Specs at a glance
| Honda Pilot EX-L | Hyundai Palisade SEL | |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 3.5L V6, 285 hp | 3.8L V6, 291 hp |
| Seating | 8 standard (7 on Elite) | 7 or 8 |
| EPA combined MPG | About 21 mpg | About 22 mpg |
| Third-row legroom | 32.5 in | 31.4 in |
| Cargo behind row 3 | 22.4 cu ft | 18.0 cu ft |
| Max tow | 5,000 lb | 5,000 lb |
| Warranty (powertrain) | 5 yr / 60k mi | 10 yr / 100k mi |
| Typical OC transaction | Mid-$40s to mid-$50s | Low-$40s to low-$50s |
Comfort and cabin
The Palisade Calligraphy trim has a genuinely luxurious cabin - quilted Nappa leather, microsuede headliner, two 12.3-inch displays. The Pilot Elite counters with a more restrained, more functional layout, better-organized storage and (in our judgment) more comfortable second-row captain's chairs for adults on a 2-hour drive.
Space and family practicality
The Pilot is the more practical family hauler. The 22.4 cu ft behind row three is the difference between fitting your Costco run with all eight seats up and not. Door bins, the under-floor cargo well, and the wide center console all favor the Pilot for actual day-to-day family logistics.
Value over time
At purchase the Palisade is usually $1,500 to $3,500 cheaper at comparable trims and packs more standard luxury features. Over 5-plus years the Pilot's stronger resale value in OC narrows that gap considerably. The Hyundai's 10-year / 100k powertrain warranty is real for the original owner but does not transfer fully.
Pros and cons
Honda Pilot
Pros
- ✓ More cargo behind the third row
- ✓ Stronger long-term resale in South OC
- ✓ Smarter family storage solutions
- ✓ Dense Honda service network around RSM
Cons
- - Higher purchase price at comparable trim
- - Cabin is less visually luxurious than Palisade Calligraphy
Hyundai Palisade
Pros
- ✓ Lower transaction price at comparable trims
- ✓ Top-trim cabin is genuinely premium
- ✓ 10-year / 100k powertrain warranty (original owner)
- ✓ More standard tech and luxury features
Cons
- - Less cargo behind the third row
- - Weaker resale value in South OC market
- - Smaller local Hyundai dealer footprint
Bottom line for RSM families
If you plan to keep the SUV 3-5 years and want maximum features for the dollar, the Palisade is a strong buy. If you keep vehicles 7-plus years, value resale, or simply need the most usable family space, the Pilot is the better RSM pick.
RSM Honda · Rancho Santa Margarita
See current Honda Pilot inventory at RSM Honda
Browse live Pilot inventory and current offers directly on the official RSM Honda site.