2022 Toyota Sequoia 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 and a simulated suede interior headliner, making it appear more luxurious than other Palisade models. The standard LED headlights added a modern touch to its exterior. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim gave the Palisade a sophisticated look that drew attention, though opinions on its unconventional styling varied. Inside, the Palisade impressed with quilted and stitched premium Nappa leather and a suede headliner, offering a cabin that felt more expensive than its price suggested.

In contrast, the 2022 Toyota Sequoia maintained its mature design, having last undergone a complete makeover in 2008. Its exterior design was characterized by a modestly sized grille, elegant wheel arches, and straight body lines, giving it a classic and substantial appearance. The Sequoia's dimensions were notable, with a height of 1,956 mm, a width of 2,030 mm, and a length of 5,210 mm, riding on a 3,099 mm wheelbase. Despite its age, the Sequoia's interior was well-constructed, with high-quality materials and tight seams, though it appeared dated compared to more modern SUVs. The Nightshade Special Edition model added some contemporary touches to keep the Sequoia relevant.

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 multiple 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 suspension provided excellent body-motion control, making it enjoyable to drive, though not particularly sporty. The Palisade's towing capacity was 2,268 kilograms, with a new seven-pin trailer pre-wiring connector for 2021.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia featured a 5.7-litre i-Force V8 engine delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission. It had a lockable Torsen limited-slip centre differential and a two-speed transfer case in 4WD models. The Sequoia's truck roots contributed to its payload capacity of up to 608 kilograms and a towing capacity of 3,221 kilograms. Its fuel consumption ratings were 18.5 litres per 100 kilometres in the city, 13.9 on the highway, and 16.4 combined. Despite its weight, the Sequoia offered a smooth and stable ride, with excellent off-road capabilities, especially in the TRD Pro model.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space and accessibility, offering a comfortable and plush cabin, especially in the Ultimate Calligraphy trim. The front seats were power-adjustable, with heated and ventilated options for the first two rows. The third-row seat was more accommodating than most in its class, with easy access via sliding second-row captain’s chairs. The Palisade provided ample in-cabin storage and a hands-free Smart Liftgate. Cargo space measured 509 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,447 litres with all seats folded.

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia prioritized passenger comfort, with spacious seating across all three rows and three-zone climate control. It featured a power moonroof and heated front seats, with heated rear seats available on the Platinum grade. The Sequoia offered generous storage options, including a large centre console and door pockets. Its cargo compartment had a 12-volt outlet, with 535 litres of space behind the third row, expanding to 3,401 litres with all seats folded flat.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems, with 8-inch and 10.25-inch touchscreen displays. Both allowed dual smartphone pairing via Bluetooth, though only the 8-inch system supported 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 2022 Toyota Sequoia's infotainment system felt outdated, with a 7-inch touchscreen and a 4.2-inch TFT driver information screen. It offered standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with Bluetooth connectivity. Higher trims included a 14-speaker JBL audio system and navigation. While the Sequoia lacked modern powertrain technology, it featured LED exterior lighting and standard safety technology like a rear backup camera and parking sonar.

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

The 2022 Toyota Sequoia lacked crash-test ratings from the NHTSA and IIHS but offered a comprehensive suite of safety features. The Toyota Safety Sense P included pre-collision systems, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The STAR safety system provided stability control, traction control, and anti-lock brakes. The Sequoia also featured a full complement of airbags and child safety features.