The battle between the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade in the family SUV market is intense. Both are top picks, each with unique features for different family needs. We’ll compare their performance, comfort, tech, and how well they suit families.
This guide will help you understand what makes each SUV special. You’ll be able to choose the best one for your family’s lifestyle.
Introduction to the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade
The Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade are top picks in the SUV world. They come with strong features and new designs for today’s families. Over time, they’ve changed from simple, tough vehicles to modern, family-friendly SUVs.
Brief Overview
The Ford Explorer started in 1990, making it a seasoned SUV. It’s known for being reliable and versatile. It keeps getting better with new tech and comfort.
The Hyundai Palisade came out in 2018. It’s young but already a strong rival. It’s famous for its fancy inside and safety tech.
Target Audience
These SUVs are for families and people who want big, comfy, and powerful cars. They offer lots of room, cargo space, and the latest safety and tech. The Explorer is tough, while the Palisade is luxurious. Both meet the needs of today’s families.
Price Comparison: Ford Explorer vs Hyundai Palisade
Looking at the Explorer vs Palisade price, we see two great options for those wanting affordable SUVs. Knowing the prices helps buyers match their car budget with the right vehicle.
Starting MSRP
The Ford Explorer starts at about $33,000. This price gives you access to many standard features and performance.
The Hyundai Palisade starts at around $32,000. It’s a bit cheaper but packed with modern features and safety, making it a strong contender in the affordable SUVs market.
Value for Money
Looking at value, we must consider what each SUV offers. The Ford Explorer has advanced tech and safety features, which might make its higher price worth it.
The Hyundai Palisade offers great value with its price. It comes with a top-notch infotainment system and quality interior, making it a top affordable SUV.
In the end, choosing between these two depends on what you need and want. Both the Explorer and the Palisade offer great value, keeping your car budget in mind.
Fuel Economy
Fuel economy is key when picking an SUV. It affects how much you spend over time. The Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade both have good fuel efficiency. Let’s look at their fuel economy numbers.
Ford Explorer Fuel Efficiency
The Ford Explorer is known for its fuel efficiency. It’s a favorite among families and adventurers. The Explorer’s 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine gets 20 MPG in the city and 27 MPG on the highway, the EPA says. The hybrid version does even better, with up to 27 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway.
Hyundai Palisade Fuel Efficiency
The Hyundai Palisade also has great fuel economy for its size. Its 3.8-liter V6 engine gets 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. These numbers are a bit lower than the Explorer’s, but they’re reliable for most drivers.
| Model | City MPG | Highway MPG |
|---|---|---|
| Ford Explorer (2.3L EcoBoost) | 20 | 27 |
| Ford Explorer Hybrid | 27 | 29 |
| Hyundai Palisade (3.8L V6) | 19 | 26 |
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Both SUVs strike a good balance between power and fuel efficiency. They meet different driving needs and tastes. Knowing the MPG figures helps you choose between the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade based on your driving habits.
Engine Specifications
Let’s take a closer look at the engines of the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade. We’ll see what makes these SUVs so special. They have amazing engine capabilities.
Ford Explorer Engine Options
The Ford Explorer features a range of engines for different driving needs. Here are the main ones:
- 2.3L EcoBoost I-4: This engine has 300 horsepower and 310 lb-ft of torque. It’s a great mix of power and fuel efficiency.
- 3.0L EcoBoost V6: For those who love excitement, this engine offers 400 horsepower and 415 lb-ft of torque.
- 3.3L Hybrid: This is perfect for those who care about the environment. It has 318 combined horsepower and is very fuel-efficient.
These engines come with advanced tech like Auto Start-Stop and Intelligent 4WD. They make sure the engine performance is top-notch in any situation.
Hyundai Palisade Engine Performance
The Hyundai Palisade specs have a single engine that’s both strong and fuel-friendly. Here’s what it offers:
- 3.8L V6: This engine makes 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. It provides a smooth and powerful ride.
Features like Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and Atkinson-cycle technology boost fuel efficiency and power. This makes the Palisade’s engine performance stand out.
