2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid vs 2026 Hyundai Palisade

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade underwent significant design changes while maintaining its recognizable identity. The SUV adopted a more upright stance with a squared-off profile, highlighted by its distinctive front lighting featuring rectangular slashes flanking a massive grille. Inside, the Palisade embraced a Midcentury Modern aesthetic with flowing shapes and simple lines, creating a refined and relaxing environment. The interior materials, especially in the top-spec Calligraphy model, were of high quality, offering a tactile and durable feel. The Palisade's dimensions increased slightly, allowing for flexible seating configurations for seven or eight passengers.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid offered a variety of design options, with the PHEV available in the Rugged Woodland trim and three Sport grades, including the new GR Sport. The RAV4 maintained its footprint but featured buffer bumpers that extended its length. Its design embraced a boxy, truck-like presence with square wheel arches and bulging fenders. The Woodland trim emphasized off-road capability with features like all-terrain tires and a black roof rack, while the GR Sport showcased racier elements such as red brake calipers and a wide mesh grille. Inside, the RAV4 PHEV offered a well-equipped cabin with clever storage solutions and comfortable seating, although it fell short in cargo space compared to some rivals.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade was powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 287 horsepower and 260 pound-feet of torque. While it offered slightly less power than its predecessor, the Palisade's eight-speed automatic transmission provided smooth and authoritative shifts. The ride was tuned for comfort, with a suspension system that handled various road conditions well. The Palisade's braking system was improved, offering shorter stopping distances. It featured a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds and an optional HTRAC AWD system with multiple driving modes. The new XRT Pro trim enhanced off-road capabilities with features like all-terrain tires and increased ground clearance. A hybrid powertrain was announced for late 2025, promising a total system output of 329 hp.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid featured an updated 2.5-liter inline four-cylinder engine with 186 horsepower, paired with a larger 22.7-kwh battery pack. This setup increased the RAV4 PHEV's power to 324 hp, making it the most powerful RAV4 to date. The PHEV offered an estimated electric range of 52 miles and standard all-wheel drive. In EV mode, it provided quick acceleration, while Auto mode delivered a 0-60 mph time in the low five seconds. The RAV4 PHEV's handling was enhanced with a strengthened chassis and improved suspension, particularly in the GR Sport trim. Despite its increased weight, the RAV4 PHEV maintained a spirited ride without sacrificing comfort.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade offered a spacious interior with flexible seating configurations. Captain's chairs in the middle row provided comfort, while the third row was suitable for occasional adult use. Passengers had access to USB-C ports and cupholders, and the climate-control system was upgraded for 2026. The Palisade's cargo space was competitive, with a maximum of 86.7 cubic feet behind the front seats. Heated and ventilated seats were available in higher trims, enhancing passenger comfort.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid's interior was well-equipped, with features like a power driver's seat, heated front seats, and multiple USB ports. The cabin offered clever storage solutions, including shelves and deep door pockets. While passenger space was adequate, the RAV4 PHEV's cargo area was slightly reduced compared to the standard model, offering 33.6 cubic feet. Folding the rear seats expanded the space to 63.5 cubic feet. The interior maintained comfort for four passengers, although five would be a tighter fit.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade featured a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Calligraphy model included a 12-inch head-up display and integrated dashcams. An in-car intercom and UV-light cleaning system were standard across the range. The Bose audio system provided excellent sound quality, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid boasted a new 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and an enhanced 10.5-inch touchscreen system, with a larger 12.9-inch screen available on top trims. The touchscreen featured customizable tiles and a quick menu for easy access to settings. Toyota's new operating system, Arene, improved responsiveness and voice assistant capabilities. A built-in dash cam recorded and saved clips from exterior cameras, adding a layer of security.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade offered a comprehensive suite of driver-assist features, including blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, and automatic emergency braking. The Calligraphy trim added evasive steering assist and an upgraded Highway Driving Assist II system. While safety ratings were not available at press time, the previous Palisade performed well in tests.

The 2026 Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid came standard with Toyota Safety Sense 4.0, which included automatic emergency braking, lane-departure alert, and adaptive cruise control. The system's enhancements improved detection and responsiveness. A surround-view camera system was available on higher trims. Safety ratings were pending, but the RAV4 had a strong safety record in previous years.