Starting at
Starting at
| 300-400 | Horsepower (hp) | 291 |
| 310-415 | Torque (lb-ft) | 262 |
| 5,600 | Max Towing (lbs) | 5,000 |
What does it take to be the best? What does it mean to be a leader that nothing comes close to being compared to? It takes drive, dedication, and hard work. These attributes can all be used to describe the Ford Explorer. Despite the massive upward trajectory in popularity that the SUV has achieved in recent years, there’s a very distinct possibility that it might have never come to fruition had it not been for the Explorer making its debut in the early 1990s. In an age where every manufacturer has its own distinctive offering of the vehicle in question, the Explorer has remained at the top of the mountain as the definitive example of what an SUV has to offer and should ascribe to.
However, when you’re on top, there are always those who wish to usurp your position. Among these contenders is the Hyundai Palisade. Does it have what it takes to compete against Ford’s golden child? Today, we examine both of them to see which one is superior. It’s the 2023 Ford Explorer vs 2023 Hyundai Palisade in a contest for SUV superiority.
The thought process behind the design of the modern SUV is a far cry from what it was a few decades ago. While the crossover and subcompact models are among the most popular in the marketplace, there was a time when the only offerings consisted of large sizes and domineering powertrains. As more consumers began to gravitate toward the SUV as a commuter-friendly option, the sizes that the vehicle came in began to become scaled down in order to adhere to consumer needs. The Explorer has done a wonderful job at conforming to necessity in recent years, and while the designs of the SUV have changed considerably, the necessity for performance has remained consistent.
Because of the fallout from a recent microchip shortage, many manufacturers have taken to the practice of streamlining production and limiting the number of available powertrains. The Hyundai Palisade follows this trend by offering a single engine underneath the hood. This takes the form of a 3.8L V6. Propelling the Palisade forward with the benefit of 291 horsepower, this engine utilizes an eight-speed automatic transmission. By all accounts, this provides a smooth and seamless ride that can also handle the rigors of off-roading when equipped with the available all-wheel drive. The Palisade is also notable for holding its ground in the area of towing, as its capacity maxes out at 5,000 lbs. This is a decent engine and performance specs, but it pales in comparison to what the Ford Explorer has to offer.
There is one pretty major advantage that the Ford Explorer has over the Hyundai Palisade, and that's the variety of engines it offers. The 2023 Explorer has three distinctive powertrains which are geared toward satisfying different types of drivers because, as we all know, the needs of many certainly aren’t identical. Some want a more conservative fuel economy, while others need more power.
Even with its base offering, the Explorer outperforms Hyundai’s V6. A turbocharged 2.3L four-cylinder engine powers the first three trims of the Explorer. With 300 horsepower to its credit and the ability to travel from 0-60 mph in a mere six seconds, Ford proves less is more. Of course, the capabilities that Ford offers aren’t limited to the base four-cylinder. For those who need more prowess and performance, a beefy twin-turbocharged 3.0L V6 is available and belts out an impressive 400 horsepower and has the capability to generate 415 lb-ft of torque. This engine also gives you enough power to tow up to 5,600 lbs.
For consumers who have a keen eye for conservative fuel consumption, a hybrid version of the Explorer has been available since the 2020 model year. Utilizing the combination of a 3.3L V6 and an electric motor, you get 318 horsepower and 322 lb-ft of torque. With this engine, you will get 27 MPG in the city and 29 MPG on the highway with the standard front-wheel drive. All trims are equipped with a ten-speed automatic transmission.
When it comes to exterior styling, the Explorer and Palisade are very similar to one another. In fact, uniformity can be found in many makes and models throughout the scope of the entire industry. In order to gauge a definitive comparison between the two vehicles, we’ll have to open the door, get behind the wheel, and experience the interior of the Explorer and Palisade first-hand.
When comparing the interiors of both vehicles, it all comes down to what you think is more important; practicality or aesthetic. The Hyundai Palisade strives to compete with the likes of some of the higher-end European brands, so those who have a keen eye for first impressions and style will certainly find the vehicle favorable in this regard. An infotainment screen that stretches out to 12.3 inches anchors an interior that’s more sleek and aerodynamic than the exterior of the vehicle. Available captain's chairs are desirable for those who gravitate towards luxury. There’s also 86.4 available cubic feet of storage space, which falls just short of the Explorer’s 87.8 cubic feet.
Sitting behind the wheel of the Ford Explorer demonstrates a different thought process than the Palisade, as it places a considerable effort on basic functions and practicality. While luxury is certainly pleasing to a percent of the population, being user-friendly and manageable is always a benefit to the average consumer.
The interior of the Ford Explorer is spacious and ergonomic. It has everything spaced out in such a way that creates a comfortable environment for the drivers and passengers but also puts everything within reach. The interior boasts many of the features and amenities that are needed for the drive, such as compatibility with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, as well as a Wi-Fi hotspot to help maintain a connection no matter where you might travel to. For those who want some of the extras that enhance the experience behind the wheel, a 10.1-inch infotainment screen and an available high-end B&O stereo system with 12 speakers won't disappoint.
For the individual who has an interest in the technological advancements that occur from year to year, the automotive industry is a literal goldmine of improvements from manufacturers who continually have their finger on the pulse of innovation. Both vehicles offer their drivers a considerable amount of standard and available features, which are meant to enhance the driving experience and provide the necessary oversight while traveling. The 2023 Ford Explorer is equipped with the Ford Co-Pilot360 suite of driver-assist features, while the 2023 Hyundai Palisade has the SmartSense suite as its standard offering.
The Explorer and Palisade have a variety of safety features that are standard across all levels of trim. You'll find features such as:
Both brands have a proven track record of providing their customers with safe travel wherever they go. Safety should never be a contest; it should be something that all manufacturers should strive for in order to provide their drivers with the knowledge that they’ve made an excellent choice in their vehicles. Both the Explorer and the Hyundai are going to keep you safe on the road with a wide range of features, so you will likely want to base your choice on other factors, such as performance and the quality of the interior.
While the Hyundai Palisade offers the aesthetic that many drivers are looking for, beauty is only skin deep, and practical matters will always be more important than style. With multiple powertrains, an interior that focuses on being efficient and user-friendly, and intuitive technology and safety features, the Ford Explorer proves why it’s been the most popular SUV for several years. That's why you need to come check out the 2023 Ford Explorer here at DePaula Ford.
Being the best option is the driving principle here at DePaula Ford. Just as Ford has been a symbol of quality and dedication for well over a century, the team here at DePaula Ford is dedicated to providing our customers with the very best in selection and customer service of the highest quality. Our sales team will guide you through every step of the selection and purchasing process that will allow you to make a well-informed decision regarding your next Ford vehicle. In order to ensure you recoup a return on your investment, our parts and service center is here to provide all of the necessary maintenance to allow your purchase to sustain itself for many years to come. Visit us today for all your Ford SUV needs.
*Images, fuel economy, and other stats, may reflect higher trim levels, options, or features that may result in a higher cost from the starting MSRP.
MSRP excludes tax, license, registration, additional options, and possible destination charges. Dealers set own prices.
