2025 Hyundai Palisade SE vs 2025 Toyota Highlander LE
$2,720 less and 26 more hp vs 3 MPG better and 48 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $2,720 price gap, 291 vs 265 hp, 21 vs 24 MPG.
The Palisade SE leads on $2,720 less, 26 more hp. The Highlander LE leads on 3 MPG better, 48 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 7 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 7 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE | 2025 Toyota Highlander LE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $39,200 | $41,920 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.8L V6 | 2.4L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 291 hp | 265 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 310 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 24 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.8 gal | 17.9 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,100/yr | $1,800/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,356 lbs | 4,332 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 114.2" | 112.2" |
| Length | 196.7" | 194.9" |
| Width | 77.8" | 76.0" |
| Height | 68.9" | 68.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 2yr/25k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE and 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE starts at $39,200, $2,720 less than the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE at $41,920. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $48/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,720 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $250/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE or 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE rates 24 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE or 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE produces 291 hp, 26 more than the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE at 265 hp. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE also leads in torque at 310 lb-ft vs 262 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE runs a 3.8L V6; the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE uses a 2.4L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE bigger than the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE is 1.8″ longer at 196.7″ vs 194.9″. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE has a 2.0″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Palisade comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Toyota Highlander offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Palisade trims, Toyota trims, Toyota Highlander trims
Palisade vs Highlander: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE and 2025 Toyota Highlander LE sit in the midsize SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $2,720 gap is about $48/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE runs a 3.8L V6; the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE uses a 2.4L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE has 26 more hp (291 vs 265), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE adds 48 more lb-ft of torque (310 vs 262), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Palisade vs Highlander
The 2025 Toyota Highlander LE saves roughly $250/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,250.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE when you want to keep $2,720 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE covers your needs. Choose the 2025 Toyota Highlander LE when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $250/year less on fuel. At $48/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Hyundai or Toyota or any dealership.