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2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro: Rugged Luxury Ready for San Diego Drives

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro for sale at Dalton Hyundai National City

Summary

  • The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro is a redesigned three-row SUV that combines a tough exterior with a premium cabin. It provides more space and power than previous models while keeping your family safe with top-rated safety technology.
  • This rugged SUV includes a new 3.5-liter V6 engine, standard All Wheel Drive, all-terrain tires, and a massive dual panoramic display for entertainment and maps. It also features a 5,000-pound towing capacity and specialized off-road gear, such as recovery hooks and a lifted suspension.
  • If you want to buy a 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro for sale or a certified pre-owned 2025 Hyundai Palisade near San Diego, California, visit Dalton Hyundai National City to experience this adventurous vehicle today.

Also Read: Everything You Need to Know About 2026 Hyundai Palisade Night Edition

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro answers the need for a family vehicle that is as tough as it is comfortable. This all-new model features a complete redesign that makes it longer and more capable than the versions from years past, thanks to its powerful engine and specialized suspension.

But what 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro features make it the perfect rugged-luxury SUV for San Diego drivers? This guide breaks down what you can find in this trim of the latest Hyundai Palisade model and why you should buy one at Dalton Hyundai National City.

What Makes the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro Trim the Top Choice for Adventure?

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro trim is the most rugged version of this popular SUV. While other trims focus mostly on luxury, this specific model adds hardware that helps you go off the pavement.

The 18-inch dark alloy wheels with all-terrain tires and recovery hooks

First off, it comes with 18-inch dark alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires. These tires provide better grip on dirt paths or sandy areas compared to standard highway tires.

Beyond the tires, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro trim includes a slightly lifted suspension to provide extra room between the bottom of the car and the ground. This higher 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro ground clearance of 8.4 inches allows you to drive over rocks or uneven surfaces without worrying about damaging the underside. 

And, to help if you ever get stuck, Hyundai added front and rear recovery hooks as standard equipment on this model. These are heavy-duty metal loops that allow another vehicle to pull you out of a tough spot through the use of a tow strap or cable.

Efficiency and Power with the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro MPG and Engine

Under the hood, every 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro uses a brand-new 3.5-liter V6 engine. This engine produces 287 horsepower, which is plenty of muscle to get this large SUV up to highway speeds quickly. It uses an 8-speed automatic transmission that shifts smoothly, so the ride stays quiet and relaxed.

Because this model has a lifted suspension and all-terrain tires for off-road use, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro MPG is a bit different from the standard street models. The EPA estimates for this rugged version are 16 MPG in the city and 22 MPG on the highway. While this is lower than the more aerodynamic trims, it is a fair trade for the extra capability you get for dirt roads and trails. 

If you are looking for a car that can do it all, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro MPG numbers are competitive for its class of tough SUVs.

How the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro AWD Handles Every Road Condition

Control is essential when you are driving a large family vehicle, and the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro AWD system is designed to provide maximum stability.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro HTRAC All Wheel Drive with Terrain mode

Unlike some other versions where you have to pay extra for it, All Wheel Drive comes standard on this trim. This feature constantly monitors the road and sends power to the wheels with the most traction. If you are driving through a rainstorm on Interstate 5 or hitting a muddy trail, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro AWD hardware keeps the SUV steady.

This system also includes an Electronic Rear Limited Slip Differential that balances power between the two back wheels. If one wheel slips in the dirt, the computer sends more power to the wheel that still has a grip. 

Drivers can also choose between different driving modes like Mud, Sand, and Snow, apart from the standard options available in the other trims. These settings change how the engine and transmission work to give you the best performance for the specific ground you are on.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro towing features

Towing Heavy Loads with the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro Towing Capacity

If you own a boat or a small camper, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT towing capacity will impress you. This SUV can pull up to 5,000 pounds when you equip it with trailer brakes.

To make towing safer, the vehicle includes a specialized Tow Mode. This setting changes how the transmission shifts to handle the extra weight behind you.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro towing capacity is supported through a standard integrated tow hitch. You do not have to worry about adding one later, as it is built right into the frame of the car. 

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro also features Trailer Sway Control, a technology that uses the car's brakes and engine to stop a trailer from wobbling if the wind picks up or if you have to make a sudden turn. This provides peace of mind for drivers who aren't used to pulling heavy loads.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro interior features

Exploring the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro Features for Your Next Road Trip

Families in Southern California often spend a lot of time in their cars. So the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro features focus on making the ride enjoyable for everyone. 

