2023 Hyundai Palisade vs 2022 Ford Explorer

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered Canadians a range of six models, with prices starting from $47,799 to $66,759, excluding a $2,095 destination charge. The lineup expanded with the rugged Timberline trim and introduced the sporty ST-Line, enhancing the popular XLT version. The Explorer's design, based on a rear-drive platform, featured a long hood, short front overhang, and a rakish roofline, giving it a taut, athletic appearance. The blacked-out roof pillars contributed to a "floating roof" effect. Inside, higher-trim Explorers showcased a mix of quality and less impressive materials, though generally, the cabin felt worthy of its price.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade, Hyundai's largest SUV, received a styling update that enhanced its commanding road presence. The new front fascia, with bolder strokes and squared-off grille, gave the Palisade a stronger look. Standard features included LED accents, daytime running lights, and headlights, with LED taillights on the Ultimate Calligraphy trim. The Palisade's body-colour mirrors were packed with features, including heated, powered mirrors and approach lighting. The interior of the Ultimate Calligraphy trim was stylish, featuring premium Nappa leather and a dual-pane sunroof. The Palisade offered a spacious cabin with thoughtful features like heated and ventilated seats, and second-row captain’s chairs with wing-out headrests.

The 2022 Ford Explorer offered three powertrains. The XLT, ST-Line, and Timberline trims came with a turbocharged 2.3-litre EcoBoost four-cylinder engine, producing 300 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission and standard 4WD in Canada. The hybrid drivetrain option for the Limited trim combined a 3.3-litre V6 engine, generating 318 hp and 322 lb-ft of torque, with a 10-speed automatic tuned for efficiency. The twin-turbocharged 3.0-litre V6 engine, standard on the ST and Platinum trims, delivered 400 hp and 415 lb-ft of torque. The Explorer's ride was robust, with a traditional SUV feel, and the Timberline models were equipped for off-roading with improved ground clearance and angles.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade featured a single powertrain: a 3.8-litre V6 engine with 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and standard AWD in Canada. The Palisade's HTRAC AWD system proved capable during a muddy off-road test. While not designed for rock-crawling, the Palisade offered a comfortable ride and competitive towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. Fuel consumption was 12.6 L/100 km in the city, 9.5 on the highway, and 11.2 combined.

The 2022 Ford Explorer provided comfort for families of four, with the option to carry five with a second-row bench seat. However, the third-row seat was best suited for children due to limited space. Higher trims offered features like triple-zone climate control, heated and ventilated front seats, and heated second-row captain’s chairs. Cargo space was 528 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,132 litres with all rear seats folded. Storage space within the cabin was limited, with few practical pockets and cubbies.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade comfortably seated seven or eight, with generous legroom and a passenger volume of 4,397 litres. The second-row seating facilitated easy access to the third row, and the seats folded flat for increased cargo space, which totalled 2,447 litres with all but the front-row seats folded. The Palisade featured HVAC vents in all rows, ample cupholders, and a well-organized centre console. A hands-free smart liftgate was standard on all but the base trim.

The 2022 Ford Explorer came with two versions of the Sync 3 infotainment system, featuring either an 8-inch or a 10.1-inch touchscreen. The system included FordPass Connect services, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a 14-speaker Bang and Olufsen sound system on higher trims. However, the voice recognition system was less advanced compared to Ford's newer Sync 4 technology. Additional tech included a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation display and Active Park Assist 2.0.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade boasted a 12.3-inch colour touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a premium 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system on higher trims. The Palisade supported multiple Bluetooth connections and offered a wireless charger. Drivers enjoyed a digital instrument cluster, and the Ultimate Calligraphy trim featured a head-up display. Hyundai's Bluelink system provided remote accessibility and management features, enhancing convenience.

The 2022 Ford Explorer earned a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. It came with Ford Co-Pilot360, which included forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assist. Co-Pilot360 Assist+ added adaptive cruise control and evasive steering assist. The Explorer also featured a post-collision braking system and MyKey programmable functions.

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade also received a Top Safety Pick+ rating from the IIHS. Hyundai's Smart Sense suite included forward collision avoidance, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Highway Driving Assist I and II were available on higher trims, and the Palisade featured a full-display digital rearview mirror. Safe exit warning and rear seat occupant alert were standard, enhancing safety for all passengers.