2023 Hyundai Palisade vs 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 created a captivating presence as the first model under Hyundai's new Ioniq sub-brand, dedicated exclusively to electric vehicles (EVs). Distinct from the original Ioniq lineup, this model was characterized by a futuristic Parametric Pixel design, reminiscent of old-school 8-bit graphics. Featuring a minimalist exterior with several unique elements such as aerodynamic wheels and an abundance of pixelated LED lights, the Ioniq 5 looked more like a concept car than a production vehicle. However, inside the cabin, Hyundai shifted gears, offering a serene "Living Space" theme with relaxed and eco-friendly materials, like recycled fibers and bio-materials, providing a comfortable and sustainable driving experience.

In contrast, the 2023 Hyundai Palisade presented a more commanding and impactful appearance following its styling updates. With a prominent and squared-off grille, new headlights, and standard LED lighting across all trims, the Palisade was designed to be noticed. Premium features on the top Calligraphy trim included gleaming black and chrome accents, bespoke rear accent lighting, body-color bumpers, and a unique grille. The interior matched the opulence of the exterior, particularly in higher trims like the Calligraphy, which boasted stylish quilting, premium Nappa leather, and a dual-pane sunroof that enhanced its luxurious appeal. Though more conventional compared to the Ioniq 5's futuristic vibe, the Palisade's design was geared toward comfort and sophistication.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 provided a versatile performance with its varied powertrains and configurations. It came in SE, SEL, and Limited trims, with rear-wheel drive (RWD) as standard and all-wheel drive (AWD) as an option. The base SE Standard Range featured a 168-horsepower single motor, promising 220 miles of range. Higher trims with RWD rendered 225 horsepower and a 303-mile range, while the dual-motor AWD system delivered a robust 320 horsepower and 446 lb-ft of torque, though the range decreased to 256 miles. The Ioniq 5 exhibited composed handling on diverse roads, with four driving modes and adjustable regenerative braking enhancing the driving experience, though it was not aimed at performance enthusiasts like some high-powered EVs.

Meanwhile, the 2023 Hyundai Palisade stuck to a single, yet potent, powertrain—a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. This setup was competitive against SUVs like the Mazda CX-9 and Honda Pilot, delivering a solid performance with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Palisade's front-wheel drive (FWD) was standard, while AWD was an option, adding a dedicated Tow Mode for handling up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity. Fuel economy was respectable within its class, with 19 mpg city and 27 highway for FWD, slightly lower for AWD models.

Built on the Electric Global Modular Platform (E-GMP), the 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 prioritized maximizing interior space and utility. Despite its hatchback-like appearance, this EV had a longer wheelbase (118.1 inches) compared to larger vehicles like the Palisade. The Ioniq 5 offered a spacious interior volume of 133.7 cubic feet, emphasizing passenger comfort with 106.5 cubic feet of passenger space. Cargo space was 27.2 cubic feet behind the rear seats, slightly less than competitors but made up for with innovative features like a moveable center island and bench-style seating allowing multiple entry points.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade excelled in accommodating larger groups with its seven- or eight-passenger seating options. It boasted 44.1 inches of front legroom, 42.4 in the second row, and 31.4 inches in the third row, making it more spacious than rivals like the Toyota Highlander. The Palisade offered 18 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 45.8 cubic feet behind the second row, and up to 86.4 cubic feet with all rows folded down. Easy third-row access, hands-free smart liftgate, and abundant storage and cupholders across all three rows augmented its family-friendly design.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 impressed with its advanced high-voltage energy-dense system, capable of ultra-fast charging (80% in 18 minutes) and vehicle-to-load capabilities for charging other devices or even homes. The multimedia setup included redesigned Blue Link for charge management, over-the-air updates, and virtual assistant compatibility. The dual 12.3-inch instrument cluster and infotainment screens were anti-glare and user-friendly, enhancing visibility and user interaction.

For 2023, the Hyundai Palisade raised the bar with the introduction of WiFi hotspot capability on all trims and a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and more. SEL models and up received a premium 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system, and higher trims enjoyed a color head-up display. The Bluelink app allowed remote management of vehicle functions, including heated or cooled seats. The Digital Key 2 Touch provided seamless access via compatible smartphones, further integrating technology into daily use.

The 2022 Hyundai Ioniq 5 offered a substantial suite of standard safety features under Hyundai SmartSense, including blind-spot monitoring, lane-departure warning, and collision avoidance systems. Its Highway Drive Assist I (HAD) utilized machine-learning adaptive cruise control, making it more intuitive over time. The head-up display with AR overlays added another layer of safety, albeit with some usability trade-offs. Though not yet rated by NHTSA or IIHS, Hyundai's track record suggested strong safety performance.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade continued traditions with significant safety enhancements, earning a Top Safety Pick+ from IIHS in its 2022 variant and expected to maintain high standards. The Smart Sense suite came standard, featuring forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and more. The advancement to Highway Driving Assist II in higher trims included lane change assistance. Features like Safe Exit Warning and rear occupant alert demonstrated the Palisade's commitment to safety across all configurations.