The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder and Hyundai Palisade are both highly-regarded SUVs in their respective segments, offering versatility and performance to meet the needs of many drivers. As the competition within the SUV market becomes fiercer each year, both Nissan and Hyundai have been working tirelessly to refine their models, packing them with advanced features, improved performance, and enhanced styling.
In this article, we’ll be comparing the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder and Hyundai Palisade across key areas, including exterior design, interior design, seating, storage, performance, fuel efficiency, safety, trim levels, and pricing.
Exterior Design:
The Nissan Pathfinder and Hyundai Palisade each present their unique take on modern SUV design, making it an exciting comparison.
The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder features a bold, muscular design with a distinct V-motion grille, aggressive front fascia, and sleek LED headlights. Its rugged appeal is emphasized by sharp lines, a high stance, and prominent wheel arches housing up to 20-inch alloy wheels.
The floating roof design adds a touch of sophistication, while the rear of the vehicle sports a refreshed taillight design and chrome accents for added visual appeal.
The Hyundai Palisade, on the other hand, boasts a stately and upscale exterior. Its massive front grille is flanked by LED headlights and a sleek, angular design language. The Palisade’s imposing stance is complemented by striking 20-inch alloy wheels, roof rails, and dual-panel sunroof. The rear features distinctive LED taillights and a hands-free smart liftgate for added convenience.
Interior Design:
Both SUVs aim to create a premium driving experience through refined and high-quality interiors.
The Nissan Pathfinder’s cabin is spacious, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed, featuring a new 9-inch infotainment touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital dashboard. High-quality materials and soft-touch surfaces are present throughout, creating a refined atmosphere. Ambient lighting and available semi-aniline leather seats enhance the sense of luxury.
The Hyundai Palisade’s interior exudes an upscale and sophisticated vibe. With its quilted Nappa leather seats, elegant woodgrain trim, and a 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, the Palisade provides a luxurious experience for its occupants. The available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and heads-up display add to the high-tech feel.
Seating:
Both SUVs offer seating for up to eight passengers, making them ideal for families and groups.
The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder features three rows of seats with ample space, providing comfort for adults in all seating positions. The Pathfinder’s EZ-FLEX seating system allows for easy access to the third row, while the available second-row captain’s chairs provide added versatility and comfort.
The Hyundai Palisade also offers three rows of seating with a focus on passenger comfort. Its available second-row captain’s chairs provide a luxurious and spacious experience, while the third row features power-folding and reclining capabilities for added convenience.
Storage:
With an emphasis on utility and versatility, both SUVs provide ample cargo and storage space.
The Nissan Pathfinder offers up to 80.5 cubic feet of cargo space with the second and third-row seats folded down. Additionally, the Pathfinder boasts a variety of storage options, including underfloor storage and an available motion-activated liftgate.
The Hyundai Palisade provides a slightly larger cargo area, with up to 86.4 cubic feet of space when both rear rows are folded down. The hands-free smart liftgate and underfloor storage compartments add to its practicality and convenience.
Performance:
Both SUVs deliver spirited performance and capable handling.
The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder is powered by a 3.5-liter V6 engine that generates 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. This robust engine is mated to a new 9-speed automatic transmission, which provides smooth and responsive shifting. With available Intelligent 4×4 and seven selectable driving modes, the Pathfinder is well-equipped to tackle various terrains and driving conditions.
The Hyundai Palisade is powered by a 3.8-liter V6 engine that produces 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque. Paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, the Palisade delivers a smooth and refined driving experience. Its available HTRAC All-Wheel Drive system, combined with multiple drive modes, ensures optimum performance in various situations.
Fuel Efficiency:
Fuel efficiency is a significant factor to consider, and both SUVs offer competitive numbers in this regard.
The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder boasts an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 21 mpg in the city, 27 mpg on the highway, and 23 mpg combined for the 2WD models. When equipped with the 4WD system, the fuel efficiency slightly drops to 20 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined.
