Buying a new SUV is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a stressful experience, especially when it comes to researching which midsize SUV is the right fit for you and your family. With so many options available, the process of comparing features, prices, and performance can feel overwhelming. That's where Ron Marhofer Hyundai of Cuyahoga Falls steps in. We aim to make your car-buying journey as easy and enjoyable as possible. To save you time and effort, we've done the hard work for you. We've created a convenient comparison page, allowing you to quickly see how the 2025 Hyundai Palisade compares to its competitor, the 2025 Ford Explorer. At a glance, you'll notice that the Palisade comes out on top, offering superior features, space, and value for your family. We understand that purchasing a new vehicle is a big decision, and we're here to ensure you feel confident in your choice. Contact us today to schedule a test drive and experience the Palisade for yourself. Let us show you why the Palisade is the perfect choice for your family's next adventure!
What's the difference between a Hyundai Palisade and Ford Explorer
The Hyundai Palisade and Ford Explorer differ primarily in passenger comfort, cargo capacity, and engine performance. The Palisade provides greater passenger space, particularly with more legroom in the third row, making it ideal for larger families. Conversely, the Ford Explorer offers slightly more cargo room behind the third row and better fuel efficiency. Additionally, the Explorer stands out with its optional twin-turbo V6 engine, delivering superior power compared to the Palisade's standard engine options.
2025 Hyundai Palisade vs 2025 Ford Explorer: Design & Exterior FeaturesBoth the 2025 Palisade and the 2025 Explorer come standard with 18-inch wheels with the option to upgrade to 20-inch wheels. LED headlights are standard fare on both SUVs as well as heated exterior mirrors with available auto-dimming capability. Roof rails, available on the Palisade and standard on the Explorer, offer extra cargo options while the Palisade's available dual panel sunroof gives off increased natural light inside the cabin, boosting your mood. This feature is optional on the Explorer, costing you more. The available hands-free liftgate is exclusive to the Palisade, making loading and unloading of cargo easier.
2025 Hyundai Palisade vs 2025 Ford Explorer: Comfort & Technology
The 2025 Palisade comes standard with a second and third-row bench to easily seat 8 or you can choose the available second-row captain's chairs and change your seating configuration to 7, which is the standard seating inside the 2024 Explorer. Both SUVs offer available heated front and second-row seats and ventilated front seats while only the Palisade has available second- and third-row ventilated seats for an extra touch of luxury. When it comes to technology, the Palisade is the clear cut winner with features not found on the Explorer, including the available Passenger Talk in-car intercom for easy communication between the driver and their passengers. Dynamic voice recognition, rear seat quiet mode, Bluetooth® wireless audio streaming, and hands-free phone connectivity are exclusive to the Palisade.
2025 Hyundai Palisade vs 2025 Ford Explorer: Performance
You'll find a potent 3.8-liter V6 under the hood of the 2025 Palisade, generating a solid 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque while the 2025 Explorer's 2.3-liter turbocharged engine makes 300 horsepower. Front-wheel drive is standard on the Palisade while HTRAC all-wheel drive is optionally available. The Explorer comes standard as a rear-wheel drive SUV with available four-wheel drive. Both models offer a max of up to 5,000 pounds of towing capacity and impressive fuel economy. The Palisade is mated to an 8-speed automatic transmission with SHIFTRONIC® while the Explorer offers a 10-speed automatic.
2025 Hyundai Palisade vs 2025 Ford Explorer: Safety
The 2025 Explorer has yet to be rated but the 2025 Palisade has already received a perfect 5-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Both SUVs offer standard Blind Spot Collision Warning, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Assist, and Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist to create a safer highway travel experience. Only the Palisade offers standard Car, Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Turning Detection for extra peace of mind while on busy city streets. Driver Attention Warning and High Beam Assist are standard features shared by the Palisade and the Explorer but you'll only find Evasive Steering Assist available on the Palisade.
2025 Hyundai Palisade vs 2025 Ford Explorer: Overall Value
When comparing the 2025 Hyundai Palisade to the 2025 Ford Explorer, it's clear that the Palisade takes the lead. Offering a more spacious interior, a smoother ride, and a higher level of standard features, the Palisade delivers exceptional value for families. With premium features like a user-friendly infotainment system, advanced safety technologies, and a comfortable three-row configuration, it surpasses the Explorer in every key area. Whether you're embarking on long road trips or just running errands around town, the Palisade offers more versatility, luxury, and overall performance. If you're looking for an SUV that truly checks all the boxes, the Hyundai Palisade is the clear winner. Stop by our Ron Marhofer Hyundai of Cuyahoga Falls dealership in Ohio today to learn more and ask any questions you may have-we're here to help!
 | 2025 Hyundai Palisade | 2025 Ford Explorer |
|---|---|---|
| Standard Engine | 3.8-liter V6r | 2.3-liter Turbocharged |
| Standard Horsepower | 291 | 300 |
| Standard Torque (lb-ft) | 262 | 310 |
| Standard Wheels | 18-inch Alloy | 18-inch Aluminum |
| Standard Headlights | LED | LED |
| Heated Front Seats | Available | Available |
| Wireless Charging | Available | Available |
| Bluetooth® | Standard | Standard |
| Seating Capacity | 8 | 7 |
| Standard Fuel Economy (MPG) | 19 City/26 Highway | 21 City/28 Highway |
