Connecticut’s winter roads demand more than just good traction. Between icy morning commutes, snow-packed highways, and sudden sleet, drivers need an SUV designed to handle unpredictable conditions with confidence and comfort. Hyundai’s two flagship SUVs, the Palisade and Santa Fe, stand out for their versatility, advanced safety systems, and winter-ready technology. Both are available at Shaker’s Family Hyundai, part of the Shaker Auto Group, which has built a trusted reputation across Connecticut for delivering vehicles that match the region’s unique driving needs.
Understanding how each model performs in real-world winter conditions helps drivers choose the right fit for their lifestyle. Here’s how the 2025 Hyundai Palisade and the newly redesigned 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe compare when it comes to handling New England’s toughest months.
Power and Performance in Winter Conditions
When snow begins to fall, reliable power and all-wheel drive capability become nonnegotiable. The Hyundai Palisade is equipped with a 3.8-liter V6 engine producing 291 horsepower, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. It offers Hyundai’s HTRAC All-Wheel Drive system, which automatically distributes torque between front and rear wheels for optimal grip. The Palisade’s Snow Mode enhances traction and throttle response, giving it steady control even on icy slopes or unplowed roads.
The Hyundai Santa Fe takes a slightly different approach. The 2025 redesign introduces a more rugged, outdoors-oriented character with available turbocharged hybrid powertrains delivering up to 277 horsepower. Its HTRAC All-Wheel Drive system also includes Snow Mode, and its lighter frame makes it agile and responsive during sudden turns or slippery conditions. For drivers who face mixed urban and rural commutes, the Santa Fe’s combination of power and efficiency offers a well-balanced advantage.
Ride Comfort and Cabin Warmth During Cold Months
Cold-weather driving isn’t just about traction, it’s also about comfort. The Hyundai Palisade delivers a premium interior experience, ideal for families navigating winter road trips. Tri-zone automatic climate control, heated front and rear seats, and an available heated steering wheel create a warm retreat from the cold. With its quiet cabin and refined ride quality, it feels more like a luxury SUV than a family hauler.
The Santa Fe focuses on functionality and modern design. The 2025 model’s more squared profile allows for exceptional visibility, which is especially helpful in snowy or foggy conditions. Heated front seats come standard on many trims, while ventilated seats remain available for those unpredictable New England spring days. For smaller families or drivers who prefer a mid-size footprint, the Santa Fe provides a cozier yet equally comfortable winter driving experience.
Which SUV Offers Better Safety for Connecticut Winters?
Hyundai’s commitment to safety technology shines in both the Palisade and Santa Fe. Each model includes Hyundai SmartSense, a suite of advanced driver assistance features that make navigating winter roads safer and less stressful. Standard technologies such as Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance are particularly valuable when visibility is low.
Where the Palisade distinguishes itself is with its Highway Driving Assist and Surround View Monitor, offering 360-degree camera coverage. This makes parking or maneuvering in snow-covered lots far easier. The Santa Fe, on the other hand, benefits from newer safety software tuned to its redesigned architecture. Its updated cameras and sensors provide sharper detection for pedestrians and other vehicles even in poor weather.
For families who often travel with passengers in unpredictable winter conditions, the Palisade’s larger build and full set of assistive systems make it slightly better equipped for peace of mind. For solo drivers or smaller households, the Santa Fe’s agile handling and compact dimensions are excellent for daily commutes through icy urban routes.
Ground Clearance and Winter Terrain Capability
One of the most common winter driving questions is: which SUV handles deeper snow better? Ground clearance plays a big role here. The Hyundai Palisade offers about 7.9 inches of clearance, while the 2025 Santa Fe edges slightly higher at 8.1 inches thanks to its new adventure-inspired design. That small difference gives the Santa Fe a slight advantage when navigating unplowed side roads or parking lots blanketed with snow.
However, the Palisade’s longer wheelbase provides enhanced stability at highway speeds. On slippery stretches of I-84 or Route 8, that steadiness makes long-distance winter travel more comfortable and predictable.
Interior Space and Practicality for Winter Gear
Whether it’s hockey bags, snow shovels, or ski equipment, Connecticut winters mean carrying extra gear. The Palisade’s spacious three-row layout comfortably accommodates up to eight passengers, with generous cargo space even with the third row in use. Power-folding seats make it easy to load bulkier winter essentials without hassle.
The Santa Fe, now larger than its previous generation, offers a two-row layout with flexible storage and a wide liftgate opening. The new boxier design maximizes interior space, making it surprisingly capable for its size. For households that regularly pack up for weekend ski trips or snow day getaways, both SUVs deliver impressive functionality, but families needing more space for passengers will likely find the Palisade more accommodating.
Fuel Efficiency and Winter Economy
Fuel economy can fluctuate during cold months, and efficiency becomes an important consideration for daily drivers. The Santa Fe’s available hybrid configuration gives it a clear edge here, providing better mileage without sacrificing performance. The Palisade’s V6 delivers strong acceleration and towing power but consumes more fuel, especially in all-wheel drive mode.
For commuters covering longer distances or those looking to minimize gas costs during winter, the Santa Fe’s hybrid model offers a compelling advantage. For drivers prioritizing power and highway stability, the Palisade remains the more confident choice.
Which Hyundai SUV Is Right for Connecticut Drivers?
Choosing between the Palisade and Santa Fe comes down to lifestyle and priorities. The Palisade is ideal for families who need space, power, and top-tier comfort for long trips through New England winters. It’s a commanding SUV with luxurious amenities and a focus on passenger security.
The Santa Fe, meanwhile, caters to those who appreciate modern design, fuel efficiency, and maneuverability in tight or congested winter traffic. Its refreshed styling, enhanced safety tech, and elevated ground clearance make it a versatile performer on both icy roads and city streets.
Final Thoughts: Where to Find the Best Winter SUV in Connecticut
Both the Hyundai Palisade and Santa Fe are engineered to thrive in Connecticut’s winter environment. Whether you value size and luxury or efficiency and agility, Hyundai’s engineering ensures confidence in every mile.
For drivers ready to compare the two models in person, Shaker’s Family Hyundai offers both SUVs with knowledgeable staff ready to match each driver’s needs to the right vehicle. With deep roots in the community and a reputation built on trust, Shaker’s Family Hyundai continues to help Connecticut drivers find SUVs built for every season, especially winter.
*Penned by AI, polished by humans
Categories:
Hyundai
