Hyundai produces quality vehicles at reasonable prices. The company’s cars and SUVs are a sensible choice with abundant features, solid dynamics, and trustworthy reliability. And consumers take note of that, propelling the automaker to strong sales year after year. The Hyundai Palisade and Hyundai Tucson follow the company’s formula of full-featured value. The Hyundai Palisade’s sales leave much to be desired despite being a full-size, smooth-riding family hauler, the Tucson’s a compact ride with agile handling. Each has its strong suits.

But there’s one fact that could make the Palisade less popular than the Tucson. Let’s go over the specs.

Hyundai Palisade sales vs. Hyundai Tucson sales in 2023

In the first half of 2023, the Hyundai Tucson handily outsold the Hyundai Palisade.

GoodCarBadCar has the stats:

• Hyundai Tucson: 100,591

• Hyundai Palisade: 39,447

Not only that, but Tucson sales increased 19.65 percent year over year, while the Palisade’s declined by 9.60 percent. What’s the reason for the Tucson’s sales advantage? It could be the price.

The 2023 Hyundai Tucson starts at $28,235. The Hyundai Palisade has a $37,235 MSRP. That’s a $9,000 premium. And for buyers on a budget, the Tucson may have more than enough cargo space, interior features, and all-conditions capability.

Another reason for the Tucson’s sales lead might be its newer design. The current generation Hyundai Tucson debuted for the 2022 model year. So it’s the latest and greatest the company has to offer.

On the other hand, the 2023 Palisade was introduced in 2020. While it did receive a facelift this year, it’s a little behind the Tucson’s updated platform. Beyond that, the Tucson’s an appealing package for almost any drive. Let’s dive into its powertrain, interior, and options.

Why the Hyundai Tucson sells so well

The base model Hyundai Tucson SE doesn’t look like a value-price SUV. With sharp creases, flowing fenders, and a sleek fascia, it compares well to SUVs costing thousands more. And its pleasant ride and handling set it apart from less-refined competitors.

Car and Driver praised Tucson’s balanced road manners, noting its sharp steering and refined driving experience. They commented on how rare that is in the compact SUV segment.

The Tucson SE comes with a 2.5-liter four-cylinder producing 187 hp and 178 lb-ft of torque. While it won’t win many drag races, it has plenty of get-up-and-go and respectable fuel economy of 23/28/25 city/highway/combined (FWD versions). It’s a solid, reliable power plant.

An eight-speed auto handles gear changes, and front-wheel drive is standard. Buyers can add Shiftronic HTRAC All-Wheel Drive ($1,500) for enhanced capability.

Inside, the base-trim Tucson impresses. Quality materials blend with flowing lines for a pleasant driving environment. Features like a push-button shifter, digital gauges, and an 8.8-inch touchscreen are upscale and function. And standard Apple CarPlay and Android Audio offer seamless connectivity.

The Tucson SE also comes with abundant cargo space. With the seats up, there are 38.7 cubic feet of storage. But with the seats folded, there’s a copious 74.8 cubic feet. That’s a lot of room.

No modern vehicle is complete with ample safety features. And the 2023 Tucson delivers. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the Tucson a five out of five crash test rating. Standard driver’s assistance tech—like automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection—ensures optimal safety in any scenario.

Additional accessories on the Tucson SE include the Winter Weather Package ($365), the Cargo Package ($205), and Mudguards ($120).

So far, in 2023, the Hyundai Tucson has a healthy sales lead over the Hyundai Palisade. While both are excellent SUVs, the Tucson’s lower price makes it hard to pass up. Combine that with the compact sport utility’s road manners and standard equipment, and you’ve got an appealing package for a wide range of drivers. It’s a lot of car for the money.