2022 Hyundai Palisade vs 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade stood out with its elegant and striking exterior design, marking a departure from Hyundai's earlier, more derivative styles. It featured distinctive lines, a prominent grille, and sculpted wheel arches, creating a visually appealing profile. The continuous strip of glass around the tailgate gave the impression of a floating rear roof, while expressive LED lights added to its signature look. Inside, the Palisade offered a polished and near-luxury experience with high-quality materials, a horizontally arrayed screen, and spacious seating arrangements. The Calligraphy model, in particular, impressed with its Steel Graphite paint and black interior.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid borrowed styling cues from the Tacoma pickup, resulting in a rugged appearance with a trapezoidal grille. However, its design felt disjointed, with an odd character line adding unnecessary visual weight. The interior was unconventional, featuring an asymmetrical dash and metallic styling elements. The Bronze Edition's light grey fabric upholstery was a questionable choice, prone to dirt and stains. While the Softex synthetic leather felt more like vinyl, the Highlander Hybrid's materials quality lagged behind competitors, though it remained a viable option for those seeking a hybrid SUV.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.8-liter V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine, with gasoline direct injection and dual variable valve timing, offered a baritone rumble and quick acceleration without turbo lag. Despite its power, the Palisade's fuel efficiency was moderate, with EPA estimates of up to 19 mpg city/26 mpg highway for FWD models. Weighing between 4,127 and 4,387 pounds, it handled well with a four-wheel independent suspension and could tow up to 5,000 pounds with trailer brakes.

The 2022 Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid engine, delivering 243 horsepower. Paired with a CVT, it offered a smooth but uninspired driving experience, especially when climbing hills. The hybrid system provided a quick start with electric motors, transitioning to the gasoline engine for sustained power. The Highlander Hybrid excelled in fuel efficiency, with a soft ride quality and a quiet cabin. However, its handling was not sporty, focusing more on comfort for family use.

The Hyundai Palisade offered a spacious interior with comfortable third-row seating and easy access. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom, while the front row featured extensive storage options. Cargo space was generous, with 18.0 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 86.4 cubic feet with seats folded. The Palisade's shift-by-wire setup and intuitive controls enhanced usability, and luxury features like a dual-panel sunroof and premium upholstery were available on higher trims.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid's front seats were well-cushioned, though the driver's armrest was awkwardly positioned. Storage was plentiful, with trays and bins for personal items. The second-row seats offered ample space and versatility, while the third row was less accommodating, suitable for children or short trips. Cargo space measured 16 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 84.3 cubic feet with seats folded. The Highlander Hybrid provided practical features but lacked the Palisade's luxury touches.

The Hyundai Palisade showcased advanced technology, with a high-resolution touchscreen and Harman Kardon audio system on upper trims. It included wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, multiple USB ports, and a Qi wireless charging pad. The Blue Link connected car system offered remote functions, while a digital instrument cluster and head-up display enhanced the driving experience.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid featured an 8-inch infotainment touchscreen, with a larger 12.3-inch option on top trims. The system was responsive, with physical shortcut buttons and climate controls. Standard features included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa integration. Higher trims offered navigation and a JBL audio system, but the technology package was less comprehensive than the Palisade's.

The Hyundai Palisade boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including seven airbags, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. It earned a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA. Advanced features like Highway Driving Assist were available on higher trims.

The Toyota Highlander Hybrid also received high safety ratings, with a five-star NHTSA score and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking. However, some systems, like lane-keep assist, required fine-tuning for smoother operation.