Performance and Towing Capacity
When looking at SUVs like the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade, towing capacity is key. If you tow trailers or boats for fun, knowing how these SUVs handle is vital. This is important for comparing towing capacities.
Ford Explorer Towing Capacity
The Ford Explorer is known for its strong performance and towing. The standard model can tow up to 5,300 pounds. But, the Explorer ST model can tow even more.
This makes the Explorer great for towing mid-sized trailers and boats. The Explorer also has a Class III Trailer Tow Package. It adds trailer sway control and a strong hitch system for safe towing.
Hyundai Palisade Towing Capacity
The Hyundai Palisade is also a powerful SUV, with a max towing capacity of 5,000 pounds. It’s a bit less than the Explorer but good for towing small to mid-sized trailers. The Palisade has a Tow Mode that helps with heavy loads.
It also has a Rear View Monitor with Parking Guidance. This helps when driving with a trailer.
In the Ford vs Hyundai SUV debate, both are strong for towing. The Ford Explorer offers more power, while the Hyundai Palisade has easy-to-use tow features. Knowing these capacities helps you choose the right SUV for your needs.
Interior Dimensions and Comfort
When it comes to the interior of spacious SUVs, the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade stand out. They focus on comfort and usability, perfect for families and long trips. These vehicles offer a lot of room and comfort, making them great choices.
Legroom and Passenger Space
The Ford Explorer has plenty of legroom and space for passengers. The first row has 43 inches of legroom, the second row has 39 inches, and the third row has 32.2 inches. This makes room for both adults and kids.
The Hyundai Palisade also shines in passenger space. It has 44.1 inches of legroom in the first row, 42.4 inches in the second row, and 31.4 inches in the third row. This means everyone can stretch out on long drives, adding to the SUV’s comfort.
Seating Layouts
Both models have flexible seating layouts to make the most of space and convenience. The Ford Explorer can have bench seating or captain’s chairs in the second row. It also has a power-folding third row, making it easy to switch between passenger and cargo space.
The Hyundai Palisade also offers different seating options. It can seat 7 or 8 people, with second-row seats that slide and recline. This makes getting to the third row easier. Both vehicles use high-quality materials and ergonomic designs for a comfortable ride.
In summary, the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade are top picks for those who want a lot of space and comfort. They are ideal for families or anyone who needs room on their travels.
Explorer vs Palisade Cargo Space
The Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade offer unique cargo space solutions. They are perfect for daily use and big trips. Their designs make them great for carrying lots of stuff.
Cargo Volume Measurements
The Ford Explorer has impressive cargo space. With the third row up, it has about 18.2 cubic feet. Folding the third row opens up to 47.9 cubic feet.
With both the second and third rows folded, the Explorer can hold up to 87.8 cubic feet. This is a lot of space for big items.
The Hyundai Palisade also has a lot of room. Behind its third row, it has 18 cubic feet. Dropping the third row gives you 45.8 cubic feet.
For even more space, fold the second and third rows. Then, you get 86.4 cubic feet. This is great for moving or road trips.
Flat-Folding Seat Features
Both SUVs have features that make them easy to use. The Ford Explorer has flat-folding seats. These seats make a flat surface for loading.
The Explorer also has a hands-free power liftgate. This makes loading easier, even when your hands are full.
The Hyundai Palisade has its own smart features. It has second-row seats that fold down easily with a button. This makes loading and unloading quick and simple.
The Palisade also has a power liftgate. This adds to the convenience of using the SUV’s space.
| Feature | Ford Explorer | Hyundai Palisade |
|---|---|---|
| Cargo Space Behind Third Row | 18.2 cu ft | 18 cu ft |
| Cargo Space Behind Second Row | 47.9 cu ft | 45.8 cu ft |
| Maximum Cargo Space (Seats Folded) | 87.8 cu ft | 86.4 cu ft |
| Flat-Folding Seats | Yes | Yes |
| Power Liftgate | Available | Available |
Technology Features
Choosing between modern SUVs like the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade means looking at tech features. Both have advanced systems for infotainment and safety. These features make driving better.
Infotainment Systems
The Ford Explorer has a SYNC 3 system with an 8-inch screen. It works well with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. You get easy navigation, voice commands, and Wi-Fi, keeping you connected.
