2024 Hyundai Palisade XRT Review: Rugged And Ready?

by Jhon Lennon 52 views

Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the 2024 Hyundai Palisade XRT to see if it lives up to the hype. If you're in the market for a family-friendly SUV with a touch of ruggedness, the XRT might be on your radar. So, let's get into the details and find out what makes this Palisade variant special.

What is the Hyundai Palisade XRT?

The Hyundai Palisade XRT is a trim level that adds a more adventurous aesthetic to the already popular Palisade SUV. It's designed to appeal to buyers who want a vehicle that looks like it can handle more than just the school run. But what exactly does the XRT bring to the table? Let's break it down.

Key Features of the Palisade XRT

The XRT trim focuses primarily on visual upgrades, giving the Palisade a more rugged appearance. Here’s what you can expect:

  • Dark Exterior Trim: The XRT boasts dark-finished grille, roof rails, and lower door trim, giving it a more aggressive look.
  • Unique Wheels: It comes with exclusive black-finished wheels that enhance its off-road-inspired styling.
  • Black Interior Accents: Inside, you'll find black interior accents that complement the exterior's dark theme.
  • Roof Rails: Standard roof rails add to the adventurous vibe and provide extra utility for carrying gear.

While the XRT doesn't add any mechanical upgrades for off-roading, its appearance package certainly makes a statement. Now, let's get into a more detailed exploration.

Exterior Design: Is It Really Rugged?

When it comes to the exterior, the 2024 Hyundai Palisade XRT aims to differentiate itself with a bolder, more assertive design. The dark exterior trim is the most noticeable change, replacing the standard chrome accents with a sleek, blacked-out look. This includes the front grille, which gets a dark finish that makes the Palisade look more imposing. The dark roof rails not only add to the aesthetic but also increase the vehicle's practicality, allowing you to easily mount cargo carriers or other accessories. The exclusive black-finished wheels are another standout feature, perfectly complementing the overall dark theme and adding to the rugged appeal. While these changes are primarily cosmetic, they significantly alter the Palisade's appearance, giving it a more adventurous vibe. However, it's essential to remember that these are mostly aesthetic upgrades; the XRT doesn't offer any enhanced off-road capabilities compared to other Palisade trims. Nonetheless, the visual enhancements do a great job of conveying a sense of ruggedness and capability, making the XRT an attractive option for those who want an SUV that looks ready for anything, even if its true capabilities remain largely unchanged. For families who prioritize style and want their vehicle to stand out, the XRT's design tweaks are a welcome addition.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Stepping inside the 2024 Hyundai Palisade XRT, you'll find a cabin that blends comfort with technology seamlessly. The interior largely mirrors the other Palisade trims, focusing on providing a spacious and user-friendly environment. The black interior accents in the XRT give it a unique, slightly more sophisticated feel compared to the standard models. High-quality materials are used throughout the cabin, contributing to a premium feel that enhances the overall driving experience. The seats are comfortable and supportive, making long journeys a breeze for both the driver and passengers. In terms of technology, the Palisade XRT comes equipped with an array of features designed to keep you connected and entertained. The large infotainment screen is intuitive and easy to use, offering seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. A suite of advanced safety features, including adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring, ensures peace of mind on the road. The spaciousness of the Palisade is a major selling point, offering ample room for passengers in all three rows, as well as plenty of cargo space for luggage, groceries, or sports equipment. Whether you're running errands around town or embarking on a family road trip, the Palisade XRT's interior provides a comfortable and technologically advanced space for everyone on board. It’s a well-rounded package that combines practicality with a touch of luxury, making it a standout choice in the competitive SUV market.

Performance and Handling: How Does It Drive?

Under the hood, the 2024 Hyundai Palisade XRT is powered by a reliable 3.8-liter V6 engine that delivers a respectable 291 horsepower. This engine is paired with an smooth eight-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth and responsive shifts. The Palisade XRT offers adequate acceleration for daily driving, making it easy to merge onto highways and navigate city streets. While it's not the sportiest SUV in its class, it offers a composed and comfortable ride, which is perfect for families. The suspension is tuned to absorb bumps and road imperfections, ensuring a smooth and pleasant experience for both the driver and passengers. Handling is predictable and secure, though the Palisade's size means it's not the most agile vehicle on winding roads. The steering is well-weighted and provides decent feedback, giving you confidence behind the wheel. The XRT trim doesn't offer any performance upgrades compared to the other Palisade models, so you can expect a similar driving experience across the range. However, the standard V6 engine provides enough power for most situations, and the smooth transmission makes for effortless cruising. Whether you're commuting to work or embarking on a long road trip, the Palisade XRT offers a balanced and comfortable driving experience that prioritizes ease of use and overall refinement. For those who value a smooth and predictable ride over sporty handling, the Palisade XRT is a solid choice.

