Hyundai Palisade vs Honda Pilot
Compared for Palm Beach County 3-row SUV Shoppers
Browse New PalisadesWhy West Palm Beach Families Are Cross-Shopping the Hyundai Palisade and Honda Pilot
Families navigating the busy intersections near Rosemary Square often find themselves caught between two heavyweights in the three-row SUV segment. While the Honda Pilot has long been a staple for suburban hauling, the conversation has shifted as the newest generation of the Palisade offers a near-luxury experience at a similar price point. Many drivers in West Palm Beach prioritize a vehicle that handles urban congestion with ease while providing enough interior refinement for weekend trips to the waterfront. We often see shoppers compare these two models because they both offer seating for up to eight, but the Palisade frequently stands out for its more modern aesthetic and standard technology suite. Beyond the flagship SUV, you can browse our new inventory to find other SUVs, including the Hyundai electric 3-row SUV, IONIQ 9.
Smart value is a core motivator for our customers, which is why many discover the benefits of buying Hyundai over the competition. This includes access to Hyundai Assurance programs including staying connected to your new Palisade at no extra cost with Bluelink+ remote access. To get started exploring the Palisade, you can visit our showroom located on Okeechobee Blvd or give us a quick call at (561) 725-7101. We also offer a wide range of genuine vehicle accessories to help customize your SUV for your family's needs.
Table of Contents
- The Upscale Interior and Spacious Cabin of Redesigned 2026 Palisade
- Performance and Efficiency Ratings of the Palisade V6 and the New Hybrid Powertrain
- Analyzing Value and Ownership Costs Through the Hyundai Assurance Warranty Advantage
- Safety Ratings and Driver Assistance Technology for South Florida Commuting
- Quick Answers Before You Visit
- Finding the Right Trim and Financing Your New Hyundai in West Palm Beach
The Upscale Interior and Spacious Cabin of the Redesigned 2026 Palisade
The 2026 redesign introduces a longer wheelbase of 116.9 inches, creating a cabin environment that feels significantly more open than previous years. While the 2025 model already offered a generous 155 cubic feet of passenger volume, the newer generation adds about 2.5 inches to the overall body length. This extra room is most noticeable in the reimagined third row, which features larger windows to reduce the cramped feeling often associated with the back of a large SUV. When families visit us to compare these two, they usually ask about the third-row legroom before they even look at the window sticker, as the Palisade provides 32.1 inches of leg space for those in the very back.
Inside, the shift from the 2025 to the 2026 model also includes a move away from gearshift buttons to a column-mounted shifter, freeing up center console space for larger items like tablets or handbags. (Note to Moms - no more jamming your purse between yourself and the door while driving!) The dashboard now features dual 12.3-inch displays as standard, providing a seamless interface for navigation and entertainment. For those who prefer the 2025 layout, we often have a selection of well-maintained options where you can browse used Hyundai inventory or other pre-owned models to find the right fit. Our knowledgeable team members can walk you through the differences in Palisade seating configurations, whether you need the eight-passenger bench or the seven-passenger captain's chairs.
Practicality remains a high priority, and the Palisade delivers with 19.1 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row in the 2026 model. If you fold the third row down, that space expands to roughly 46 cubic feet, which is ample for hauling beach gear or sports equipment. The cabin is also equipped with 110-watt USB-C ports in all three rows, ensuring that every passenger can keep their devices charged during longer drives.
Performance and Efficiency Ratings of the Palisade V6 and the New Hybrid Powertrain
A 3.5-liter V6 engine comes standard on the newest models, delivering 287 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque for confident highway merging. This powertrain is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, providing a smooth and predictable driving experience. For the 2026 model year, the introduction of a 2.5-liter turbocharged hybrid option offers a significant alternative for those looking to reduce their fuel consumption during heavy stop-and-go traffic.
The 2026 Honda Pilot model does not offer a hybrid option with all trims powered by a 285 hp 3.5-liter V6 engine.
The Palisade hybrid setup produces 329 hp and is paired with the same 8-speed automatic transmission w/shiftronic (paddle shifters), prioritizing efficiency without sacrificing the power needed for a vehicle of this size. Browse our Palisade Hybrid inventory.
Palisade Engine & Performance Highlights
- SE, SEL Convenience, XRT Pro, Limited, and Calligraphy trims feature a powerful 3.5L V6 engine
- SEL and SEL Premium trims use an efficient 2.5L 4-cylinder engine
- Most trims offer either front-wheel drive or available four-wheel drive, depending on configuration
- XRT Pro focuses more heavily on rugged capability and off-road-inspired styling
- Standard across all trims: Fuel Type Unleaded
Fuel Efficiency Ratings
Palm Beach County 3-row SUV shoppers will find these two gas model brands deliver very similar fuel efficiency - excpet that only the Hyundai Palisade offers a hybrid version at this time. The Honda Pilot's combined mpg ranges from 21 to 22 depending on the trim, for front-wheel and all-wheel drive configurations. A few Palisade gas model AWD trims dip only slightly below that as detailed below.
