Summary
Highlights
The Grand Highlander Hybrid prioritizes substance over style, offering abundant small item storage, comfortable leather seats with heating and ventilation, and dedicated physical controls for frequently used functions. The 12.3-inch touchscreen avoids a tablet-like look, and the infotainment system is generally user-friendly, though navigation and voice commands require a data subscription. Charging options are excellent with multiple USB-C ports and a wireless charging pad.
The Grand Highlander excels in passenger space, especially in the second and third rows, easily accommodating adults. Car seat installation is straightforward with accessible anchors. Cargo volume is also superior to competitors, particularly with seats folded down, and it includes a foot-activated power liftgate. However, the cargo area lacks levers for folding down the second row, requiring manual operation.
The Grand Highlander Hybrid offers two powertrain options, including a powerful MAX variant that reaches 60 mph in 6.1 seconds, making it one of the quickest non-electric three-row SUVs tested. The suspension is tuned for comfort, soaking up road imperfections effectively. While the MAX offers good power, its combined MPG is around 27, compared to the regular hybrid's 36 MPG. Standard driver aids work well, though the traffic jam assist system has limitations.
The Palisade Hybrid boasts a sophisticated, mid-century modern-inspired interior with gentle curves and impeccable materials, especially in the Calligraphy trim with Nappa leather. The front seats are highly comfortable with a relaxation function. Small item storage is good, featuring a UV sanitization chamber and large cup holders. The 12.3-inch touchscreen includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and unique features like an integrated dashcam.
Charging options in the Palisade are impressive, with USB-C ports delivering up to 100 watts, capable of charging laptops. The control scheme is user-friendly, with physical buttons for frequent use and a persistent climate control display. A standout feature is the ability to adjust all powered seats, including heating and ventilation, from the driver's screen. The second and third rows are packed with amenities like heated/ventilated seats, power recline, and safety features.
While the Grand Highlander has more raw cargo space, the Palisade's cargo area offers more convenient features like powered second and third-row seats that can be folded down more quickly than the Toyota's manual system. The power-sliding third row allows for flexible cargo and passenger configurations, enabling both a large suitcase and multiple passengers to be accommodated comfortably.
The Palisade Hybrid resolves the slowness of the gas version, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in 7.4 seconds, thanks to its more powerful hybrid powertrain. The suspension provides an ultra-comfortable ride, matching the luxury interior feel. The braking system is seamless, and both the Hyundai and Toyota use regular transmissions. Fuel economy for the AWD hybrid is 29 MPG combined. Safety features include Highway Drive Assist 2 with automatic lane changes, and excellent visibility, enhanced by a live blind spot monitor.
The Grand Highlander Limited Hybrid, priced around $57,000, offers solid value, though the Platinum trim is deemed less worthwhile. Its warranty is average. The Palisade Calligraphy Hybrid, while slightly more expensive than the Limited Grand Highlander, offers superior interior quality and styling, especially compared to the top Grand Highlander trim, which it undercuts in price. The Palisade also boasts a significantly better warranty. Despite similar estimated fuel economy, the Palisade achieved slightly better real-world MPG in testing. The Palisade generally outperforms the Grand Highlander in most categories, particularly in value and 'X factor', making it the overall winner due to its luxury feel and comprehensive features, though the Grand Highlander remains a strong contender for those prioritizing max cargo room or its MAX powertrain.