
Hyundai Palisade vs. Toyota Highlander: A Comprehensive Comparison
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade and the 2025 Toyota Highlander are top contenders in the realm of three-row crossover SUVs, but which vehicle truly leads in features, comfort, and overall value? As families continue to seek reliable and spacious options, understanding how these two SUVs stack up against one another is essential.
Pricing and Trims: Finding Your Family's Fit
The pricing for these vehicles can significantly influence buyer decisions. The Highlander ranges from approximately $41,000 to $54,000, while the new Grand Highlander starts at $42,500 and can ascend up to $60,000. Families looking for a more budget-friendly option may lean towards the 2025 Palisade, which is priced between $38,000 and $53,000. The sweet spot for value within these models tends to be the Hyundai Palisade SEL at $42,000 and the Toyota Grand Highlander LE Hybrid at $47,000, which offers additional features without breaking the bank.
Interior Comfort and Space: Where Will You Fit Best?
When it comes to spaciousness and seating comfort, both SUVs offer a three-row configuration suitable for accommodating eight passengers. The Grand Highlander shines in terms of overall roominess thanks to its size, measuring 201.4 inches long, whereas the standard Highlander sits at 194.9 inches and the Palisade at 196.7 inches. The Hyundai’s design focuses on ease of accessibility, with push-button controls that make flat-folding its seats simple and straightforward. While the Grand Highlander provides slightly more cargo space, the Palisade’s seats overall are easier to maneuver—and crucially, it features standard USB ports throughout for charging devices.
Performance and Engine Options: Power at Your Command
Under the hood, the Toyota Highlander boasts three engine choices, including two hybrid models that are appealing for fuel economy-conscious buyers. On the other hand, the Palisade comes equipped with a powerful 291-hp V-6 engine, which has its advantages in towing capability. However, the Highlander, especially with its Hybrid Max powertrain, offers more horsepower and a quicker acceleration, elevating it in the performance category. For families looking to tow, both models can handle up to 5,000 pounds, but the Grand Highlander presents a more versatile engine performance overall.
Safety Features: Keeping Your Family Secure
Safety is a non-negotiable requirement for families, and both the Hyundai Palisade and Toyota Highlander excel in this category. The Palisade has earned a Top Safety Pick rating, while the Highlander offers robust safety features standard across its fleet, which includes forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. However, the Highlander's Grand model has not yet been rated by the NHTSA, putting it at a slight disadvantage. Notably, the Palisade includes more advanced standard safety technologies, which can instill greater confidence on the road.
Fuel Efficiency: Making Every Drive Count
In today’s economy, fuel efficiency holds paramount importance for many SUV buyers. The Palisade is rated at 19 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway, which is substantial but does not measure up to the Highlander's more impressive fuel ratings, such as the hybrid variant achieving up to 35 mpg. This aspect could drive environmentally conscious buyers towards Toyota, where efficiency is prioritized.
Final Verdict: Choosing the Right Family SUV
Both the 2025 Hyundai Palisade and the Toyota Highlander deliver solid performances as family SUVs, but the choice ultimately hinges on personal preferences regarding space, pricing, and safety features. If budget and standard features are your priorities, the Palisade may edge ahead in overall value. Conversely, if fuel efficiency and hybrid options are critical, the Highlander might be the better option. Each vehicle carries its own strengths, and when it comes down to family needs, either model could serve you well as a reliable companion on the road.
As you venture out to make your decision, consider test-driving both models to see which SUV resonates most with you and your family.
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