2025 Hyundai Palisade vs 2024 Volvo XC90

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was available in three model series: B5, B6, and Recharge T8. The B5 featured a turbocharged mild-hybrid four-cylinder engine, while the B6 added a supercharger for enhanced performance. The Recharge T8 was a plug-in hybrid offering the most power and efficiency, with an estimated 32 miles of electric-only range. All models came standard with all-wheel drive. Volvo offered the XC90 in Core, Plus, and Ultimate trim levels, with prices ranging from $56,000 to $79,600, excluding a $1,195 destination charge. The Recharge T8 in Ultimate trim, tested with seven-passenger seating, included luxury features like massaging front seats, a premium audio system, and a trailer hitch, with an MSRP of $89,145. The XC90's exterior was characterized by a subdued, earthy color palette and various wheel designs, while the interior, though dated, was adorned with rich materials and offered customization options.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade distinguished itself with bold, unmistakable design, especially after a 2023 refresh that introduced a more angular and technical look. The Palisade's design was balanced and upscale, making it seem like a bargain at its sticker price. Inside, even the base SE trim offered a clean, modern look, while higher trims featured premium materials like leather and artificial suede. The Palisade was equipped with thoughtful details, such as USB ports in the front seatbacks and smartphone storage pockets. Hyundai offered the Palisade in seven trim levels, with prices ranging from $37,200 to $54,500, excluding a $1,475 destination charge. The Calligraphy trim, tested with AWD and additional features, had an MSRP of $55,205. The Palisade's interior was spacious and comfortable, with features like a massaging driver's seat and heated third-row seats.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 combined an 18.8-kilowatt-hour battery and a 107-kilowatt electric motor with a supercharged and turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, producing 455 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. This power was delivered to all four wheels via an eight-speed automatic transmission. The XC90 offered 32 miles of electric-only driving in Pure mode, with an average of 27 mpg in hybrid mode. It could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in five seconds in Power mode. Recharging took about 12 hours with a standard outlet, or less than half that time with a 240-volt outlet. The XC90 featured multiple driving modes, including Hybrid, Constant AWD, and Off-Road, with up to 9.9 inches of ground clearance. However, the XC90's electric performance waned as the battery approached its minimum charge, and the ride quality was firm on irregular pavement.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade was powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The Palisade's maximum towing capacity was 5,000 pounds, and it averaged 22 mpg in combined driving, or 21 mpg with AWD. The Palisade's ride was firm at lower speeds and softer at higher speeds, with the ability to handle speed humps impressively. The powertrain was smooth and refined, with satisfying power delivery and sound. However, it was not very fuel-efficient, recording 16.9 mpg in city driving and 19.8 mpg overall during testing. The Palisade's steering and suspension offered a reasonable feel for the road, and the brakes were well-calibrated.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 Recharge T8 was well-equipped with features like power-adjustable and heated front seats, leather upholstery, wood trim, and a four-zone climate control system. The panoramic glass roof added natural light, and higher trims offered additional features like a heated steering wheel, ventilated front seats, and an integrated booster child seat. The XC90 seated seven people, with a comfortable second-row bench and a tight but accommodating third row. Interior storage was adequate, and cargo capacity was up to 85.7 cubic feet with the second-row seat folded.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade offered three rows of seats, with a seven-passenger arrangement featuring second-row captain's chairs in the Calligraphy trim. The Palisade's interior was comfortable, with Nappa leather, power-adjustable front seats, and a massaging driver's seat. The second-row seats were heated and ventilated, with good thigh support and legroom. The third-row seat was also heated, with USB-C ports and air vents. Storage space was generous, with adjustable cupholders and dedicated smartphone storage. The Palisade's Smart Liftgate was hands-free, and cargo capacity was up to 86.4 cubic feet with the third row folded.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Google Built-in technology, including Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant. Apple CarPlay and SiriusXM satellite radio were standard, with premium audio options available. The XC90's infotainment system was intuitive, with a stereo volume knob and radio tuning buttons. The XC90 also included a 12-inch digital instrumentation panel and optional head-up display and surround-view camera.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade's technology included a 12.3-inch digital driver display and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto required a cable connection, but the system was otherwise impressive. Features included Bluetooth support, wireless charging, SiriusXM radio, and Bluelink+ connected services. The Palisade's voice recognition system was effective, and the Harman Kardon audio system provided commendable sound. The Palisade also offered a head-up display, digital rearview mirror, and surround-view camera.

The 2024 Volvo XC90 was known for its safety, with a five-star NHTSA rating in most assessments and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS in 2023. However, its advanced driving assistance systems were not as innovative as some rivals. The XC90 included Pilot Assist, which paired adaptive cruise control with lane-centering assist, but it struggled in certain conditions and made a significant error during testing.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade featured a comprehensive list of standard safety features under the Hyundai SmartSense umbrella, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and Highway Driving Assist. Higher trims added features like a surround-view camera and Remote Smart Parking Assist. The Palisade earned a Top Safety Pick from the IIHS through 2024 but received a Poor rating in a new frontal-impact test in 2025. The NHTSA gave it five-star frontal impact and four-star rollover resistance ratings.