Compare New Hyundai Palisade Midsize 3-Row SUVs to Toyota Highlander Near Chicago, IL

Compare New Hyundai Palisade Midsize 3-Row SUVs to Toyota Highlander Near Chicago, IL

Drivers around Elmhurst and Streamwood who are searching for a capable midsize SUV often compare the 2026 Hyundai Palisade with the 2026 Toyota Highlander. Both are strong options in the three-row SUV segment, but they bring different advantages in power, interior design, features, and value. Below is a side-by-side breakdown to help you decide which model is the better fit for your needs in Glen Ellyn. When you are ready, Wilkins Hyundai is here for all your automotive needs when choosing the right Hyundai.

Features2025 Hyundai Palisade2025 Toyota Highlander
DrivetrainAll wheel driveAll wheel drive
Engine power291 hp @ 6,000 rpm 265 hp @ 6,000 rpm
Engine torque262 lb-ft @ 5,200 rpm 310 lb-ft @ 1,700 rpm
Engine displacement3.8 l 2.4 l
Engine configurationV6 Inline 4
Transmission8-speed shiftable automatic 8-speed shiftable automatic
City/Hwy/Combined MPG19 / 24 / 21 MPG 21 / 28 / 24 MPG
Fuel Capacity18.8 gal. 17.9 gal.
Driving Range (city/hwy)357 / 451 miles 376 / 501 miles


Engine, Power, and Drivetrain

  • Hyundai Palisade: Comes standard with a 3.8-liter V6 delivering 291 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, with all-wheel drive available.
  • Toyota Highlander: Standard 2.4-liter turbocharged four-cylinder with 265 horsepower, plus available hybrid powertrain producing up to 243 combined horsepower. Front-wheel drive standard, AWD optional.

The Palisade offers stronger standard horsepower, while the Highlander gives you hybrid efficiency if fuel savings are your priority in Chicago.


Seating and Interior Comfort

  • Palisade: Seats up to eight passengers with optional second-row captain's chairs for seven. Luxurious interior materials, available quilted leather, and a roomy third row.
  • Highlander: Seats up to eight, also with optional captain's chairs. More compact third row, better suited for kids.

Families who need maximum third-row space will prefer the Palisade, while the Highlander emphasizes a balance of comfort and fuel economy.


Infotainment and Features

  • Palisade: Standard 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, multiple USB ports, available premium audio.
  • Highlander: Eight-inch display standard, 12.3-inch screen optional, wireless smartphone integration, optional JBL audio.

The Palisade gives you a larger standard screen, while the Highlander requires upgrades to match it.


Safety and Ratings

  • Both models include advanced driver-assist suites: lane keeping, adaptive cruise, and blind-spot monitoring.
  • Each earns top crash-test scores from IIHS and NHTSA, though the Palisade often receives praise for its high-value safety packaging.

Cargo and Towing

  • Palisade: Up to 86.4 cubic feet of cargo space, max towing 5,000 pounds.
  • Highlander: Up to 84.3 cubic feet, max towing also 5,000 pounds.

The Palisade edges out with slightly more cargo room. This is an important distinction to consider when shopping for your next SUV for your family in the Chicago area. Having enough cargo capacity for your various needs will make all the difference on road trips or daily commutes.


MSRP and Value

  • Palisade: Starting around $39,000, topping out near $55,000 fully equipped.
  • Highlander: Starting near $40,000, extending past $55,000 for upper trims and hybrids.

Both are competitively priced, but the Palisade offers more standard features at its entry level.

CPO Pricing

  • CPO warranty: Hyundai offers strong CPO coverage up to 10 years/100,000 miles for powertrain; Toyota CPO covers seven years/100,000 miles.

Visit our Dealership

Choosing between the 2026 Hyundai Palisade and the 2026 Toyota Highlander comes down to your priorities in Bloomingdale. The Palisade emphasizes stronger standard performance, premium interior finishes, and value-packed features, while the Highlander leans on hybrid efficiency and slightly higher resale value. For families in Elmhurst, the Hyundai Palisade's spacious third row and long warranty coverage make it especially appealing.

Start Shopping Online Now

The full lineup of Hyundai models are available now at our dealership. Explore our new inventory, browse used vehicles, or review our certified pre-owned options. Don't miss current global incentives, and learn about Hyundai's warranty coverage. You can also use our CarFinder tool or review special savings through the College Grad Program, First Responders Program, and Military Program. Visit us today by following our directions page.

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  1. Wilkins Hyundai

    750 N. York St
    Elmhurst, IL 60126

    • Sales: 630-279-3000
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