One of the biggest highlights is the 12.3-inch dual panoramic display. This setup puts two large screens side by side to create a high-tech look for the dashboard. One screen shows your speed and car info, while the other handles your maps, music, and apps. It even includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, so you can connect your phone without using a cable.

The list of 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro features also includes a premium Bose audio system with 14 speakers. This system provides crystal clear sound throughout the entire cabin, which is helpful when the kids are watching movies in the back rows. 

To keep everyone's devices running, Hyundai included high-power USB-C charging ports in all three rows of seats, ensuring no one runs out of battery on a long drive to Big Bear or Julian.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro 115-volt power outlet & 86.7-cu ft cargo space

Comfort and Space Inside the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro Interior

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro interior is built to feel like a rolling lounge. It has enough room to fit seven people comfortably because it uses captain's chairs in the second row instead of a long bench seat. This setup makes it much easier for passengers to walk into the third row. 

The seats are covered in a special material called H-Tex, which looks and feels like leather but is much easier to clean. This is a great benefit for families with small children or pets.

When you need to carry gear instead of people, the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro interior provides up to 86.7 cubic feet of cargo space. You can fold down the back seats to create a flat floor for surfboards, camping gear, or large grocery hauls. 

The third row seats can even fold down using a power button in some trims. However, the XRT Pro focuses on being a manual and durable setup for adventure. You can also find a 115-volt power outlet in the back, which is just like the outlets in your home. You can use this to plug in a small cooler or other tools while exploring.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro in Abyss Black and Earthy Brass Matte

Choosing Your Look with 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro Colors and Accessories

You can personalize your vehicle through a variety of 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro colors. Popular options include Abyss Black, Titan Green, and Earthy Brass Matte. 

The XRT Pro trim also uses unique dark silver and black accents on the outside to give it a stealthy appearance. These dark details help the SUV stand out from the shiny chrome versions you see on most street cars.

To make your SUV even better, you can add 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro accessories. These might include all-weather floor mats to protect the carpet from sand and mud or roof rack cross bars to carry your kayaks or bikes. Hyundai also offers a built-in dash cam that can record your drives for safety or capture beautiful scenery on a road trip. 

With these 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro accessories, you can tailor the car to your specific lifestyle.

Why the Name Changed: 2025 Hyundai Palisade XRT vs 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro

The 2025 Hyundai Palisade XRT offered some sporty exterior styling, but its off-road hardware was relatively modest. When Hyundai redesigned the Palisade for 2026, it did not just update the XRT. They replaced it entirely with the new XRT Pro trim, signifying a real, meaningful upgrade in capability.

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro is the first Hyundai ever to carry the XRT PRO nameplate, telling buyers that this trim goes further than any previous XRT model. While the 2025 Hyundai Palisade XRT had rugged styling, it was mostly built for the street. The 2026 model, though, adds actual performance parts like the lifted suspension, recovery hooks, and the eLSD that make it a "pro" at handling the dirt.

The engine is also different in the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro compared to the 2025 Hyundai Palisade XRT. The older 2025 version used a 3.8-liter engine, while the 2026 version uses a more modern 3.5-liter V6. 

The 2026 model is also part of a total redesign, meaning it has a longer wheelbase and more room inside than the 2025 model. To get the latest technology and the most space, the jump to the 2026 version is well worth it. 

Here’s a table showing you the key differences between the 2025 Hyundai Palisade XRT vs 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro:

Key Differences between the 2025 Hyundai Palisade XRT vs 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro

Why the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro Is a Perfect Match for San Diego, CA

The 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro is a massive step forward for anyone needing a vehicle that can handle the demands of family life and the excitement of weekend adventures. With its standard All Wheel Drive, tough exterior parts, and luxury interior, it sits at the top of its class.

If you are ready to buy the 2026 Hyundai Palisade XRT Pro for sale near San Diego, visit Dalton Hyundai in National City. Our Dalton Hyundai team serves drivers throughout San Diego, Chula Vista, Kearny Mesa, and surrounding communities with a wide selection of new 2026 Palisade models.

