Palisade I (LX2) vs Santa Fe IV (TM): which is better?
Hyundai Palisade I (LX2) (2018–present) vs Hyundai Santa Fe IV (TM) (2018–2023): specs, fuel economy, tax and common problems.
Hyundai Palisade I (LX2)
Hyundai Santa Fe IV (TM)Specifications
| Hyundai Palisade I (LX2) | Hyundai Santa Fe IV (TM) | |
|---|---|---|
| Production years | 2018–present | 2018–2023 |
| Body | crossover SUV | crossover SUV |
| Fuel | petrol | petrol |
| Engines | 3.5 V6 | 3.5 V6 |
| Power, up to | 249 hp | 249 hp |
| Torque, up to | 336 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Gearbox | automatic | automatic |
| Drive | all-wheel drive | all-wheel drive |
| Length | 4 980 mm | 4 770 mm |
| Width | 1 975 mm | 1 890 mm |
| Height | 1 750 mm | 1 680 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2 900 mm | 2 765 mm |
| Ground clearance | 203 mm | 185 mm |
| Fuel tank | 71 L | 71 L |
| KZ tax 2026 (car under 10 years) | ≈ 68 375 ₸ | ≈ 68 375 ₸ |
The better value is highlighted in green.
Pros, cons and common problems
Hyundai Palisade I (LX2)
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 249 hp
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- High ground clearance: 203 mm
Cons
- Hyundai/Kia Lambda engine (V6): timing chain stretch at high mileage
- Hyundai/Kia automatic: jolts on 2–3 shifts and when braking
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Lambda (V6)): timing chain stretch at high mileage; oil leaks.
Gearbox (Hyundai/Kia automatic): kicks on the 2–3 shift and when braking; solenoid and clutch pack wear at high mileage.
Hyundai Santa Fe IV (TM)
Pros
- Powerful versions: up to 249 hp
- All-wheel-drive versions available
- Conventional automatic, no robotized gearbox or CVT
- Large tank: 71 L
Cons
- Hyundai/Kia Lambda engine (V6): timing chain stretch at high mileage
- Hyundai/Kia automatic: jolts on 2–3 shifts and when braking
Engine (Hyundai/Kia Lambda (V6)): timing chain stretch at high mileage; oil leaks.
Gearbox (Hyundai/Kia automatic): kicks on the 2–3 shift and when braking; solenoid and clutch pack wear at high mileage.
Which one to choose
- Palisade I (LX2) — if you care more about: wheelbase, ground clearance.
The condition of a specific car matters more than the model: check the service history and get the engine and gearbox inspected before buying.
FAQ
Which is more powerful: Palisade I (LX2) or Santa Fe IV (TM)?
Palisade I (LX2): up to 249 hp, Santa Fe IV (TM): up to 249 hp.
Which has more ground clearance?
Palisade I (LX2): 203 mm, Santa Fe IV (TM): 185 mm.
What is the vehicle tax in Kazakhstan?
For 2026, for a car under 10 years old: Palisade I (LX2) — about 68 375 ₸, Santa Fe IV (TM) — about 68 375 ₸ (base engine). A 0.7 factor applies to cars aged 10–20 years and 0.5 to cars over 20.