Hyundai Santa Fe vs Hyundai Palisade Hybrid

More than twenty years ago, Hyundai gave us its first SUV. Called the Santa Fe, the popular crossover has gone through four generations, all leading up to the design departure that makes this latest model the boldest-looking version yet.

Even if you’re not sold on the exterior design, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe has plenty to recommend it. Its longer wheelbase means the mid-size crossover has more interior space, and Hyundai has added myriad features that just make sense in a family vehicle of this size. Some rivals might offer more cargo space, but those who are looking for stand-out styling on the road should take a serious look at this blocky crossover.

Verdict: The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is a mid-size crossover that fashionable families will love. Though, those with more traditional tastes might find it all a bit too much.

Redesigned for 2026, the new Hyundai Palisade brings more than just fresh looks. For the first time, Hyundai is now offering a hybrid powertrain with its big three-row, family SUV. Capable of traveling more than 950 kilometres on a single tank of fuel, the Palisade Hybrid solves one of the only downsides of the market’s best three-row SUV: fuel efficiency. The Palisade Hybrid delivers more than just great fuel economy, though. It’s more powerful than the gas model, and in higher trim levels the Palisade Hybrid feels more luxurious than its competition.

Verdict: Simply put, Hyundai currently sells the best mass-market three-row crossover SUV in North America. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade looks good, drives well, and feels special — and it will keep you away from the gas station, too.