2025 Volvo XC90 Vs. 2025 Hyundai Palisade

If you're searching for the perfect three-row SUV for you and your family, our Volvo XC90 vs. Hyundai Palisade comparison guide can help you make the right decision. While both of these models offer plenty of seating to accommodate your passengers, the Volvo XC90 goes above and beyond to provide a refined, fuel-efficient drive that the Hyundai Palisade simply cannot compare to. Read on to see how these two compare, then visit Quantrell Volvo Cars to discover the winner.

2025 Volvo XC90 vs. Hyundai Palisade: Performance & Specs

The 2025 Volvo XC90 and the 2025 Hyundai Palisade are both midsize SUVs with three rows of seats, but their engineering philosophies diverge sharply. The Volvo XC90 leans into sophisticated efficiency and hybrid strength, while the Hyundai Palisade focuses more on conventional power delivery.

Every new Volvo XC90 comes standard with a 2.0-liter mild hybrid turbocharged engine producing 247 horsepower and 266 pound-feet of torque. This is enough strength to achieve a Volvo XC90 towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. Upgrade to the B6 configuration, and you get a boosted 295 horsepower. The available T8 plug-in hybrid powertrain delivers an astonishing 455 horsepower and 523 pound-feet of torque, far surpassing what the Palisade offers.

By contrast, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade features a single 3.8-liter V-6 engine across all trims. It produces 291 horsepower and 262 pound-feet of torque – reasonable for daily driving, but limited when compared with the versatility and strength of the Volvo iteration. When comparing the Volvo XC90 engine options to the Hyundai Palisade engine, the former clearly delivers more powertrain flexibility and performance potential, though it's worth noting the Hyundai Palisade towing capacity is similar to that of the Volvo XC90.

Choose the luxury midsize model and you'll enjoy a responsive eight-speed automatic Volvo XC90 transmission, refined to deliver a seamless ride through various drive modes. It works in tandem with the Volvo XC90 SUV's powertrain technologies to support fuel efficiency and power output without sacrificing smoothness.

The Hyundai Palisade transmission is similarly an eight-speed automatic, but even this can't help the Hyundai SUV measure up to the Volvo automobile in other performance areas, as we'll see below.

Hyundai Palisade vs. Volvo XC90 MPG

Fuel efficiency is a key consideration for any SUV shopper. The Volvo XC90 offers impressive efficiency, especially given its performance capabilities. The mild hybrid B5 powertrain delivers an EPA-estimated 23/30/26 MPG (City/Highway/Combined),¹ while the B6 powertrain nets an EPA-estimated 20/26/23 MPG (City/Highway/Combined).⁵ The T8 plug-in hybrid option enables electric-only driving for short distances and boasts a combined efficiency rating that can help significantly reduce fuel costs.

In contrast, the Hyundai Palisade is rated with an EPA-estimated 19/26/22 MPG combined for FWD models and an EPA-estimated 19/24/21 MPG for AWD.² Without a hybrid option, the Palisade is outclassed in terms of versatility and eco-conscious engineering. If you're comparing Volvo XC90 MPG vs. Hyundai Palisade MPG, the Volvo SUV is the clear winner across the board.

Volvo XC90 Interior vs. Hyundai Palisade Interior

Luxury isn't simply about materials; it's about the experience. When you step inside the Volvo XC90, you'll notice a Scandinavian design ethos that prioritizes minimalist elegance and user-focused innovation. Standard features include Nordico seating, a panoramic moonroof, an 11.2-inch center touchscreen, and a 12.3-inch digital driver display. Higher trims introduce Nappa leather, an Orrefors® crystal gear shifter, and a 14-speaker Harman Kardon® sound system. Our new Volvo specials frequently include these trims, letting drivers enjoy advanced luxury while also saving on their luxury SUV.

While the Hyundai Palisade cabin is comfortable, it doesn't quite reach the same echelon. The base trim features cloth seating, with leather and ventilated seating reserved for higher trim levels. The infotainment system lacks the intuitive integration found in the Volvo SUV's Google-based interface. Those prioritizing cabin elegance and user-friendly tech will find the Volvo XC90 interior more rewarding overall.

