Starting at
Starting at
300-400 | Horsepower (hp) | 291 |
27 | Fuel Economy (mpg) | 22 |
87.8 | Cargo Space (cu.ft.) | 86.4 |
Ford has long been a favorite among those who value American cars. Because Ford's reputation is so strong and has remained steady for decades, it has maintained its popularity and is still one of the best-selling brands in the United States. We're going to compare the 2022 Ford Explorer vs 2022 Hyundai Palisade to see how they differ and which one might be better for you. Whether you're looking to upgrade from your current vehicle or you're considering adding another vehicle to your fleet, both of these three-row SUVs have plenty of room. They can haul around your family, a friend or two, and whatever gear or equipment you need: sports equipment, camping gear, or those impossible-to-resist yard sale purchases.
The Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade might look similar, and on the surface, they're both three-row SUVs, but what about underneath? What makes them different from one another? Which one has more engine choices or boasts newer technology? Which one is more fuel-efficient, and which one is more easily customizable? These are some of the questions we will be answering today. Remember, you can also visit our dealership to test drive the Ford Explorer so that you can feel the difference for yourself. You won't have to imagine any of it; we'll show you what the Explorer can do. Are you ready to look over what sets it apart from the Hyundai Palisade? You might be surprised at what you find out.
One of the biggest differences when it comes to vehicles is the engine choice. While some models do not come with any choices, many vehicles have branched out beyond gas and diesel and are even offering hybrid powertrains, which is a great way to save energy and money. With such a wealth of choices across the industry, is it any wonder that drivers want to take advantage of everything that modern engineering offers when they buy their next vehicle? What can we learn from the specs of the Hyundai Palisade and the Ford Explorer?
Unfortunately, the 2022 Hyundai Palisade is a bit behind the times. It only has one option for an engine: an older 3.8L V6, partnered with an eight-speed automatic transmission. The V6 has 291 hp, making it a middle-of-the-road choice for a three-row SUV; it just doesn't offer anything special enough to overcome the lack of choice. The engine can be described as "adequate" at best, which does nothing to instill confidence in a driver who perhaps wants a bit more oomph from their SUV. The Palisade can tow up to 5,000 lbs, but there are many SUVs in the segment that can tow more. If you're looking for more economical, eco-friendly, or exciting options, you'll have to look elsewhere.
On the other hand, the 2022 Ford Explorer has three engine options, two of which are more eco-friendly than the Palisade's lone V6. Not only does the Explorer come with a standard turbocharged four-cylinder engine providing 300 hp, but there is also the hybrid powertrain that gets 27 MPG combined and has 318 hp. Finally, there is a 400-hp twin-turbo V6 engine that adds some real excitement to your ride. As the cherry on top, the standard transmission for all three engines is a ten-speed automatic. The Ford can utilize its additional engine power to tow up to 5,600 lbs, which is 600 more lbs than the Hyundai Palisade. Depending on what you're using the vehicle for, you've got options.
Some might consider comparing interiors to be less important than details like safety features, technology, or even the exterior, but since you're going to be spending a lot of time inside your vehicle, it makes sense to check out what it has to offer in terms of comfort, styling, and space. You'll want to know that wherever each family member is sitting, they're going to be relaxed without feeling stiff or sore later––cramped back seats do nothing to engender the feeling of freedom that should follow your purchase of a fun family vehicle. Let's compare the Explorer and the Palisade and see how they differ from each other.
While the Palisade, at first glance, seems to be a bit more luxurious than the Ford Explorer, there are some definite downsides when it comes to the interior. While there are seven or eight seats available, and there's a touch button to move the second row for access to the third row, it does not have quite as much space as the Explorer. The Palisade tops out at 31.4 inches of third-row legroom and offers 86.4 cu.ft. of total cargo volume. The storage space in the cubbies around the cabin is also tight, so space for drinks, books, and other needed items is scarce.
Ford's commitment to excellence may not be as stylish, but the Explorer's cabin is roomy, comfortable, and functional. There is a touch button to gain access to the third row with its 32.2 inches of legroom. Another interior feature that gives the Explorer a leg up on the Palisade is its available 10-way power-adjustable driver's seat––the Hyundai can only provide an eight-way seat, which means fewer adjustments for the driver and less comfort.
The 87.8 cu.ft. of cargo space in the Explorer can only be described as "generous." With so much space for both passengers and their necessary items, it's the perfect family vehicle. You'll be able to fit all of your luggage in the trunk, which means you won't have to cram everything on top of people or under their feet. Compared to the Palisade, the Explorer simply has more space for both cargo and passengers.
Though you might think that Hyundai, as a South Korean brand, would be more technologically advanced, you'd be wrong. While the 2022 Palisade does offer modern tech conveniences like Bluetooth connectivity, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio, you will have to pay more to get valuable features like third-row USB ports or blind-spot monitoring. Family life is demanding, and we believe that you shouldn't have to pay extra for the same perks that come standard in other vehicles––including the Ford Explorer.
Perhaps the most important feature that the Explorer has that the Palisade does not offer is its Wi-Fi hotspot capability. This allows people to use their phones, tablets, or laptops, which are often important entertainment services, especially for those families with younger children. Not only does the Explorer have a Wi-Fi hotspot, but there is an optional backseat entertainment system that can be set up if you don't want to worry about a falling tablet or low-battery phone. The Explorer also has a 12-speaker B&O stereo system available on every trim except the base model, which means your passengers can enjoy exceptional sound quality for all their favorite movies.
The Ford Explorer also comes standard with Ford's Co-Pilot360 suite of advanced driver-assist features. This includes a lot of equipment that costs extra on the Palisade on other competing models, such as Ford's Blind Spot Information System with Cross Traffic Alert. Do you want even more cool driver-assist features? Ford has them. Active Park Assist 2.0 is one particularly impressive option that will automatically parallel park for you, making it easy to find parking in downtown Albany.