Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy-AWD-Top of the Range-Bank Finance Available

Highlights

• Seven seats with second-row captain chairs
• Ergo Motion driver seat with massage function
• Harman Kardon premium audio system standard

Summary

This 2023 Palisade in the flagship Calligraphy trim offers a near-luxury experience for families, combining a refined cabin with significant road presence. With mileage below the typical GCC annual average for a two-year-old SUV, it represents a well-preserved example of Hyundai's updated flagship design. The Grey exterior is a highly practical choice for the region, offering excellent resistance to showing dust and maintaining a strong resale profile in the UAE used market. As a 2023 refresh model, it benefits from the updated digital cockpit and enhanced sound insulation, making it a quiet and sophisticated long-distance cruiser. For the GCC buyer, the standard ventilated seats across both rows provide essential relief during the summer months.

This Car vs Other 2023 Palisades

With just 29,000 km, this vehicle sits well below the 40,000–50,000 km range typically seen on two-year-old family SUVs in the UAE. The Grey exterior is a neutral, high-demand color that holds its value better than brighter alternatives in the local market. While this is an American-spec import, it features the same mechanical V6 foundation as local models, offering a lower entry price for a premium trim level.

CALLIGRAPHY vs Lower Trims

The Calligraphy trim elevates the experience over the Limited by adding quilted Nappa leather upholstery and a premium suede headliner that transforms the cabin atmosphere. It introduces exclusive 20-inch alloy wheels and a dedicated grille design that provides a more sophisticated look. Functional upgrades include the Ergo Motion driver's seat with massage capabilities and a digital rear-view mirror for unobstructed visibility even with a full load of passengers.

Palisade vs Segment Rivals

The Palisade leads segment rivals like the Honda Pilot and Ford Explorer with its superior interior material quality and second-row ventilation, which is often an expensive option elsewhere. Its 3.5L V6 provides smooth, linear power delivery that is better suited for high-speed highway cruising than the turbocharged four-cylinders found in some competitors. Additionally, the integrated 12.3-inch dual-screen setup offers one of the most user-friendly infotainment experiences in the three-row SUV class.

Running Costs & Resale

The 3.5L V6 engine is engineered for longevity and runs efficiently on standard petrol, with real-world consumption averaging approximately 10.6 L/100km. As an American-spec vehicle, it is not covered by the local agency warranty, but the extensive network of independent Hyundai specialists in the UAE ensures parts are affordable and widely available. While American imports typically face higher initial depreciation than GCC-spec cars, the high equipment level of the Calligraphy trim helps stabilize its value for future resale.

Performance & Capability

The 3.5L V6 engine delivers a verified 277 hp, providing steady acceleration with a 0-100 km/h time of approximately 8.1 seconds. The four-wheel-drive system features selectable terrain modes including Snow, Mud, and Sand, making it capable for weekend trips to light desert trails or gravel mountain roads. On the highway, the 8-speed automatic transmission maintains low RPMs for quiet and efficient cruising across long distances between emirates.

Comfort & Cabin

The cabin is configured for seven passengers, featuring premium second-row captain's chairs that provide an executive-level experience for rear travelers. Cooling performance is exceptional, with dedicated rear climate controls and ceiling-mounted vents ensuring the third row stays comfortable during the peak of summer. The interior is rounded out by a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system and a dual-pane sunroof that brightens the cabin without compromising the effectiveness of the powerful air conditioning.

Safety

This Palisade comes equipped with a comprehensive ADAS suite, including a 360° Surround View Monitor and a Blind-Spot View Monitor that projects a live camera feed into the digital instrument cluster. Standard safety features include Forward Collision-Avoidance, Lane Keeping Assist, and Safe Exit Assist, which prevents rear doors from opening if a vehicle is approaching from behind. For long desert highway drives, the Adaptive Cruise Control with stop-and-go functionality significantly reduces driver fatigue.

The bottom line

This Calligraphy trim is the ideal choice for a family seeking maximum luxury and technology at a more accessible price point than a GCC-spec equivalent. Its low mileage and high-specification interior make it a standout opportunity for buyers who prioritize cabin comfort and modern safety features.

AI insights generated from market expert data. Always inspect the vehicle before purchase.