2026 Hyundai Palisade SE vs 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S
On paper, the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S wins on $1,935 less, 3 MPG better. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 287 vs 284 hp, 20 vs 23 MPG.
The Pathfinder S leads on $1,935 less, 3 MPG better. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 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 | 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE | 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $41,435 | $39,500 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 3.5L V6 |
| Horsepower | 287 hp | 284 hp |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 259 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 9-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | 4WD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 18 | 21 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 27 |
| Combined MPG | 20 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 19.0 gal | 18.5 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,575 lbs | 4,482 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 116.9" | 114.2" |
| Length | 199.2" | 197.7" |
| Width | 78.0" | 77.9" |
| Height | 69.5" | 70.9" |
| 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 | 3yr/36k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE and 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S starts at $39,500, $1,935 less than the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE at $41,435. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $34/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE is the stronger pick when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the midsize SUV segment.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,935 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $274/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE or 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S rates 23 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE or 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE produces 287 hp, 3 more than the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S at 284 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE also leads in torque at 260 lb-ft vs 259 lb-ft. Drivetrains differ too: AWD on the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE, 4WD on the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE bigger than the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE is 1.5″ longer at 199.2″ vs 197.7″. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE has a 2.7″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE and 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE comes with AWD, while the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S uses 4WD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Palisade comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The Nissan Pathfinder 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, Nissan trims, Nissan Pathfinder trims
How the Palisade and Pathfinder Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE ($41,435) and 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S ($39,500) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-1,935 gap is about $34/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Palisade vs Pathfinder
Both run the same 3.5L V6 engine. The 3 hp difference (287 vs 284) is marginal in daily driving. Drivetrains differ: AWD on the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE, 4WD on the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S saves roughly $274/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,370.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the midsize SUV segment. Choose the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S when you want to keep $1,935 in your pocket and the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S covers your needs.
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 Nissan or any dealership.