Read Next: Certified Pre-Owned Hyundai Tucson Options at Dalton Hyundai National City

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The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT for sale at Dalton Hyundai National City

Where Is The Best Place to Test Drive and Buy the 2026 Santa Fe XRT in San Diego, CA?

Summary The best place to buy or test drive the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT in San Diego, CA is Dalton Hyundai National City, where this rugged three-row SUV sits ready on the lot. The 2026 Santa Fe XRT features standard HTRAC AWD, 18-inch dark-alloy wheels wrapped in all-terrain tires, an extra 8.3 inches of ground clearance, a C-pillar assist handle, and a standard 115-volt cargo AC power outlet. To buy or test drive the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT in San Diego, CA, visit Dalton Hyundai National City today and experience how it handles the road. Also Read: Explore Your 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Trim Levels at Dalton Hyundai National City San Diego drivers deal with a highly diverse range of driving environments. And the 2026 Santa Fe XRT is built with versatility in mind, offering a comfortable, spacious, three-row cabin with plenty of room for daily local family errands. It's also paired with rugged ground clearance, advanced traction, and towing power for heavy-duty trips beyond the city. Want to learn more about the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT? This guide will break down the key features of this three-row SUV, including why you should test drive and buy one at Dalton Hyundai National City. What Makes the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT Different From Other Rugged SUVs? While many midsize SUVs claim to be adventure-ready, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT delivers heavy-duty trail hardware. Standard HTRAC AWD provides active torque distribution. Its exclusive Terrain mode optimizes the Drive Mode Select system with its sand, snow, and mud settings. With trailer brakes, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT towing capacity reaches a robust 4,500 lbs, a 1,000-pound increase over standard gas-powered trims. Here's a quick look at the unique features that set the XRT apart from the rest of the Santa Fe lineup: Standard HTRAC All Wheel Drive: Delivers enhanced grip and active torque distribution across unpredictable surfaces. Maximized Towing Power: A 4,500-lb capacity (with trailer brakes), the highest towing capability in the entire Santa Fe range. Off-Road Wheels & Tires: Exclusive 18-inch dark alloy wheels wrapped in rugged 245/60 R18 all-terrain tires. Taller Stance: An additional 1.3 inches of minimum ground clearance (raising the XRT to a commanding 8.3 inches), allowing you to easily clear rocks, ruts, and trail debris. Exclusive Design Accents: A bold black chrome front grille, black anodized badging, and durable H-Tex seating surfaces adorned with the XRT logo. Onboard Utility Power: A built-in 115-volt AC power outlet in the cargo area, perfect for running camping equipment, tailgating gear, or inflating outdoor toys. Class-Exclusive C-Pillar Assist Handle: A clever, hidden grab handle built directly into the C-pillar, giving you a secure step-up when loading roof racks, strapping down bikes, or securing gear. The trade-off is fuel economy. The 2026 Santa Fe XRT AWD is EPA-estimated at 19 city / 25 highway / 21 combined MPG, slightly lower than standard trims due to its off-road tires. For San Diego drivers looking for utility and towing without a truck's stiff ride, it is a perfect compromise. What Standard Features Do All 2026 Santa Fe Trims Share? Before exploring the XRT-specific gear, every 2026 Santa Fe comes loaded with features that make San Diego commutes and road trips easier. These include: Lane Following Assist assists steering to keep you centered Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with pedestrian, cyclist, and junction-turning detection to apply emergency braking if needed Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go to maintain safe distances and stops in traffic Safe Exit Assist and Rear Occupant Alert protect passengers during and after trips Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on a 12.3-inch touchscreen display Seating for up to seven and as much as 79.6 cubic feet of total cargo volume These standard safety and convenience features mean that no matter which Santa Fe trim you land on, you're getting a vehicle designed to handle San Diego's freeways and coastal roads with ease. What Comes on the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT Trim? The XRT builds on those shared basics with upgrades tailored for active families. While the SEL trim features standard H-Tex seating, the XRT adds a unique off-road touch with black H-Tex seating surfaces stitched with the exclusive XRT logo. It also comes with dual wireless device charging (single charger on standard trims) and a power tilt-and-slide sunroof. On the driving assistance side, the XRT introduces standard advanced highway and safety technologies: Highway Driving Assist (HDA): Automatically maintains speed, lane centering, and following distance on freeways. Smart Cruise Control 2 (SCC2): Automatically stops the SUV if the driver is recognized as unresponsive. Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control: Automatically adjusts highway speed based on navigation map curve data. Advanced ROA: Monitors back seats with ultrasonic sensors, sending smartphone alerts if motion is detected. These specialized upgrades position the XRT as the only SUV in the lineup purpose-built around off-road utility, towing capability, and advanced long-range safety. What Financing and Lease Offers Are Available for the 2026 Santa Fe XRT at Dalton Hyundai National City? At Dalton Hyundai National City, buying a 2026 Santa Fe XRT is easy. Qualified buyers can get 0% APR financing for up to 60 months with deferred first payments for 90 days. Dalton Hyundai also offers low-down-payment lease specials that leverage valuable HMF Lease Cash. We also offer the Dalton Hyundai MIlitary Discount program, combining manufacturer bonus with a dealer discount for active-duty service members, veterans, and their spouses. Ownership benefits continue through the Dalton VIP Program, giving owners rewards on service visits, tire purchases, and future vehicle purchases. It's a nice bonus that keeps paying off long after you drive off the lot. Why Trust Dalton Hyundai National City for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT in San Diego, CA? Buying the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT in San Diego, CA gives you a three-row SUV that handles traffic and trail runs with equal ease, backed by real towing capacity and standard AWD traction you won't find on the lower Santa Fe trims. Dalton Hyundai National City makes that purchase easier. Guided by integrity, reliability, and results, we commit to being respectful, honest, and reliable in every customer interaction. Formerly known as Frank Hyundai, we have served San Diego, Chula Vista, El Cajon, Kearny Mesa, and Imperial Beach with a passionate, expert team. Combined with transparent Hyundai Shopper Assurance and our Dalton VIP Program, we provide a straightforward path to owning your new adventure vehicle. Where Can I Buy the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT in San Diego, CA? You can buy the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT for sale in San Diego, CA at Dalton Hyundai National City, a dealership that has been serving the community since 1965. Our respectful, reliable, and results-driven team will guide you smoothly from your test drive through the finance office. We back your purchase with low-APR financing, a military appreciation program, and the Dalton VIP Program. Visit our showroom or schedule a flexible test drive to experience the rugged XRT firsthand. Read Next: Discover the 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Specs at Dalton Hyundai National City

