2024 Hyundai Palisade vs 2025 Subaru Outback

Within its segment, the Hyundai Palisade is a terrific family hauler, checking nearly all of the right boxes. Plus, it has a distinctive design, upscale materials, and thoughtful amenities. After a refresh for the 2023 model year, the 2024 Palisade returns with standard three-zone automatic climate control, Bluelink+ connected services, and the range-topping Calligraphy Night Edition. If you guessed it comes with blacked-out trim and wheels, pat yourself on the back.

Verdict: Stylish and safe, powerful and enjoyable to drive, and roomy for people and cargo, the 2024 Hyundai Palisade is a winner. Then, when you consider the added value inherent in buying this midsize three-row crossover SUV, choosing a Hyundai Palisade is both a logical and an emotional decision.

One of the nameplates that helped define the crossover craze now stands out as strikingly different. The 2025 Subaru Outback is one of the last remaining station wagons on the market. However, given that it's currently based on the soon-to-be-discontinued Subaru Legacy sedan, the Outback is likely to shift away from its current low-slung long-roof shape soon. That means this could be your last opportunity to park Crocodile Dundee’s favorite ride in your driveway.

Verdict: The Outback offers a unique combination of practicality and value, but it’s held back by lackluster tech.