The Hyundai Palisade I 2.2 TCi (200 Hp) Automatic, produced from November 2018 to April 2022, represents a significant entry for Hyundai into the highly competitive three-row mid-size SUV segment. Positioned as a more premium offering than the Santa Fe, the Palisade aimed to provide a spacious, well-equipped, and comfortable family vehicle. This particular variant, powered by the 2.2-liter turbocharged diesel engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission, was a key configuration in many international markets, offering a balance of fuel efficiency and adequate performance. It formed part of the first generation Palisade (codenamed as such), built on a dedicated SUV platform designed for larger dimensions and enhanced passenger comfort.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Palisade |
| Generation | Palisade I |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 TCi (200 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | November, 2018 |
| End of production | April, 2022 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | SUV, Crossover |
| Seats | 7-8 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 5.6 l/100 km (42 US mpg, 50.4 UK mpg, 17.9 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 7 l/100 km (33.6 US mpg, 40.4 UK mpg, 14.3 km/l) |
| CO2 emissions | 182 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 10.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.7 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.4 kg/Hp, 107 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 4.2 kg/Nm, 235.8 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 200 Hp @ 3800 rpm |
| Power per litre | 91 Hp/l |
| Torque | 441 Nm @ 1750-2750 rpm (325.26 lb.-ft. @ 1750-2750 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | R II / D4HB |
| Engine displacement | 2199 cm3 (134.19 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Diesel Commonrail |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Engine oil capacity | 6.5 l (6.87 US qt | 5.72 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.8 l (9.3 US qt | 7.74 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1870-1998 kg (4122.64 – 4404.84 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2670 kg (5886.34 lbs.) |
| Max load | 672-800 kg (1481.51 – 1763.7 lbs.) |
| Length | 4980 mm (196.06 in.) |
| Width | 1975 mm (77.76 in.) |
| Height | 1750 mm (68.9 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2900 mm (114.17 in.) |
| Front track | 1708 mm (67.24 in.) |
| Rear track | 1716 mm (67.56 in.) |
| Drivetrain | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Gearbox type | Automatic transmission |
| Tire size | 245/60 R18; 245/50 R20 |
| Wheel rim size | 7.5J x 18; 7.5J x 20 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Palisade variant is the Hyundai R II 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder diesel engine, designated with the code D4HB. This engine utilizes a common-rail direct injection system, delivering fuel at extremely high pressure for optimized combustion. A variable geometry turbocharger (VGT) and intercooler work in tandem to boost power and torque while managing exhaust gas temperatures. The engine features four valves per cylinder and is designed for quiet operation and reduced emissions. The eight-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Hyundai’s own development, provides smooth and efficient gear changes. This transmission is designed to optimize fuel economy and provide responsive acceleration. It features a torque converter and electronically controlled shifting.
Driving Characteristics
The 200 horsepower and 325 lb-ft of torque offered by the 2.2 TCi engine provide adequate, though not exhilarating, performance for the Palisade. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes around 9.7 seconds, making it competitive within its class but slower than gasoline-powered V6 options. The eight-speed automatic transmission is well-tuned, offering smooth shifts and keeping the engine within its optimal power band. The torque delivery is strong from low RPMs, making it suitable for everyday driving and towing. Compared to higher-output gasoline engines available in other Palisade trims, this diesel variant prioritizes fuel economy and relaxed cruising over outright speed. The front-wheel-drive configuration contributes to fuel efficiency but limits traction in adverse weather conditions.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 TCi Automatic trim typically came well-equipped, often serving as a mid-range offering. Standard features generally included tri-zone automatic climate control, an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, a rearview camera, and a suite of driver-assistance technologies such as lane-keeping assist, forward collision avoidance assist, and adaptive cruise control. Interior upholstery was typically cloth or leatherette, with options for full leather available as upgrades. Higher trim levels added features like a panoramic sunroof, premium audio systems, and ventilated front seats. Optional extras often included all-wheel drive, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a head-up display.
Chassis & Braking
The Palisade I utilizes a front-wheel-drive based chassis with independent suspension at all four corners. The front suspension consists of MacPherson struts, while the rear employs a multi-link setup. This configuration provides a comfortable ride quality, absorbing bumps and irregularities in the road surface effectively. Braking duties are handled by ventilated front discs and solid rear discs. Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is standard, along with Electronic Stability Control (ESC). Stabilizer bars are fitted front and rear to reduce body roll during cornering. The suspension tuning is geared towards comfort rather than sporty handling, prioritizing a smooth and composed ride for passengers.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Palisade, and specifically the 2.2 TCi Automatic variant, was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, and generous list of standard features. The diesel engine was noted for its fuel efficiency and strong low-end torque. However, some reviewers found the acceleration to be somewhat underwhelming compared to competitors with larger gasoline engines. Compared to the gasoline-powered 3.5-liter V6 Palisade, the 2.2 TCi offered superior fuel economy but less overall power. The diesel variant also tended to be more expensive upfront, but the fuel savings could offset the higher initial cost over the long term. Reliability reports have been generally positive, with few major issues reported with the powertrain.
Legacy
The Hyundai Palisade I 2.2 TCi Automatic has established itself as a reliable and practical family SUV in the used car market. The R II diesel engine, while requiring regular maintenance like any diesel, has proven to be durable and long-lasting. The eight-speed automatic transmission has also demonstrated good reliability. The Palisade’s spacious interior and comfortable ride continue to appeal to buyers seeking a well-rounded and value-for-money SUV. As a first-generation model, it laid the foundation for Hyundai’s continued success in the three-row SUV segment, and the 2.2 TCi variant remains a popular choice for those prioritizing fuel efficiency and a comfortable driving experience.