The 2026 Hyundai Kona, a subcompact SUV, for sale at Dalton Hyundai National City

Need a Subcompact SUV in San Diego, CA? Buy a 2026 Hyundai Kona Today at Dalton Hyundai National City

Summary The 2026 Hyundai Kona is a premier subcompact SUV, offering up to 190 horsepower, up to 35 MPG highway, and available HTRAC All Wheel Drive. Standard highlights include a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Bluelink+, and a full Hyundai SmartSense safety suite on every trim. Looking for a 2026 Hyundai Kona for sale in San Diego, CA? Dalton Hyundai National City has inventory, dealer cash-back specials, competitive finance programs, and easy credit pre-approval ready today. Also Read: Discover the 2026 Hyundai Kona SEL Specs at Dalton Hyundai National City The 2026 Hyundai Kona gives San Diego drivers a stylish, tech-packed subcompact SUV with real efficiency, and it's available right now at Dalton Hyundai National City, just minutes from downtown. Hyundai built this small SUV around city demands: tight parking, freeway merges, and long weekend trips up and down the coast. You get up to 35 MPG highway, up to 190 horsepower, seating for five, and America's Best Warranty as standard. Kelley Blue Book named the Kona its Best Buy among subcompact SUVs, and the 2026 Kona carries that formula forward. If your search history is full of "best compact SUV" queries, test drive the Kona first at Dalton Hyundai National City. Is the 2026 Hyundai Kona Electric or Gas? The 2026 Hyundai Kona is a gas-powered subcompact SUV, sold in SE, SEL Sport, SEL Premium, and Limited trims with your choice of a 147 horsepower 2.0L engine or a 190 horsepower turbo. Hyundai is saving the next Kona Electric update for the 2027 model year, so every 2026 Kona on the lot runs on gasoline, allowing you to skip charging stops, refuel in minutes, and still enjoy up to 35 MPG highway. Shoppers wanting a plug still have great options under the same roof: Dalton Hyundai National City carries remaining 2025 Kona Electric models, the IONIQ 5, the three-row IONIQ 9, and a dedicated pre-owned hybrid and electric inventory. What Engines Power the 2026 Hyundai Kona? The 2026 Kona offers two engine choices to perfectly balance efficiency and extra highway punch. 2.0L MPI Atkinson 4-cylinder: Standard on SE and SEL Sport, this engine makes 147 horsepower and 132 lb-ft of torque, paired with an Intelligent Variable Transmission for smooth cruising. 1.6L turbocharged GDI 4-cylinder: Standard on SEL Premium and Limited, this turbo delivers 190 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque across a wide band (1700 to 4500 RPM), matched to an 8-speed automatic with paddle shifters and column-mounted Shift-by-Wire technology. The turbo's wide torque spread ensures effortless acceleration, making merges onto the I-5 and I-805 feel completely seamless. While a standard 2026 Hyundai Kona FWD setup keeps things light and efficient, HTRAC All Wheel Drive (AWD) is available on every trim for drivers who head up to Julian in winter or want extra grip on wet mornings. How Far Does the 2026 Hyundai Kona Range Go on a Tank? The 2026 Hyundai Kona range starts with outstanding EPA fuel economy: up to 28 city / 35 highway / 31 combined MPG on Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) SEL Sport trims. Pairing 35 MPG highway with the 12.4-gallon fuel tank standard on SE and SEL Sport trims yields over 400 miles of highway driving range between fill-ups, easily enabling a round-trip cruise from San Diego to Los Angeles on a single tank. To stretch every gallon, several powertrain technologies work together: Atkinson Cycle Efficiency: The standard 2.0L engine operates on a high 12.5:1 compression ratio to maximize fuel extraction. Idle Stop and Go: Standard on the SE, this system automatically cuts the engine at red lights to eliminate wasteful idling in San Diego traffic. Active Grille Shutters: These automatically close at cruising speeds, reducing aerodynamic drag on long highway stretches. Optimized Gearboxes: The Intelligent Variable Transmission (IVT) constantly maintains highly efficient ratios, while turbocharged trims utilize an 8-speed automatic to keep