2021 Hyundai Palisade vs Honda Pilot

When it comes to reliable, spacious vehicles for modern drivers, the 2021 Hyundai Palisade and Honda Pilot are two of the top contenders. While these models may share a few similarities in terms of style and exterior design, they also feature distinct differences that make each one stand out from the other - this guide will explore exactly what sets them apart so prospective buyers can decide which model is right for them.

The Powertrain

The powertrains of these two SUVs may seem similar, but the Hyundai Palisade and Honda Pilot provide drivers with distinct characteristics. With a V6 engine displacing 3.8 Liters propelling the former, it outdoes its rival in horsepower boasting 291 horses compared to 280 for the latter. Additionally, both vehicles generate 262 pounds-feet of torque - meaning you can take on any terrain at an exhilarating speed.

Though Pilot and Palisade boast different levels of power, there can be no denying their efficiency. Both vehicles are highly competent drivers who will handle daily commutes around town with passengers or cargo in tow. Furthermore, these powerful machines excel when traversing hills or difficult terrain.

The Pilot boasts a nine-speed auto transmission with paddle shifters for added control over shifting. Front-wheel drive Pilots average 20/27 (city/highway) miles per gallon, while all-wheel drive models boast an estimated fuel consumption of 18/26 miles per gallon.

All-wheel drive is standard on every Honda model and many come with an intelligent Traction Management program. Front-wheel drivetrains that only have one option have Snow mode to help improve performance during slippery conditions. On all-wheel drive Hondas, there will be options like Snow, Sand or Mud available to select from in case the drive encounters challenging conditions.

Similar in design to the Hyundai Palisade, front-wheel drive is standard with all-wheel drive available as an option. Palisades models with AWD feature Snow mode and can lock into AWD mode for extra traction on tough trails. FWD Palisades get 19/26 (city/highway) miles per gallon while their AWD counterparts achieve 19/24 miles per gallon fuel efficiency ratings. The eight-speed auto transmission of the Palisade features manual control via SHIFTRONIC feature for manual control of its environment.

Both models can tow up to 5000 pounds, which is ideal if someone plans on connecting a trailer to their vehicle.

Drivability

Both Palisade and Pilot are more spacious, but have been designed with drivers in mind. Drivers would be delighted to take control of either vehicle; both have excellent handling characteristics and offer plenty of features that promise a pleasurable driving experience.

It's truly remarkable to possess all those capabilities mentioned in the preceding paragraph. A driver of a Palisade or Pilot won't feel like they are straining to reach speed.

When parking or performing precision maneuvers, it's essential to be aware of the dimensions of these cars. The Palisade measures 196.1 inches long and 77.8 inches wide; it sits eight inches above ground with plenty of elevation inside its cabin. In comparison, the Pilot measures just 1/2 inch longer but has more clearance on the ground - more than eight inches instead of eight - which might not allow it to clear large obstacles as easily as its bigger sister; however, those with mobility issues might find more comfort using this car instead.

The interior measurements for both models are similar. In the Palisade, passengers enjoy 44.1, 42.4 and 31.4 inches of legroom in all three rows respectively. On the Pilot however, passengers only get 40.9 and 38.4 inches respectively on both rows two and front; although still adequate, it's nowhere close to as spacious as what the Palisade offers. Fortunately, third row passengers in the Pilot get 31.9 inches of legroom - slightly better than second row Palisade passengers enjoyed!

In both SUVs, captain's chairs can be added to the third row for added seating capacity of seven. While this reduces capacity to seven, it gives everyone in back more room to move around and stretch out. Many opt for this arrangement rather than adding another row as they prefer things to feel larger overall. The ideal solution would be placing a bench seat in the middle of the row where three people can be seated close together.

Both Palisade and Pilot offer ample cargo capacity. The Hyundai Palisade boasts 18 cubic feet behind its seats, while the Pilot offers 86.4 cubic feet when all seats are down. However, both vehicles have less overall cargo space as well as third row space between seats that needs to be taken into account; therefore, both should provide plenty of room for people to sit comfortably as well as their equipment.

Technology continues to be an integral factor in driving today. Advancements have made the experience more comfortable for motorists.

On the Hyundai Palisade, all trims come equipped with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, Bluetooth, and a touchscreen. Lower models have eight inches while higher ones boast 10.25-inch displays. Plus there's integrated navigation software - useful for taking traffic into account with turn-by-turn directions - on these larger screens too! Additionally, top trims also have wireless charging and Harman Kardon premium sound systems featuring 12 speakers for added audiophile enjoyment.

