We’ve been spending time behind the wheel of the Toyota Highlander and the Hyundai Palisade to discover their strengths and weaknesses. Both options are excellent three-row SUVs for families to consider. However, the 2023 Hyundai Palisade has one advantage over the 2023 Toyota Highlander that can’t be ignored. 

Is the 2023 Hyundai Palisade or the 2023 Toyota Highlander bigger? 

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade and the 2023 Toyota Highlander are pretty similar in size. However, the Palisade is just a smidge wider. The Palisade may also have a smoother ride thanks to its longer wheelbase. 

But it’s not about which vehicle has more space. It’s about how the SUVs utilize their space. Based on this, we can confidently declare that the 2023 Palisade has a larger back row than the 2023 Highlander. 

There are only tiny, flat seats in the back of the Highlander, and they sit in a raised position. The seats are higher than the ones in the second row. Plus, knee space is limited. The seat cushions almost hit the back of the second row. 

The Palisade features a larger third row that’s easier to access. You’ll find more knee room, should room, and head space back there. Two average-sized adults around 5’1” can fit in the rear just fine. 

You can access the third seat in the middle of the back row, but it’s a bit narrow. It’s possible to fit three kids in the back if they’re smaller. The extra space makes it more comfortable for everyone on family trips. 

Plus, the Palisade has a little more cargo room. There are 18.3 cubic feet of cargo space behind the second row and up to 86.4 cubes overall. The Toyota Highlander provides 16.0 cubic feet in the rear with 84.4 cubes overall. 

Is the Palisade or Highlander better to drive? 

Both the 2023 Toyota Highlander and the 2023 Hyundai Palisade provide unique advantages. For example, the Palisade has a lower starting price, and the Highlander offers a hybrid powertrain. But we will stick with gas for now. 

The standard Palisade engine is a 3.8-liter V6 unit with 291 hp and 265 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.6 seconds. Edmunds notes this as average for the class. 

With the Highlander, you get a turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine with 265 hp and 309 lb-ft of torque. It can accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in about 7.5 seconds. 

While the Palisade may feel a bit sportier with a smoother ride quality, the Highlander is quieter at highway speeds. Also, the Palisade has more comfortable seats. 

Does the Palisade or Highlander have more value? 

Both the 2023 Hyundai Palisade and 2023 Toyota Highlander are loaded with modern features. The Palisade MSRP starts at $35,555, while the Highlander begins at $36,420. 

The Palisade’s 12.3-inch touchscreen is a bit more attractive than the unit in the Highlander, thanks to better graphics. Also, the Palisade has standard built-in navigation. But the Highlander has standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. 

Deciding between the 2023 Palisade and 2023 Highlander is tough. However, if you need more room in the third row, then consider the Palisade.