engine RPMs low while cruising. Turbocharged trims balance muscle with utility, returning up to 31 highway MPG and using a larger 13.2-gallon fuel tank to maintain strong road-trip range. This efficient Kona gas powertrain delivers major fuel savings at San Diego pumps without asking you to plug in. What Features Come Standard on the 2026 Kona? Every 2026 Kona includes a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen display featuring wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Standard Bluelink+ provides remote start, lock, or unlock capability through your compatible smartphone. Available upgrades include a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, touchscreen navigation, a Wi-Fi hotspot, Hyundai Pay, and Digital Key 2 Touch. The standard Hyundai SmartSense comprehensively covers the 2026 Kona safety with the following features: Smart Cruise Control with Stop and Go Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist (with pedestrian, cyclist, and junction turning detection) Blind-Spot and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision Warning Lane Keeping and Lane Following Assist Driver Attention Warning, Safe Exit, and Rear Occupant Alerts The top-tier 2026 Kona Limited introduces Highway Driving Assist, a Surround View Monitor, a Blind-Spot View Monitor, and Remote Smart Parking Assist to easily maneuver into tight Pacific Beach spaces. The cabin comfortably seats five with 38.2 inches of rear legroom and cargo volume expanding from 25.5 to 63.7 cubic feet. Standard highlights include LED projector headlights, H-Tex leatherette seating on the SEL Premium and Limited, and ventilated front seats plus a hands-free smart liftgate on the Limited. Finally, every Kona gas model features a standard 10-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Warranty. This class-leading coverage exceeds Toyota, Honda, and Subaru by five years or 40,000 miles. What 2026 Kona Deals Can You Find at Dalton Hyundai National City? Dalton Hyundai features rotating online specials, manager deals, and manufacturer rebates to ensure San Diego drivers secure a new Kona on exceptional terms. Top savings opportunities include: Specials and Rebates: Regularly updated low-APR financing incentives and competitive lease promotions across the lineup. Military Program: Dedicated bonus cash discounts for active-duty personnel and veterans in this Navy community. Dalton VIP Program: Members earn back rewards points on service visits, split among future maintenance, tires, and toward their next vehicle purchase, accumulating substantial lifetime savings. Seamless Financing: Complete online credit pre-approval, prequalify via Capital One, and value your trade instantly. Using our digital showroom, you can browse all 2026 Kona models and coordinate your entire purchase from home. Why the 2026 Hyundai Kona Makes Sense for San Diego, CA Drivers? The 2026 Hyundai Kona is a premier compact SUV, delivering up to 190 horsepower, up to 35 MPG highway, a versatile five-passenger cabin, and a standard SmartSense safety suite that rivals charge extra for, all backed by a class-leading 10-year/100,000-mile warranty. Dalton Hyundai National City makes ownership seamless. We stock the complete 2026 Kona lineup, participate in Shopper Assurance for upfront pricing and flexible test drives, and support you with a certified service department and a rewarding VIP program. With mobile sales, virtual financing, and long-term ownership perks, finding your perfect Kona is completely hassle-free. Where Can You Buy the 2026 Hyundai Kona for Sale in San Diego, CA? You can buy the 2026 Hyundai Kona for sale at Dalton Hyundai National City, your highly rated local dealership located just minutes south of downtown San Diego with a stellar 4.8/5 rating on Kelley Blue Book. Search our new inventory online, pick your preferred 2026 Kona trim and color, and schedule a convenient test drive that fits your day. Our online retail portal handles the whole process digitally, from trade-in valuations to financing, with our dedicated team available to assist. Read Next: San Diego’s Guide to the 2026 Santa Fe Hybrid: MPG & Performance Explained

