2022 Hyundai Palisade vs 2023 Toyota 4Runner

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade, introduced as Hyundai's flagship SUV, replaced the Santa Fe XL and stood out with its elegant and striking exterior design. It featured distinctive lines, a prominent grille, and a provocative continuous strip of glass that created a floating roof effect. The Palisade's LED lighting elements and 20-inch alloy wheels added to its sophisticated appearance. Inside, the Palisade offered a near-luxury experience with high-quality materials, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, and spacious seating for up to eight passengers. The Ultimate Calligraphy model, in particular, impressed with its Steel Graphite paint and black interior.

In contrast, the 2023 Toyota 4Runner 40th Anniversary Special Edition, based on the SR5 trim, celebrated its heritage with retro body stripes, bronze wheels, and badges. The 4Runner maintained its truck-based SUV appeal with a rugged exterior and purposeful interior. While the cabin featured plenty of plastic, it was solid and functional, with easy-to-use controls. The 4Runner's design paid homage to its past, offering a nostalgic yet enduring charm.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.8-litre V6 engine, producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque. This engine, equipped with gasoline direct injection and dual variable valve timing, delivered a smooth and responsive driving experience. Despite its power, the Palisade's fuel efficiency was moderate, with an estimated consumption of 12.3 litres per 100 kilometres in the city and 9.6 on the highway. The Palisade's four-wheel independent suspension and stabilizer bars contributed to its comfortable handling, and it could tow up to 2,267 kilograms with trailer brakes.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured a 4.0-litre V6 engine, generating 270 horsepower and 278 pound-feet of torque. Paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, the 4Runner offered standard four-wheel drive and a towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms. Its fuel economy was rated at 13.8 litres per 100 kilometres in combined driving. The 4Runner excelled in off-road capabilities, with features like Active Traction Control, a locking rear differential, and Multi-Terrain Select. However, its on-road performance was less refined, with leisurely acceleration and heavy steering.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade provided a spacious and versatile interior, with comfortable seating for up to eight passengers. The third row offered easy access and cupholders, while the second-row captain's chairs provided ample legroom and headroom. The Palisade's cargo space was generous, with 509 litres behind the third row, expanding to 2,447 litres with both rear rows folded. The shift-by-wire gear selector and logically arranged controls added to the convenience. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim included luxury features like a dual-panel sunroof, ventilated seats, and premium Nappa leather upholstery.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner offered a unique feature with its power rear window, providing excellent ventilation. While the 4Runner's seats were comfortable, the SofTex artificial leather in the 40 ASE model lacked the luxury of genuine leather. The second-row seating area was roomy, but the optional third-row seat compromised cargo space. With the third row, cargo capacity was limited to 254 litres, while the five-passenger configuration offered 1,337 litres. The 4Runner's cargo area included storage cubbies and a 120-volt AC power outlet.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade showcased advanced technology, with a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, a 1920 x 720 colour touchscreen, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system. The infotainment system included Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, and satellite radio, with multiple USB ports and a wireless charging pad. The Palisade's Blue Link connected car system offered remote engine start and vehicle monitoring. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim added a head-up display and surround view monitor.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner featured a more traditional approach to technology, with analog gauges and an 8-inch touchscreen. The infotainment system included Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM satellite radio. While the display was smaller and dated, the system's voice recognition performed well. The 4Runner offered a JBL premium sound system as an upgrade, but the audio quality required adjustments for optimal sound.

The 2022 Hyundai Palisade boasted a comprehensive suite of safety features, including seven airbags, electronic stability control, and advanced driver assistance systems like blind-spot collision avoidance and forward collision-avoidance assist. The Palisade earned top safety ratings, with a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS and a five-star rating from the NHTSA.

The 2023 Toyota 4Runner included essential safety features like forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard on all trims. However, the 4Runner's crash-test ratings were less impressive, with a four-star overall rating from the NHTSA and a Marginal rating from the IIHS for driver protection in a small overlap frontal-impact test.