The Hyundai Palisade also has a top-notch touchscreen system. It supports Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The higher trims have a 10.25-inch screen for better clarity and use. Both SUVs lead in tech for a better drive.
Driver Assistance Technologies
Safety is key in modern SUVs. The Ford Explorer has Ford Co-Pilot360. It includes adaptive cruise control, blind-spot monitoring, and more. These features make driving safe and smooth.
The Hyundai Palisade has Hyundai SmartSense. It includes blind-spot collision avoidance and smart cruise control. Both SUVs focus on safety and fun driving.
Safety Features and Ratings
When looking at safe family SUVs, the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade are top picks. They both have great safety features and ratings. They’ve passed tough crash tests, showing they’re safe in many ways.
The Ford Explorer gets high SUV safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS. It has cool safety tech like automatic emergency braking and blind-spot monitoring. It also has a strong body, making it reliable in crashes.
The Hyundai Palisade also gets good SUV safety ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS. It comes with safety features like forward-collision warning and adaptive cruise control. It’s also designed to keep everyone safe with lots of airbags and a strong build.
| Safety Feature | Ford Explorer | Hyundai Palisade |
|---|---|---|
| NHTSA Overall Rating | 5 Stars | 5 Stars |
| IIHS Top Safety Pick | Yes | Yes |
| Automatic Emergency Braking | Standard | Standard |
| Blind-Spot Monitoring | Standard | Standard |
| Lane-Keeping Assist | Standard | Standard |
In short, the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade are great for safe family SUVs. They have strong safety features and ratings. This makes them reliable SUVs that give drivers and their families peace of mind.
Warranty and Reliability
When looking at an SUV warranty comparison for your next car, the Hyundai Palisade and Ford Explorer stand out. They offer different warranties to give you peace of mind and save on maintenance costs. By comparing these warranties, you can see which SUV offers the best value for the long term.
Hyundai Palisade Warranty Overview
The Hyundai Palisade has a warranty package that’s caught a lot of attention. It includes:
- 5-year/60,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty
- 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Warranty
- 7-year/unlimited miles Anti-Perforation Warranty
- 5-year/unlimited miles Roadside Assistance
This extensive coverage shows Hyundai’s dedication to making reliable SUVs. It means Palisade owners get strong support for years to come.
Ford Explorer Warranty Overview
Ford’s Explorer comes with a warranty package focused on durability and reliability. It includes:
- 3-year/36,000-mile Basic Warranty
- 5-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Warranty
- 5-year/unlimited miles Corrosion Warranty
- 5-year/60,000-mile Roadside Assistance
Ford’s warranty isn’t as long as Hyundai’s, but it’s strong. It shows Ford’s commitment to making reliable SUVs.
Looking at these warranties, we see how each brand aims to offer long-term value SUVs. Hyundai’s longer warranties give Palisade buyers extra peace of mind and could save on maintenance. Ford’s Explorer, with its shorter warranties, is praised for its customer support and coverage of key parts.
Exterior Design and Styling
When it comes to stylish SUVs, the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade are top choices. The Ford Explorer has a bold exterior SUV design with sharp lines. It looks rugged yet sleek, perfect for families who love adventure.
The Hyundai Palisade also shines with its smooth curves and unique lights. Its front has a cool cascading grille and bright LED headlights. This makes it a standout among attractive family cars.
Both SUVs are designed with practicality in mind. The Ford Explorer’s lines help with aerodynamics, saving fuel and quieting the ride. The Hyundai Palisade’s design is both stylish and functional, with features like roof rails and spoilers.
Let’s look at some key design features of each:
| Design Element | Ford Explorer | Hyundai Palisade |
|---|---|---|
| Grille Design | Bold, Hexagonal | Cascading, Chrome-accented |
| Headlights | LED, Modern Angular Shape | LED, Sleek Integration |
| Body Lines | Sharp, Aerodynamic | Smooth, Flowing |
| Roofline | Sloping, Sporty | Clean, Seamless |
In conclusion, these stylish SUVs offer different looks for various tastes. They are both attractive family cars that meet different needs.