Hyundai Santa Fe vs Kia Telluride: Where to Buy the Best Three-Row SUV in San Diego?

Hyundai Santa Fe vs Kia Telluride: Where to Buy the Best Three-Row SUV in San Diego?

Summary The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2027 Kia Telluride are two of the most talked-about three-row SUVs, and San Diego shoppers keep asking which one fits their family and budget better. When evaluating a Santa Fe vs Telluride matchup, the Santa Fe matches its rival on core preventive safety tech while offering an exceptionally efficient hybrid option that sips fuel on local highways. To buy the best 3 row SUV value in San Diego, CA, Dalton Hyundai National City has the complete Santa Fe lineup, competitive promotional APR rates, HMF lease cash incentives, and a rewarding VIP points program. Also Read: 7 Reasons Why San Diego Families Choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Finding the right three-row family hauler requires a balance of cargo flexibility, safety, and maneuverability. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is an exceptionally smart purchase, carrying the industry’s highest crash safety honors, impressive fuel economy, and a versatile design. While the larger 2027 Kia Telluride offers more passenger volume, both SUVs share engineering DNA. Hence, making the right choice comes down to a Hyundai Santa Fe size comparison and your daily driving needs. Let's break down the essential differences in powertrains, cargo space, and value to help you decide whether the Santa Fe or Telluride belongs in your driveway. Santa Fe vs Telluride Specs: How Do the Engines and MPG Compare? A close look at the Hyundai Santa Fe vs Kia Telluride specs reveals surprising details about what moves these family haulers. While previous Telluride models relied on a traditional V6, the 2027 Telluride has transitioned to a turbocharged four-cylinder. Here is how their standard gas and hybrid powertrains compare: 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe (Gas): 2.5L turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine making 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Fuel economy is rated up to 20 city / 29 highway / 24 combined MPG on FWD trims. 2027 Kia Telluride (Gas): 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine producing 274 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. It yields up to 20 city / 26 highway / 22 combined MPG on FWD trims. The gas Santa Fe actually edges out the Telluride in standard horsepower and highway efficiency. For daily commuting, the Santa Fe's lighter footprint provides a more agile, efficient ride, while the Telluride remains a capable choice for heavy towing. Does the Santa Fe or Telluride Offer a Better Hybrid? For San Diego drivers looking to bypass high fuel costs, comparing the Hyundai Santa Fe vs Kia Telluride hybrids is essential: The 2026 Santa Fe Hybrid focuses on maximizing fuel economy and everyday value. It pairs a 1.6L turbo engine with a 44.2-kW electric motor to achieve up to 37 city / 36 highway / 36 combined MPG (FWD) or 35 / 34 / 34 with AWD. It is widely available across the SE, SEL, Limited, and Calligraphy trims, so families can easily scale their comfort features. The 2027 Telluride Hybrid prioritizes performance over efficiency. Its 2.5-liter turbo-hybrid setup makes a stronger 329 horsepower but yields lower fuel economy on its FWD trims, dropping down to a combined 31 MPG on AWD models. 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Size Comparison: Which One Holds More? The footprint difference is the most obvious differentiator in this Hyundai Santa Fe size comparison. The 2027 Kia Telluride is the longer, wider vehicle, seating up to 8 passengers. The boxy, upright 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe seats up to seven passengers, carving incredible everyday utility out of a more parkable footprint. Here is how the dimensions stack up in a head-to-head Santa Fe vs Telluride size matchup: While the Telluride offers a larger adult-friendly third row, the Santa Fe’s 50/50 sinking-and-folding third row easily accommodates kids for school runs and drops flat instantly for cargo. Santa Fe second-row passengers have a generous 42.3 inches of legroom (41.5 inches on hybrid models). Stepping up to the Limited or Calligraphy trims, standard power-folding captain's chairs make the second-row experience more comfortable. The Telluride counters with its own heated and ventilated second-row seats on top trims. However, the Santa Fe matches those features with its own heated second-row seats and rear side-window sunshades. If you rarely carry a full house of adults in the back, the Santa Fe gives you a highly maneuverable layout that easily slides into tight National City spaces. Which SUV Has Better Tech and Interior Features? Both SUVs offer upscale cabins with premium standard equipment, including standard Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and automatic climate control. Dual 12.3-inch panoramic displays are available on upper trims of both vehicles. The 2026 Santa Fe stands out with standard Bluelink+ connected services and a bi-directional center console accessible from both front and rear seats. Upgrading trims unlocks wireless charging, while the luxury Calligraphy model adds dual wireless chargers, Nappa leather, a digital rearview mirror, and a driver's relaxation seat with a one-touch reclining setting. The 2027 Telluride counters with premium Meridian audio and a 12-inch head-up display on its upper trims. While both SUVs give you heated seats and panoramic roofs, the Santa Fe packs highly competitive, segment-challenging luxury features into its standard trims. Santa Fe vs Telluride: How Does Safety Stack Up? Safety is where the Hyundai Santa Fe comparisons get interesting for families. The 2026 Santa Fe earned the 2026 IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+, the highest honor that group hands out. It also picked up recognition as part of Hyundai being named America's Best SUV Brand by U.S. News & World Report two years running. While the 2027 Telluride brings 19 collision-avoidance and safety-assist features across the range, the 2026 Santa Fe boasts standard cutting-edge safety features on every trim. These include standard Safe Exit Assist and Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist. Moving up the ladder adds high-tech assists like the standard Remote Smart Parking Assist and Blind-Spot View Monitor. What Are the Best Santa Fe Deals at Dalton Hyundai National City? Dalton Hyundai National City backs the Santa Fe with offers that make the math even easier. Right now, Hyundai's national program includes 0% APR financing with deferred first payments for up to 90 days, or low APR rates on long-term loans on select models. On top of vehicle pricing, the dealership runs its own perks that add up over time: New vehicle specials and manager specials you can browse online before you visit Manufacturer rebates that stack with qualifying offers Dalton VIP Program that earns you 20% back in rewards on service transactions to apply toward future tire purchases, vehicle maintenance, or your next new vehicle purchase A military program and mobility program for shoppers who qualify Wrapping Up? Which Between the Santa Fe or Telluride Should San Diego Drivers Buy? For most San Diego drivers, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is the superior daily SUV, delivering class-leading hybrid efficiency, an agile city footprint, and standard safety awards. Should you decide on a Santa Fe, buying at Dalton Hyundai National City will get you more than a great SUV. Previously known as Frank Hyundai, our team serves San Diego, Chula Vista, El Cajon, Kearny Mesa, and Imperial Beach with a warm, no-pressure approach. Our finance center works one-on-one to build a plan around your goals, our factory-trained service team uses genuine parts to keep your Santa Fe running for years, and the VIP rewards program keeps paying you back long after the sale. Where Can You Buy the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe in San Diego, CA? You can buy the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe at Dalton Hyundai National City in San Diego, CA. We carry both the gas and hybrid Santa Fe, offer financing and lease help through our dedicated finance center, and support every purchase with a full service and parts department. Our team of dedicated professionals, backed by a 4.8/5 Kelley Blue Book rating, will guide you every step of the way, creating a warm, welcoming, and seamless vehicle-buying experience for our visitors while proudly supporting local groups like Rady Children's Hospital and the Emilio Nares Foundation. Read Next: Key Features of the Blue Hyundai Kona at Dalton Hyundai National City