the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL performs on the road. The SEL trim is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine, typically producing around 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This engine is paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, which delivers smooth and responsive gear changes. The combination of the V6 engine and the automatic transmission provides ample power for everyday driving, whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. The Palisade SEL accelerates with confidence, offering brisk acceleration for merging onto highways and overtaking slower vehicles. The eight-speed automatic transmission ensures that the engine remains in its optimal power band, enhancing both performance and fuel efficiency. The driving experience in the Palisade SEL is generally composed and comfortable. The suspension system is tuned to absorb bumps and imperfections in the road, providing a smooth and quiet ride for both the driver and passengers. The steering is light and precise, making the SUV easy to maneuver in tight spaces and parking lots. The Palisade SEL also offers available all-wheel drive, enhancing traction and stability in various driving conditions. This is particularly useful in areas with inclement weather, providing added confidence and control on slippery surfaces. The all-wheel-drive system distributes power between the front and rear wheels as needed, optimizing grip and preventing wheel spin. The overall performance characteristics of the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL make it a pleasant and capable vehicle for a wide range of driving situations. From daily commutes to family road trips, the Palisade SEL delivers a balanced performance that satisfies both drivers and passengers.

Furthermore, the Palisade SEL offers several driving modes that allow the driver to tailor the vehicle's performance to their preferences or the prevailing road conditions. These driving modes typically include Comfort, Eco, and Sport settings, each adjusting the engine's responsiveness, transmission shift points, and steering feel. The Comfort mode provides a relaxed and smooth driving experience, ideal for daily commutes. The Eco mode maximizes fuel efficiency by optimizing engine performance and shifting patterns. The Sport mode enhances throttle response and transmission shift points, providing a more engaging driving experience. In addition to these driving modes, the Palisade SEL also features advanced driver-assistance systems that further enhance the driving experience. These systems include adaptive cruise control, which automatically adjusts the vehicle's speed to maintain a safe distance from the vehicle ahead, and lane-keeping assist, which helps to keep the vehicle centered in its lane. The Palisade SEL also offers blind-spot monitoring, which alerts the driver to vehicles in their blind spots, and rear cross-traffic alert, which warns the driver of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space. These safety features contribute to a safer and more confident driving experience, making the Palisade SEL a well-equipped and practical choice for families.

Interior Comfort and Features

Let's step inside the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL and explore what makes it a comfortable and enjoyable place to be. The interior design is both modern and functional, with a focus on creating a spacious and inviting environment. The seats are well-contoured and supportive, offering plenty of comfort for both short trips and long journeys. The SEL trim typically includes features such as a power-adjustable driver's seat, allowing the driver to find their ideal driving position with ease. The second-row seats are also comfortable, with ample legroom and headroom for passengers of all sizes. The third row, though best suited for children, is surprisingly accessible and provides a decent amount of space for occasional use. The materials used throughout the interior are of good quality, with soft-touch surfaces and attractive trim elements. The dashboard is well-laid-out, with easy-to-reach controls and a clear instrument cluster. The infotainment system is seamlessly integrated, with a large touchscreen display that provides access to a variety of features, including navigation, smartphone connectivity, and audio controls. The cabin is also remarkably quiet, with effective sound insulation that minimizes road and wind noise, creating a peaceful environment for passengers. The Palisade SEL also boasts a wide range of features designed to enhance comfort and convenience. These features typically include heated front seats, dual-zone automatic climate control, and a power liftgate. The heated front seats provide additional comfort during colder months, while the dual-zone climate control allows the driver and front passenger to set their preferred temperatures independently. The power liftgate makes it easy to access the cargo area, especially when carrying groceries or other items. Furthermore, the Palisade SEL offers several storage compartments and cupholders throughout the cabin, providing convenient places to store personal items and beverages. The center console includes a large storage bin, and there are also door pockets and seatback pockets for added convenience. The overall interior design and features of the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL make it a comfortable and practical vehicle for families and individuals alike.

Additionally, the Palisade SEL's interior is designed to be user-friendly, with a focus on intuitive controls and easy-to-use features. The infotainment system, with its large touchscreen display, is simple to navigate and offers a variety of connectivity options, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows drivers to seamlessly integrate their smartphones with the vehicle's system, providing access to their favorite apps, music, and navigation. The instrument cluster is also clear and easy to read, with all essential information displayed in a straightforward manner. The placement of the controls is well-considered, with frequently used functions within easy reach of the driver. The climate control system is simple to operate, with clearly labeled buttons and easy-to-understand settings. The Palisade SEL also offers a variety of seating configurations, allowing owners to customize the interior to meet their specific needs. The second-row seats can be folded down to create additional cargo space, while the third-row seats can be folded down to provide even more versatility. This flexibility makes the Palisade SEL a great choice for families who need to transport both passengers and cargo. The combination of comfort, convenience, and user-friendly features makes the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL an excellent choice for anyone looking for a well-appointed and practical SUV.

