2023 Hyundai Tucson vs Santa Fe vs Palisade: A Comparative Analysis
2023 Hyundai Tucson vs Santa Fe vs Palisade: A Comparative Analysis
Posted on August 29, 2023
Hyundai has always excelled in providing top-tier, user-friendly, and stylish vehicles. In this comparative analysis, we’ll be focusing on three of their SUV models: the compact 2023 Hyundai Tucson, midsize 2023 Hyundai Santa Fe, and three-row 2023 Hyundai Palisade. We'll compare their powertrain, features, pricing, and interior space to help you make the best choice for your needs.
Powertrain
In terms of performance, these three Hyundai SUVs offer a robust lineup. The Tucson Essential AWD features a decent 187 horsepower and 178 lb-ft of torque. The Santa Fe Preferred AWD offers a bit more punch with 191 horsepower and 181 lb-ft of torque, and there’s also an option for a more powerful engine providing 281 horsepower and a significant 311 lb-ft of torque. The top of the range Palisade, on the other hand, boasts the most power, offering 291 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque.
In terms of fuel efficiency, the Tucson leads the pack, boasting a combined fuel consumption rate of 9.0 liters per 100 kilometers, while the Santa Fe follows closely at 10.0 liters per 100 kilometers and the Palisade at 11.1 liters per 100 kilometers.
All three SUVs feature automatic transmissions and all-wheel drive (AWD) drivetrains. However, Tucson stands out by being the only model among these to offer a front-wheel-drive (FWD) base variant while the Santa Fe and Palisade offer standard AWD.
In terms of towing capacity, Palisade comes out on top, offering up to 5,000 pounds, followed by Santa Fe with a maximum of 3,500 pounds, and Tucson which offers up to 1,500 pounds.
Pricing
The Tucson is the most affordable option, both in its FWD and AWD versions. The FWD variant starts at $31,406.20, while the AWD version comes in at $33,406.20. The Santa Fe, on the other hand, starts at a higher price of $40,956.20. The most expensive of the three, the Palisade, begins at $52,456.20.
Interior Space
Space is a major consideration when buying an SUV. All three models offer ample room for passengers, with the Santa Fe offering the most front legroom at 1,120mm, followed by both Tucson and Palisade at 1,052mm. In terms of rear legroom, the Palisade slightly edges out the other two, offering 1,077mm compared to Tucson's 1,050mm and Santa Fe's 1,060mm. Moreover, the Palisade is the only model to offer a third row of seats, providing extra space when needed.
The headroom is comparable across all three models, but the Tucson offers slightly more space in the front and rear with 1,019mm and 1,002mm respectively. The Palisade, despite its larger size, offers the least front and rear headroom with 997mm and 985mm respectively when equipped with a sunroof. The Santa Fe offers 1,003 mm with a sunroof up front and 990 mm without.
As for cargo space, the 2023 Tucson offers 1,095 litres behind the second row while the Santa Fe offers 1,032 litres. The Palisade offers 1,297 litres behind the second row and 509 litres behind the third row.
To simplify things for you, here’s a table taking a look at which models stand out in which category.
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Which model offers the most headroom up front? | 2023 Tucson |
| Which model offers the most headroom in the second row? | 2023 Tucson |
| Which model offers a third row? | 2023 Palisade |
| Which model offers the most legroom in the back? | 2023 Palisade |
| Which model offers the most cargo space? | 2023 Palisade |
| Which cargo area is larger between Tucson and Santa Fe with all seats in place? | 2023 Tucson |
| Which model offers the most front legroom? | 2023 Santa Fe |
In conclusion, all three Hyundai SUVs offer something for different needs and budgets. The Tucson provides the best value with the most affordable price tag, and exceptional fuel efficiency. The Santa Fe, with its optional more powerful engine, offers an ideal balance between performance and price. Meanwhile, the Palisade, with its third-row seating and robust towing capacity, is perfect for larger families or those requiring extra space. Each of these SUVs holds its own and is an excellent choice depending on individual preferences and requirements.