Summer in Northeast Ohio officially arrives when the trails at the Bedford Reservation of the Cleveland Metroparks fill with hikers and the lakefront parking lots at Edgewater Park become the hub for weekend gatherings. Our team knows that making the most of these warmer months requires a vehicle that transitions effortlessly from a professional commute to a weekend gear-hauler. We focus on providing a transparent shopping experience so you can find a model with the right balance of fuel efficiency and interior volume for your specific lifestyle. Whether you are planning a trip to see the Cleveland Guardians or loading up for a week at the lake, having a reliable SUV simplifies the logistics of every outing.
Versatile Three-Row Powerhouse: The 2026 Hyundai Palisade
I often hear from families that the hardest part of a road trip is keeping everyone comfortable while fitting all the luggage, and that is where the 2026 Hyundai Palisade excels. This premium three-row SUV offers a passenger volume of 161 cubic feet, which provides genuine adult-sized space even in the back row. When I walk families through a test drive, I usually point out the third-row power-recline feature, as it is often the first thing kids ask about before we even leave the lot. With a 3.5L V6 engine producing 287 hp and 260 lb-ft of torque, the Palisade delivers the smooth, confident power needed for merging onto busy highways with a full cabin.
Engine & Performance
Powertrain specifications across trim levels
| Feature | SE | SEL | Blue SE | XRT | SEL Convenience | SEL Premium | Limited |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 1.6L I4 | 1.6L I4 | 2.5L I4 | 1.6L I4 | 2.5L I4 | 1.6L I4 |
| Drivetrain | FWD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD | 4WD |
Standard across all trims: Transmission Automatic
The utility of this model extends beyond passenger count, offering up to about 87 cubic feet of cargo space when the rear rows are stowed. For those who need to bring along a boat or a pop-up camper, the Palisade is rated for a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when equipped with trailer brakes. This makes it a highly versatile choice for group outings to state parks or long-distance summer vacations. If you are looking for this level of space at a different price point, we also maintain a wide variety of high-quality pre-owned vehicles that offer many of these same family-friendly dimensions.
Rugged Capability and Efficient Towing with the Santa Fe XRT
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is built for drivers who need a more adventurous edge for their summer travels. This trim comes standard with HTRAC All-Wheel Drive and features all-terrain tires that provide enhanced grip on unpaved roads or slippery boat ramps. The XRT also includes an additional 1.3 inches of ground clearance, making it well-suited for navigating the terrain around the Cuyahoga River valley. Under the hood, a 2.5L Turbocharged engine provides 277 hp, ensuring that the vehicle remains responsive even when you are utilizing the maximum towing capacity of 4,500 pounds.
Fuel Economy
EPA-estimated fuel economy ratings
| Feature | SE | SEL | Blue SE | XRT | SEL Convenience | SEL Premium | Limited |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| City MPG | 26 mpg | 62 mpg | 38 mpg | 24 mpg | 37 mpg | 24 mpg | 62 mpg |
| Highway MPG | 33 mpg | 56 mpg | 38 mpg | 30 mpg | 37 mpg | 30 mpg | 56 mpg |
| Combined MPG | 30 mpg | 59 mpg | 38 mpg | 27 mpg | 37 mpg | 27 mpg | 59 mpg |
| Fuel Type | Unleaded | Electric | Unleaded | Unleaded | Unleaded | Unleaded | Electric |
Best combined fuel economy: SEL at 59 mpg
Residents in Parma often prioritize this blend of ruggedness and daily practicality, especially when balancing a suburban commute with weekend trips to local parks. The Santa Fe offers a seating capacity of 7 and includes a hands-free smart liftgate that opens automatically when it detects your key fob, which is a lifesaver when your hands are full of groceries or sports gear. Inside, the cabin is equipped with dual 12.3-inch interior displays that provide clear visibility for navigation and media controls, helping you stay focused on the road while keeping the whole family entertained.
Electric Freedom and Advanced Power Solutions for Summer Events
The 2026 Hyundai Ioniq 5 is changing how local owners think about summer events with its innovative Vehicle-to-Load (V2L) technology. This feature essentially turns your SUV into a large mobile battery, allowing you to power electric grills, slow cookers, or even a television directly from the charging port. It is a perfect solution for tailgating in Cleveland or powering a campsite without the noise and fumes of a traditional generator. With an EPA-estimated range of up to 303 miles on a full charge for certain configurations, this EV is fully capable of handling regional road trips with ease.
For the 2026 model year, the Ioniq 5 adds even more convenience with the integration of a NACS port, providing access to a significantly larger network of fast-charging stations across Ohio. This means you can spend less time waiting for a charge and more time enjoying the lakefront. The vehicle also features a wireless device charging pad and standard wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ensuring your smartphone stays connected and powered up throughout the day. Backed by a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty, the Ioniq 5 offers long-term peace of mind for those making the switch to electric.
