Hyundai Palisade LX3 Body Kit Review: Cost & Results

Enhancing Your Hyundai Palisade LX3 with an Aero Kit

The Hyundai Palisade LX3, a popular family SUV, offers spaciousness and a comfortable ride. However, for some owners, the desire to personalize and enhance its aesthetic appeal, along with potentially improving aerodynamics, leads them to consider a body kit, often referred to as an aero kit. This review delves into the specifics of body kit installation for the Palisade LX3, covering what you can expect in terms of cost, the transformation process, and the overall value. While the original context for this information comes from a review of side steps for the Korean market (specifically the "The All New Palisade" model), we'll adapt the principles to a broader body kit discussion relevant to US/UK owners.

Body Kit Installation: What to Expect

Installing a body kit on your Hyundai Palisade LX3 typically involves adding components like front lips, side skirts, and rear diffusers. These parts are designed to give the vehicle a more aggressive or refined stance. The process requires precision to ensure a seamless fit and finish. In Korea, a popular accessory for the Palisade is side steps, which enhance ingress and egress, particularly for children and the elderly. These are often made from durable materials like aluminum and steel, featuring anti-slip surfaces and designed to integrate with the vehicle's existing lines without requiring extensive modification to the chassis. While not a full body kit, the installation principles for such accessories highlight the importance of using dedicated brackets and avoiding damage to the vehicle's structure. A full body kit installation would follow similar careful procedures, ensuring all components align perfectly with the Palisade's body panels.

Installation Process:

1. Preparation: The vehicle's body panels are thoroughly cleaned and prepped to ensure optimal adhesion.
2. Component Fitting: Each body kit component (front lip, side skirts, etc.) is carefully aligned and test-fitted.
3. Securing Components: Using specialized brackets, clips, and automotive-grade adhesives or bolts, the parts are securely attached to the vehicle's chassis and body.
4. Finishing Touches: Any gaps are addressed, and the new components are inspected for a perfect fit and finish.

Durability, Cost, and Value of a Palisade Body Kit

The durability of a body kit depends heavily on the materials used. Kits made from high-quality polyurethane or ABS plastic are generally more resilient to impacts and temperature changes than those made from fiberglass (FRP). The Korean context mentions side steps constructed from aluminum and steel, emphasizing their long-term durability and resistance to deformation. For a full body kit, expect similar considerations. The estimated cost for a body kit for the Hyundai Palisade LX3 in the US can range from approximately $750 to $1,150, not including installation. Professional installation can add several hundred dollars to the total cost, depending on the complexity of the kit and the labor rates. While the Korean side step example suggests a total cost of around 700,000 to 1,000,000 KRW (roughly $500-$750 USD at the time of writing), this is for a specific accessory, not a full body kit. When considering if a body kit is worth it, weigh the aesthetic improvements and potential aerodynamic benefits against the cost and the risk of damage from impacts. For many owners, the enhanced visual appeal and personalization are significant value drivers, making it a worthwhile modification.