Wednesday, 04 January, 2023
While shopping for an SUV can be daunting, you’ve made the process easier by choosing Hyundai out of all the other makes. This manufacturer is popular among many drivers because of its capable engines, sleek interiors, and quality at affordable price points. The next step is to narrow it down to one of Hyundai’s leading SUV models. Here at Koons Woodbridge Hyundai, we’re here to help distinguish between the 2023 Kona, Santa Fe, and Palisade. Our review of their key similarities and differences will make it easier for you to choose the right SUV for your family.
Trim Levels: 2023 Kona vs. Santa Fe vs. Palisade
These three models have gas SE and SEL trim levels, making them ideal for families who want access to great standard features while sticking to their budget. The gas Kona SE is the most affordable with a manufacturer-suggested retail price of $21,990. If you want to go beyond standard features, explore the other trim levels that each model offers. For instance, the Kona has an N-Line gas trim that features a race-inspired style and a Limited gas trim that emphasizes luxury. There’s also the Kona N, a high-performance trim level with optimal horsepower and torque.
If you’re looking for a vehicle that can handle off-roading adventures, consider the rugged Santa Fe XRT trim. The Santa Fe also has a Limited trim with some luxury features, though the Calligraphy trim is worth the upgrade if you want all of the top-tier features. Additionally, the Santa Fe model has plug-in hybrid and hybrid trims for drivers who want alternative fuel options. Like the Kona, the Palisade is compatible with plug-in hybrid and hybrid engines but offers five trim levels to give drivers plenty of options. Choose from trims like the rugged XRT, luxurious Limited, or premium Calligraphy.
Performance: 2023 Kona vs. Santa Fe vs. Palisade
As a smaller SUV, the 2023 Hyundai Kona gets an impressive average of 32 mpg across all trims. The SE and SEL get 30 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway, while the N Line and Limited get 29 mpg in the city and 35 mpg on the highway. The Kona SE and SEL have a 2.0-liter MPI four-cylinder engine that generates 147 horsepower. The more-powerful 1.6-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder N Line and Limited’s engine generates 195 horsepower. For 276 horsepower and 289 pound-feet of torque, choose the N for its 2.0-liter turbocharged GDI four-cylinder engine.
The gas Santa Fe trims are a little less efficient because of the trim’s larger size. The lower levels average 26 mpg, while the higher levels average 25 mpg. Drivers who want a more efficient Santa Fe might opt for a hybrid or plug-in hybrid trim. Both plug-in hybrid trims offer an average of 33 mpg and a 30-mile all-electric range while generating 261 horsepower using gas and electric power. Even more efficient are the hybrid trims, which provide an average of anywhere from 32 to 34 mpg.
All Palisade trim levels get an average of 22 mpg, which is expected with such a large SUV. You also get a lot of power in exchange for the relatively low fuel efficiency, as the 3.8-liter GDI V-6 engine generates 291 horsepower.
Exterior: 2023 Kona vs. Santa Fe vs. Palisade
All three models have the standard SUV look including a tall, boxy frame and greater ground clearance than a car. Exterior features for each model widely depend on which trim you get. For instance, the Santa Fe XRT has a black front grille while the Limited has a chrome front grille. Two-tone door garnish is standard with the Palisade SE and SEL, while the XRT has a unique black door garnish.
Additionally, the Santa Fe and Palisade XRT trims come with roof rails and a hands-free smart liftgate that make it easy for you to pack for your off-roading adventures. These features also create a more rugged look that matches the XRT’s ability to conquer various terrains.
Interior: 2023 Kona vs. Santa Fe vs. Palisade
The 2023 Kona is a smaller SUV that can comfortably hold five thanks to the cloth, N-Line, and leather-trimmed seats available across different trims. The 2023 Santa Fe also seats five and comes with comfort features like heated front seats on the gas SEL trim and quilted premium Nappa leather trimming on the gas Calligraphy trim. For maximum passenger seating, consider the 2023 Palisade. The most basic Palisade trim level comes with eight-passenger seating, thanks to a second-row bench seat, and the SEL has seven-passenger seating with available eight-passenger seating.
Aside from comfortable seating, these Hyundai SUVs have plenty of interior features that maximize your driving experience. For instance, eight-way power driver seats are standard among many of the more advanced trim levels for the Kona, Santa Fe, and Palisade. The touch screens on the basic Konas measure 8 inches, while the Palisade offers 12.3-inch touch screens on its most basic trim levels. Conventional sunroofs are available on some of the Kona and Palisade trims, while dual panel sunroofs are exclusive to some of the Palisade trims and panoramic sunroofs are exclusive to the Santa Fe trims.
While the Kona, Santa Fe, and Palisade are all excellent SUV options from Hyundai, the right one for you depends on your family’s needs. Smaller crews often choose the Kona because of its simplicity and practicality, while the Palisade is more appropriate for big families. The Santa Fe is popular among those who want a family car that comes with plug-in hybrid and hybrid options. If you need help deciding on the perfect SUV, contact us here at Koons Woodbridge Hyundai to talk to an expert.
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