Hyundai Palisade vs. Volvo XC90 Dimensions

When examining SUV practicality, interior volume and dimensions play a key role. Both vehicles offer three rows of seating, but the Volvo XC90 manages space more elegantly thanks to its refined proportions and upright stance compared to the Hyundai Palisade dimensions.

The Volvo XC90 cabin is efficiently packaged, offering a more upscale layout even if it surrenders a few inches of interior space. Its available six-seat configuration with second-row captain's chairs adds comfort and accessibility not commonly seen in non-luxury competitors.

Volvo XC90 Ground Clearance vs. Hyundai Palisade Ground Clearance

Ground clearance plays a role in how well an SUV handles different terrains. The Volvo XC90 offers a ground clearance of 8.8 inches,⁶ which enhances light off-road capability and winter weather performance. The Hyundai Palisade provides slightly less at 8 inches of clearance – adequate for suburban commuting but not as ideal for rugged conditions compared to the Volvo option.

Technology and Infotainment Features

The Volvo XC90 model's Google built-in infotainment system sets it apart. It features Google Maps™, Google Assistant™, and real-time traffic updates integrated directly into the SUV's interface. Over-the-air updates ensure longevity and continuous improvement. Meanwhile, the Hyundai Palisade system uses a traditional infotainment approach – functional but less future-forward.

Advanced driver-assist features like Pilot Assist and Intelligent Driver Information System highlight the Volvo brand's commitment to intelligent, safe mobility. These functions are only partially available or entirely absent on the Palisade unless you move to top trims.

Volvo XC90 Safety Rating vs. Hyundai Palisade Safety Rating

Both SUVs include advanced safety technologies, but only one holds a reputation for redefining industry standards. The 2025 Volvo XC90 safety rating from the IIHS designates it as a Top Safety Pick+,⁷ thanks to its exceptional crashworthiness and standard safety features such as Pilot Assist and Run-off Road Mitigation. It also includes BLIS™, Lane-Keeping Aid, and a 360-Degree Camera system in upper trims.

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade safety rating has not yet reached a Top Safety Pick+ designation for this model year.⁸ While it includes systems like Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist and Smart Cruise Control, the breadth and seamless integration of safety tech in the Volvo SUV set a higher benchmark. In fact, those exploring Hyundai Palisade vs. Volvo XC90 safety differences will find that the latter leads in both innovation and execution.

Continue the Volvo XC90 vs. Hyundai Palisade Comparison at Quantrell Volvo Cars

We hope our detailed 2025 Volvo XC90 vs. 2025 Hyundai Palisade comparison has helped clarify your SUV decision. While the Palisade is a respectable contender, the Volvo XC90 delivers an elevated experience across performance, luxury, safety, and efficiency. If you're interested in learning more about Volvo XC90 financing or trim options, our team would love to assist you.

Contact us at Quantrell Volvo Cars today to schedule your test drive. We look forward to assisting you and sharing more about the Volvo XC90 vs. Hyundai Palisade.

¹EPA estimated range is 23 MPG city/30 MPG highway/26 MPG combined (B5 AWD). Your actual range will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. See https://www.fueleconomy.gov/

²All figures are EPA estimates and for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle's condition.

³When properly equipped.

⁴Towing capability varies by configuration. See the towing guide in the Owner's Manual for proper use and additional information.

⁵EPA estimated range is 20 MPG city/26 MPG highway/23 MPG combined (B6 AWD). Your actual range will vary for many reasons, including but not limited to, driving conditions, how and where you drive, how you maintain your vehicle, battery-package/condition, and other factors. See https://www.fueleconomy.gov/

⁶Reference to this third-party review/claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For more details, please visit https://www.edmunds.com/volvo/xc90/2025/features-specs/

⁷Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/volvo/xc90-4-door-suv/2025

⁸Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this award, visit https://www.iihs.org/ratings/vehicle/hyundai/palisade-4-door-suv/2025