Comparing the 2026 Hyundai SUV Towing and Utility Lineup
Choosing the right SUV often comes down to matching the vehicle's towing and cargo specs to your specific hobbies. The 2026 Hyundai Palisade remains the leader for heavy-duty needs with its 5,000 lb limit, but the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is a close second, offering up to 4,500 lb of capacity in the XRT trim. For those who prefer a more compact footprint for city driving, the 2026 Hyundai Tucson provides a maximum towing capacity of 2,000 pounds when equipped with trailer brakes, which is plenty for a pair of jet skis or a small utility trailer.
- 2026 Hyundai Palisade: 5,000 lbs max towing, seating for 8, 87 cubic feet max cargo.
- 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT: 4,500 lbs max towing, seating for 7, 79 cubic feet max cargo.
- 2026 Hyundai Tucson: 2,000 lbs max towing, seating for 5, 74 cubic feet max cargo.
- 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz: 5,000 lbs max towing (2.5L Turbo), open-bed utility, integrated cooler.
The Hyundai Santa Cruz offers a unique alternative by combining the comfort of a 5-passenger SUV with the open-bed flexibility of a truck. It features a lockable under-bed storage compartment with a drain plug, allowing it to function as a built-in cooler for beverages during summer picnics. Whether you prioritize the maximum passenger count of the Palisade or the versatile bed of the Santa Cruz, our lineup provides a concrete solution for every type of outdoor enthusiast in the region.
Navigating Your Purchase with Flexible Financing and Trade-In Options
We believe that the path to a new vehicle should be as transparent and stress-free as possible. Our finance team works with a variety of lenders to provide competitive rates and terms that fit your budget, whether you are looking to buy or lease. To save time at the dealership, you can start the process from home by completing our secure online finance application. We also offer straightforward trade-in appraisals, helping you apply the value of your current vehicle toward the down payment of a new Hyundai.
Pricing
MSRP and destination charges (source: MarketCheck VIN Decode (consensus))
| Feature | SE | SEL | Blue SE | XRT | SEL Convenience | SEL Premium | Limited |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP (prices may vary with options and destination charges) | $32,272 | $34,577 | $34,752 | $37,098 | $37,305 | $37,335 | $44,186 |
Lowest starting MSRP: SE at $32,272
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson serves as an excellent example of the value available in our lineup, with the entry-level SE trim starting at $32,272. For those who want more advanced technology and comfort features, the SEL is priced at $34,577, while the top-tier Limited trim reaches $44,186. Every new Hyundai we sell is backed by America's Best Warranty, which includes a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty and 5 years of 24/7 roadside assistance. This comprehensive coverage ensures that your investment is protected for years to come, allowing you to drive with confidence through every season.
Common Questions for Ohio Drivers Choosing Their Next SUV
Q: Which Hyundai SUV offers the most cargo space for camping gear?
The 2026 Hyundai Palisade provides the largest interior volume, offering about 87 cubic feet of cargo space when the second and third rows are folded flat. This is ideal for hauling large items like tents, coolers, and folding tables for a full week of camping.
Q: Do I need a special package to reach the maximum towing capacity?
To reach the 5,000 lb limit on the Palisade, you will need a dealer-installed hitch and trailer brakes. The Santa Fe XRT comes standard with many of the rugged features needed for its 4,500 lb rating, but we always recommend confirming the specific equipment on the model you choose.
Q: Are there hybrid options available for better summer fuel economy?
Yes, the 2026 Santa Fe Hybrid is a popular choice for long-distance travelers, offering an EPA-estimated 36 MPG combined. We also expect the first-ever Palisade Hybrid to arrive later in the model year, providing a new high-efficiency option for large families.
Q: How does the hands-free smart liftgate work?
You don't need to wave your foot or press any buttons. If you stand behind the rear bumper for three seconds with the Proximity Key in your pocket, the liftgate will automatically beep and open, making it easy to load gear when your hands are full.
Q: What happens if I have a breakdown during a summer road trip?
Every new Hyundai includes 24/7 support for the first five years of ownership. If you have a flat tire or need a tow, you can reach out to Hyundai Roadside Assistance: 1-800-243-7766 for manufacturer-backed support that gets you back on the road quickly.
Prices and MSRP referenced in this article are estimates for informational purposes only and do not constitute an offer to sell. See dealer for complete details. Fuel economy estimates shown may differ from official EPA ratings and should not be relied upon as a guarantee of actual vehicle performance.
