7 Reasons the Hyundai Palisade SEL vs. Limited Will Surprise You: An In-Depth Comparison

Introduction

When it comes to family-friendly SUVs the Hyundai Palisade is a strong contender. But if you're considering bringing one home you might find yourself stuck between two popular trims – the SEL and the Limited. Both trims offer plenty of features space and style but which one is right for you? In this article we're gonna dive deep into all the details and help you make a well-informed decision. Spoiler alert – you can't really go wrong with either but there are some key differences to consider that might sway you one way or another.

So buckle up as we explore what each trim has to offer from performance to comfort to those all-important tech features. And hey if you're in the market for a new SUV or just love learning about the latest in the car world this one's for you.

Hyundai Palisade Overview: A Quick Recap

The Hyundai Palisade debuted in 2020 as the brand's flagship three-row SUV offering a spacious and high-quality ride for families. With a sleek exterior and an interior loaded with features the Palisade has quickly become a favorite in its class. From road trips to daily commutes the Palisade promises a balance of performance comfort and safety that rivals many luxury SUVs – without the luxury price tag.

Before we break down the SEL and Limited trims let's look at some key features that all Palisades share:

Key Features of All Palisades

• 3.8-liter V6 engine with 291 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque.
• 8-speed automatic transmission.
• Seating for up to eight passengers.
• Standard front-wheel drive (FWD) with optional all-wheel drive (AWD).
• Comprehensive safety suite including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist Lane Keeping Assist and Smart Cruise Control.

Whether you opt for the SEL or the Limited both trims have these essential Palisade features that make it a strong player in the family SUV market. Now let's get down to the real comparison between the Hyundai Palisade SEL and Limited.

The Battle of Trims: SEL vs Limited

When choosing between the SEL and Limited trims it all comes down to what kind of driver and passenger experience you're looking for. While both trims share the same engine and basic architecture they differ in comfort tech features and overall style. Let's break down each trim and see what they bring to the table.

1. Pricing & Value

When comparing any trims one of the first things to consider is the cost – and what you're getting for that cost.

SEL Trim

• Starting MSRP: Around $38,000.
• The SEL trim is the mid-level option in the Palisade lineup and it offers a great balance of features for the price. Think of it as getting most of what you need without a bunch of extra frills.

Limited Trim

• Starting MSRP: Around $46,000.
• As you step up to the Limited you’re looking at premium features and finishes. This is essentially a near-luxury vehicle without the full luxury price tag. If you’re looking for more upscale comfort and technology the Limited might be worth the extra investment.

Verdict on Pricing:

If you're sticking to a budget the SEL makes more sense and still gives you great value for your dollar. But if you’re looking to splurge a bit for some extra comfort and tech the Limited is the way to go.

2. Exterior Features: Lookin’ Good While Cruisin’

Both trims share a similar design language – think bold grille modern headlights and a muscular stance that says "I'm ready for whatever the road throws at me." But there are some visual and functional extras to consider.

SEL Trim Exterior Highlights

• 18-inch alloy wheels (though you can upgrade to 20-inch wheels).
• Heated side mirrors with LED turn signal indicators.
• Standard sunroof (not panoramic).

Limited Trim Exterior Highlights

• 20-inch alloy wheels come standard for a sportier and more premium look.
• A dual sunroof system (panoramic sunroof) for front and rear passengers.
• Rain-sensing windshield wipers for those unexpected downpours.

Verdict on Exterior:

The Limited trim just takes things up a notch with a more sophisticated look and some practical extras. If you care about a sleeker aesthetic or simply love the idea of a panoramic sunroof the Limited is the winner. But for many families the SEL's styling will be more than enough.

3. Interior & Comfort: Space to Stretch Out

Step inside the Palisade and you'll find that both trims offer a spacious and thoughtfully designed cabin. But the devil's in the details – and those details make a difference in your daily driving experience.

SEL Trim Interior

• Standard seating for eight passengers with a second-row bench seat.
• Heated front seats come standard.
• Manual climate controls but with dual-zone capability.
• Synthetic leather upholstery (Hyundai calls it "SOFINO").

Limited Trim Interior

• Seating for seven passengers (due to second-row captain’s chairs that offer more comfort but one less seat).
• Ventilated front seats and heated second-row seats – a game-changer in extreme weather.
• Leather upholstery for a more luxurious feel.
• Harman Kardon 12-speaker audio system for those who love their tunes.

