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Are you considering buying either the 2023 Hyundai Palisade or the 2023 Toyota Highlander? In another article, we highlighted the advantages of the Highlander. Now, we cover the strengths of the Palisade. Here are four reasons for midsize SUV shoppers to buy a 2023 Palisade, not a 2023 Highlander.

2023 Hyundai Palisade delivers better performance than the 2023 Toyota Highlander

Front angle view of white 2023 Hyundai Palisade, highlighting its cost for each trim
2023 Hyundai Palisade | Hyundai

The first reason to buy a 2023 Hyundai Palisade instead of a 2023 Toyota Highlander is the Palisade delivers better performance than the Highlander. It comes equipped with a 3.8-liter V-6 engine, which produces 291 horsepower. In comparison, the Highlander offers two engine options — and they both have a weaker horsepower output than the one in the Palisade: a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four engine (265 hp) and a hybrid (243 hp). 

Also, with a wheelbase that is two inches longer than the Highlander, the Palisade provides a smooth and stable ride. Another performance advantage for the Palisade is a shorter stopping distance when applying the brakes. 

Also, while both SUVs have the same maximum towing capacity (5,000 pounds), unlike the Highlander, the Palisade offers an automatic rear load-leveling suspension. This feature helps maintain a level ride when towing or carrying a heavy load in the cargo area.

2023 Palisade has better off-road capabilities than the 2023 Highlander

Front angle view of Wind Chill Pearl 2023 Toyota Highlander
2023 Toyota Highlander | Toyota

The second reason to buy a 2023 Hyundai Palisade instead of a 2023 Toyota Highlander is the Palisade has better off-road capabilities than the Highlander. Both SUVs offer an available traction-enhancing all-wheel drive system. However, unlike the Highlander, the Palisade offers an off-road-focused model with the XRT trim. Along with a rugged design, the Palisade XRT has exterior cladding to protect it from the rigors of off-road use.

Hyundai Palisade provides more interior space than the Toyota Highlander

Dashboard and front seats in 2023 Hyundai Palisade
2023 Hyundai Palisade | Hyundai

The third reason to buy a 2023 Palisade instead of a 2023 Highlander is the Palisade provides more interior space than the Highlander. Both SUVs can seat up to eight people. However, the Palisade has a total passenger volume of 155.3 cu-ft, compared to 141.3 cu-ft for the Highlander.

Additionally, the Palisade offers slightly more space for storage. It has a maximum cargo capacity of 86.4 cu-ft, compared to 84.3 cu-ft for the Highlander.

2023 Palisade has better warranty coverage than the 2023 Highlander

The fourth reason to buy a 2023 Palisade instead of a 2023 Highlander is the Palisade has better warranty coverage than the Highlander. It’s backed by a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. In comparison, the warranty coverage for the Highlander is much less generous. It has only a 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Also, while both SUVs offer a free maintenance plan, the complementary coverage is longer for the Palisade. It’s good for three years or 36,000 miles, compared to two years or 25,000 miles for the Highlander.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade has advantages over the 2023 Toyota Highlander for performance, off-road capabilities, interior space, and warranty coverage. These are solid reasons for midsize shoppers to buy a 2023 Palisade, not a 2023 Highlander.

For reasons to buy a 2023 Highlander, not a 2023 Palisade, continue reading below.

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