The Hyundai Palisade 3.5 MPi V6 Automatic, produced from November 2018 to April 2022, represents the initial offering of Hyundai’s flagship three-row SUV. Positioned as a premium family vehicle, the Palisade aimed to compete directly with established players like the Toyota Highlander and Honda Pilot in the North American market. This particular variant, equipped with the 3.5-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine and an eight-speed automatic transmission, served as the primary powertrain option for the model during its first four years of production, offering a balance of power, refinement, and relative simplicity compared to potential future hybrid or turbocharged alternatives. The Palisade marked a significant step up in terms of size, features, and perceived luxury for Hyundai, and quickly gained popularity for its spacious interior and value proposition.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Hyundai |
| Model | Palisade |
| Generation | Palisade I |
| Type (Engine) | 3.5 MPi V6 (277 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) | 14.2 l/100 km (16.6 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 7.3 l/100 km (32.2 US mpg) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.9 l/100 km (23.8 US mpg) |
| CO2 emissions | 230 g/km |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.2 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 7.8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 210 km/h (130.49 mph) |
| Power | 277 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Torque | 335 Nm @ 5000 rpm (247.08 lb.-ft. @ 5000 rpm) |
| Engine Model/Code | Lambda II / G6DC |
| Engine displacement | 3470 cm3 (211.75 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 6 |
| Engine configuration | V-engine |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine oil capacity | 5.7 l (6.02 US qt | 5.02 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 8.9 l (9.4 US qt | 7.83 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1820-1938 kg (4012.41 – 4272.56 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2610 kg (5754.07 lbs.) |
| Max load | 672-790 kg (1481.51 – 1741.65 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.) |
| Number of gears | 8 |
| Type of gearbox | automatic transmission |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of this Palisade variant is Hyundai’s Lambda II 3.5-liter V6 engine, designated with the code G6DC. This engine is a naturally aspirated, 60-degree V6 featuring multi-port fuel injection and dual continuously variable valve timing (CVVT) on both intake and exhaust camshafts. The engine produces 277 horsepower at 6,300 rpm and 247 lb-ft of torque at 5,000 rpm. The Lambda II engine is known for its smooth operation and relatively simple design, eschewing the complexity of turbocharging or direct injection in favor of proven reliability. The engine is paired with a Hyundai-developed eight-speed automatic transmission. This transmission offers smooth shifts and is tuned for comfortable cruising rather than aggressive performance. The transmission features a wide gear ratio spread, contributing to both fuel efficiency and adequate acceleration. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available as an option.
Driving Characteristics
The 3.5-liter V6 and eight-speed automatic combination delivers a comfortable and composed driving experience. Acceleration from 0-60 mph takes approximately 7.8 seconds, which is adequate for everyday driving and highway merging. While not a sports SUV, the Palisade offers sufficient power for most situations. The automatic transmission generally selects the appropriate gear for the driving conditions, and manual shift control is available via a shift lever. Compared to potential future turbocharged versions, this naturally aspirated engine provides a more linear power delivery, without the turbo lag sometimes associated with forced induction. The Palisade’s suspension is tuned for comfort, absorbing bumps and road imperfections effectively. However, this does result in some body roll during cornering.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 3.5 MPi V6 Automatic was offered across various trim levels, including SE, SEL, and Limited. The base SE trim included standard features such as an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a rearview camera, and a suite of safety features including automatic emergency braking, lane keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims like the SEL added features such as leather upholstery, a power driver’s seat, and heated front seats. The top-of-the-line Limited trim included premium features like Nappa leather upholstery, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a head-up display, and a premium sound system. Optional extras included all-wheel drive, a panoramic sunroof, and a rear-seat entertainment system.
Chassis & Braking
The Hyundai Palisade utilizes a front-wheel-drive-based platform with optional all-wheel drive. The suspension consists of MacPherson struts in the front and a multi-link setup in the rear. Stabilizer bars are fitted to both axles to reduce body roll. Braking duties are handled by ventilated disc brakes on all four wheels. The braking system is assisted by ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), Electronic Stability Control (ESC), and Brake Assist. Wheel sizes vary depending on the trim level, ranging from 18-inch to 20-inch alloy wheels. Tire sizes are typically 245/60R18 or 245/50R20.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Hyundai Palisade was generally well-received by automotive critics and consumers alike. It was praised for its spacious interior, comfortable ride, long list of standard features, and competitive pricing. The 3.5-liter V6 engine was considered adequate for most buyers, although some reviewers noted that it lacked the punch of some turbocharged competitors. Fuel economy was average for the segment, with combined ratings around 23.8 US mpg. Compared to the base four-cylinder engines offered in some competitors, the Palisade’s V6 provided a noticeable performance advantage. In terms of reliability, the Lambda II engine has a generally good reputation, although some owners have reported minor issues with the fuel injectors.
Legacy
The Hyundai Palisade 3.5 MPi V6 Automatic established Hyundai as a serious contender in the three-row SUV segment. Its combination of space, features, and value resonated with families seeking a comfortable and practical vehicle. While Hyundai has since introduced other powertrain options for the Palisade, including a hybrid model, the 3.5-liter V6 remains a popular choice in the used car market. Its proven reliability and relatively simple design make it an attractive option for buyers seeking a dependable and affordable SUV. As of 2024, well-maintained examples of this generation Palisade continue to command reasonable prices and offer a compelling alternative to newer, more expensive models.
