2026 Hyundai Palisade vs. Toyota Grand Highlander: How Do These Midsize 3-Row SUVs Stack Up?

Hey everyone,

With the 2026 model year just around the corner, Hyundai is set to release a redesigned Palisade, and it’s bringing something new to the table—a hybrid powertrain option for the first time. This is a significant move, considering the Palisade has been a solid choice in the midsize 3-row SUV segment for families who need space without sacrificing comfort.

On the other side, Toyota isn’t sitting still. The new Grand Highlander is already offering not just one, but two hybrid powertrain options. One is geared towards maximum efficiency, perfect if you’re looking to save on fuel without compromising too much on performance. The other variant focuses more on delivering robust power, which could be a game-changer for those who need that extra oomph for highway merging or carrying heavier loads.

I’m curious how you all feel about these developments. Do you think Hyundai’s introduction of a hybrid option will give the Palisade a competitive edge, or is Toyota’s dual-hybrid approach with the Grand Highlander too strong of a move? For those of you considering a midsize family hauler, which factors are tipping the scales for you? Efficiency, power, brand loyalty, or maybe something else?

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and any firsthand experiences if you’ve had a chance to test drive either model!

"I’m leaning towards the Hyundai Palisade because of its stylish redesign and the new hybrid option seems promising for our daily commutes.