Looking to choose between the 2023 Ford Explorer and the Hyundai Palisade? We have your answer. The Ford Explorer has the advantage of this matchup of two powerful SUVs that offer room for any family. We'll show you why with the help of our detailed comparison guide.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- There’s less cargo space in the Palisade.
- If you need to pull something there’s better trailering on the Explorer.
- The Explorer has better gas mileage.
- The Explorer is a seven-seater. The Palisade can seat eight.
THE MORE POWERFUL VEHICLE
The Explorer is going to offer more power than the Palisade with its three-engine options. Alternatively, the Palisade only comes with one powertrain, a 3.8-liter V-6 engine. This gets up to a maximum of 291 horsepower. For drivers that don't plan on doing much off-roading, this is enough, especially with the other tech perks the Palisade offers. However, we feel that the Explorer is going to give more utility for nearly the same price. The Explorer's powertrains include:
- 2.3-liter EcoBoost I-4 with 300 horsepower
- 3.3-liter V-6 hybrid with 318 horsepower
- 3.0-liter EcoBoost V-6 with 400 horsepower
Even with the superior power of the Explorer, the heightened gas mileage solidifies the Explorer as the best decision. We love how the Explorer offers a hybrid engine that keeps the gas budget in mind.
The average EPA estimate on an Explorer gets drivers around 24 mpg combined. The Palisade on the other hand only gets around 22 combined.
PERFORMANCE: 2023 EXPLORER
The Explorer is going to offer more in towing power, cargo space, and off-road capabilities. It can tow about 5,600 pounds, which is 600 pounds more than the Palisade. If you find yourself towing often, an extra 600 pounds is a good buffer to have. For off-roading, the Explorer is superior because it offers an inch higher in ground clearance and has a four-wheel drive system compared to the Palisades all-wheel drive system. Most other SUVs we have put the Explorer against tend to have only an all-wheel drive system. Which is great for certain terrain, but won't be able to push as far off the trail as the Explorer reliably does. If you need to store things in the back, the Explorer has close to a cubic inch more space than the three rows in the Palisade.
THE PALISADE HAS MORE FEATURES
Because the Explorer is meant for rugged terrain and everyday work, it's only going to offer the features its drivers need at a base level. Everything else will come in the form of addons or inclusions in higher trim levels. If you're into the all-inclusive, technology-driven cabin, then this is where the Palisade shines.
What it offers in its base model is more than what the Explorer has. While you can expect to find auto headlights, backup cameras, cruise control, remote engine start, and rear parking aids in both SUVs, the Palisade comes with some more perks. This includes a keyless start option, heated mirrors, and adaptive cruise control. For times when you're at the store and come to the car with a handful of groceries, the Palisade allows you to unlock the driver's door with your Apple Wallet.
WHICH IS THE BETTER CHOICE FOR YOUR BUDGET?
The Palisade is a feature-driven, daily driver of an SUV. There is no denying how its all inclusive nature would make any driver great in the front seat. However, these features come at the cost of utility. The Explorer offers the same level of comfort and feature-driven drive but also has the added benefit of a vehicle that doesn't mind getting dirty. For nearly the same price, at around $36,000, you're going to get more out of the Explorer in the long run. Features, towing, and power: it's all right here in the Ford SUV. That is why we recommend it as one of the best SUVs on the market in 2023 and a champion in this SUV matchup. Give us a call today and we can help you find the best financial plan that fits your budget and needs, or schedule a test drive at Keystone Ford to get a better sense of why we recommend this car.