What To Know
- The Highlander boasts a more refined and minimalist design, while the Palisade opts for a luxurious and tech-forward approach.
- The Palisade, on the other hand, pampers its occupants with premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a host of advanced features like a panoramic sunroof and a premium sound system.
- The Palisade earns a slight advantage with its available features like a driver attention monitor and a surround-view camera system.
Choosing the right SUV can feel like navigating a jungle of options. When you’re considering a three-row SUV for your family, two names often rise to the top: the Toyota Highlander and the Hyundai Palisade. Both are known for their reliability, spacious interiors, and impressive features, but which one truly reigns supreme? This comprehensive comparison will delve into the key aspects of both vehicles to help you make an informed decision.
Performance: Power and Efficiency
The Toyota Highlander offers a choice of two engine options: a 295-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 or a 243-horsepower hybrid powertrain. The V6 provides ample power for everyday driving, while the hybrid offers impressive fuel economy. The Hyundai Palisade, on the other hand, comes standard with a 291-horsepower 3.8-liter V6 engine, providing a smooth and responsive driving experience.
While both SUVs offer capable performance, the Highlander’s hybrid option provides an edge in fuel efficiency for those prioritizing eco-friendliness.
Interior: Comfort and Features
Both the Highlander and the Palisade offer comfortable and spacious interiors, but they cater to different preferences. The Highlander boasts a more refined and minimalist design, while the Palisade opts for a luxurious and tech-forward approach.
The Highlander’s interior is known for its high-quality materials and user-friendly layout. It provides ample legroom and headroom for all passengers, even in the third row. The Palisade, on the other hand, pampers its occupants with premium leather upholstery, heated and ventilated seats, and a host of advanced features like a panoramic sunroof and a premium sound system.
Technology: Staying Connected
Both SUVs are equipped with a plethora of advanced technology features to keep you connected and entertained. The Highlander features a standard 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system, while the Palisade comes with a larger 10.25-inch display. Both offer Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, as well as navigation, Bluetooth connectivity, and multiple USB ports.
The Palisade takes the lead in technology with its optional digital instrument cluster and head-up display, offering a more immersive driving experience.
Safety: Protecting What Matters Most
Safety is paramount, and both the Highlander and the Palisade prioritize occupant protection. Both SUVs boast a comprehensive suite of advanced safety features, including automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and adaptive cruise control.
The Palisade earns a slight advantage with its available features like a driver attention monitor and a surround-view camera system.
Reliability and Value: Long-Term Ownership
Toyota has a longstanding reputation for reliability, and the Highlander consistently ranks high in reliability surveys. The Palisade is relatively new to the market, but Hyundai has been making strides in improving its reliability in recent years.
In terms of value, the Highlander offers a competitive price point, while the Palisade typically commands a higher sticker price. However, the Palisade’s extra features and luxurious interior might justify the price premium for some buyers.
Choosing the Right SUV for You: The Verdict
Ultimately, the choice between the Toyota Highlander and the Hyundai Palisade boils down to your individual needs and preferences.
If you prioritize:
- Reliability and fuel efficiency: The Highlander’s hybrid option is a compelling choice.
- Luxury and technology: The Palisade’s premium features and advanced technology will appeal to those seeking a more luxurious driving experience.
- Spaciousness and comfort: Both offer ample room for passengers, but the Palisade’s third row might be slightly more comfortable for adults.
Beyond the Comparison: Exploring Other Options
While the Highlander and Palisade are excellent choices, it’s important to consider other contenders in the three-row SUV segment. The Honda Pilot, Ford Explorer, and Subaru Ascent are all worthy competitors offering unique strengths and value propositions.
The Final Word: Finding Your Perfect Match
The Toyota Highlander and the Hyundai Palisade are both exceptional SUVs that cater to different needs and preferences. By carefully considering your priorities and exploring your options, you can find the perfect SUV to match your lifestyle and budget.
Questions You May Have
Q: Which SUV is better for off-roading?
A: Neither the Highlander nor the Palisade is designed for serious off-roading. For off-road adventures, you’d need to look at dedicated SUV models like the Toyota 4Runner or the Jeep Wrangler.
Q: What about resale value?
A: Toyota vehicles generally hold their value well, so the Highlander is likely to have better resale value than the Palisade. However, the Palisade’s newer model and growing popularity could also contribute to good resale value in the future.
Q: Which SUV has a better warranty?
A: Hyundai offers a more comprehensive warranty package, including a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty, compared to Toyota’s 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.
Q: Are there any differences in cargo space?
A: The Palisade offers slightly more cargo space behind the third row than the Highlander. However, both SUVs provide ample cargo room for family trips and weekend getaways.
