Three Hyundai Hybrid SUVs Built for Nova Scotia Families: Palisade, Santa Fe, or Tucson?
November 25 2025,
Hyundai's 2026 hybrid SUV lineup gives Nova Scotia families three strong choices, each designed for different household sizes and priorities. The brand-new Palisade Hybrid brings full-size capability with three rows and 329 horsepower, while the midsize Santa Fe Hybrid balances space and efficiency with seating for seven. The compact Tucson Hybrid rounds out the trio with urban-friendly dimensions and 231 horsepower. All three come standard with HTRAC all-wheel drive, making them capable companions for Maritime winters—from Halifax commutes to Cape Breton road trips.
Understanding which model fits your family starts with seating needs, cargo requirements, and how you'll use the vehicle year-round. This guide breaks down the specs, capabilities, and real-world advantages of each hybrid SUV to help you choose the right fit.
Power and Efficiency: How the Three Hybrids Compare
The 2026 Palisade Hybrid uses Hyundai's next-generation TMED-II dual-motor hybrid system paired with a 3.5 L V6 engine, delivering 329 horsepower and 339 lb-ft of torque. Highway fuel economy is rated at 7.9 L/100 km, with a targeted driving range exceeding 800 kilometres on a full tank. This powertrain offers 4,000 lbs of towing capacity—enough for a camper or boat trailer.
Both the Santa Fe Hybrid and Tucson Hybrid share the same 1.6 L turbocharged 4-cylinder hybrid system, producing 231 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque. The Santa Fe Hybrid achieves 6.9 L/100 km combined fuel economy with a 67 L fuel tank, while the Tucson Hybrid matches that efficiency at 6.7 L/100 km with a 52 L tank. The Santa Fe can tow up to 2,000 lbs, and the Tucson matches that capacity in its hybrid configuration.
All three hybrids use a 6-speed automatic transmission (8-speed for the Palisade's V6) and include HTRAC all-wheel drive as standard equipment. Multi-terrain drive modes—Snow, Mud, and Sand—optimize traction for Nova Scotia's varied weather conditions.
Seating and Interior Space: From Compact to Full-Size
Palisade Hybrid:
- Standard 8-passenger seating (2-3-3 configuration)
- Optional 7-passenger layout with second-row captain's chairs
- Third-row headroom: 958 mm
- Third-row legroom: 761 mm
- Heated third-row seats available on Luxury and Ultimate Calligraphy trims
- Power-folding third-row seats with remote operation
Santa Fe Hybrid:
- Standard 7-passenger seating (2-3-2 configuration)
- Optional 6-passenger layout with second-row captain's chairs (Ultimate Calligraphy only)
- Third-row headroom: 958 mm
- Third-row legroom: 761 mm
- Fold-flat third-row seats for maximum cargo flexibility
Tucson Hybrid:
- 5-passenger seating only
- Second-row legroom: 1,050 mm
- No third-row option
The Palisade's stretched wheelbase (70 mm longer than the previous generation) creates noticeably more third-row space than the Santa Fe. Both three-row models offer heated front seats as standard, with ventilated front seats available on upper trims.
Cargo Capacity: What Fits Behind Each Row
|
Model |
Behind 3rd Row |
Behind 2nd Row |
Behind 1st Row |
|
Palisade Hybrid |
540 L |
1,310 L |
2,455 L |
|
Santa Fe Hybrid |
413 L |
1,148 L |
2,267 L |
|
Tucson Hybrid |
N/A |
1,097 L |
2,108 L |
The Santa Fe Hybrid's 413 L of cargo space behind the third row accommodates grocery runs and daily gear without folding seats. The Tucson Hybrid's two-row layout gives it a slight edge in second-row cargo volume compared to the Santa Fe, making it practical for couples or small families who prioritize storage over extra seating.
All three models feature power liftgates, with hands-free operation available on mid-level and upper trims. The Palisade and Santa Fe also offer remote seat-folding controls accessible from the cargo area.
HTRAC All-Wheel Drive and Winter Performance
Every 2026 hybrid SUV in Hyundai's lineup includes HTRAC all-wheel drive without requiring an upgrade package. The system actively distributes torque between front and rear wheels based on road conditions, with selectable terrain modes for snow, mud, and sand.