The Hyundai Palisade offers an EPA-estimated fuel economy of 19 mpg in the city, 26 mpg on the highway, and 22 mpg combined for the front-wheel-drive models. With the HTRAC All-Wheel Drive system, the fuel efficiency ratings are 19 mpg in the city, 24 mpg on the highway, and 21 mpg combined.
Safety:
Safety is a top priority for both Nissan and Hyundai, and their SUVs are equipped with advanced safety and driver-assistance features.
The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder comes standard with Nissan Safety Shield 360, which includes features like automatic emergency braking, rear cross-traffic alert, blind-spot warning, lane departure warning, and high beam assist.
Additionally, the Pathfinder offers available features such as ProPILOT Assist, a semi-autonomous driving system that aids with steering, acceleration, and braking in certain driving conditions.
The Hyundai Palisade is equipped with Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of safety and driver-assistance technologies. Standard features include forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, driver attention warning, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims also offer additional features such as blind-spot collision-avoidance assist and rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist.
Trim Levels:
Both SUVs come in multiple trim levels to cater to various preferences and budgets.
The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder is available in four trims: S, SV, SL, and Platinum. Each trim offers increasing levels of luxury, convenience, and technology features. The base S trim comes well-equipped, while the top-of-the-line Platinum trim offers premium features such as semi-aniline leather seats and a 13-speaker Bose audio system.
The Hyundai Palisade is offered in three trim levels: SE, SEL, and Limited. As with the Pathfinder, each trim level brings more features and options. The base SE trim offers a solid set of standard features, while the Limited trim delivers a truly luxurious experience with features like Nappa leather seats, ventilated second-row captain’s chairs, and a Harman Kardon premium audio system.
Pricing:
Pricing for the SUVs varies depending on the chosen trim level and options.
The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder has a starting MSRP of $33,500 for the base S trim, while the top Platinum trim starts at $48,000. Additional options and packages can increase the price further.
The Hyundai Palisade’s pricing begins at $32,800 for the SE trim, and the range-topping Limited trim starts at $46,200. As with the Pathfinder, optional packages and features can increase the final cost.
Key Differences
While both the 2023 Nissan Pathfinder and Hyundai Palisade are excellent SUVs, there are some key differences that set them apart in various areas.
Design Aesthetics:
The Nissan Pathfinder features a more rugged and muscular design with sharp lines and prominent wheel arches, appealing to those who prefer a bolder look. On the other hand, the Hyundai Palisade exhibits a stately and sophisticated design language with elegant touches, making it more attractive to buyers seeking a premium, upscale appearance.
Interior Styling:
The Pathfinder’s interior design emphasizes functionality and comfort with a straightforward layout and soft-touch surfaces. The Palisade, in contrast, focuses on luxury and sophistication, featuring quilted Nappa leather seats, elegant woodgrain trim, and advanced technology options like a heads-up display.
Cargo Space:
The Hyundai Palisade offers slightly more cargo space, with up to 86.4 cubic feet when both rear rows are folded down. The Nissan Pathfinder provides up to 80.5 cubic feet of cargo space, making it slightly less spacious for carrying large items.
Performance:
While both SUVs have V6 engines with similar power outputs, there are differences in their transmissions and drivetrain systems. The Nissan Pathfinder has a 9-speed automatic transmission, compared to the Hyundai Palisade’s 8-speed automatic.
The Pathfinder also comes with an Intelligent 4×4 system, while the Palisade features the HTRAC All-Wheel Drive system. These differences may impact driving dynamics and capabilities, depending on individual preferences.
Fuel Efficiency:
The Nissan Pathfinder is slightly more fuel-efficient, especially in the 2WD configuration. The Pathfinder’s 2WD model has EPA-estimated ratings of 21 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined, compared to the Palisade’s FWD ratings of 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, and 22 mpg combined.
Safety Systems:
Both SUVs come equipped with advanced safety systems, but the suite of features may vary slightly. The Nissan Pathfinder comes with Nissan Safety Shield 360 and the available ProPILOT Assist for semi-autonomous driving.
