Best AWD 3-Row SUVs Compared: Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Grand Highlander, and Ford Explorer
Best AWD 3-Row SUVs Compared: Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Grand Highlander, and Ford Explorer

Best AWD 3-Row SUVs Compared: Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Grand Highlander, and Ford Explorer

February 1, 2026
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Florida drivers looking for reliable all-wheel-drive three-row SUVs have great options with the 2026 Hyundai Palisade, Toyota Grand Highlander, and Ford Explorer. This comparison highlights how their AWD systems perform in challenging slip and off-road tests.

AWD Performance Highlights

The Hyundai Palisade impressed with minimal wheel slip and strong torque transfer, especially in its dedicated off-road modes. Its brake-based traction control system delivered smooth and effective grip on slippery slopes and muddy tracks, surprising many with its capability beyond everyday driving.

Toyota’s Grand Highlander takes a unique approach with an electric motor powering the rear wheels instead of a traditional drive shaft. While this system offered decent traction in lighter tests, it struggled under more extreme conditions, especially on street tires not suited for off-roading.

Ford’s Explorer, with its powerful 400-horsepower twin-turbo V6 and rear-drive bias, demonstrated solid traction aided by a limited-slip rear differential. Its off-road modes enhance control, allowing confident handling even in tough, muddy terrain.

Practical Advice for Florida Drivers

For families and adventure seekers in Orlando, choosing a used SUV with a capable AWD system ensures peace of mind throughout diverse Florida weather. Vehicles like the Palisade and Explorer combine power, technology, and traction to handle wet roads and light off-road use alike.

At Florida Auto Center, shoppers can explore a variety of reliable used cars in Orlando, including AWD SUVs that fit both daily driving and weekend trips. Understanding how these systems work helps buyers make informed decisions backed by solid automotive insights.

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