2021 Hyundai Palisade Buyer's Guide: SEL vs Limited vs Calligraphy
- Best value: SEL Premium with AWD ($32,000-$37,000)
- Skip: Base SE lacks key comfort features
- Calligraphy: Genesis luxury at Hyundai prices
- Watch for: Oil consumption TSB, Palisade smell issue
- Best-in-class warranty transfers to second owners
Fair Price Range
$30K-$45K
StableReliability Score
4.4/5
UpFuel Economy
22 MPG
StableOwnership Cost/Year
$5,600
DownPalisade: Luxury Three-Row Value
The Hyundai Palisade disrupted the three-row SUV market with Genesis-level quality at mainstream prices. The 2021 model offers premium features, excellent warranty coverage, and a usable third row that actually fits adults.
We analyzed 900 listings to determine fair pricing across trim levels. The Palisade competes with vehicles costing $10,000-$20,000 more and often wins on features and interior quality.
Warranty Advantage
Hyundai's 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty transfer to second owners. This provides exceptional coverage for used buyers—verify remaining warranty at purchase.
Trim Comparison
| Feature | SE | SEL | Limited | Calligraphy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Price Range | $28-32K | $32-37K | $37-42K | $42-48K |
| Leather Seats | ✗ | Optional | ✓ | Nappa |
| Heated Seats (All Rows) | ✗ | Row 1-2 | Row 1-2 | All 3 Rows |
| Panoramic Sunroof | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Digital Gauge Cluster | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Heads-Up Display | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Quilted Leather | ✗ | ✗ | ✗ | ✓ |
| Best For | Budget | Value | Features | Luxury |
Market Pricing
Reliability Data
Best Value Three-Row SUV
Pros
- Genesis-level interior at Hyundai prices
- Usable third row for adults
- Industry-leading warranty coverage
- Strong feature content across trims
- Smooth and quiet highway ride
Cons
- Some early oil consumption reports
- Headrest odor issue on early production
- V6 can feel strained when fully loaded
- Depreciation higher than Toyota/Honda
Recommendation
The 2021 Hyundai Palisade SEL Premium with AWD offers the best balance of features and value. Limited adds desirable technology. Calligraphy is for buyers who want luxury without luxury brand pricing.