The higher trims of Pilot include many features similar to those found in lower trims. They all come equipped with wireless charging, integrated navigation systems and 10 speaker audio systems; instead of larger than average touchscreens on these higher models they boast eight-inch ones - the same size as those found on lower ones. The basic model only offers a 5-inch LCD screen and lacks Apple CarPlay or Android Auto as its more expensive siblings do; however it still includes Bluetooth functionality.

Potential buyers of the basic Pilot trim may be disappointed to know there's no smartphone connectivity included. Fortunately, this trim comes with SiriusXM for entertainment, a rear-seat entertainment system including Blu-Ray player and built-in applications, intercom systems in both models, plus multi-zone audio for adjustability across various rows of seats. Both vehicles also offer WiFi capability at both ends of the cabin.

Safety

Hyundai and Honda have invested a great deal in safety, which benefits their customers. Each Palisade and Pilot boast multiple driver-assist technologies so that people are kept secure. For instance, SUVs can warn drivers of potential collisions ahead and apply brakes as necessary. Plus, these vehicles come with adaptive cruise control so they can adjust their speed to keep a safe distance from other cars while drifting from their lane; additionally, these cars detect when they're drifting from their intended path and adjust steering accordingly to get back into the middle of their lane quickly.

The Palisade comes standard with several features that are common across all models, such as Driver Attention Alert, pedestrian detection and an alert for parking distance that activates when moving in reverse. Higher models also add blind spot collision avoidance aid and rear cross-traffic-avoidance assist; these capabilities not only warn drivers but also help them avoid accidents. Pilot models offer blind spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert, though these do not have corrective capabilities like those offered on the Palisade.

Additionally, the Palisade may come equipped with an electronic head-up display. This displays important data onto the windscreen behind the steering wheel, helping drivers keep track of important information like speed limits and navigation directions. Furthermore, some models offer a surround view monitor which gives drivers 360 degree views of their vehicle - useful when exiting smaller parking spaces.

Which Offers the Best Value?

Price may be an issue for potential buyers. Both Hyundai Palisade and Honda Pilot offer reasonable options; though neither model is particularly budget friendly, their features make them worthwhile investments.

Palisade prices start at $32,675 for the base model, while the top trim costs $46,200. The middle of the range SEL trim costs $35,325, while Limited goes for an incredibly high $45,275 price tag.

Honda is pricing their Pilot at roughly the same rate as they do the Palisade: $32,550 at launch with a top trim costing $48,720. Mid-range options include EX ($35,230), EX-L ($38,660), Special Edition ($39,260) and Touring ($43,220).

Although there may be slight distinctions among trims, as well as differences in security and technology packages, they are all relatively similar across the range.

The Hyundai Palisade boasts an impressive list of exterior features, such as LED Daytime Running Lights and LED headlights. Higher trims come with LED taillights, traditional or dual panel sunroofs, and hands-free lift gates. Inside the SUV may be leather or cloth seats; most have heating front chairs; top models also offer ventilated front seating along with heated/ventilated back seats plus heated steering wheels for added comfort.

On top models of the Honda Pilot, top models also boast heated and ventilated front seats as well as heated steering wheels. Second row seats are heated but not ventilated and moonroof options range from traditional dual-panel or panoramic to an old-fashioned version with no glass panel. Other optional features may include hands-free liftgate access plus LED headlights; additionally, base models come standard with cloth seats, push button starting and LED brake lighting.

Which Is Better?

While the Honda Pilot has been around longer, the Hyundai Palisade has made rapid progress toward the top spot on the leaderboard. Both SUVs will be competing for similar types of customers since they both offer similar capabilities and interior space.

Palisade offers slightly stronger construction and more cargo capacity than its rival, though these distinctions will only impact certain customers who have high expectations regarding this aspect.

Hyundai has done an outstanding job providing the Palisade with an array of technological features. This model boasts Hyundai's most comprehensive safety system and superior basic infotainment system.

However, it's true that the Honda Pilot offers some features not found within the Palisade. Many rear-seat passengers will appreciate having an entertainment system onboard and SiriusXM Satellite Radio will surely appeal to many potential buyers. Furthermore, certain Pilot Pilot trims are priced more affordably than comparable Palisade trims; this could be a major factor for some buyers when making their choice between models.