2021 BMW X7 vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy distinguished itself with a unique grille pattern, revised exterior lighting, and additional lower body trim. It featured unique 20-inch wheels and upgraded interior detailing, including a simulated suede headliner. These enhancements made the Calligraphy trim appear more luxurious than other Palisade models, drawing attention with its unconventional styling. While opinions on its aesthetics varied, the Calligraphy trim undeniably gave the impression of a more expensive vehicle. Inside, the Palisade Calligraphy boasted a Beige over Navy Blue color scheme with premium Nappa leather and simulated wood trim, offering a cabin that rivaled more expensive SUVs in the midsize three-row class.

In contrast, the 2021 BMW X7 exuded a sense of prestige and sophistication. It was noted for its superior interior quality compared to competitors like the Cadillac Escalade and Lincoln Navigator. The X7's styling was both traditional and glamorous, with a massive grille that suited its large SUV frame. Inside, the X7 shared design elements with the X5, featuring high-quality materials and intuitive controls. The test vehicle, an X7 xDrive40i, came equipped with 22-inch aluminum wheels, premium leather, and a leather-wrapped dashboard. The X7's interior was luxurious, with features like heated and ventilated seats, a five-zone climate control system, and extended premium Merino leather upholstery, making it a truly decadent experience.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade was equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered front-wheel drive as standard, with an optional all-wheel-drive system. Drivers could choose from Eco, Comfort, Smart, and Sport driving modes, with AWD models adding a Snow mode and a Lock function for improved traction. The Palisade's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg in combined driving, and it averaged 21.1 mpg during testing. The Palisade's suspension provided excellent body-motion control, making it enjoyable to drive, though not necessarily fun. It offered a firm yet comfortable ride, with a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds.

The 2021 BMW X7 xDrive40i featured a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline six-cylinder engine with 335 horsepower and 331 lb-ft of torque. It was paired with an eight-speed sport automatic transmission and BMW's xDrive AWD system. The X7 incorporated eBoost mild-hybrid technology, which included a 48-volt starter/generator and battery to enhance fuel efficiency and responsiveness. Despite this, the X7's fuel economy dropped to 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined. The X7 accelerated to 60 mph in 5.8 seconds, offering ample power. However, its self-leveling air suspension struggled with excessive body motions, impacting driving enjoyment. The X7 excelled in smoothness and comfort, with features like Active Comfort Drive and Integral Active Steering enhancing the driving experience.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered a spacious and comfortable interior, especially in Calligraphy trim. It featured eight-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, and a heated steering wheel. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and support, with easy access to the third-row seat. The Palisade's third-row seat was more accommodating than most in its class. It offered generous cargo space, with 18 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 86.4 cubic feet with the second-row seats folded. The hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience, though it could be disabled if desired.

The 2021 BMW X7's interior was equally impressive, with features like heated front seats, armrests, and a heated steering wheel as standard. The test vehicle included the Cold Weather Package, Luxury Seating Package, and premium Merino leather upholstery, creating a luxurious environment. The second-row captain's chairs were exceptionally comfortable, though access could be challenging due to long rear doors. The X7's third-row seat accommodated adults comfortably, with a five-zone climate control system ensuring individual comfort. Cargo space measured 48.6 cubic feet with the third row folded, expanding to 90.4 cubic feet with the second row down, though it fell short of class leaders.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems: an 8-inch touchscreen and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Both systems allowed pairing of two smartphones via Bluetooth, with the 8-inch setup offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Calligraphy trim included features like SiriusXM satellite radio, a navigation system, Blue Link connected services, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Additional technology included wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, and a Quiet Mode. A head-up display and surround-view camera system enhanced convenience and safety.

The 2021 BMW X7 featured the Live Cockpit Professional digital instrumentation and iDrive 7.0 infotainment system, both with 12.3-inch displays. The iDrive system gained Android Auto for 2021, alongside Apple CarPlay. Enhanced SiriusXM 360L, Connected Package Pro, and BMW Remote Services were standard, offering accurate traffic data and real-time parking information. The X7 included wireless smartphone charging, natural voice recognition, and gesture control, though the latter could be inconsistent. The test vehicle also had a head-up display, though visibility was limited with polarized sunglasses.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, offering adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and multiple lane-keeping systems as standard. It featured a rear occupant alert system, with Limited and Calligraphy trims offering an ultrasonic version. Most models included active blind-spot and rear cross-traffic warning systems, along with Safe Exit Assist. The Palisade's Highway Drive Assist provided smooth and sophisticated adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. It earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, with three years of Blue Link services for added peace of mind.

The 2021 BMW X7 came equipped with standard safety technologies, with additional features available in the Driving Assistance Professional Package and Parking Assistance Package. The Driving Assistance Professional Package included evasive-steering assist, traffic-jam assist, and lane-control assist, among others. The X7's advanced driving assistance systems were accurate and smooth, though some specific scenarios revealed limitations. The Parking Assistance Package added semi-automated parallel parking assist and a surround-view camera. Overall, the X7's safety technology was impressive, enhancing driver confidence and reducing stress.