2020 Toyota Land Cruiser vs 2021 Hyundai Palisade

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was a vehicle that revealed its charm over time. It wasn't flashy or exotic, but its subtle design choices became apparent after spending time behind the wheel. The dished hood, for instance, was not just a design statement but a functional feature that improved forward sight lines, making it easier to navigate obstacles. The fenders, slightly bulging from the smooth sides, provided space for wheel travel and indicated the vehicle's width. The Land Cruiser Heritage Edition added a touch of retro flair with blackened trim, a unique grille, and bronze BBS wheels, while the interior offered luxury with black perforated leather seating and a functional yet somewhat plain dashboard.

In contrast, the 2021 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy stood out with its distinctive grille pattern, revised lighting, and unique 20-inch wheels. The Calligraphy trim made the Palisade appear more expensive than it was, drawing attention with its unconventional styling. Inside, the Palisade offered a luxurious experience with a Beige over Navy Blue color scheme, premium Nappa leather, and a suede headliner. The cabin was spacious and well-appointed, providing a sense of luxury that was hard to match in its class. The Palisade's interior was not only visually appealing but also practical, with thoughtful design elements that enhanced the overall driving experience.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was powered by a robust 5.7-liter V8 engine, delivering 381 horsepower and 401 pound-feet of torque. This naturally aspirated engine, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission and full-time four-wheel drive, provided the Land Cruiser with the capability to tackle both urban and off-road environments. Its fuel economy was estimated at 13 mpg city, 17 mpg highway, and 14 mpg combined. The Land Cruiser's off-road prowess was further enhanced by its Kinetic Dynamic Suspension System and Multi-Terrain Select control, allowing drivers to adapt to various surface conditions. With an approach angle of 32 degrees, a departure angle of 24 degrees, and a breakover angle of 21 degrees, the Land Cruiser was well-equipped for challenging terrains.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade, on the other hand, featured a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower. It came with an eight-speed automatic transmission and front-wheel drive, with an optional all-wheel-drive system. The Palisade offered multiple driving modes, including Eco, Comfort, Smart, and Sport, with AWD models adding a Snow mode and a Lock function for improved traction. The Palisade's fuel economy was rated at 21 mpg combined, and it averaged 21.1 mpg during testing. The Palisade's suspension provided excellent body-motion control, making it enjoyable to drive without sacrificing comfort. It was predictable and confidence-inspiring, offering a smooth and undemanding driving experience.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser's dual personality as a commuter and overlander was evident in its design. It featured standard skid plates, tow hooks, and mudguards, making it suitable for both city and countryside adventures. The three-row configuration of the standard model provided ample space for families, with heated second-row seats and a split-folding third row. The Land Cruiser offered four-zone climate control, numerous cup holders, and a cooling box in the center console. Its towing capacity of 8,100 pounds and split tailgate design added to its practicality and charm.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space, seating, and accessibility. The Calligraphy trim added a touch of luxury, with eight-way power-adjustable seats, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, and separate climate controls for third-row passengers. The Palisade's seats provided good support, and the second-row captain's chairs offered flexibility for passenger and cargo needs. With a generous cargo space of up to 86.4 cubic feet, the Palisade was both practical and accommodating. Its hands-free Smart Liftgate added convenience, making it a well-rounded choice for families.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser featured a 9-inch touchscreen with Toyota Premium Audio and Integrated Navigation. It included a 14-speaker JBL sound system, Bluetooth, and a CD player, but lacked Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Enhanced Multi-Terrain Monitor camera system was a useful addition for navigating tight spaces and unfamiliar terrain.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems, with the Calligraphy trim featuring a 10.25-inch touchscreen. It included a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, navigation, and Blue Link connected services. The Palisade also offered wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, and a head-up display. Its technology features were comprehensive and user-friendly, enhancing the overall driving experience.

The 2020 Toyota Land Cruiser was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense P, which included advanced driver assistance features like pre-collision system, lane-departure warning, and adaptive cruise control. It also had 10 airbags, a tire-pressure monitoring system, and Safety Connect with emergency assistance and collision notification.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and multiple lane-keeping systems. It featured a rear occupant alert system, active blind-spot monitoring, and Highway Drive Assist for enhanced safety on the road. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA, providing peace of mind for families.