2026 Hyundai PALISADE
| Trim Group | Drivetrain | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SEL, SEL Convenience, SEL Premium | FWD | 19 | 25 | 21 |
| SEL, SEL Convenience, SEL Premium | AWD | 18 | 24 | 20 |
| Limited, Calligraphy | FWD | 19 | 25 | 21 |
| Limited, Calligraphy | AWD | 18 | 24 | 20 |
| XRT PRO | AWD | 16 | 22 | 19 |
2026 Hyundai PALISADE Hybrid
| Trim Group | Drivetrain | City MPG | Highway MPG | Combined MPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SEL, SEL Premium | FWD | 33 | 35 | 34 |
| SEL, SEL Premium | AWD | 29 | 30 | 29 |
| Limited, Calligraphy | FWD | 31 | 32 | 31 |
| Limited, Calligraphy | AWD | 29 | 30 | 29 |
EPA estimates vary by trim level, drivetrain, driving habits, weather conditions, and other factors.
Towing remains a strong suit for both configurations, with the Palisade V6 model capable of pulling up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Compare that to the Honda Pilot's 3,500 maximum towing capacity. The Palisade hybrid model is rated for 4,000 pounds, which is still slightly more than the Pilot gas model, and sufficient for small boats or utility trailers. If you are considering trading in your current vehicle for a more capable SUV, you can value your trade-in online to see how it applies to a newer model. We also have a variety of options if you prefer to browse our used Hyundai inventory for a V6 model from a previous year.
The Palisade XRT Pro trim is specifically designed for those who need more off-road capability, featuring an electronic rear limited-slip differential and 8.4 inches of ground clearance. This trim also includes dedicated modes for mud, sand, and snow, making it a versatile choice for diverse terrains. If you have questions about which powertrain fits your driving habits, you can contact our team for expert advice.
Analyzing Value and Ownership Costs Through the Hyundai Assurance Warranty* Advantage
Hyundai provides a level of ownership security that the Honda Pilot does not match, specifically through Hyundai's 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty. This coverage is a cornerstone of the brand's value proposition, ensuring that the most expensive components of the vehicle are protected for a decade. Additionally, the 5-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty covers the rest of the vehicle's components, providing peace of mind for the first several years of ownership.
Compare these to the Honda Pilot's 3-year/36,000-mile basic warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty and you can see that Hyundai ownership benefits are much more satisfying.
When comparing MSRPs, the Palisade SE trim starts at $39,435 MSRP*, while the high-end Calligraphy starts at $54,560 MSRP*, offering a wide range of pricing to fit different budgets. The Honda Pilot also has a varied range of prices, all a bit higher, ranging from $42,395 MSRP for the base Sport model to $55,195 MSRP for its top Black Edition trim.
Palisade Hybrid trims naturally run a bit higher, with savings coming during ownership from reduced fuel costs. Trim price points range from the base Hybrid SEL starting at $44,160 MSRP to the top Hybrid Calligraphy beginning at $56,780 MSRP.
America's Best Warranty
Hyundai Factory warranty coverage
| Coverage | Duration |
|---|---|
| Basic | 5 years / 60,000 miles (New Vehicle Limited Warranty) |
| Powertrain | 10 years / 100,000 miles (Powertrain Limited Warranty) |
| Corrosion | 7 years / unlimited miles (Anti-Perforation Limited Warranty) |
| Roadside Assistance | 60 months / unlimited miles (Roadside Assistance Program) |
The total cost of ownership is further supported by the Hyundai 7-year/unlimited miles anti-perforation warranty, which is particularly relevant in our coastal environment where salt air can be a factor. We encourage you to visit our homepage to see current specials or browse our entire vehicle inventory to compare different models side-by-side. For those interested in short-term ownership, you can read our lease guide to understand how monthly payments and terms work for these flagship SUVs.
The Palisade SEL Premium trim, starting at $45,300, is often cited as the best balance of features and cost, adding ventilated front seats and a 360-degree camera system. In contrast, the Limited trim at $49,770 adds more luxury-oriented touches like premium leather and a heads-up display. By providing these comparative figures, we aim to help you make an informed decision that aligns with your financial goals.
