Generation comparison

Hyundai Palisade 2nd Generation (2026-present) vs Toyota Grand Highlander 1st Generation (2024-present)

Hyundai Palisade 2nd Generation (2026-present) studio view

2nd Generation · 2026-present

Hyundai Palisade

VS
Toyota Grand Highlander 1st Generation (2024-present) studio view

1st Generation · 2024-present

Toyota Grand Highlander

Reliability30% weight
7.4/10

13.28 ODI reports were recorded per 10,000 EWR-produced vehicles. “Engine stall or loss of power” is the most frequently matched narrative (9 reports).

6.2/10

15.74 ODI reports were recorded per 10,000 EWR-produced vehicles. “Engine stall or loss of power” is the most frequently matched narrative (56 reports).

Energy cost15% weight
7.0/10

EPA estimates $1,800–$3,250 in annual energy cost for the latest configurations. Comparable vehicles average $2,467–$3,822.

9.4/10

EPA estimates $1,700–$2,800 in annual energy cost for the latest configurations. Comparable vehicles average $2,467–$3,822.

Handling10% weight
6.7/10

The Palisade prioritizes calm, predictable control and an easy steering effort; it grips securely but cannot disguise its mass when direction changes become abrupt.

6.1/10

The Grand Highlander remains predictable at family-driving speeds, but soft responses, body roll and its large footprint make it the least engaging vehicle in these comparisons.

Comfort8% weight
8.9/10

A smooth ride, generous seating, and extensive climate equipment produce a near-luxury experience across long family trips.

8.4/10

The ride is smooth and all three rows are adult-friendly, though some lower-cabin materials feel utilitarian.

Roominess7% weight
8.7/10

All three rows can carry adults and the adjustable third row improves the passenger-versus-cargo tradeoff, although storage with every seat occupied is still finite.

9.2/10

The usable third row and generous cargo capacity directly solve the regular Highlander's packaging weakness.

Onboard electronics5% weight
8.2/10

The feature set is one of the segment's strongest, but early failures in seat-control integration materially reduce confidence in system stability.

8.6/10

A quick 12.3-inch screen, wireless connectivity, and available low-speed hands-free assistance put it near the front of its 2024 class.

Final scoreToo close to call
7.6/10head-to-head score
7.5/10head-to-head score

See how QuickCarFixes calculates and compares scores.

NHTSA ODI complaints

Reliability and recurring problems

Hyundai Palisade

Reliability
7.4/10
ODI reports
160
Reports per 10,000 produced
13.28
Severe-event share
8.1%

Most frequently matched narratives

  1. Engine stall or loss of power9
  2. Infotainment or display blackout8
  3. Sunroof or window glass shattered8
  4. Unintended acceleration3
  5. Seat-belt failure2

Toyota Grand Highlander

Reliability
6.2/10
ODI reports
474
Reports per 10,000 produced
15.74
Severe-event share
2.3%

Most frequently matched narratives

  1. Engine stall or loss of power56
  2. Sunroof or window glass shattered31
  3. Infotainment or display blackout19
  4. Brake failure or reduced braking15
  5. Transmission hesitation or failure11
NHTSA safety data

Crash-test coverage and recalls

Hyundai Palisade

NCAP score
Not rated
Latest rated model year
Not rated
Recall campaigns
3
Completion rates reported
3/3
Median reported completion
92.5%
Park-it / park-outside campaigns
0 / 0

Toyota Grand Highlander

NCAP score
10.0/10
Latest rated model year
2025
Recall campaigns
6
Completion rates reported
5/6
Median reported completion
81.1%
Park-it / park-outside campaigns
0 / 0
EPA FuelEconomy.gov

Annual energy cost against comparable vehicles

Hyundai Palisade

Energy-cost score
7.0/10
EPA model year
2026
Estimated annual energy cost
$1,800–$3,250
Comparable-class average
$2,467–$3,822
Difference from comparable average
-$1,561–-$358

Toyota Grand Highlander

Energy-cost score
9.4/10
EPA model year
2026
Estimated annual energy cost
$1,700–$2,800
Comparable-class average
$2,467–$3,822
Difference from comparable average
-$1,861–-$758
Documented editorial review

Handling, comfort, space and onboard electronics

Hyundai Palisade

Handling
6.7/10
Comfort
8.9/10
Roominess
8.7/10
Onboard electronics
8.2/10

Toyota Grand Highlander

Handling
6.1/10
Comfort
8.4/10
Roominess
9.2/10
Onboard electronics
8.6/10