Aug 25, 2026
Hyundai Palisade

Comparing Hyundai SUVs: Tucson vs Santa Fe vs Palisade

Choosing the right SUV for your family is a big deal. Fortunately, ​Hyundai offers three distinctly different ways to upgrade family life: the Hyundai Tucson, Hyundai Santa Fe, and the Hyundai Palisade.
While these three well-equipped SUVs may share the Hyundai nameplate, they are built for uniquely different situations. The Tucson is nimble and efficient, the Santa Fe adds an adventurous three-row layout, and the Palisade delivers flagship space and polish.
​At DeMontrond Hyundai, we can put all three within steps of each other so you can feel the difference. Bring the family, open every cargo area, and see which SUV makes your daily demands easier. In the meantime, continue reading to learn the differences between the Hyundai Tucson, Santa Fe, and Palisade.

Hyundai Tucson: Compact Versatility for Everyday Driving

​The five-seat Tucson is ideal for commuting and smaller families. Its gas engine produces 187 horsepower, while available hybrid and plug-in hybrid powertrains add electrified response and efficiency. With the rear seats folded, the gas-powered Tucson offers up to 80.3 cubic feet of cargo space.
Although the Tucson is small in size, it’s big on technology. ​It offers available dual 12.3-inch displays, HTRAC all-wheel drive, Remote Smart Parking Assist, and Hyundai SmartSense features that make the Tucson feel impressively upscale and intuitive.

Hyundai Santa Fe: More Space and Flexibility for Growing Families

The Hyundai Santa Fe steps up in size and versatility, adding a standard third row and seating for up to seven while maintaining manageable dimensions for everyday driving.
The 2.5-liter turbo engine produces an impressive 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. With up to roughly 79.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the first row, the Santa Fe is ready for camping gear, strollers, or a serious warehouse-club run.

Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid: Efficient Three-Row Versatility

For drivers who want three-row versatility with greater fuel efficiency, the Santa Fe Hybrid pairs a 1.6-liter turbocharged engine with an electric motor for 231 combined horsepower. Available front-wheel drive and HTRAC all-wheel drive configurations let shoppers balance efficiency with their preferred traction and capability. EPA-estimated fuel economy varies by trim and drivetrain.

Hyundai Palisade: Premium Three-Row Comfort and Capability


The Palisade is the largest and most premium-focused choice of the three. The latest generation offers a 3.5-liter V6 producing 287 horsepower, while an available hybrid powertrain delivers up to 329 combined horsepower. Seating for up to eight and a more adult-friendly third row make it the natural fit for larger families.
Long family trips feel entirely different when everyone has room to relax and the cabin works around your needs. Available relaxation seating invites passengers to settle in, while an available power-folding third row makes cargo changes quick and easy. Available features such as dual 12.3-inch displays, Bose premium audio, Digital Key, and an integrated front and rear dashcam help create a technology-rich family cabin.

Hyundai SUV Technology and Safety Features

All three offer a range of Hyundai SmartSense driver-assistance technologies. Depending on the model and trim, available features may include Highway Driving Assist, Blind-Spot View Monitor, Surround View Monitor, and Remote Smart Parking Assist. Wireless smartphone integration and available Hyundai digital key technology reduce everyday friction.
​Exact equipment varies by trim, which is why a side-by-side demonstration matters. The experts at DeMontrond Hyundai will explain which features are standard, optional, or tied to a particular model.

Explore Hyundai SUVs at DeMontrond Hyundai

​At DeMontrond Hyundai, we will help you compare inventory, value your trade, and find the SUV that makes every departure more exciting. Contact us today to schedule a test drive of the Tucson, Santa Fe, Palisade, or any other model in our inventory.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Main Difference Between the Tucson, Santa Fe, and Palisade?

The Tucson is a compact two-row SUV with seating for five, the Santa Fe is a three-row SUV with seating for up to seven, and the Palisade is Hyundai’s largest three-row SUV with seating for up to eight. The right choice depends largely on how much passenger space, cargo flexibility, and capability your family needs.

Which Models Have a Third Row?

The Santa Fe and Palisade offer three rows. The Tucson is a spacious two-row SUV.

Does the Tucson Offer a Hybrid?

Yes. Hybrid and plug-in hybrid Tucson variants are available.

Which Has the Most Passenger Space?

The Palisade is the largest and offers the most generous three-row accommodations.

Where Can I Compare Them Near Houston?

Visit us at DeMontrond Hyundai to explore and test-drive available models.