Interior Quality and Materials
The Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade are top picks for those who love luxury and comfort. They show off the best in interior design SUVs. Let’s look at what makes these luxury SUV interiors special.
Ford Explorer Interior Highlights
The Ford Explorer mixes luxury with practicality. Its interior features high-end materials and soft leather seats for a cozy ride. The dashboard is easy to use, thanks to its smart design.
Every detail is thought out, from the soft surfaces to the fancy accents. Plus, the tri-zone climate control keeps everyone comfortable. This makes it one of the most comfortable SUVs out there.
Hyundai Palisade Interior Highlights
The Hyundai Palisade sets a new standard for luxury and comfort. Its interior combines top-notch materials with modern design. The seats are covered in quilted Nappa leather, making every drive a treat.
The center console is clean and easy to use. The Palisade also has ambient lighting and premium sound systems. These features make it a top choice in interior design SUVs.
Both the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade offer luxury SUV interiors. They cater to those who want the best in comfort and style. Whether it’s the Explorer’s tech or the Palisade’s materials, each SUV brings its own luxury.
On-Road Driving Experience
The Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade both offer great on-road experiences. They have different strengths that make them stand out. Knowing how they handle and how comfortable they are can help you choose the right SUV for you.
Handling and Ride Comfort
The Ford Explorer is known for its driving performance. It has the power and agility needed for smooth driving. Its steering and suspension work together to make cornering and riding comfortable, no matter the road.
The Hyundai Palisade also shines in ride comfort and handling. Its advanced suspension makes for a smooth ride, protecting passengers from bumps. It handles well, even on twisty roads.
Noise Levels
Quiet SUVs are key for a calm drive. Both the Explorer and Palisade have features to keep noise out. The Explorer uses soundproofing and an acoustic windshield to reduce noise. This makes long drives quiet and relaxing.
The Palisade also focuses on quieting the cabin. It has sound-dampening windows and noise barriers. These features help keep the inside of the car quiet, making the drive better.
| Feature | Ford Explorer | Hyundai Palisade |
|---|---|---|
| Handling | Precise and Agile | Steady and Composed |
| Ride Comfort | Well-Tuned Suspension | Advanced Suspension System |
| Noise Levels | Extensive Soundproofing | Excellent Cabin Insulation |
Off-Road Capabilities
In the world of off-road SUVs, the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade shine. They have great features for all-wheel drive performance and adventurous driving. Let’s look at how these features help each vehicle tackle different terrains and weather.
AWD Availability
Both SUVs have advanced all-wheel drive systems. The Ford Explorer has the Terrain Management System™. This lets drivers adjust settings for the road, improving all-wheel drive performance. Hyundai’s HTRAC All-Wheel Drive in the Palisade does the same, giving traction and stability on tough routes.
Ground Clearance
Ground clearance is key for off-road SUVs to handle rough terrains. The Ford Explorer has impressive ground clearance. It prevents hits from rocks and uneven surfaces. The Hyundai Palisade also has good ground clearance. This makes both SUVs great for off-the-beaten-path adventures, promising a fun and rugged drive.
Resale Value and Depreciation
When looking at the best resale value SUV, it’s key to know how the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade hold up over time. Data shows that popular, reliable cars keep their value better.
SUVs are seen as good investment SUVs because they’re versatile and in demand. For instance, the Ford Explorer depreciates slower than sedans. This makes it a smart choice for keeping its value.
The Hyundai Palisade shines with its good reviews and strong warranties. These help it keep its value even as it ages. The number of miles it’s driven and how reliable it is also play big roles in its resale value. Plus, cars with the latest safety and tech features usually hold their value better.
Buyers need to think about these economic points. They should pick a car that meets their needs now and is a smart choice for the future.
Expert and User Reviews
Looking at SUV reviews for the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade, we see both expert opinions and real user feedback. Experts say both top SUV models are great for performance and comfort. But, each has its own special features.
The Ford Explorer gets good marks for its strong engine and towing power. Users love it for long trips and off-road adventures. Yet, some say it drinks too much gas and its interior looks a bit old.
