2027 Hyundai Santa Fe Vs. Palisade: Which 3-Row SUV Is Right?

Choose the best three-row SUV for your family and lifestyle with our Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Palisade comparison guide. Both of these models offer plenty of space for passengers and cargo, powerful engines, and a great driving experience, with the right choice really depending on what you're looking for. Read this informative overview for practical details before visiting Homer Skelton Hyundai to see them in person.

Hyundai Santa Fe at a Glance

• Compact SUV with three rows for six or seven people
• Compact SUV with three rows for six or seven people
• Standard four-cylinder engine and standard FWD with AWD available
• Ample cargo space, ranging from 14.6 to 79.6 cubic feet
• Towing capacity of up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped

Hyundai Palisade at a Glance

• Midsize SUV with three rows for seven or eight occupants
• Standard V-6 engine and standard FWD with AWD available
• Vast cargo volume, ranging from 19.1 to 86.7 cubic feet
• Towing capacity of up to 5,000 pounds when properly equipped

Size and Seating: How Much Room Do You Need?

When looking at Santa Fe vs. Palisade size, the first thing to know is that the new Hyundai Santa Fe is a compact SUV while the Palisade is a midsize SUV. The latter offers larger exterior measurements and more passenger space overall. See below for a closer look at the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Palisade dimensions.

	2027 Hyundai Santa Fe	2027 Hyundai Palisade
Dimensions (L / W / H)	190.2 / 74.8 / 67.7 - 69.7 in	199.2 - 200.4 / 78 / 69.5 in
Seating Capacity	6 - 7	7 - 8
Passenger Volume	152 cu ft	161.9 cu ft
Headroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd Row)	40.2 - 41.1 / 39.6 - 40.6 / 37.7 in	40.1 - 41.5 / 40 - 40.7 / 37.7 - 37.8 in
Legroom (1st / 2nd / 3rd Row)	44.4 / 42.3 / 30 in	44.2 / 43 / 32.1 in

Santa Fe vs. Palisade Engines, Hybrid Options, and Fuel Economy

As we assess Santa Fe vs. Palisade performance, we find that both come with a highly capable engine. The Santa Fe features a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, while the Palisade is equipped with a 3.5-liter V-6. Front-wheel drive is standard in each, while all-wheel drive is available.

If fuel economy is your top priority, you can achieve a bit better MPG with the Hyundai Santa Fe, particularly if you stick with front-wheel drive. However, both models offer a hybrid variant with great range that can help you save at the pump without giving up the practicality of a three-row SUV. Compare Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Hyundai Palisade specs, including horsepower and MPG, with the following table.

	2027 Hyundai Santa Fe	2027 Hyundai Palisade
Engine	2.5L 4-cyl turbo	3.5L V-6
Horsepower	277	287
Torque	311 lb-ft	260 lb-ft
Drivetrain	FWD / AWD	FWD / AWD
Max EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Cmb)	20 / 29 / 241	19 / 26 / 221

Explore all new Hyundai inventory to shop for the gasoline Hyundai Santa Fe and Hyundai Palisade or their available hybrid variants.

Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Hyundai Palisade Cargo Space Compared

If you're looking for flexible cargo space, the Hyundai Palisade vs. Santa Fe matchup delivers two strong contenders. While the new Hyundai Palisade is the standout with a maximum cargo volume of 86.7 cubic feet, the Santa Fe still has a respectable 79.6 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. Each also boasts a 12-volt power outlet in the cargo area and underfloor storage for enhanced convenience.

As three-row SUVs with split-folding rear seats, these two models provide a range of configurations to accommodate groceries, luggage, gear, and more.

When measuring the Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Palisade in terms of towing capacity, it should come as no surprise that the larger and more powerful Palisade comes out ahead in this category. With a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds,² the Palisade can haul a camper, boat, or utility trailer for outdoor-loving families. But don't sleep on the Santa Fe, as it boasts a not-far-behind towing capacity of up to 4,500 pounds² for an array of needs.

Both SUVs feature Trailer Sway Control as standard equipment, with the Palisade also integrating a Tow Mode in every trim.

	2027 Hyundai Santa Fe	2027 Hyundai Palisade
Cargo Volume (Behind 1st / 2nd / 3rd Row)	14.6 / 40.5 / 79.6 cu ft	19.1 / 46.3 / 86.7 cu ft
Max Towing Capacity	4,500 lbs2	5,000 lbs2

Once you've decided on the best Hyundai three-row SUV for your family, our Hyundai financing team will be glad to help you explore flexible and transparent payment options.

If you still need food for thought on the difference between Hyundai Santa Fe and Palisade SUVs, here are some quick pros and cons for each to summarize.

Pros & Cons of the Hyundai Santa Fe

Pros

• Room for up to seven
• Nimble and maneuverable
• Turbocharged engine
• Great fuel economy

Cons

• Less total passenger and cargo volume
• Smaller engine with less horsepower
• Smaller maximum towing capacity

Pros & Cons of the Hyundai Palisade

Pros

• Room for up to eight
• Competitive towing capacity
• Powerful V-6 engine
• Ample passenger and cargo room

Cons

• Slightly less maneuverable
• Lower maximum EPA-estimated MPG
• Less torque

Santa Fe or Palisade: Which SUV Is Right for You?

To conclude our Hyundai Palisade vs. Hyundai Santa Fe comparison, either of these three-row SUVs is a great choice. Opt for the Santa Fe if you want a nimble, efficient compact sport-ute that can fit into smaller spaces while still offering a wealth of power and space. Go with the Palisade if you're looking for a midsize flagship with a stout V-6 and vast passenger and cargo volume. Contact us today with any questions on these models or to schedule your visit. We can't wait to see you!

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¹All figures are EPA estimates and for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle's condition.

²Towing capability varies by configuration. See the towing guide in the Owner's Manual for proper use and additional information.