Safety Ratings and Driver Assistance Technology for South Florida Commuting
Commuting along the busy coastal routes around Jupiter and Palm Beach County often means dealing with sudden slowdowns, heavy traffic, and unpredictable driving conditions. The Hyundai Palisade is designed to help reduce stress behind the wheel with Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driver-assistance technologies that support awareness and confidence during daily driving. The Palisade Calligraphy trim comes standard with the added security of a built-in front-and-rear Dash Cam.
Key Palisade standard safety and driver-assist features include:
- Blind-spot detection and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane departure warning and Lane Keeping Assist
- Rear automatic braking support
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (FCA) with pedestrian detection
- Rear occupant and seat belt reminders
- LATCH child-seat anchors designed for easier installation
These systems work together to help monitor surrounding traffic, provide warnings, and—in some situations—automatically assist with braking or steering response if a potential collision is detected.
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade has also earned the IIHS Top Safety Pick+ (TSP+) designation, reflecting strong performance in crashworthiness and front crash prevention testing, and earning the highest possible IIHS award. While the Honda Pilot has similar driver assistance features, it scores a bit lower than the Palisade, earning the lower-tier IIHS Top Safety Pick award (no "plus"), due to Pilot scoring "acceptable" (as opposed to "good") overall for "moderate overlap front crash tests".
Safety also extends to the support you receive while on the road in your Hyundai. Your new Hyundai Palisade includes 5 years/unlimited miles of 24-hour roadside assistance, which you can learn more about by checking our roadside assistance information. The Honda Pilot also offers roadside assistance, but for only 3 years or 36,000 miles, whichever comes first. For a hands-on look at how these systems work, you can get directions to our dealership and speak with a specialist.
Standard features like Lane Keeping Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist are particularly helpful when navigating tight parking lots or merging onto busy highways. The Palisade also includes Rear Occupant Alert, which is a critical feature for families to ensure no one is left in the back seat. These technologies are integrated seamlessly into the driving experience, providing protection without being intrusive.
Quick Answers Before You Visit
Local families often ask specific questions about how these two SUVs handle the unique demands of South Florida driving. Below are some of the most common inquiries we receive at the dealership.
Q: Is the Hyundai Palisade a good alternative to the Honda Pilot for families in West Palm Beach?
Yes, the Palisade is a strong alternative, offering a more premium interior design and a longer powertrain warranty of 10 years or 100,000 miles plus unlimited miles and 5 years of roadside assistance.It also offers hybrid options, which the 2026 Pilot does not.
Q: Can the Hyundai Palisade fit three car seats in the second row?
Models equipped with the second-row bench seat can accommodate three car seats across, provided the seat bases are standard sizes. If you choose the captain's chairs, you will have two LATCH positions in the second row and one additional position in the third row.
Q: Does the 2026 Palisade have more cargo space than the Honda Pilot?
Both models offer about 19 cubic feet behind the third row. The Pilot barely edges out the Palisade with 19.4 vs 19.1 cu.ft. Not only is the difference small, but the Palisade's redesigned cargo area features a flatter floor, making it easier to stack groceries or luggage.
Q: Is the Hyundai Palisade usually cheaper to buy than the Honda Pilot?
At comparable trim levels, the Palisade often has a lower transaction price while offering more standard technology and safety features plus a better warranty. You can browse our new Palisade inventory and and click on "Customize Your Payment" to view our transparent pricing and see how the Palisade fits your budget.
Finding the Right Trim and Financing Your New Palisade in West Palm Beach
Selecting the right trim depends largely on whether you prioritize the practical value of the SEL Premium, the rugged XRT Pro hardware or the near-luxury finishes of the Calligraphy. The XRT Pro is an excellent choice for those who frequently visit nature preserves or need the extra ground clearance for unpaved roads. On the other hand, the Calligraphy offers Nappa leather seating and a digital rearview mirror, making it a favorite for professionals who want a sophisticated daily driver. The SEL Premium is considered by some reviewers to be the best overall value. You can learn about Blue Link+ to see how remote start and climate control can be managed directly from your smartphone, a feature that is standard at no extra cost on all new Palisades.
Our finance center is prepared to help you navigate the purchase process, whether you are looking for traditional car loan information or specific lease offers. To save time at the dealership, we recommend that you apply for financing online to get pre-approved. This allows our team to have your options ready the moment you arrive for a test drive.
When you are ready to see the Palisade in person, you can find our West Palm Beach location easily or give us a quick call at (561) 725-7101 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to helping you find the perfect three-row SUV for your family's South Florida lifestyle.
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*All mileage is EPA-estimated.
All prices mentioned are Starting MSRP, excluding freight charges, tax, title, license and dealer fees.
See dealer for limited-warranty details.
