What makes this 2020 version distinctive
The 2020 Palisade was Hyundai’s new three-row flagship for the U.S. market, paired conceptually with the Kia Telluride but given its own interior design and equipment packaging. It should be researched independently rather than counted as the same vehicle.
Model year, generation and market evidence
This entry documents the United States formal 2020 model-year specification of the Hyundai Palisade, LX2 first generation, SUV body. Engines, equipment and sale dates from another country or a newer model year are not substituted for this version.
The U.S. release describes a 3.8-liter V6 with 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet, mated to an eight-speed automatic with front- or all-wheel drive depending on specification. This is not a hybrid or turbocharged configuration in the original American offer.
Documented powertrains and body
| Market and year basis | United States — formal 2020 model-year specification |
|---|---|
| Body and generation | SUV — LX2 first generation |
| Powertrain options | 3.8L V6 gasoline |
| Transmission options | 8-speed automatic |
| Drive configuration | FWD or AWD |
| Published power / rating | 291 hp; 262 lb-ft |
The underlying United States evidence supports these configurations: 3.8L V6 gasoline; 8-speed automatic; FWD or AWD. The corresponding published output or official rating is 291 hp; 262 lb-ft. Where multiple trims are mentioned, they are alternative original versions rather than features shared by every example.
Strengths, compromises and real-world fit
Its design prioritizes flexible family seating, high driving position and a broad feature range. Verify whether the actual vehicle is a seven- or eight-seat configuration and check third-row operation and luggage allowance before making a size comparison.
Hyundai offers substantial equipment differences between the original SE, SEL and Limited specifications. Rather than buy on a glossy launch photograph, sit in the actual third row, test every power-seat function and determine whether the vehicle has the seating and camera equipment needed for daily family use.
Ownership questions to resolve before buying used in 2026
Inspect powered seat functions, cameras, cabin electronics, climate distribution and drive-system history. A polished interior can still conceal hard use on school runs or rideshare work; review documents and vehicle condition together.
A crossover badge covers very different dimensions and driveline systems. The buyer should test driving position, seat access, luggage practicality and the capability of the actual two- or four-wheel-drive configuration. A traction-assistance setting is not a guarantee of off-road capability, and quoted tow or payload limits require an exact configuration-specific manual before they can be used.
Alternatives and evidence boundaries
Cross-shop the Telluride, Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, keeping the Highlander’s separate hybrid availability in mind. The Palisade is strongest for buyers who value a roomy, conventionally powered luxury-leaning family SUV.
For a fair comparison with the alternatives discussed above, align the Hyundai Palisade's specific US engine, transmission and model-year basis first. An EPA economy rating, WLTP distance or local manufacturer test cannot be copied into another testing regime. The manufacturer or linked evidence, not a later dealer advertisement, should control every exact specification.