Technology and Infotainment

Alright, let's talk tech! The 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL is packed with technology to keep you connected, entertained, and safe on the road. The centerpiece of the infotainment system is a large touchscreen display, typically ranging from 8 to 10.25 inches, depending on the specific configuration. This display serves as the central hub for all infotainment functions, including audio, navigation (if equipped), and smartphone integration. The touchscreen is responsive and easy to use, with a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to access all features. The Palisade SEL also offers seamless smartphone integration through Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This allows drivers to connect their smartphones and access their favorite apps, music, and navigation directly on the vehicle's touchscreen display. This integration provides a more convenient and safer way to stay connected while driving, as it minimizes distractions and allows drivers to control their smartphones through the vehicle's interface. In addition to the touchscreen display and smartphone integration, the Palisade SEL is equipped with a variety of other tech features, including a premium audio system, multiple USB ports, and a wireless charging pad (on some trims). The premium audio system delivers high-quality sound, enhancing the listening experience for both the driver and passengers. The multiple USB ports allow passengers to charge their devices, while the wireless charging pad provides a convenient way to charge compatible smartphones without the need for cables. The Palisade SEL also offers a digital instrument cluster, which displays essential information such as speed, fuel level, and other vehicle data in a clear and customizable format. The digital instrument cluster enhances the driving experience by providing drivers with easy-to-read information and allowing them to personalize the display to their preferences. The technology features of the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL are designed to enhance convenience, connectivity, and entertainment, making it a well-equipped and modern SUV.

Furthermore, the Palisade SEL is equipped with a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) designed to enhance safety and provide peace of mind. These systems typically include:

Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA): This system uses sensors to detect potential collisions with vehicles and pedestrians ahead, and can automatically apply the brakes to help prevent or mitigate a collision.
Lane Keeping Assist (LKA): This system helps to keep the vehicle centered in its lane by providing steering assistance if the driver begins to drift out of the lane.
Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist (BCA): This system monitors the vehicle's blind spots and can provide alerts and even steering assistance to help prevent collisions with vehicles in the blind spots.
Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA): This system monitors the area behind the vehicle and can provide alerts and automatic braking to help prevent collisions with vehicles or pedestrians when backing out of a parking space.
Smart Cruise Control (SCC): This system uses radar to maintain a set distance from the vehicle ahead, automatically adjusting the vehicle's speed to maintain a safe following distance.

These advanced driver-assistance systems work together to provide an extra layer of protection, making the Palisade SEL a safe and reliable choice for families. The technology features of the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL are designed to enhance convenience, connectivity, and safety, making it a well-equipped and modern SUV.

Safety Features and Ratings

Safety is a top priority, and the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL doesn't disappoint. It comes standard with a comprehensive suite of safety features designed to protect occupants in the event of a collision and help prevent accidents altogether. As mentioned earlier, the SEL trim includes a range of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS). These features, such as forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, work together to enhance safety and provide an extra layer of protection on the road. The Palisade SEL also typically scores well in crash tests conducted by independent safety organizations such as the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). These tests evaluate the vehicle's ability to protect occupants in various crash scenarios, and the Palisade SEL generally earns high ratings, reflecting its robust safety design and construction. The structural design of the Palisade is engineered to absorb and dissipate crash energy, minimizing the impact on occupants. The vehicle's high-strength steel frame provides a strong foundation, while the strategically placed crumple zones help to absorb impact forces. In addition to the advanced driver-assistance systems, the Palisade SEL is equipped with a full complement of airbags, including front airbags, side airbags, and curtain airbags. These airbags provide additional protection in the event of a collision, helping to reduce the risk of injury to occupants. Overall, the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL offers a high level of safety, making it a safe and reliable choice for families. The combination of advanced driver-assistance systems, high crash test ratings, and a comprehensive airbag system provides occupants with excellent protection on the road, giving drivers peace of mind and ensuring the safety of their passengers.

