2020 Ford Expedition vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2020 Ford Expedition, last redesigned in 2018, was a full-size SUV known for its clean styling, which some might have considered boring. However, this simplicity was expected to age well, making it a practical choice for those planning to keep their vehicle for many years. The King Ranch edition stood out with its 22-inch aluminum wheels, mesh grille insert, LED headlights, and exclusive grey-painted lower exterior trim. The Star White metallic paint added to its appeal, although some design elements like the taillights and the roof C-pillar could have been improved. Inside, the King Ranch featured Del Rio leather in Mesa over Ebony, with King Ranch logos throughout. Despite its luxurious touches, the presence of hard plastic, especially in lower trims, was a drawback, making the Lincoln Navigator a more appealing option for those seeking a more refined interior.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Palisade Ultimate Calligraphy trim offered a distinct look with a unique grille pattern, revised lighting, and 20-inch alloy wheels. The exterior changes, including standard LED headlights, gave it a fancier appearance that drew attention, though opinions on its unconventional styling varied. Inside, the Palisade impressed with its quilted and stitched premium Nappa leather and suede headliner, making it feel more expensive than it was. The cabin's quality and design set it apart from other midsize three-row SUVs, offering a sense of luxury at a competitive price point.

The 2020 Ford Expedition was equipped with a twin-turbocharged 3.5-litre EcoBoost V6 engine, delivering 375 horsepower at 5,000 rpm and 470 pound-feet of torque at 2,250 rpm. This engine, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission, provided ample power and a pleasant exhaust note. The Expedition's standard four-wheel-drive system in Canada, along with its 24.9 cm ground clearance, made it capable in various terrains. The towing capacity was impressive, with the standard model pulling 4,173 kg and the MAX version 4,082 kg. Despite its size, the Expedition handled well in urban environments, thanks to its tight turning radius and adaptive damping suspension. However, the ride could be busy on imperfect roads due to the large wheels. Fuel consumption was rated at 14.1 L/100 km in the city and 10.6 on the highway, with slightly higher figures for the MAX version.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade featured a 3.8-litre V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel-drive in Canada. Drivers could choose from various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, and Sport, as well as a Snow mode and a Lock function for improved traction. The Palisade's fuel efficiency was rated at 11.1 L/100 km in combined driving, matching real-world performance. The suspension offered excellent body-motion control, providing a firm yet comfortable ride. While not designed for spirited driving, the Palisade remained predictable and sure-footed, making it enjoyable for everyday use. Its towing capacity was 2,268 kg, with a new seven-pin trailer pre-wiring connector for 2021.

The 2020 Ford Expedition excelled in towing, cargo capacity, and passenger comfort. The King Ranch's power running boards made entry easy, and the heated and ventilated front seats, along with a heated steering wheel, added to the comfort. The second-row captain's chairs provided first-class accommodations, and the third-row seat was genuinely comfortable for adults, thanks to the independent rear suspension. Cargo space was generous, with 546 litres behind the third row in the standard model and 971 litres in the MAX version. Folding the seats expanded the cargo area to 2,962 litres in the standard model and 3,440 litres in the MAX.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered a spacious and accessible interior, especially in the Ultimate Calligraphy trim. The front seats were power-adjustable, with heating and ventilation, and the second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and support. The third-row seat was more accommodating than most in its class, with easy access. The Palisade offered 509 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 1,297 litres with the seats folded. The hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience, and the interior storage was plentiful, with a storage tray under the centre console.

The 2020 Ford Expedition featured an 8-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Sync 3, which, while easy to use, felt outdated compared to newer systems. It included Bluetooth, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto, along with FordPass Connect, a navigation system, and an available Bang & Olufsen sound system. The Pro Trailer Backup Assist was a standout feature for those who frequently towed, simplifying trailer manoeuvring.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems, with the Ultimate Calligraphy trim featuring a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Both systems allowed for dual smartphone pairing via Bluetooth, but only the 8-inch setup offered wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Palisade included SiriusXM, HD Radio, a navigation system, and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system. Additional features like wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, and a Quiet Mode enhanced the driving experience. The available head-up display and surround-view camera system added convenience and safety.

The 2020 Ford Expedition's size contributed to its crash safety, and it came equipped with Ford Co-Pilot360, a suite of safety features including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot warning. Adaptive cruise control was optional. The Expedition earned 5-star ratings in NHTSA crash tests, with a 4-star rollover resistance rating.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, with features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. The rear occupant alert system and Safe Exit Assist added to its safety credentials. The Palisade's Highway Driving Assist provided smooth and sophisticated adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. It earned top safety ratings from both the IIHS and NHTSA.