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2026 Ford Explorer vs 2026 Hyundai Palisade

2026 Hyundai Palisade
2026 Hyundai Palisade
$39,435MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Hyundai Palisade
$39,435MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP

$39,435

MSRP

$38,465

Listings

274

Listings

2962

Ratings & Reviews

User Reviews
User Reviews

Expert reviews

8.8 out of 10

Expert reviews

7.5 out of 10

Pros

  • Multiple powertrain options

  • Great ride quality

  • Spacious

Cons

  • XRT trim loses luxury features

  • Fuel economy lags behind top rivals

Pros

  • Comfortable

  • Optional twin-turbo V6

  • Impressive safety ratings

Cons

  • Bland styling

  • Nondescript interior

  • Gets expensive with options

2026 Hyundai Palisade Reviews Summary

Hyundai redesigned the popular Palisade three-row sport utility vehicle for the 2026 model year. Already one of the best three-row crossover SUVs on the North American market, Hyundai left no stone unturned in its quest to make the 2026 Palisade the best version yet.

Verdict: The 2026 Hyundai Palisade is an improvement over the model it replaces in every meaningful way. Consider it a top choice if you’re in the market for a comfortable three-row SUV with space for the whole family. And if you’re planning to spend some time in the dirt, take a look at the new-for-2026 Palisade XRT Pro.

2026 Ford Explorer Reviews Summary

The Explorer was one of the first truly family-friendly SUVs, and it continues in that role today as a midsize three-row crossover competing against the likes of the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota Highlander. The current-generation Explorer has been around since the 2020 model year, and the big news for 2026 is a Tremor model that replaces the Timberline as the most off-road-capable Explorer. The available BlueCruise driver-assist system also gets an update.

Verdict: Ford’s SUV stalwart still gets the job done, but it lacks personality unless you go for the ST or Tremor models.

No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine

3.5L 287 hp V6

Engine

2.3L 300 hp I4

Drive Train

FWD

Drive Train

RWD

Seating Capacity

8

Seating Capacity

7

Horsepower

287 hp @ 6400 rpm

Horsepower

300 hp @ 5500 rpm

MPG City

19

MPG City

20

MPG Highway

25

MPG Highway

29
2026 Hyundai Palisade
2026 Hyundai Palisade
$39,435MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Ford Explorer
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Hyundai Palisade
$39,435MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now
2026 Ford Explorer
$38,465MSRP
Overview
Overview
OverviewShop Now

Overview

MSRP
$39,435
$38,465
Listings

Ratings & Reviews

User reviews

5.0

5.0

Expert reviews

8.8 out of 10

Read full review

7.5 out of 10

Read full review
Pros & cons

Pros

  • Multiple powertrain options

  • Great ride quality

  • Spacious

Cons

  • XRT trim loses luxury features

  • Fuel economy lags behind top rivals

Pros

  • Comfortable

  • Optional twin-turbo V6

  • Impressive safety ratings

Cons

  • Bland styling

  • Nondescript interior

  • Gets expensive with options

Summary

Hyundai redesigned the popular Palisade three-row sport utility vehicle for the 2026 model year. Already one of the best three-row crossover SUVs on the North American market, Hyundai left no stone unturned in its quest to make the 2026 Palisade the best version yet.

Verdict: The 2026 Hyundai Palisade is an improvement over the model it replaces in every meaningful way. Consider it a top choice if you’re in the market for a comfortable three-row SUV with space for the whole family. And if you’re planning to spend some time in the dirt, take a look at the new-for-2026 Palisade XRT Pro.

The Explorer was one of the first truly family-friendly SUVs, and it continues in that role today as a midsize three-row crossover competing against the likes of the Chevrolet Traverse, Honda Pilot, Jeep Grand Cherokee, Nissan Pathfinder, and Toyota Highlander. The current-generation Explorer has been around since the 2020 model year, and the big news for 2026 is a Tremor model that replaces the Timberline as the most off-road-capable Explorer. The available BlueCruise driver-assist system also gets an update.

Verdict: Ford’s SUV stalwart still gets the job done, but it lacks personality unless you go for the ST or Tremor models.

Video
No video found
No video found

Popular Features & Specs

Engine
3.5L 287 hp V6
2.3L 300 hp I4
Drive Train
FWD
RWD
Seating Capacity
8
7
Horsepower
287 hp @ 6400 rpm
300 hp @ 5500 rpm
MPG City
19
20
MPG Highway
25
29
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