2026 Hyundai Palisade vs 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander in Little Rock, AR

Comparing Two Popular Three-Row SUVs in Little Rock

Families in Little Rock who need room for passengers, cargo, and everyday flexibility often narrow their search to two familiar names: the 2026 Hyundai Palisade and the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander.

Each offers seating for up to eight passengers, available all-wheel drive, and advanced driver-assistance technology designed for modern commuting. This comparison focuses strictly on the gas-powered versions of both SUVs, even though hybrid alternatives exist within each lineup.

Shoppers visiting Crain Hyundai of Little Rock frequently compare these two models because they compete closely in size, features, and price, but they deliver noticeably different ownership experiences.

Design and Everyday Presence

Hyundai approached the latest Palisade redesign with a clear goal: elevate its visual presence. The result is a three-row SUV with bold proportions, signature lighting, and a more upscale stance that feels right at home pulling into a downtown Little Rock restaurant or school pickup line. Calligraphy trims push further into premium territory, while the XRT Pro introduces rugged cues and increased ground clearance.

Toyota’s Grand Highlander takes a different path. Its styling leans toward clean lines and functional simplicity, prioritizing practicality over statement-making design. For many buyers, that understated approach reinforces its role as a dependable family hauler.

Design Differences to Notice:

• Palisade presents a more upscale, modern aesthetic
• Grand Highlander favors conservative, practical styling
• XRT Pro trim adds rugged personality to the Palisade
• Toyota focuses on subtle, family-oriented design

Ride Comfort and Driving Experience

Comfort is clearly the priority when either of these SUVs hits Central Arkansas roads.

The Palisade is powered by a 287-horsepower 3.5-liter V6 that delivers smooth, confident acceleration. Road imperfections are absorbed effectively, helping maintain a quiet and composed cabin on I-30 or Highway 10. Steering feels light yet controlled, making this large SUV easier to maneuver than expected.

Toyota equips the Grand Highlander with a 265-horsepower turbocharged 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine. It provides adequate power for daily commuting and highway merging, while suspension tuning prioritizes stability and ease of use. Though not tuned for performance driving, it remains composed and predictable.

Driving Character Comparison:

• Palisade emphasizes refinement and cabin quietness
• Grand Highlander prioritizes smooth, predictable driving
• Neither SUV is performance-focused
• Both handle city and highway travel confidently

Interior Comfort and Space

Step inside either SUV and the focus on family practicality becomes immediately clear. Three rows of seating, flexible configurations, and generous passenger room define this segment, but the way each model delivers that space feels slightly different.

Premium materials and thoughtful layout define the Palisade’s cabin. Seating for up to eight is standard, with available second-row captain’s chairs adding flexibility. Upper trims offer features such as power-adjustable third-row seating and upgraded finishes. Cargo capacity measures 19.1 cubic feet behind the third row and expands to 86.7 cubic feet when seats are folded.

The Grand Highlander stands out for maximum cargo versatility. Adult-friendly third-row seating and a maximum cargo capacity of 97.5 cubic feet provide additional flexibility for travel or sports equipment. Even with all seats upright, 20.6 cubic feet of storage remains available.

Space and Comfort Highlights:

• Both seat up to eight passengers
• Grand Highlander offers greater maximum cargo capacity
• Palisade delivers more premium interior finishes
• Third-row usability is strong in both SUVs

Technology and Connectivity

Screens and connectivity now shape much of the driving experience in modern SUVs, and both models lean heavily into digital integration.

Inside the Palisade, a curved dual 12.3-inch display layout seamlessly combines the digital instrument cluster and infotainment system. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, along with available Bose premium audio and Hyundai Pay integration.

The Grand Highlander features a standard 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen. Higher trims add a fully digital 12.3-inch instrument cluster and an available JBL premium sound system. Wireless smartphone integration is standard across the lineup.

Technology Comparison Points:

• Palisade features dual 12.3-inch curved display layout
• Grand Highlander includes 12.3-inch touchscreen with optional digital cluster
• Both offer wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
• Premium audio systems are available in both

Safety and Driver Assistance

Advanced driver-assistance technology has become a major decision point for many Little Rock families.

Hyundai SmartSense in the Palisade includes automated emergency braking, lane-keeping assist, and adaptive cruise control. Available advanced highway driving assistance adds lane-centering capability for longer trips.

Toyota Safety Sense 3.0 comes standard on every Grand Highlander. This suite includes adaptive cruise control, lane-centering assist, blind-spot monitoring, road-sign recognition, and available 360-degree camera systems.

Safety System Differences:

• Both provide adaptive cruise and lane support features
• Toyota includes blind-spot monitoring as standard
• Palisade offers advanced highway assist capability
• Each SUV delivers comprehensive family-focused protection

Performance, AWD, and Fuel Economy

Under the surface, these two SUVs take slightly different approaches to power delivery and efficiency, focusing here on gas-powered models only.

The Palisade’s 287-horsepower V6 pairs with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive is standard, and all-wheel drive is available (standard on XRT Pro). Combined fuel economy reaches up to 21 mpg (FWD) or 20 mpg (AWD).

The Grand Highlander’s 265-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder also pairs with an eight-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard on most trims, while AWD is available and standard on Platinum. Combined fuel economy reaches up to 24 mpg (FWD) or around 22 mpg (AWD).

When properly equipped, both SUVs are capable of towing up to 5,000 pounds, making them suitable for small trailers, boats, or recreational gear common around Central Arkansas. Explore more about the Palisade’s towing power. 

Performance Snapshot:

• Palisade delivers stronger horsepower (287 hp vs 265 hp)
• Grand Highlander achieves slightly better fuel efficiency
• Both offer available AWD
• Both tow up to 5,000 pounds

Ownership Value and Everyday Convenience

Beyond features and performance numbers, long-term ownership costs and warranty protection can heavily influence a buying decision.

Hyundai backs the Palisade with a 5-year/60,000-mile limited warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. They don’t call it America’s Best Warranty for nothing.

Toyota provides a 3-year/36,000-mile limited warranty and a 5-year/60,000-mile powertrain warranty, along with two years of complimentary maintenance.

Ownership Considerations:

• Palisade offers longer powertrain coverage
• Grand Highlander includes complimentary maintenance
• Both are competitively positioned within the segment

Which SUV Fits Little Rock Families Best?

Families prioritizing maximum cargo space and slightly higher fuel efficiency may find the 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander appealing.

However, when comparing the 2026 Hyundai Palisade vs 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander in Little Rock, AR, the Palisade stands out with its premium interior design, advanced dual-display layout, refined ride quality, and longer warranty coverage.

To explore current availability, visit Crain Hyundai of Little Rock today.

FAQs

Do both the 2026 Hyundai Palisade and Toyota Grand Highlander offer all-wheel drive?
Yes. Both SUVs offer available all-wheel drive. On select trims, AWD comes standard, while other trims allow buyers to choose between front-wheel drive and AWD depending on their needs.

Which SUV delivers stronger horsepower in gas models?
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade produces 287 horsepower from its V6 engine, while the gas-powered 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander generates 265 horsepower from its turbocharged four-cylinder engine.

How much cargo space do these SUVs provide?
The Grand Highlander offers up to 97.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity, compared to the Palisade’s 86.7 cubic feet. Both models provide usable third rows and practical storage for everyday family use in Little Rock.

Tags: 2026 Hyundai Palisade, 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander, Crain Hyundai of Little Rock, Hyundai Palisade vs Toyota Grand Highlander, Large Family SUVs, Three-Row SUVs in Little Rock AR
Posted in Crain Hyundai of Little Rock | No Comments »