When you hear “cheap car,” your mind probably jumps to compact sedans or stripped-down economy models. But the Hyundai Palisade is changing that narrative — delivering premium space, features, and comfort at a price that feels like a steal for what you get.
What Makes the Palisade “Cheap”?
Let’s clarify — cheap doesn’t mean low quality. It means getting way more than what you pay for.
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade starts at just $38,675 MSRP for the SE trim. That includes a 291-horsepower V6 engine, eight-passenger seating, LED headlights, and Hyundai’s advanced safety tech (Smart Cruise Control, Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, and more). Even the top-tier Calligraphy Night Edition tops out around $55,975 — still far more affordable than many competitors with similar features.
Premium Experience Without the Premium Price
Inside, the Palisade punches well above its price class. You’ll find:
- Quilted Nappa leather seats
- 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- 12.3-inch infotainment screen with Apple CarPlay & Android Auto
- Tri-zone climate control
- Heated and ventilated front and second-row seats
Even the base SE model comes with high-quality materials, intuitive layout, and thoughtful tech. For growing families, the Palisade offers generous third-row space, power-folding seats, USB ports in every row, and optional second-row captain’s chairs.
Palisade vs. the Competition
Most three-row SUVs with this level of refinement — like the Ford Explorer Platinum, Jeep Grand Cherokee L, or Honda Pilot Elite — will cost $5,000–$10,000 more when similarly equipped. That’s where the Palisade earns the label “cheap”: it delivers luxury-level amenities for mid-market pricing.
If you're shopping for a full-size SUV but don't want to spend over $60K, the Palisade makes a compelling case.
Certified Pre-Owned = Even Cheaper
Want to save even more? Hyundai’s Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) program offers late-model Palisades with extended warranties and multi-point inspections — often under $35,000 depending on mileage and year.
The Verdict
The Hyundai Palisade is the perfect cheap car — not because it’s barebones or basic, but because it delivers exceptional value in a segment where most competitors are priced higher for fewer features.
Whether you're a family looking for safety and space or a driver who wants upscale tech without the luxury badge price tag, the Palisade is a smart buy you can feel good about.