The Ford Explorer is a rugged, performance-driven superstar in the mid-size SUV world, but the Hyundai Palisade is giving it a run for its money with a radical transformation for its second generation. Who will come out on top? Let's break down how Ford and Hyundai approach mid-size SUVs differently in this Explorer vs. Palisade comparison.
Key Takeaways
- Say hello to the Explorer's new off-road trim, the Tremor.
- Explorer trims are between $40,260 and $56,700; Palisade models start at $41,035 and go up to $56,160. Prices effective as of February 7, 2026.
- Both the Explorer and Palisade have seven trims to choose from.
What's Changed in the Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade for '26
The big news for Ford fans this year is the debut of the Explorer Tremor, a trim engineered for those who want to push further off the beaten path. It features a lifted suspension for clearing obstacles, a Torsen limited-slip rear differential for sticky situations, and 18-inch wheels fitted with all-terrain tires. To make it even more trail-ready, Ford redesigned the bumpers to improve approach angles and added steel underbody skid plates. Inside, you get durable ActiveX seating with Tremor-specific stitching, ensuring the cabin is as tough as the exterior.
The Hyundai Palisade, meanwhile, enters its second generation with a longer wheelbase and a bold, boxy silhouette that takes design cues from Hyundai's futuristic electric SUVs. The interior's new high-end materials and a contemporary layout make it feel more like a luxury lounge than a family hauler. And for those who want a bit of dirt in their life, the new XRT Pro model joins the lineup with a raised ride height and specialized terrain modes.
Pricing for the 2026 Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade
With seven trims each to choose from, the Explorer and Palisade have an equal number of trims. The Explorer's prices start a little lower than the Palisade's:
- Active: $40,260
- Active w/100A Pkg: $40,260
- Active w/200A Pkg: $42,380
- ST-Line: $46,950
- Tremor: $50,260
- Platinum: $52,760
- ST: $56,700
In comparison, Palisade trims are:
- SE: $41,035
- SEL: $43,540
- SEL Convenience: $44,970
- SEL Premium: $46,900
- Limited: $51,370
- XRT Pro: $51,470
- Calligraphy: $56,160
2026 Ford Explorer and Hyundai Palisade Powertrains
Ford continues to lead the pack when it comes to raw power and mechanical variety. Most Explorer trims start with the 300-horsepower 2.3-liter EcoBoost engine, but for those who want real muscle, the ST, Platinum, and the new Tremor offer a 400-horsepower twin-turbo V6. Both pair with 10-speed automatic and rear-wheel drive as standard, but all-wheel drive is available.
The Palisade keeps things consistent with a standard 287-hp, 3.5-liter V6 engine paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. However, it has shaken things up by introducing its first-ever 2.5-liter turbo hybrid powertrain, which produces a combined 329 horsepower. While this is a huge win for fuel efficiency, it still can't touch the sheer 400-hp output of Ford's V6.
Powertrain Features
| 2026 Ford Explorer |
2026 Hyundai Palisade |
| Standard 2.3L EcoBoost |
3.5-liter V6 |
| Available 400-hp twin-turbo V6 on ST, Platinum, and Tremor |
2.5-liter turbo hybrid |
| 10-speed automatic |
8-speed automatic |
User-Friendly Tech in the Ford Explorer vs. the 2026 Hyundai Palisade
Inside the Explorer, the Ford Digital Experience takes center stage with a 13.2-inch touchscreen that is incredibly easy to navigate. Here, you can keep the whole crew happy with eight USB ports spread across all three rows and a massive 12-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system available on most trims.
The Palisade counters with a massive curved dual-screen display that combines the gauge cluster and infotainment into one unit. While the Hyundai is packed with tech, the Explorer's system feels slightly more intuitive for drivers who prefer a mix of screen real estate and physical responsiveness.
Which Full-Size SUV Is Your Best Bet?
While the Hyundai Palisade dresses to impress, the 2026 Ford Explorer remains the undisputed king in its class. It's not just an SUV for the school run, it's a powerful companion on the trail (especially with the addition of the Tremor). Contact our friendly Karl Flammer sales staff today to schedule a test drive!