2026 Hyundai Palisade SEL vs 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT
On paper, the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT wins on $1,140 less, 41 more hp, 66 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SEL has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 287 vs 328 hp, 20 vs 21 MPG.
The Traverse LT leads on $1,140 less, 41 more hp, 66 more lb-ft torque. 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 SEL | 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $43,940 | $42,800 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 287 hp | 328 hp |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 326 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 18 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 24 |
| Combined MPG | 20 | 21 |
| Fuel Tank | 19.0 gal | 21.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $2,100/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,872 lbs | 4,793 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 116.9" | 121.0" |
| Length | 199.2" | 204.5" |
| Width | 78.0" | 79.6" |
| Height | 69.5" | 69.6" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP | TSP |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SEL and 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT?
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT starts at $42,800, $1,140 less than the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SEL at $43,940. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $20/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SEL?
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SEL is the stronger pick when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the midsize SUV segment.
Who should choose the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT?
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT is the stronger pick when you want to keep $1,140 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $100/year less on fuel; the extra 41 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SEL or 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT?
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT rates 21 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SEL or 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT?
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT produces 328 hp, 41 more than the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SEL at 287 hp. The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT also leads in torque at 326 lb-ft vs 260 lb-ft. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SEL runs a 3.5L V6; the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SEL bigger than the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT?
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT is 5.3″ longer at 204.5″ vs 199.2″. The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT has a 4.1″ 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 Chevrolet Traverse 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, Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Traverse trims
How the Palisade and Traverse Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SEL ($43,940) and 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT ($42,800) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-1,140 gap is about $20/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Palisade vs Traverse
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SEL runs a 3.5L V6; the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT has 41 more hp (328 vs 287), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT adds 66 more lb-ft of torque (326 vs 260), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT saves roughly $100/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $500.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SEL when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the midsize SUV segment. Choose the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT when you want to keep $1,140 in your pocket and the 2026 Chevrolet Traverse LT 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 Chevrolet or any dealership.