Fuel Efficiency: What to Expect

When considering the 2024 Hyundai Palisade XRT, fuel efficiency is an important factor, especially for families who plan on using it for daily commutes and long trips. The Palisade XRT, with its 3.8-liter V6 engine, offers reasonable fuel economy for its class. According to EPA estimates, you can expect around 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway, resulting in a combined rating of approximately 22 mpg. These figures are fairly standard for a large SUV and are competitive with other vehicles in its segment. Keep in mind that real-world fuel economy can vary depending on your driving habits, road conditions, and the use of features like air conditioning. However, the Palisade XRT is designed to be relatively efficient, incorporating technologies like direct injection and an eight-speed automatic transmission to optimize fuel consumption. While it may not be the most fuel-efficient SUV on the market, the Palisade XRT strikes a good balance between power and efficiency, making it a practical choice for families who need the space and versatility of a large SUV without sacrificing too much at the gas pump. To maximize fuel efficiency, try to maintain a steady speed, avoid aggressive acceleration, and keep your tires properly inflated. With a little attention to your driving habits, you can help the Palisade XRT achieve its EPA-estimated fuel economy.

Pricing and Value: Is It Worth the Money?

The 2024 Hyundai Palisade XRT is positioned as a mid-range trim, offering a blend of style and features at a competitive price point. Pricing for the XRT typically starts a few thousand dollars above the base SE trim, reflecting its additional aesthetic upgrades and standard equipment. Considering what you get for the money, the Palisade XRT represents a solid value proposition. The dark exterior trim, unique wheels, and black interior accents give it a distinctive look that sets it apart from other Palisade models. Standard features like roof rails and a comprehensive suite of safety technologies add to its appeal. When comparing the XRT to other trims, such as the SEL or Limited, it's important to weigh the value of the XRT's unique styling against the additional luxury features offered in the higher trims. For those who prioritize a rugged appearance and don't necessarily need all the bells and whistles of the top-tier models, the XRT is an excellent choice. It offers a good balance of style, comfort, and technology at a price that is within reach for many families. Additionally, Hyundai's reputation for reliability and its generous warranty coverage add to the overall value of the Palisade XRT. Before making a decision, it's always a good idea to compare prices and features with competing SUVs in the same class to ensure you're getting the best possible deal. However, the Palisade XRT stands out as a strong contender, offering a compelling combination of style, practicality, and value.

Pros and Cons of the 2024 Hyundai Palisade XRT

To summarize, let's break down the pros and cons of the 2024 Hyundai Palisade XRT:

Pros:

  • Rugged Styling: The dark exterior trim and unique wheels give it a distinctive, adventurous look.
  • Spacious Interior: Plenty of room for passengers and cargo.
  • Comfortable Ride: Smooth and composed on various road surfaces.
  • User-Friendly Technology: Intuitive infotainment system and advanced safety features.
  • Good Value: Competitive pricing for its features and capabilities.

Cons:

  • No Off-Road Upgrades: Primarily an appearance package, with no enhanced off-road capabilities.
  • Fuel Economy: Average for its class, but not exceptional.
  • Performance: Adequate but not sporty.

Final Verdict: Who is the Palisade XRT For?

The 2024 Hyundai Palisade XRT is an excellent choice for families who want a stylish and spacious SUV with a touch of ruggedness. It's perfect for those who appreciate the bolder exterior design and don't necessarily need enhanced off-road capabilities. If you value comfort, technology, and a distinctive appearance, the Palisade XRT is definitely worth considering. However, if you're looking for a more luxurious experience or prioritize off-road performance, you might want to explore other trims or models. Overall, the Palisade XRT offers a compelling package that combines practicality with style, making it a standout option in the competitive SUV market. So, should you buy one? If the pros outweigh the cons for your specific needs and preferences, then the answer is likely yes. Happy driving, guys!