The Palisade Hybrid adds Tow Mode, which adjusts shift patterns and throttle response when hauling trailers. This feature holds lower gears longer and reduces unnecessary gear changes—helpful when towing through New Glasgow or navigating Highway 104 with a loaded trailer.
Ground clearance measures 210 mm for the Tucson Hybrid and 177 mm for the Santa Fe Hybrid. The Palisade's ground clearance is not specified in available documentation, though its larger dimensions and available all-terrain tires on XRT PRO models suggest capable off-pavement performance.
Technology and Safety Features Across the Lineup
All three hybrids include Hyundai's SmartSense suite as standard equipment:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian, cyclist, and junction-turning detection
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Following Assist
- Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Safe Exit Warning
The Tucson and Santa Fe share a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Palisade features a dual 12.3-inch curved display integrating both the gauge cluster and centre touchscreen.
Upper trims on all three models add:
- Highway Driving Assist (Level 1 or 2 depending on trim)
- Surround View Monitor
- Blind View Monitor
- Remote Smart Parking Assist (Ultimate trims)
- Head-Up Display (Palisade Ultimate Calligraphy, Santa Fe Ultimate Calligraphy)
The Palisade and Santa Fe Ultimate Calligraphy trims include Bose premium audio systems (14 speakers in the Palisade, 12 speakers in the Santa Fe). The Tucson N Line and Ultimate offer an 8-speaker Bose system.
Trim Levels and Pricing Structure
2026 Palisade Hybrid:
- Preferred Trend AWD (V6 gasoline): $53,699
- XRT PRO AWD (V6 gasoline): $57,799
- Luxury Hybrid AWD: $60,499
- Ultimate Calligraphy Hybrid AWD: Pricing not specified
2026 Santa Fe Hybrid:
- Preferred: $43,799 (plus $2,840 fees = $46,639)
- Luxury Hybrid AWD: $53,549 (plus $2,840 fees = $56,389)
- Ultimate Calligraphy Hybrid AWD: $56,899 (plus $2,840 fees = $59,739)
2026 Tucson Hybrid:
- Pricing not specified in available documentation
The Palisade's Luxury Hybrid trim serves as the entry point for the hybrid powertrain, positioned above the gasoline-only Preferred Trend and XRT PRO models. The Santa Fe offers hybrid power starting at the Preferred trim level, making it the most accessible hybrid option in the lineup.
Which Hybrid SUV Fits Your Family?
Choose the Palisade Hybrid if:
- You need genuine three-row seating with adult-friendly space in the third row
- Towing capacity matters (4,000 lbs vs. 2,000 lbs)
- You want the most powerful hybrid system (329 hp)
- Long highway trips are common (800+ km range)
- You prioritize interior refinement and premium features
Choose the Santa Fe Hybrid if:
- You need occasional third-row seating for kids or shorter trips
- Fuel efficiency is the top priority (6.9 L/100 km combined)
- You want hybrid power without stepping up to the Palisade's price
- You value the balance between size and manoeuvrability
- Seven-passenger seating works for your household most of the time
Choose the Tucson Hybrid if:
- You're a couple or small family (no third-row needed)
- Urban driving and parking are daily considerations
- You want the most compact footprint with hybrid efficiency
- Cargo space behind the second row meets your needs (1,097 L)
- You prefer a lower entry price and easier daily handling
Experience Hyundai's Hybrid Lineup at Central Nova Hyundai
The 2026 Palisade Hybrid, Santa Fe Hybrid, and Tucson Hybrid each bring different strengths to Nova Scotia families. Whether you need full-size capability for growing families and weekend adventures, midsize versatility for daily use and occasional road trips, or compact efficiency for urban living, Hyundai's hybrid SUV lineup offers a solution matched to your priorities.
Visit Central Nova Hyundai in New Glasgow to compare all three models in person, explore trim-level features, and find the hybrid SUV that fits your household. Our team can walk you through specifications, arrange test drives, and help you choose the right configuration for your family's needs.
