2021 Hyundai Palisade vs 2021 Lexus NX

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade Calligraphy distinguished itself with a unique grille pattern, revised exterior lighting, and additional lower body trim. It featured unique 20-inch wheels and upgraded interior detailing, including a simulated suede interior headliner. These enhancements made the Calligraphy trim appear more luxurious than other Palisade models, drawing attention with its unconventional styling. Inside, the Calligraphy trim boasted a Beige over Navy Blue color scheme with premium Nappa leather and a suede headliner, offering a cabin that seemed more expensive than its actual price.

In contrast, the 2021 Lexus NX retained its familial design with sharp lines reminiscent of the smaller UX and larger RX models. The NX 300 and 300 F Sport gasoline models shared a sculpted exterior, with the F Sport version adding sportier elements like a honeycomb grille and 18-inch wheels. The interior featured quilted NuLuxe sport seats exclusive to the F Sport line, with options for various color schemes. The NX's interior was well-finished, typical of Lexus, but its design felt dated compared to newer models. The center stack, with its elevated climate-control buttons and CD player, added to the retro feel, though it remained functional.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade was equipped with a robust 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offered front-wheel drive as standard, with an optional all-wheel-drive system. Drivers could select from Eco, Comfort, Smart, and Sport driving modes, 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 for AWD models, and it delivered a firm yet comfortable ride with excellent body-motion control. It had a towing capacity of 5,000 pounds, making it versatile for various driving needs.

The 2021 Lexus NX 300 and 300 F Sport were powered by a turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 235 horsepower and 258 pound-feet of torque. The six-speed automatic transmission was adequate, though not as smooth as newer multi-speed options. The NX accelerated from zero to 60 mph in about seven seconds, with a relatively quiet ride. The F Sport model included Active Sound Control for enhanced engine notes. The NX offered front-wheel drive as standard, with all-wheel drive available. Fuel economy was decent, with the FWD model achieving 25 mpg combined. The NX's adaptive suspension system provided a smooth and comfortable driving experience, though the steering lacked feedback.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in interior space and accessibility, offering a comfortable and plush cabin, especially in Calligraphy trim. The front seats were power-adjustable, with heated and ventilated options for the first two rows. The second-row captain’s chairs provided ample legroom and could slide for passenger and cargo flexibility. The third-row seat was more accommodating than most in its class. The Palisade offered generous in-cabin storage and a hands-free Smart Liftgate. Cargo space was impressive, with 18 cubic feet behind the third row, expanding to 86.4 cubic feet with seats folded.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured a well-styled and comfortable interior, with ample room for front and second-row passengers. Heated and ventilated seats were available, and the rear seats offered a 60/40 split-folding option. However, the NX's cargo space was limited, with 17.7 cubic feet behind the second row and 54.6 cubic feet with seats folded. The NX included a power liftgate with kick sensor technology and optional power-folding rear seats.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade offered two infotainment systems: an 8-inch and a 10.25-inch touchscreen. Both allowed pairing of two smartphones via Bluetooth, with the smaller screen offering wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Calligraphy trim included a 12-speaker Harman Kardon audio system, navigation, and Blue Link connected services. Additional features included wireless smartphone charging, a Driver Talk intercom system, and a head-up display.

The 2021 Lexus NX featured an 8-inch touchscreen, with a 10.3-inch option available in the Navigation package. The system included Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the Lexus interface was less user-friendly. Standard features included keyless entry, dual-zone climate control, and a WiFi hotspot. The Navigation package added Lexus Enform Destination Assist and a Mark Levinson 14-speaker audio system was available. The Lexus Enform Remote app allowed remote control of various vehicle functions.

The 2021 Hyundai Palisade excelled in safety, with adaptive cruise control, forward-collision warning, and multiple lane-keeping systems as standard. Higher trims included a sophisticated rear occupant alert system and a Blind View Monitor. Highway Drive Assist provided advanced adaptive cruise control and lane-centering assistance. The Palisade earned top safety ratings from the IIHS and NHTSA.

The 2021 Lexus NX came with Lexus Safety System+ 2.0, including lane-departure warning, traffic-sign recognition, and adaptive cruise control. Blind-spot monitoring and rear cross-traffic alert were standard. The NX received top "Good" scores from the IIHS and a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA. Lexus Enform Safety Connect offered emergency assistance and collision notification.