The Hyundai Palisade, launched for the 2020 model year and receiving a significant facelift in April 2022, represents Hyundai’s flagship three-row SUV offering in the North American market. Positioned above the Santa Fe, the Palisade aimed to compete directly with established players like the Toyota Highlander, Honda Pilot, and Ford Explorer. The 2022 facelift brought revised styling, updated technology, and refinements to the powertrain. This article focuses specifically on the 3.8 GDI V6 variant paired with the HTRAC all-wheel-drive system and an 8-speed automatic transmission, produced from April 2022 to April 2025. This configuration represented the volume seller within the Palisade lineup, offering a balance of power, features, and capability for families.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Palisade |
| Generation | Palisade I (facelift 2022) |
| Type (Engine) | 3.8 GDI V6 (291 Hp) HTRAC AWD Automatic |
| Start of production | April, 2022 |
| End of production | April, 2025 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 12.4 l/100 km (19 US mpg, 22.8 UK mpg, 8.1 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 9.4 l/100 km (25 US mpg, 30.1 UK mpg, 10.6 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 11.2 l/100 km (21 US mpg, 25.2 UK mpg, 8.9 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | WCC + UCC |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 6.7 kg/Hp, 149.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 5.5 kg/Nm, 182 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 291 Hp @ 6000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 77 Hp/l |
| Torque | 355 Nm @ 5200 rpm (261.83 lb.-ft. @ 5200 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine Model/Code | Lambda II |
| Engine displacement | 3778 cm3 (230.55 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Cylinder Bore | 96 mm (3.78 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 13:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Direct injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | Dual-CVVT |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.9 l (7.29 US qt | 6.07 UK qt) |
| Coolant | 12 l (12.68 US qt | 10.56 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1951-2044 kg (4301.22 – 4506.25 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2663 kg (5870.91 lbs.) |
| Max load | 619-712 kg (1364.66 – 1569.69 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 510 l (18.01 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 2447 l (86.41 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 71 l (18.76 US gal | 15.62 UK gal) |
| Max. roof load | 100 kg (220.46 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load with brakes (12%) | 2268 kg (5000.08 lbs.) |
| Permitted trailer load without brakes | 748 kg (1649.06 lbs.) |
| Length | 4996 mm (196.69 in.) |
| Width | 1976 mm (77.8 in.) |
| Height | 1750 mm (68.9 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2901 mm (114.21 in.) |
| Front track | 1707 mm (67.2 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1717 mm (67.6 in.) |
| Front overhang | 963 mm (37.91 in.) |
| Rear overhang | 1130 mm (44.49 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 201 mm (7.91 in.) |
| Drag coefficient (Cd) | 0.33 |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11.8 m (38.71 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | All wheel drive (4×4). Internal Combustion engine. The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels permanently, and the rear wheels are driven through an electrically or mechanically operated clutch if necessary. |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 8 gears, automatic transmission SHIFTRONIC |
| Front suspension | Independent, type McPherson with coil spring and anti-roll bar |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs, 340×30 mm |
| Rear brakes | Disc, 305×11 mm |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Electric Steering |
| Wheel rims size | 18; 20 |
INTRODUCTION
The Hyundai Palisade, particularly the 3.8 GDI V6 HTRAC AWD Automatic variant, quickly became a popular choice in the mid-size SUV segment. Introduced with the 2020 model and refreshed in 2022, the Palisade aimed to deliver a premium experience at a competitive price point. The facelifted model, produced from April 2022 to April 2025, featured updated styling cues, enhanced safety features, and improved infotainment technology. This specific powertrain combination – the naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 paired with Hyundai’s HTRAC all-wheel-drive system and an eight-speed automatic – was positioned as the sweet spot in the lineup, offering ample power and all-weather capability without the higher price tag of potential future turbocharged or hybrid options.
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
At the heart of this Palisade variant lies Hyundai’s Lambda II 3.8-liter V6 engine. This engine, designated as a GDI (Gasoline Direct Injection) unit, produces 291 horsepower at 6000 rpm and 261.83 lb-ft of torque at 5200 rpm. The Lambda II engine utilizes direct injection to improve fuel efficiency and power output. The engine also features Hyundai’s Dual-CVVT (Continuously Variable Valve Timing) technology on both the intake and exhaust valves, optimizing engine performance across a wider range of engine speeds. The engine is longitudinally mounted in the chassis. The eight-speed automatic transmission, branded as SHIFTRONIC, provides smooth and responsive gear changes. The HTRAC all-wheel-drive system is a multi-mode system, allowing drivers to select from various driving modes, including Comfort, Sport, and Smart, to optimize traction and handling based on road conditions. The system normally operates in front-wheel drive, seamlessly engaging the rear wheels when slip is detected.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.8L V6 and 8-speed automatic combination in the Palisade delivers a comfortable and capable driving experience. While not overtly sporty, the powertrain provides sufficient power for everyday driving and highway passing maneuvers. The eight-speed automatic is well-tuned, offering smooth shifts and keeping the engine in its optimal power band. Compared to potential higher-output turbocharged engines, this naturally aspirated V6 offers a more linear power delivery, making it predictable and easy to modulate. The HTRAC all-wheel-drive system enhances stability and traction, particularly in inclement weather. The gear ratios are optimized for both fuel efficiency and towing capability. While the Palisade isn’t designed for aggressive cornering, the suspension provides a comfortable ride, absorbing bumps and imperfections in the road surface effectively.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.8 GDI V6 HTRAC AWD Automatic variant was typically offered in well-equipped trim levels, often including features like leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, a large touchscreen infotainment system with navigation, a premium sound system, and a suite of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) such as adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and automatic emergency braking. Optional extras could include a panoramic sunroof, a rear-seat entertainment system, and premium interior trim packages. The interior design emphasized spaciousness and comfort, with ample legroom and headroom for all three rows of passengers. The dashboard layout was clean and intuitive, with logically placed controls.
Chassis & Braking
The Palisade utilizes a robust chassis designed to accommodate its size and weight. The front suspension features an independent McPherson strut setup with coil springs and an anti-roll bar, while the rear suspension employs an independent multi-link design with a stabilizer bar. This suspension configuration provides a comfortable ride and good handling characteristics. Braking duties are handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The Palisade is equipped with an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) and Electronic Stability Control (ESC) as standard safety features. Steering is rack-and-pinion with electric power assist.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Palisade, and specifically the 3.8 GDI V6 HTRAC AWD Automatic variant, received positive reviews from automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, long list of standard features, and competitive pricing. Compared to other trims in the Palisade lineup, this configuration offered a compelling balance of performance and fuel economy. While the base engine offered better fuel economy, it lacked the power and refinement of the V6. The V6 model was generally considered a better choice for those who frequently tow trailers or carry a full load of passengers. Fuel economy figures averaged around 21 US mpg combined, which was competitive within its class.
Legacy
The Hyundai Palisade has established itself as a strong contender in the mid-size SUV segment. The 3.8 GDI V6 powertrain, while not the most technologically advanced, has proven to be reliable and durable. On the used car market, these models hold their value relatively well, reflecting their reputation for quality and dependability. The Palisade’s spacious interior and comfortable ride continue to appeal to families, and its comprehensive suite of safety features makes it a practical and reassuring choice. The HTRAC all-wheel-drive system provides added peace of mind in regions with challenging weather conditions. Overall, the 2022-2025 Hyundai Palisade 3.8 GDI V6 HTRAC AWD Automatic represents a well-rounded and highly capable SUV that has earned a positive reputation among owners and critics alike.
