1. Passenger Space

   If you need space for a big family, the 2025 Nissan Pathfinder would seem like a good fit. However, the Hyundai Palisade is bigger in every way that counts. In fact, the Hyundai has an extra 10 cubic feet of wiggle room compared to the Nissan Pathfinder.

   Compared to the Nissan, Hyundai passengers can enjoy an extra seven inches of 2nd row legroom and an extra three inches of 3rd row legroom. That’s a serious difference!  

2. Premium Cabin

   All that space would be wasted if the cabin weren’t inviting. While the Nissan Pathfinder is criticized for its utilitarian atmosphere, the Palisade has one of the most premium interiors on the market.

   Ward’s gave it a place on its Best Interiors list. Consumers love that the luxurious feel of the materials starts with the first trim level and just gets better and better. Plush seats provide comfortable perches within a well-designed cabin.  

3. Cargo Space

   Part of having enough passenger space is having enough room in the cargo hold to keep your gear. There’s more in the Palisade cargo hold, and that difference grows and grows as the seats fold down. Plus only the Hyundai has a hidden compartment to assist with organization.

4. Performance

   This is a contest between two V6 engines. Pathfinder engines deliver 284 horsepower and 259 lb-ft of torque. That could be enough, but the Hyundai pulls ahead with 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.

   Critics praise the Palisade’s confidence and handling while questioning the Pathfinder. These big rigs need sufficient power or the family driver will feel anxiety when passing on the highway or merging into busy traffic.  

5. Tow Ratings

   When it comes to pulling a heavy load, the Palisade is positioned to do more. It can tow up to 5,000 lbs. Plus it comes prewired, equipped with a transmission cooler and made safer by trailer sway control.

   Meanwhile, the Pathfinder tow rating is just 3,500 pounds. So, as far as adventure SUVs go, it really fails this basic test.  

6. All-Wheel Drive Versatility

   Despite the fact that the Pathfinder originated as an adventure vehicle, the Palisade all-wheel drive actually claims a better front-rear split. A 50/50 split is the Pathfinder standard while the Hyundai standard permits a 50/50 or an 80/20 lock.

7. Technology

   You can get a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster on either truck. However, the Palisade offers a 12.3-inch touchscreen as well. This is superior to the Nissan’s 8-inch or 9-inch touchscreen.

   Plus only the Hyundai comes with standard navigation. So, if you like to get where you need to go, the Palisade is a better buy.  

   Hyundai proudly includes some significant parenting features. For instance, the Palisade audio system has a rear quiet mode that can be achieved with the push of a button. A different button lets you speak to the kids on the back row without raising your voice or even turning around.  

8. Brand

   Hyundai was recently named the 2025 Best SUV Brand. This award from US News and World Report noted the exceptional quality of the Palisade as well the entire lineup. It defeated 38 brands, including Nissan, to earn this award.

9. Value

   As Motor Trend writes, this 3 row SUV brings the fight by offering incredible value for its price. Car and Driver calls it family-friendly value. Hyundai won Money’s ‘Best Automaker Brand for the Money 2025’ award. This indicates that the brand’s lineup provides the best packaging for the money.

10. Warranties

    While Nissan offers 2 years of scheduled maintenance, Hyundai offers 3 years. The warranties are even more generous with an extra two years for limited warranties and an extra five years for powertrain warranties. 

Conclusion

With so many advantages over the Nissan Pathfinder in Avondale, the Hyundai Palisade easily wins this contest. Is it right for your big family?

To find out, do some hands-on research. Head to Earnhardt Hyundai in Avondale to see how this 3 row SUV fits your family.

Schedule a test drive.