2025 Hyundai Palisade SE vs 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE
On paper, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE wins on $2,350 less, 2 MPG better, 49 more lb-ft torque. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 291 vs 277 hp, 21 vs 23 MPG.
The Santa Fe SE leads on $2,350 less, 2 MPG better, 49 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE | 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $39,200 | $36,850 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.8L V6 | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 291 hp | 277 hp |
| Torque | 262 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 19 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 21 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.8 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $2,100/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,356 lbs | 4,486 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 114.2" | 110.8" |
| Length | 196.7" | 190.2" |
| Width | 77.8" | 74.8" |
| Height | 68.9" | 67.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE and 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE starts at $36,850, $2,350 less than the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE at $39,200. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $41/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE is the stronger pick when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the midsize SUV segment.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $2,350 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $174/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE or 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE rates 23 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE or 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE produces 291 hp, 14 more than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE at 277 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 262 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE runs a 3.8L V6; the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE is 6.5″ longer at 196.7″ vs 190.2″. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE has a 3.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Palisade trims, Hyundai Santa Fe trims
How the Palisade and Santa Fe Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE ($39,200) and 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE ($36,850) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-2,350 gap is about $41/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Palisade vs Santa Fe
The 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE runs a 3.8L V6; the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 14 hp difference (291 vs 277) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE adds 49 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 262), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE saves roughly $174/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $870.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Palisade SE when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the midsize SUV segment. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE when you want to keep $2,350 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Hyundai or any dealership.