Furthermore, the Palisade SEL is equipped with several other safety features designed to enhance overall safety and provide a more secure driving experience. These features include electronic stability control, which helps to maintain vehicle stability in challenging driving conditions; traction control, which helps to prevent wheel spin and maintain traction on slippery surfaces; and anti-lock brakes, which help to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking. The Palisade SEL also features a rearview camera, which provides a clear view of the area behind the vehicle, making it easier to maneuver in tight spaces and parking lots. The rearview camera also helps to reduce the risk of backing into objects or pedestrians. Furthermore, the Palisade SEL is equipped with child safety features, such as LATCH (Lower Anchors and Tethers for Children) anchors for installing child safety seats. The LATCH system provides a secure and easy way to install child safety seats, ensuring the safety of young passengers. The combination of advanced driver-assistance systems, high crash test ratings, a comprehensive airbag system, and additional safety features makes the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL a well-rounded and safe SUV. The vehicle's commitment to safety makes it a top choice for families and individuals who prioritize safety on the road.

Trim Levels and Value

Let's talk about value! The 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL sits in a sweet spot in the Palisade lineup, offering a compelling blend of features and affordability. While the specific pricing can vary based on options and market conditions, the SEL trim typically provides a good value proposition compared to the base SE trim and the higher-end trims like the Limited and Calligraphy. The SEL trim often includes features that enhance the driving experience, such as a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel. It also typically offers additional technology features, such as a larger touchscreen display, enhanced smartphone integration, and a premium audio system. These features provide added comfort, convenience, and entertainment, enhancing the overall value of the vehicle. When comparing the Palisade SEL to other mid-size SUVs in its class, it often offers a competitive price point while providing a generous amount of standard features. The SEL trim provides a comfortable and well-equipped interior, a robust engine, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems, making it a strong contender in its segment. The value of the Palisade SEL extends beyond its features and performance. Hyundai offers a competitive warranty package, providing added peace of mind for owners. The warranty typically includes a comprehensive powertrain warranty, covering major engine and transmission components, and a basic warranty, covering other vehicle components. The long-term reliability and durability of the Palisade contribute to its overall value, making it a smart investment for families and individuals looking for a reliable and long-lasting SUV. Overall, the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL offers a compelling value proposition, providing a well-equipped, safe, and versatile SUV at a competitive price point. Its combination of features, performance, and long-term reliability makes it an excellent choice for anyone looking for a mid-size SUV that delivers on its promise.

Furthermore, the Palisade SEL offers several optional packages and features that allow buyers to customize the vehicle to their specific needs and preferences. These packages may include upgraded wheels, enhanced technology features, and additional convenience options. The availability of these packages allows buyers to tailor the Palisade SEL to meet their unique requirements, ensuring that the vehicle perfectly suits their lifestyle. When considering the value of the Palisade SEL, it's also important to factor in the long-term cost of ownership. The Palisade SEL typically offers good fuel economy for its class, helping to reduce the cost of fuel over the vehicle's lifespan. Additionally, Hyundai vehicles often have good resale value, helping to preserve the investment for owners who may want to sell or trade in the vehicle in the future. The combination of competitive pricing, a comprehensive suite of features, a strong warranty, and good resale value makes the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL a great value in the mid-size SUV segment. The Palisade SEL provides buyers with a well-rounded and reliable vehicle that delivers on its promise of comfort, safety, and versatility, making it a smart and practical choice for families and individuals alike.

Pros and Cons

Let's summarize the key strengths and weaknesses of the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL.

Pros:

Spacious and Comfortable Interior: Plenty of room for passengers and cargo, with comfortable seating and high-quality materials.
Well-Equipped with Features: Offers a comprehensive suite of standard features, including advanced driver-assistance systems and a user-friendly infotainment system.
Powerful Engine: The V6 engine provides ample power for everyday driving.
Competitive Value: Offers a good balance of features and affordability, providing excellent value for the money.
Stylish Design: Modern and attractive exterior design.
User-Friendly Technology: Intuitive infotainment system and smartphone integration.
Strong Safety Ratings: High scores in crash tests and a comprehensive suite of safety features.

Cons:

Third-Row Space: While the third row is accessible, it's best suited for children.
Fuel Economy: Fuel economy is average for its class.

Final Verdict

So, is the 2022 Hyundai Palisade SEL a good buy? Absolutely, yes! The Hyundai Palisade SEL is a fantastic choice for families and anyone who needs a spacious, comfortable, and well-equipped SUV. It offers a great blend of performance, features, and value. The Palisade SEL is a great pick if you're looking for a reliable, safe, and stylish SUV. The Palisade SEL is a great choice and a must-consider option for anyone shopping in the mid-size SUV segment. You won't be disappointed! Thanks for reading!