2023 Hyundai Palisade vs 2023 Honda Pilot

2023 Hyundai Palisade

VEHICLE TYPE
Front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 7-passenger, 4-door wagon

PRICE
Base/As Tested: $38,785/$44,300

ENGINE
DOHC 24-valve Atkinson-cycle V-6, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 231 in3, 3778 cm3
Power: 291 hp @ 6000 rpm
Torque: 262 lb-ft @ 5200 rpm

TRANSMISSION
8-speed automatic

CHASSIS
Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink
Brakes, F/R: 13.4-in vented disc/12.0-in disc
Tires: Hankook Ventus S1 noble2
245/50R-20 102V M+S

DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 114.2 in
Length: 196.7 in
Width: 77.8 in
Height: 68.9 in
Passenger Volume, F/M/R: 61/58/35 ft³
Cargo Volume, Behind F/M/R: 86/46/18 ft³
Curb Weight: 4423 lb

2023 Honda Pilot

VEHICLE TYPE
Front-engine, all-wheel-drive, 8-passenger, 4-door wagon

PRICE
Base/As Tested: $53,755/$53,755

ENGINE
DOHC 24-valve V-6, aluminum block and heads, direct fuel injection
Displacement: 212 in³, 3471 cm³
Power: 285 hp @ 6100 rpm
Torque: 262 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm

TRANSMISSION
10-speed automatic

CHASSIS
Suspension, F/R: struts/multilink
Brakes, F/R: 13.8-in vented disc/13.0-in disc
Tires: Bridgestone Alenza Sport A/S
255/50R-20 105H M+S

DIMENSIONS
Wheelbase: 113.8 in
Length: 199.9 in
Width: 78.5 in
Height: 71.0 in
Passenger Volume, F/M/R: 57/57/40 ft³
Cargo Volume, behind F/M/R: 87/49/19 ft³
Curb Weight: 4670 lb

A Comprehensive Comparison

Introduction

In the ever-expanding landscape of family SUVs, the 2023 Hyundai Palisade and the 2023 Honda Pilot stand out as top contenders. This comprehensive comparison aims to dissect the key aspects of both vehicles, providing potential buyers with insights to make informed decisions based on their individual needs and preferences.

Overview of the 2023 Hyundai Palisade:

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade has garnered acclaim for its high-class cabin, smooth ride, and spacious interior catering to the whole family. Equipped with a 3.8-liter V-6 engine delivering 291 horsepower through an eight-speed automatic transmission, the Palisade strikes a balance between power and efficiency. From the value-oriented base trim to the luxurious Calligraphy model, the Palisade offers a range of options. A recent facelift enhances its squared-off appearance, introducing updated wheel designs, a higher-resolution 12.0-inch infotainment display, and new features like a Wi-Fi hotspot and a massaging driver’s seat.

Key Points:

High-Class Cabin: Palisade offers a luxurious and spacious interior for the entire family.
Range of Trims: From the value-oriented base trim to the swanky Calligraphy model.
Facelift: 2023 model features a squared-off appearance, updated wheel designs, and new cabin features.

Overview of the 2023 Honda Pilot:

The 2023 Honda Pilot, an all-new generation, presents itself as a rugged and desirable option. With a 285-horsepower 3.5-liter V-6 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission, the Pilot focuses on refined powertrain performance. The TrailSport variant adds off-road capabilities with all-terrain tires and tweaks to the all-wheel-drive system. The exterior boasts a boxier and more truck-like styling, distinguishing itself in the crowded SUV segment.

Key Points:

Rugged Design: The Pilot embraces a boxier and more truck-like styling for a rugged appearance.
TrailSport Variant: Adds off-road capabilities with special features for adventurous driving.
Improved Powertrain: A 285-horsepower V-6 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission for refined performance.

Comparison of Engine Options

The heart of any SUV is its engine, and both the Palisade and the Pilot offer robust powerplants. The Palisade’s 3.8-liter V-6 provides smooth acceleration, while the Pilot’s 3.5-liter V-6 focuses on a refined and powerful driving experience.

Key Points:

Palisade: 3.8-liter V-6 with smooth 291 horsepower for a comfortable driving experience.
Pilot: 3.5-liter V-6 with 285 horsepower, emphasizing refined powertrain performance.

Comparison of Exterior Design

Exterior design plays a crucial role in attracting buyers. The Palisade boasts a more squared-off appearance post-facelift, with modern wheel designs. On the other hand, the Pilot embraces a boxier and rugged design, setting it apart in terms of visual aesthetics.

Key Points:

Palisade: Squared-off appearance, updated wheel designs, and modern styling.
Pilot: Boxier and truck-like styling for a rugged and distinctive exterior.

Comparison of Interior Features and Comfort

Interior comfort is paramount for family SUVs. The Palisade offers a high-class cabin with spacious seating, while the Pilot focuses on a refined and comfortable interior, especially in its TrailSport variant.

Key Points:

Palisade: High-class cabin, spacious seating, and modern features.
Pilot: Refined interior design, comfortable seating, and additional features in the TrailSport variant.

Comparison of Safety Features

Safety is a top priority, and both the Palisade and the Pilot prioritize it with standard safety features. The Palisade includes automated emergency braking and lane-departure warning, while the Pilot adds blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert.

Key Points:

Palisade: Standard automated emergency braking and lane-departure warning.
Pilot: Standard automated emergency braking, lane-departure warning, blind-spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert.

Pricing and Value for Money

Price is a crucial factor in the decision-making process. The Palisade, with a starting price of $37,235, offers a range of trims with various features. The Pilot starts at $37,675, emphasizing affordability and standard safety features.

Key Points:

Palisade: Starting at $37,235, providing value-oriented pricing and premium features.
Pilot: Starting at $37,675, emphasizing affordability and a refined powertrain.

Cargo Space and Practicality

Family SUVs need to balance passenger space and cargo capacity. The Palisade boasts a larger cargo bay, making it practical for family trips. The Pilot strikes a balance, catering to those prioritizing style and practicality.

Key Points:

Palisade: Larger cargo bay and reduced lift-over height for enhanced practicality.
Pilot: Balances passenger space and cargo capacity, focusing on style and practicality.

Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency is a crucial consideration for SUVs. The Palisade, with its 3.8-liter V-6 engine, offers competitive estimates. The Pilot provides reasonable fuel efficiency, considering its size and power.

Key Points:

Palisade: Competitive fuel efficiency with a 3.8-liter V-6 engine.
Pilot: Reasonable fuel efficiency considering size and power.

Conclusion

The choice between the 2023 Hyundai Palisade and the 2023 Honda Pilot ultimately hinges on individual preferences. The Palisade caters to those seeking a luxurious and spacious family SUV with a range of trims and premium features. On the other hand, the Pilot appeals to those desiring a rugged and refined option, especially with its TrailSport variant. Consider your unique needs and preferences – whether they revolve around design, affordability, or family-friendly features – to make an informed decision. Both the Palisade and the Pilot offer distinct strengths, catering to different segments of the family SUV market.