The Hyundai Palisade shines in SUV reviews for its fancy interior and tech. Owners love the comfort and quality of the materials. They also like the easy-to-use tech and safety features. But, some experts think the Palisade’s handling is not as sporty as the Explorer’s.
Here’s a quick comparison of what experts and users say:
| Attributes | Ford Explorer | Hyundai Palisade |
|---|---|---|
| Engine Performance | High power, excellent for towing | Sufficient power, smooth ride |
| Interior Quality | Spacious but somewhat dated design | Luxurious, modern materials |
| Tech Features | Advanced, but interface can be complex | User-friendly, extensive driver assistance |
| Fuel Efficiency | Moderate, could be improved | Competitive within the segment |
Reading SUV reviews and real user feedback helps a lot. It helps you choose the right top SUV models for you.
Conclusion
Both the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade are top choices for finding the best SUV in 2021. The Ford Explorer is great for those who need power and performance. It has a strong towing capacity and impressive engine options.
The Hyundai Palisade, on the other hand, offers great value. It has a long warranty and high-quality interior materials. This makes every drive comfortable and luxurious.
When it comes to fuel economy, safety, and tech, both SUVs do well. The Explorer is better at driver assist features and infotainment. The Palisade has more interior space and easy-to-use seats.
Choosing between the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade depends on what you need. If you want engine power, interior luxury, or value, pick the one that fits your lifestyle. Test driving both is a good idea to see which one is right for you.
By knowing what each SUV offers, you can make a smart choice. This will help you find the perfect vehicle for your needs.
FAQ
Which SUV offers better performance: the Ford Explorer or the Hyundai Palisade?
The Ford Explorer has strong engines, including the ST trim, which has more power than the Hyundai Palisade. Yet, the Palisade is known for its smooth drive, appealing to families.
How do the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade compare in terms of price?
The Ford Explorer starts at about ,000, while the Hyundai Palisade begins at ,000. Even though the Explorer is pricier, it’s important to look at what each offers to find the best deal.
What is the fuel efficiency of the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade?
The Explorer gets around 21 MPG in the city and 28 MPG on the highway. The Palisade gets 19 MPG in the city and 26 MPG on the highway. These numbers can change based on how you drive and the engine you choose.
What are the interior dimensions like in both SUVs?
The Explorer has more legroom and a bigger passenger area than the Palisade. This makes it great for long trips. Both SUVs have plenty of space, but the Explorer is better for big families.
How do their towing capacities compare?
The Explorer can tow up to 5,600 pounds, perfect for heavy trailers or boats. The Palisade can tow up to 5,000 pounds. So, the Explorer is better for heavy towing.
Which SUV has better technology features?
Both SUVs have advanced tech, including Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. But, the Palisade’s controls are often easier to use.
How do the safety ratings compare between the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade?
Both SUVs are very safe, with great crash test scores and lots of safety features. They both have things like adaptive cruise control and blind spot monitoring. So, both are good choices for keeping your family safe.
What warranty packages do the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade offer?
The Palisade has a longer warranty, covering 10 years or 100,000 miles. The Explorer’s warranty is 5 years or 60,000 miles. This longer warranty can save you money and worry over time.
Are there differences in their exterior designs?
The Explorer looks sporty and rugged, with a bold grille and sleek lines. The Palisade has a more elegant design, aiming for a refined look. So, it depends on what you prefer.
Which SUV offers better value in terms of interior quality and materials?
Both SUVs have high-quality interiors. But, the Palisade is often praised for its luxury feel, even in lower trims. The Explorer is also well-done, but some might say the Palisade’s interior is a bit better.
What are the off-road capabilities of each vehicle?
Both SUVs have All-Wheel-Drive systems for different terrains and weather. The Explorer has higher ground clearance and off-road packages, making it better for rough adventures.
How do they compare in terms of resale value and depreciation?
Both Ford and Hyundai SUVs hold their value well. But, things like brand reliability and market demand can affect depreciation. The Palisade tends to keep its value a bit better over time.
What do experts and users have to say about these SUVs?
Both SUVs get good reviews. Experts like the Explorer’s power and towing, while praising the Palisade’s interior and ride. Users often say they’re happy with the comfort, reliability, and tech in both.