5 Reasons to Choose the 2026 Palisade Hybrid

Pickup truck drivers have always been a diverse group. They have different ideas as to what makes a truck ideal. Among those who enjoy pickup trucks are commuters looking for something that can handle the daily commute. The Hyundai Santa Cruz is a preferred option among the offerings that many drivers enjoy. A 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz for sale near Farragut offers economical performance, advanced technology, and agile handling, all at an affordable price. Among the vehicles that the Santa Cruz competes against is the Honda Ridgeline. Determining which one is ideal for the daily drive is an important choice, which is why we're here today. We're taking a close look at both trucks and determining which one is ideal for drivers in Farragut. We'll look at the factors many drivers consider when purchasing a vehicle, such as pricing, fuel economy, technology, and more. Once you've finished reading, you'll be ready to take a test drive. Pricing There are many factors that truck drivers consider when making a purchase. Some focus on performance, while others favor capability. However, any driver will immediately notice the price of a potential vehicle first. We'll begin our examination here. The 2026 Honda Ridgeline has a starting MSRP of $40,795. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz has a much lower starting MSRP of $29,750. When it comes to cost, it's almost no contest. The Santa Cruz is far more affordable than the Ridgeline. The amount you pay for a vehicle determines many additional costs, such as insurance premiums, taxes, and licensing fees. Hyundai offers you more for your money, in more ways than one.. Performance If you ask the average truck driver in Farragut, they'll tell you that performance is crucial when choosing an ideal pickup. Both vehicles feature powertrains that deliver good performance and capability. However, only one of these vehicles offers the conservative fuel economy that many commuters seek. Looking at the Honda Ridgeline's performance, one notices a surprising lack of variety. It only offers one powertrain with poor fuel efficiency. Every Ridgeline is equipped with a single powertrain, a 3.5L V6 that produces 280 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque. The Ridgeline's engine is paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Ridgeline only comes with all-wheel drive. While that's ideal for off-roading, it's less efficient for commuters who favor fuel economy. The 2026 Ridgeline offers 18 MPG in the city, 24 MPG on the highway, and 21 MPG combined. Variety and versatility are two aspects that all vehicle shoppers enjoy. Hyundai's compact pickup offers more powertrain options than the Ridgeline, made for both economy and performance. The base powertrain of the Hyundai Santa Cruz is geared toward drivers who favor fuel economy for daily commuting. Hyundai's base 2.5L I-4 delivers plenty of performance, producing 191 hp and 181 lb-ft of torque. Unlike the Ridgeline, the base powertrain of the Snata Cruz can be paired with either front-wheel drive for commuting or AWD for off-roading. FWD models of the Santa Cruz can achieve 22 MPG in the city, 30 MPG on the highway, and 25 MPG combined. AWD models are almost as efficient, with 21 MPG in the city, 29 MPG on the highway, and 24 MPG combined. An advantage that the Santa Cruz has over the Ridgeline is its variety. For drivers who prefer performance with their pickup, an available turbocharged 2.5L I-4 outmuscles the Ridgeline's V6. The turbocharged engine produces 281 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. No matter which engine you choose, the Santa Cruz delivers a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 lbs. That's the same as the Ridgeline delivers with a bigger, less efficient engine. Performance is crucial to any pickup truck. For all of the Ridgeline's capabilities, it lacks variety and efficiency. The Hyundai Santa Cruz gives Farragut drivers the choice between an engine that's built for either performance or economy. Infotainment and Connectivity The modern driver is well-connected to technology. As such, many commuters enjoy infotainment systems that keep them connected to apps and other features. The Ridgeline and Santa Cruz both have intuitive systems that keep drivers connected when they're on the road. Honda's pickup truck comes with a nine-inch infotainment screen. The setup offers connectivity to many of the basics drivers enjoy, including wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, streaming audio via Bluetooth, wireless phone charging, navigation, dynamic voice recognition, and multiple USB ports. The Santa Cruz offers many of the same infotainment capabilities