2021 Toyota Highlander vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade Ultimate Calligraphy stood out with its distinctive grille pattern, revised exterior lighting, and unique 20-inch alloy wheels. It featured upgraded interior detailing, including a simulated suede headliner, which gave it a luxurious feel. The standard LED headlights added a modern touch to the Palisade's appearance. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim made the vehicle look more upscale, drawing attention with its unconventional styling. Inside, the Palisade impressed with quilted and stitched premium Nappa leather, making it seem more expensive than its actual price.

In contrast, the 2021 Toyota Highlander was designed to stand out with its wide headlights, long hood, and assertive trapezoidal grille. The character line along the side was reminiscent of the Supra sports car, while the taillights borrowed elements from Lexus models. The Highlander appeared longer and lower than its predecessor without sacrificing size. The new XSE trim added a sportier look with a restyled front end and 20-inch alloy wheels. The Limited trim, just below the Platinum, offered an upscale appearance with chrome accents and a refined interior featuring tan leather seats and wood details.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade was equipped with a 3.8-litre V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission and standard all-wheel drive in Canada. It offered various driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, Sport, Snow, and a Lock function for improved traction. The Palisade achieved a fuel efficiency of 11.1 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. Its firmer suspension provided excellent body-motion control, making it enjoyable to drive without sacrificing comfort. The Palisade's towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms, with a new seven-pin trailer pre-wiring connector for 2021.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured a 3.5-litre V6 engine with 295 horsepower and 263 pound-feet of torque, mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered both front-wheel and all-wheel drive options. The Highlander Hybrid was also available. While not designed for high performance, the Highlander provided smooth and predictable operation. The XSE trim added sportier suspension tuning, enhancing driving excitement. The Highlander compared well with competitors in terms of horsepower and torque, offering a balanced driving experience.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space and accessibility. It featured eight-way power-adjustable front seats, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, and separate climate controls for third-row passengers. The second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and slid for easy access to the third row. The Palisade offered generous cargo space, with 509 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,447 litres with all seats folded. The hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander focused on comfort and practicality. It featured shelves ahead of the front seats for storage and a wireless charging pad in the centre console. Second-row passengers enjoyed reclining captain's chairs with adjustable legroom. The third row accommodated adults with some compromise. Cargo space measured 453 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,245 litres with all seats folded. The Highlander provided ample storage for family needs.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems: an 8-inch and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Both allowed pairing of two smartphones via Bluetooth, with the 8-inch system offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim included a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, navigation, and Blue Link connected services. Additional features included wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured an 8-inch touchscreen on lower trims and a 12.3-inch screen on the Platinum trim. Both systems supported Android Auto and Apple CarPlay. The 12.3-inch screen was bright and responsive, though navigation was limited to an 8-inch display. A JBL audio system was available from the Limited grade. The Highlander offered a user-friendly interface with standard Bluetooth connectivity.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety with features like adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and automatic emergency braking. It included lane-keeping systems, a rear occupant alert system, and a Safe Exit Assist system. The Highway Driving Assist provided adaptive cruise control and lane-centring assistance. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Toyota Highlander featured Toyota Safety Sense 2.5+, including automatic emergency braking with pedestrian detection and intersection support. It offered adaptive cruise control, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist. Blind spot monitoring and LED headlights were standard. The Highlander received a five-star rating from the NHTSA and was named a Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.