How This Midsize Hyundai SUV Stacks up Against the 2023 Toyota Highlander
The 2023 Toyota Highlander is one of the best midsize SUVs on the market. This is true despite it being a bit of an older nameplate. However, the latest model Hyundai Palisade is a close competitor. The similarities between the two exist because they are similar in size and offer many of the same features. Here’s a look at how the 2023 Hyundai Palisade stacks up to the iconic Toyota Highlander.
Which is the best midsize SUV for fuel economy?
Good fuel economy is one of the standards needed to be considered a contender for best midsize SUV. Luckily, the 2023 Toyota Highlander and the Hyundai Palisade have this in the bag. However, the latest Highlander comes out on top as it averages 22 miles per gallon in the city and 29 on the highway. The 2023 Hyundai Palisade averages 19 mpg in the city and 27 on the highway. It should be noted that there are better midsize SUVs than both in this regard.
Regarding performance, the 2023 Hyundai Palisade actually comes out on top. According to Edmunds, it has a standard 3.8-liter V6 engine with a maximum output of 291 hp. It’s front-wheel drive and uses an eight-speed automatic transmission. The 2023 Highlander has a turbocharged 2.4-liter inline-four with a maximum output of 265 hp. Both midsize SUVs have front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations.
The 2023 Hyundai Palisade has the arguably better interior
The best midsize SUV based on the interior is a subjective discussion. However, the 2023 Hyundai Palisade interior is arguably better than that of the latest model Toyota Highlander. Both are excellent, but it’s hard to beat the recent work of Hyundai and Kia regarding their respective interiors. Where the Palisade comes out on top in this regard is that it’s more luxurious. Additionally, there is also more cargo space than the 2023 Toyota Highlander has.
The Palisade also has a better use of interior technology than the 2023 Toyota Highlander. It comes standard with a 12.0-inch touchscreen display, whereas the midsize Toyota SUV has a standard 8.0-inch screen. However, the higher two trims have a 12.3-inch unit coupled with a digital cluster of the same size. Both SUVs have a strong selection of add-ons, such as improved car sound systems.
Both are safe SUVs
The 2023 Toyota Highlander and the latest model Hyundai Palisade are both safe SUVs. In fact, both midsize SUVs are among the best because they are Top Safety Plus picks. Safety is one of the most critical factors of a new SUV, and these are both excellent choices in this regard. However, the Highlander does have slightly higher marks than the Hyundai SUV.
Overall, both the Hyundai Palisade and the new Highlander are great vehicles with fairly unique looks. Regarding price, the Palisade is a tad less expensive, with its starting price tag of $35,900. The 2023 Toyota Highlander starts at $36,620. Though similar SUVs, there’s a crowd for both that will have unique things they love about either vehicle.
