Skip to main content

Two solid options for the midsize SUV segment are the Toyota Highlander and Hyundai Palisade. Both vehicles have some strong points. However, the 2023 Toyota Highlander has one big item the 2023 Hyundai Palisade doesn’t offer: an efficient hybrid model

Unlike the 2023 Hyundai Palisade, the 2023 Toyota Highlander offers a hybrid model

Front angle view of gray 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid midsize SUV
2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid | Toyota

A major cost of vehicle ownership is gasoline. This is especially the case for SUVs, which tend to be gas guzzlers. However, the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid is an exception. With its efficient hybrid powertrain, filling up the tank is a more affordable endeavor.

Toyota has long been the industry leader for hybrid technology. The Japanese automaker has hybrid versions of many of its standard gas-powered models, including the Highlander midsize SUV. However, the 2023 Hyundai Palisade doesn’t offer a hybrid model. All Palisade trims are fully gas-powered, which are much less efficient than the Highlander Hybrid.  

2023 Highlander gets higher fuel economy than the 2023 Palisade

Front angle view of gray 2023 Hyundai Palisade midsize SUV
2023 Hyundai Palisade | Hyundai

Combining a 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine with two electric motors, the 2023 Toyota Highlander Hybrid gets an impressive estimated gas mileage of up to 36 city/35 highway mpg. In comparison, the 2023 Hyundai Palisade has an estimated fuel economy of up to 19 city/27 highway mpg. 

Compared to the Palisade, the Highlander Hybrid gets 17 more mpg for city driving and eight more mpg for highway driving. Also, even if you choose the fully gas-powered version of the Highlander, you’ll still benefit from higher gas mileage (up to 22 city/29 highway mpg).

In addition to saving money on gas, another benefit of the high fuel economy is convenience for midsize SUV drivers. With lower gas consumption, the Highlander requires fewer trips to gas stations than the Palisade. 

Other benefits of the Toyota Highlander over the Hyundai Palisade

The 2023 Highlander has some other advantages over the 2023 Palisade. This includes reliability, for J.D. Power named the Highlander the most dependable three-row midsize SUV. With higher reliability, the Highlander is less likely to have mechanical problems and other issues. As a result, repair costs are lower. 

The reliability also translates to longevity and better performance and safety — along with less hassle. Plus, since there are more Toyota dealerships than Hyundai dealerships, it’s more convenient to repair and service the Highlander for the majority of owners. 

Additionally, the Highlander has some other features that you can’t get for the Palisade. This includes one-touch power windows, a panoramic roof, fog lights, and running boards. Also, there are driving assistance technologies, such as adaptive headlights and cross-traffic alert. 

Furthermore, with its tighter turning circle, the Highlander is more maneuverable than the Palisade. The maneuverability is beneficial for parking, backing up, and driving through curves and corners. Conversely, it’s more challenging for the Palisade to maneuver in and out of narrow spots. 

With its efficient hybrid model, the 2023 Toyota Highlander has one big item the 2023 Hyundai Palisade doesn’t offer. We’re not suggesting that the Highlander is a better overall vehicle. However, when deciding between the two popular midsize SUVs, the hybrid model is something to keep in mind.