Verdict on Comfort:

While both trims offer comfortable seating and a great layout the Limited is undeniably more luxurious. Heated second-row seats and leather upholstery add a level of comfort that SEL can’t match. If a premium cabin experience is high on your list go Limited. If you’re just looking for a spacious and functional interior SEL will do the job.

Alex Collantes' Opinion: "I think the Limited trim takes the cabin experience to another level but don’t sleep on the SEL either. It still offers a really nice space for long drives especially with heated front seats as standard."

4. Tech & Infotainment: Staying Connected on the Go

Today’s drivers and passengers are all about technology. Both the SEL and Limited trims bring a lot to the table in this department but there are some key differences to keep in mind.

SEL Trim Tech

• 8-inch touchscreen display with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
• 7-inch driver display for key driving information.
• Rear Occupant Alert system to ensure no one is left behind.

Limited Trim Tech

• 10.25-inch touchscreen display – a major upgrade in terms of size and functionality.
• Fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster – making the driving experience feel more high-tech.
• Head-Up Display (HUD) – projects driving info like speed and navigation onto the windshield.
• Surround-view monitor – for an enhanced parking experience.

Verdict on Tech:

The Limited trim definitely shines with its larger displays and extra tech features. If you want the latest gadgets and a slick infotainment system the Limited makes the case for itself. But if you’re fine with a solid tech experience without the extras SEL is more than capable.

5. Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety is crucial especially when driving a family-friendly SUV. Thankfully Hyundai has packed both the SEL and Limited trims with great safety features. But there are some added benefits in the Limited.

SEL Trim Safety

• Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian Detection.
• Lane Keeping Assist and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist.
• Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go.

Limited Trim Safety

• All the features of the SEL plus:
• Blind View Monitor – live camera view of blind spots when signaling.
• Parking Distance Warning – forward and reverse sensors to make parking easier.
• Remote Smart Parking Assist – park the car remotely with the key fob!

Verdict on Safety:

If you’re happy with standard advanced safety features the SEL won’t let you down. But if you want that extra level of assistance and cool parking tricks go with the Limited.

6. Performance & Drive

Both the SEL and Limited trims share the same 3.8-liter V6 engine which delivers a smooth and powerful drive. But how do they feel on the road?

• SEL: The SEL’s lighter build can make it feel a touch more responsive. Plus the option for AWD makes it great for tackling different road conditions.
• Limited: With the Limited trim’s added weight from all the extra features the drive might feel a bit heavier but it's balanced out by the luxury comfort you get inside.

Verdict on Performance:

It’s a tie in terms of engine power but if you prefer a more nimble feel on the road the SEL is slightly lighter. On the other hand the Limited’s extra features might make you forget any perceived difference.

7. Potential Drawbacks (With a Humorous Twist)

Every car has its quirks and the Palisade trims are no different. Here are some things to consider – with a little humor thrown in.

• SEL Drawback: You might get FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) every time you see a Limited owner with their fancy panoramic sunroof and leather seats. Just kidding... kinda.
• Limited Drawback: With all those high-end features you might end up being the family chauffeur. Be prepared for everyone to call shotgun in your Limited.

Conclusion: Which One is Right for You?

At the end of the day choosing between the Hyundai Palisade SEL vs. Limited depends on your budget and your must-haves. If you’re looking for a well-rounded SUV without breaking the bank the SEL is a great choice with plenty of features. But if you’re willing to spend more for added comfort luxury and tech the Limited trim elevates the driving experience to near-luxury levels.

And don't forget you’ll get a great driving experience with either choice thanks to the Palisade’s powerful engine spacious interior and comprehensive safety suite.

If you’ve made it this far what trim do you think suits your style better? Let us know in the comments below and share your Palisade journey if you're already a proud owner!

References:

1. Hyundai USA. "2024 Palisade - Specs & Trims." www.hyundaiusa.com
2. Car and Driver. "2024 Hyundai Palisade Review Pricing and Specs."
3. MotorTrend. "2024 Hyundai Palisade Pros and Cons Review."

Whether you choose the SEL or Limited one thing's for sure – you’ll be driving a solid SUV that delivers on performance comfort and safety for you and your family. Happy driving! 🚗