2026 Hyundai Palisade SE vs 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE
On paper, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE wins on $5,335 less, 3 MPG better, 51 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 287 vs 277 hp, 20 vs 23 MPG.
The Palisade SE leads on 9.0″ longer. The Santa Fe SE leads on $5,335 less, 3 MPG better. 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 | 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE | 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $41,435 | $36,100 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 287 hp | 277 hp |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automated manual |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 18 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 24 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 20 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 19.0 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,575 lbs | 4,486 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 116.9" | 110.8" |
| Length | 199.2" | 190.2" |
| Width | 78.0" | 74.8" |
| Height | 69.5" | 67.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 4/5 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 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE and 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE starts at $36,100, $5,335 less than the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE at $41,435. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $94/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE is the stronger pick when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the midsize SUV segment.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,335 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $274/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE or 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE rates 23 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE or 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE produces 287 hp, 10 more than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE at 277 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 260 lb-ft. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE runs a 3.5L V6; the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE bigger than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE is 9.0″ longer at 199.2″ vs 190.2″. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE has a 6.1″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Palisade trims, Hyundai Santa Fe trims
The Palisade–Santa Fe Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Palisade and Santa Fe compare. The $-5,335 gap adds up to $94/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE runs a 3.5L V6; the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 10 hp difference (287 vs 277) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE adds 51 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 260), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE saves roughly $274/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,370.
Living With the Palisade vs the Santa Fe
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE has a 6.1″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Palisade SE when you prefer the Hyundai approach to the midsize SUV segment. Choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE when you want to keep $5,335 in your pocket and the 2025 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.