2023 Hyundai Palisade R2.2 CRDi EXECUTIVE 7 Review

In Malaysia's mid- to large-size SUV market, family users' demand for space, comfort, and practicality continues to grow. The 2023 Hyundai Palisade R2.2 CRDi EXECUTIVE 7, a popular model in this segment, attracts considerable attention with its 7-seater layout, four-wheel-drive system, and rich features. The core purpose of this test drive is to verify its real-world performance in scenarios like daily commuting and family outings, and to see whether its parameter advantages can translate into real user experiences.

The exterior design of the Palisade continues the bold and stable style of Korean cars, with overall strong and muscular lines. The front features a large hexagonal grille adorned with chrome trims, paired with sharp LED headlights on both sides, offering high recognition. On the sides, the 4995mm length and 1975mm width give it an elongated proportion, and the 20-inch alloy wheels further enhance its visual tension. At the rear, the LED taillights are connected by a chrome strip, echoing the front design, while the silver skid plate under the rear bumper adds a touch of off-road aesthetic.

Stepping inside, the interior mainly uses black as the primary color, complemented by wood grain panels and metal trims, creating a decent sense of luxury. The dashboard layout is simple, featuring a centrally located 12.3-inch touchscreen that operates smoothly and supports common functions. In terms of materials, the door panels and the upper part of the dashboard are wrapped in soft-touch materials, offering a comfortable texture. As for features, it is equipped with a HUD head-up display, multifunction steering wheel, heated and ventilated front seats (driver’s seat with 12-way power adjustment and memory function, passenger seat with 8-way power adjustment), second-row captain's chairs with heating and ventilation, and other configurations, balancing convenience and comfort for daily use.

Space is one of Palisade's strengths, with a 2900mm wheelbase ensuring practicality for three rows of seats. The second-row independent captain’s chairs support sliding and reclining adjustments, providing ample legroom, allowing even passengers as tall as 180cm to sit comfortably. Although the third-row seats are more suitable for children or short trips, they still work well for adults on short journeys without feeling overly cramped. The trunk offers 509L of standard storage capacity, which can be expanded by folding down the third row to accommodate more space for family trips. Additionally, the car's cabin is rich in storage compartments, with power outlets available in both the front and rear rows, showcasing impressive practicality.

In terms of power, the 2.2T diesel engine delivers a maximum power of 200PS and maximum torque of 440N·m, paired with an AT gearbox. The power response is smooth during start-up, with brisk acceleration at low to medium speeds, handling daily commutes or highway overtaking with ease. The driving mode offers multiple options, and switching to sports mode makes the throttle response more aggressive, suitable for scenarios requiring stronger performance. However, the noise from the diesel engine is slightly noticeable when idling, but it improves significantly once on the move.

The handling aligns with the positioning of a mid- to large-size SUV, with a moderately weighted steering wheel that is precise but has slight play, making daily driving effortless. The chassis uses a front MacPherson strut + rear multi-link independent suspension, tuned for comfort, and effectively filters vibrations when passing speed bumps or rough roads, avoiding a harsh feeling. The four-wheel-drive system can provide better stability on slippery roads or during light off-road scenarios but is better suited for urban and highway use. Regarding fuel consumption, the officially stated average is 8.8L/100km, with actual test drives showing about 10L in urban conditions and below 8L on highways, performing reasonably well.

In terms of comfort, the seats provide good wrapping and support, making long rides less tiring. The heating and ventilation functions of the second-row independent seats are highly practical in Malaysia’s climate, and the third row is also equipped with air conditioning vents to ensure the comfort of rear passengers. As for noise control, wind noise and tire noise are slightly noticeable at high speeds but remain within an acceptable range. Features like the electronic parking brake, auto hold, and rain-sensing wipers further enhance daily convenience.

Overall, the core strengths of the 2023 Hyundai Palisade R2.2 CRDi EXECUTIVE 7 lie in its spacious interior, rich features, and balanced performance. Compared to models in the same class, it stands out with its exceptional value, especially in terms of comfort configurations. This vehicle is suitable for consumers who prioritize family practicality and seek comfort and features. Whether for daily commuting or long-distance trips, it meets the needs effectively. If you need a 7-seat SUV that balances space, comfort, and features, the Palisade is worth considering.