What do we mean by better? Is the 2023 Hyundai Palisade a better three-row crossover SUV than the 2022 version? Is this Hyundai SUV better than similar models from other automakers? What does better mean? In a word, yes, is the right answer to both questions. Here’s why.

1. Yes, the 2023 Hyundai Palisade is better than the 2022 version

Although we’ve only had this Hyundai SUV in the market for a few years, it receives a refresh for the 2023 model year. The refresh adds more quality to this three-row crossover SUV. The Palisade has a new grille, rear fascia, and higher-quality materials in the cabin.

2. The cabin of this Hyundai SUV is better than most other three-row crossover SUVs

The interior space of the 2023 Palisade offers a classy and upscale space with lots of style and elegance. You won’t say the same about the Chevrolet Traverse, Toyota Highlander, or Honda Pilot.

Looking around the 2023 Hyundai Palisade cabin shows you plush seats, premium quality materials, an attractive dashboard, and an airy feeling. If you want to see a mainstream SUV that could compete with luxury models for interior quality, this is that SUV.

3. Do other three-row crossover SUVs hit the high notes of the Calligraphy trim?

Some mainstream vehicles offer a top trim meant to take you into luxury SUV territory. The Palisade Calligraphy is certainly one of these trims. This model gives you:

• Calligraphy Exclusive grille and front bumper
• Exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels
• 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen
• New gauge cluster and electronics
• Phone As A key feature
• Hydrophobic front door windows
• Rearview camera mirror
• Ambient lighting
• Nappa leather seats
• Massaging driver’s seat
• Powered and heated third-row seats
• Wireless device charging
• Voice-controlled Wi-Fi hotspot
• Advanced Highway Driving Assist II package

Most top trim levels competing with the 2023 Palisade don’t reach this level of luxury. The Toyota Sequoia Capstone comes close, but the Sequoia is a full-size SUV.

4. Is there a rugged off-road version of the 2023 Hyundai Palisade?

Yes, the new XRT trim of this three-row crossover SUV delivers the upgrades required to make this SUV fun to drive on some trails. We didn’t see an off-road-ready version for 2022, which makes the 2023 Palisade better. The new XRT trim offers:

• Skid plates
• Rocker panel protection
• Dark finish trim

These items allow the XRT model to handle some trails, but the ground clearance and mechanical elements are the same as other 2023 Palisade trims.

5. This Hyundai three-row crossover SUV accelerates quickly

A midsize crossover SUV with three rows might sound like a sluggish vehicle when fully loaded with passengers and gear. Nothing would be farther from the truth with the 2023 Hyundai Palisade. This SUV has a strong 3.8-liter V6 engine to pump out 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.

The Palisade hits 60 mph in 6.9 seconds. This isn’t fast enough to win any races, but it’s good enough to get you comfortably to highway speeds.

6. Adults fit in the third row of the 2023 Hyundai Palisade

With a rear legroom figure of 42.4 inches, adults can sit in the rearmost row of the Palisade and feel comfortable. Most midsize three-row crossover SUVs offer the rear row as an afterthought, not for full-time use. Hyundai does things better, making this row of seats perfectly pleasant for all passengers.

Summary: How is the new Palisade better

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade is better than the 2022 version, with upscale looks and an off-road trim level.

This three-row crossover SUV is better than others by offering an upscale cabin, a nearly luxurious Calligraphy trim, good acceleration, and an adult-sized third-row seat.

If you want to learn more about the 2023 version of the Palisade, check out the video below: