Hyundai has an impressive SUV lineup, which includes the compact Tucson and the midsize Palisade. Both SUVs have many positive attributes. However, the 2023 Hyundai Tucson has one huge strength over the 2023 Hyundai Palisade: efficient hybrid models.

Unlike the 2023 Hyundai Palisade, the 2023 Hyundai Tucson offers hybrid models

Gasoline is one of the most significant costs of owning a vehicle. If a vehicle is inefficient, filling up the tank can cause financial strain on one’s budget over the long haul. Conversely, a hybrid model helps alleviate this financial burden. And the 2023 Hyundai Tucson compact SUV offers not one but two hybrid models: a traditional hybrid and a plug-in hybrid (PHEV). 

However, the 2023 Hyundai Palisade midsize SUV doesn’t offer any hybrid models. All Palisade trims are fully gas-powered.

2023 Tucson has higher fuel economy than the 2023 Palisade

The most obvious benefit of the hybrid models for the 2023 Hyundai Tucson is high fuel economy. The standard hybrid version of the compact SUV has an estimated gas mileage of up to 43 combined mpg, while the Tucson Plug-In Hybrid gets up to 84 MPGe in electric-only mode and 35 combined mpg in hybrid mode.

Also, another benefit of the Tucson Plug-In Hybrid is the ability to drive with electric-only power for short distances. It has an estimated electric driving range of 33 miles, which is nearly the average daily driving distance for Americans. 

Additionally, the Tucson PHEV is a nice alternative for those that are hesitant to go all-electric due to range anxiety — which is the fear of running out of electric power before an EV can reach a charging station. However, when the electric power runs low in the Tucson PHEV, it switches to power from the internal combustion engine. 

The 2023 Hyundai Palisade midsize SUV is much less efficient. It’s a bit of a gas-guzzler — with an estimated fuel economy of up to 22 combined mpg. Also, even the fully gas-powered version of the Tucson has higher gas mileage (28 combined mpg) than the Palisade.

Another benefit of the high fuel economy of the Tucson is convenience. With less fuel consumption, it requires fewer trips to gas stations than the Palisade — especially for the plug-in hybrid model.

Other benefits of the Hyundai Tucson over the Palisade

The 2023 Tucson has some other benefits over the 2023 Palisade. With its tighter turning circle, smaller size, and lower weight, the Tucson is more maneuverable than the Palisade. This maneuverability is beneficial for parking, backing up, and driving through traffic and around corners.

Also, the Tucson is more affordable. It has a starting price of $26,900 MSRP, compared to $35,900 MSRP for the Palisade. Plus, with the Tucson’s many standard features and all that it has to offer, it provides greater value.

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson compact SUV has hybrid and PHEV models, which gives it a huge strength over the 2023 Hyundai Palisade midsize SUV. For automotive shoppers deliberating between the two models, the hybrid models are a key factor to keep in mind.