2024 Hyundai Palisade vs 2023 Volvo XC90

The 2023 Volvo XC90 marked a significant departure from the brand's past design ethos, which was often likened to utilitarian appliances. This model showcased a purposeful yet understated aesthetic, with a stout front end and a grille that was assertive without being ostentatious. The signature "Thor’s Hammer" headlights added a modern touch, distinguishing it from the boxy Volvos of the past. The XC90's rectilinear dimensions were complemented by 21-inch wheels, adding a hint of drama to its otherwise stoic presence. Inside, the XC90 exuded elegance with its two-tone leather steering wheel, metal speaker covers, and luxurious Nappa leather upholstery. The minimalist interior design was enhanced by wood deco inlays, creating a serene and sophisticated cabin environment.

In contrast, the 2024 Hyundai Palisade stood out with its distinctive styling, setting it apart from other family-friendly SUVs. Available in Urban and Ultimate Calligraphy trims, the Palisade offered a luxurious feel with features like an artificial suede headliner and premium upholstery. The interior was sophisticated, with metal speaker grilles and striped dashboard trim, making it feel like a luxury SUV. The Palisade's design was bold and unique, appealing to those who appreciated its standout looks. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim, in particular, offered a sense of decadence with its high-quality materials and attention to detail.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 introduced the B6 engine, a mild-hybrid powertrain that replaced the older T5 and T6 engines. This new setup offered 295 horsepower and 310 pound-feet of torque, slightly less than its predecessors but with improved fuel efficiency and smoother operation. The mild-hybrid system used a lithium-ion battery to power a 13-volt starter generator, enhancing the vehicle's auto stop-start technology. The XC90 delivered a reserved yet enjoyable driving experience, with quick acceleration and a responsive eight-speed automatic transmission. Despite its size, the XC90 handled corners well, and its brakes provided a confident pedal feel. The vehicle's simplicity in driving dynamics, with limited customizable modes, appealed to those who preferred straightforward operation.

The 2024 Hyundai Palisade featured a 3.8-litre V6 engine producing 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Standard all-wheel drive in Canada and a maximum towing capacity of 2,268 kilograms made it a versatile choice. The Palisade offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Sport, Smart, and Snow, with the ability to lock the AWD system for off-road conditions. The V6 engine provided ample power and satisfying acceleration, while the suspension offered a firm yet comfortable ride. The Palisade demonstrated unexpected agility on winding roads, with predictable handling and reliable brakes. However, its real-world fuel economy was less impressive, averaging 15.0 L/100 km in Comfort mode.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 offered a peaceful and pleasant front-seat experience, though its Scandinavian minimalism led to some storage frustrations. The lack of dedicated space for smaller items, such as cell phones, and limited cubby space were notable drawbacks. The second row was comfortable and spacious, but accessing the third row was challenging, especially with the standard seven-passenger seating. Cargo space was decent, with 356 litres behind the third row and up to 1,856 litres with all rear seats folded, though it fell short compared to some competitors. The XC90's smaller size contributed to its nimble driving feel, but it also limited interior space.

The 2024 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior comfort and functionality. The Urban trim featured artificial leather upholstery, while the Ultimate Calligraphy trim boasted premium Nappa leather. Heated and ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a dual-panel sunroof were standard in Canada. The Palisade offered configurable storage, with a large bin between the front seats and additional trays throughout the cabin. Second-row passengers enjoyed excellent comfort, with optional captain's chairs and standard rear climate control. The third row was more spacious than most rivals, with easy access and standard heating and air conditioning vents. The Palisade provided 509 litres of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 2,447 litres with all seats folded.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 featured a 9-inch touchscreen infotainment display running on Google OS, the first of its kind as a standard system. It integrated Google Maps, Spotify, and Google Assistant, with natural-language recognition enhancing the user experience. However, the reliance on the touchscreen for many functions could be frustrating, as it lacked physical buttons for key controls. Keyless entry was standard, and a head-up display was optional.

The 2024 Hyundai Palisade came equipped with a 12.3-inch digital instrumentation panel and touchscreen infotainment system with navigation. It supported Bluetooth, SiriusXM, and a rear-seat Quiet Mode, with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto requiring a USB-A cable. The Ultimate Calligraphy trim included wireless charging and a 12-speaker Harman Kardon sound system. Hyundai's Bluelink connected services offered remote engine starting and emergency assistance. Additional technologies included a digital rearview mirror, semi-autonomous remote parking, and an excellent head-up display.

The 2023 Volvo XC90 was renowned for its safety, earning a five-star rating from the NHTSA and a Top Safety Pick+ from the IIHS. Standard safety features included blind-spot monitoring, rear cross-traffic alert, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keeping assist. Volvo's Pilot Assist technology provided advanced driver assistance, maintaining distance and speed on highways.

The 2024 Hyundai Palisade was equipped with a comprehensive suite of driving assistance systems, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, blind-spot monitoring, and lane-keep assist. Highway Driving Assist paired adaptive cruise control with lane-centring assist for highway travel. The Palisade earned a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS, though NHTSA crash tests were incomplete.