The Hyundai Palisade features the Hyundai SmartSense safety suite, which includes adaptive cruise control as standard, while certain driver-assistance features are available only on higher trims.
Trim Levels and Pricing:
The Nissan Pathfinder offers four trim levels (S, SV, SL, and Platinum), while the Hyundai Palisade has three (SE, SEL, and Limited). The starting prices for both SUVs are relatively close, with the Pathfinder starting at $33,500 and the Palisade at $32,800.
However, the top trims of each SUV show a more significant price difference, with the Pathfinder Platinum starting at $48,000 and the Palisade Limited at $46,200.
Final Thoughts:
The 2023 Nissan Pathfinder and Hyundai Palisade are both excellent SUVs, offering a range of features, performance, and comfort to meet the diverse needs of buyers. Choosing between them ultimately comes down to personal preferences, priorities, and budgets.
The Nissan Pathfinder stands out with its rugged, muscular design and versatile driving experience. Its combination of seating and cargo options makes it an ideal choice for families or those seeking a capable off-road vehicle.
The Hyundai Palisade, on the other hand, offers a more luxurious and upscale experience. Its elegant exterior and sophisticated interior create a premium atmosphere, while the available Nappa leather and advanced tech features elevate the experience further.
Whether you prioritize ruggedness and capability or luxury and refinement, either of these SUVs is likely to meet your needs. To determine which one is the right choice for you, we recommend taking both for a test drive and experiencing their unique offerings firsthand.
Features Breakdown
2023 Nissan Pathfinder Features Breakdown:
- Exterior Design:
- Bold, muscular design
- V-motion grille
- LED headlights
- Floating roof design
- Chrome accents
- Up to 20-inch alloy wheels
- Interior Design:
- Spacious cabin
- 9-inch infotainment touchscreen
- 12.3-inch digital dashboard
- Ambient lighting
- Available semi-aniline leather seats
- Seating:
- Three rows with seating for up to eight passengers
- EZ-FLEX seating system
- Available second-row captain’s chairs
- Storage:
- Up to 80.5 cubic feet of cargo space
- Underfloor storage
- Available motion-activated liftgate
- Performance:
- 3.5-liter V6 engine (284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque)
- 9-speed automatic transmission
- Intelligent 4×4 with seven selectable driving modes
- Fuel Efficiency:
- 2WD: 21 mpg city, 27 mpg highway, 23 mpg combined
- 4WD: 20 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, 22 mpg combined
- Safety:
- Nissan Safety Shield 360
- Available ProPILOT Assist
- Trim Levels:
- S, SV, SL, and Platinum
- Pricing:
- Starting MSRP: $33,500 (S trim)
- Top Trim MSRP: $48,000 (Platinum trim)
2023 Hyundai Palisade Features Breakdown:
- Exterior Design:
- Stately, upscale design
- Large front grille
- LED headlights
- Angular design language
- 20-inch alloy wheels
- Dual-panel sunroof
- Hands-free smart liftgate
- Interior Design:
- Premium cabin
- 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen
- Quilted Nappa leather seats
- Elegant woodgrain trim
- Available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and heads-up display
- Seating:
- Three rows with seating for up to eight passengers
- Available second-row captain’s chairs
- Power-folding and reclining third-row seats
- Storage:
- Up to 86.4 cubic feet of cargo space
- Underfloor storage compartments
- Hands-free smart liftgate
- Performance:
- 3.8-liter V6 engine (291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque)
- 8-speed automatic transmission
- Available HTRAC All-Wheel Drive system with multiple drive modes
- Fuel Efficiency:
- FWD: 19 mpg city, 26 mpg highway, 22 mpg combined
- AWD: 19 mpg city, 24 mpg highway, 21 mpg combined
- Safety:
- Hyundai SmartSense safety suite
- Forward collision-avoidance assist, lane-keeping assist, driver attention warning, and adaptive cruise control
- Trim Levels:
- SE, SEL, and Limited
- Pricing:
- Starting MSRP: $32,800 (SE trim)
- Top Trim MSRP: $46,200 (Limited trim)
