The 2021 Hyundai Palisade and the 2021 Honda Pilot are both three-row SUVs that have plenty to offer. But when it comes to choosing between them, which makes for the better pick? In this case, it’s the 2021 Honda Pilot.

The Honda Pilot is a cheaper alternative to the Hyundai Palisade

Now, the 2021 Honda Pilot and this year’s Hyundai Palisade are similar in price, at least if you’re considering a base model. While the Pilot starts at $32,550, the 2021 Hyundai Palisade will have you spending a minimum of $32,525. However, if you’re planning to forgo the base model and treat yourself to a more well-outfitted SUV, then the Honda Pilot is the more affordable option.

Unlike this year’s new Hyundai Palisade, the Honda Pilot is available in seven trim levels. The Hyundai Palisade, on the other hand, only offers four trim levels to pick from. Those trim levels are pretty expensive too. Step up to the SEL, which costs a minimum of $35,175, or upgrade to the Palisade Limited, which will have you spending $45,215. Meanwhile, the range-topping Palisade Calligraphy will have you spending roughly $46,050. 

But the Honda Pilot? While the EX is similar in price to the Palisade SEL, the EX-L costs $38,660. The Special Edition Pilot and the Honda Pilot Touring are also cheaper alternatives to the Hyundai Palisade. The only way you’ll find yourself spending more on the Pilot is if you opt for the Pilot Elite or the range-topping Pilot Black Edition, which starts at $50,220.

The 2021 Honda Pilot holds its value better than the Hyundai Palisade

The 2021 Honda Pilot isn’t just a cheaper alternative to the 2021 Hyundai Palisade. According to Kelley Blue Book, the Honda Pilot also has the edge when it comes to depreciation. Kelley Blue Book isn’t wrong either. 

According to CarEdge, you can expect the Hyundai Palisade to depreciate 49% after five years, giving it a five-year resale value of $21,314. The Honda Pilot holds its value slightly better and, according to CarEdge, will depreciate 48% after five years and have a five-year resale value of $23,204. 

Now, these numbers are pretty close. In fact, the Honda Pilot and the Hyundai Palisade are pretty much neck in neck. But if you plan on selling your new SUV sometime down the road? The Honda Pilot’s slightly higher resale value is definitely worth considering.

For a spacious ride, choose the 2021 Honda Pilot over its Hyundai competition

The 2021 Honda Pilot also offers slightly more space than its Hyundai competition. Though the Palisade does offer more overall interior space for passengers, the Honda Pilot offers up more headroom for third-row passengers. It also offers more shoulder room than the Hyundai Palisade does. The Pilot also has the edge when it comes to cargo space. So, if you’re looking for a spacious alternative to the Hyundai Palisade? You’re going to want to check out the 2021 Honda Pilot.

How to choose the right SUV for satisfying your daily driving needs

The Honda Pilot clearly has a lot going for it. But that doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for you. To find out if this year’s model is the right SUV for satisfying all of your daily driving needs, we recommend heading to your local dealership for a test drive.