as the Ridgeline, and more. A distinctive advantage is the larger 12.3-inch screen that comes standard on all models. It also offers SiriusXM and HD radio, providing two options for your listening experience that the Ridgeline does not. Both rows of seating get their own USB ports to keep everyone's devices charged. Only Hyundai offers Hyundai Pay, which lets you pay for gas and parking without reaching for your wallet or phone. Both trucks offer infotainment systems with several connectivity features. However, the larger screen on the Santa Cruz is standard across all trims, and even more features are available. For a more enjoyable commute, drivers in Farragut will be impressed with what Hyundai has to offer. Driving Assistance Technology Drivers have different priorities when it comes to their vehicles. However, nothing will ever be more important than being safe on the road ahead. The Ridgeline and Santa Cruz both come equipped with several driving-assistance and safety features that provide drivers with the protection and oversight they need. The Ridgeline comes with Honda Sensing, a comprehensive suite of features that help keep drivers safe. It includes a collision-mitigation braking system, a road-departure mitigation system, forward collision warning, a lane-departure warning system, a lane-keeping assist system, adaptive cruise control, a blind-spot information system, a cross-traffic monitor, and auto high-beam headlights. The 2026 Santa Cruz comes with Hyundai Smart Sense. It includes many of the same features as Honda Sensing. However, for drivers who prioritize safety, some of these items are more advanced and offer better peace of mind, such as forward collision avoidance assist with pedestrian, cyclist, and junction turning detection, blind-spot view monitor, smart cruise control with stop-and-go technology, highway driving assist, navigation-based smart cruise control with curve control, intelligent speed limit assist, and surround view monitor. Both the Honda Ridgeline and Hyundai Santa Cruz come with an abundance of safety features. However, Hyundai's driving assistance technologies are more intuitive and advanced. Regardless of where you go, you'll have the peace of mind that comes from being well-protected. Final Verdict: The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz is the Preferred Choice for Farragut After reviewing both the 2026 Honda Ridgeline and Hyundai Santa Cruz, it's easy to see which vehicle is more ideal for drivers in Farragut. The Santa Cruz offers more options, including an engine with better performance and another with more conservative fuel economy. A larger infotainment screen is standard on all Santa Cruz trims. Advanced items like wireless charging and navigation are joined by a system that ensures connectivity. The Santa Cruz offers drivers the same basic driving assistance features as the Ridgeline. However, it also offers more advanced technologies that reflect Hyundai's brand of innovation. It also costs considerably less than the Ridgeline, making it more accessible to commuters. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz offers Farragut drives everything they're looking for in not just a truck, but a commuter vehicle. You can test drive one today at Rusty Wallace Hyundai.

On the hunt for a Hyundai Santa Cruz for sale near Farragut? Come check out this compact truck at Rusty Wallace Hyundai! One of our Santa Cruz experts can show you all that this fun and flexible model has to offer. And if you're considering other compact trucks, like the Ford Maverick, we can explain why the Santa Cruz is the superior choice. more The Santa Cruz is classified as a Sport Adventure Vehicle, more than a compact truck, and when you get to know it better, we think you’ll understand why. Everything about it was clearly made with exploration in mind! Today, we’re going to look at some performance perks that we believe wanderlusts are going to love, and explain how the 2026 Ford Maverick compares. Let’s dive in! A Comfortable Driving Experience One of the greatest advantages of the Santa Cruz over the Maverick is its ride feel. Overall, you’ll notice that the Santa Cruz absorbs turbulence and adapts to bumpy roads better than the Maverick, which some drivers find to be a bit stiff. And that was by design, because Hyundai wants the Santa Cruz to offer a crossover feel, more than a truck feel. So, how does it achieve this smooth ride? A Multi-Link Rear Suspension The Santa Cruz has its fully independent multi-link rear suspension to thank for its comfortable ride. This unique suspension allows for multi-axis wheel movement, which is a fancy way of saying that when one wheel hits a bump, the other doesn’t feel it. The suspension allows for better mobility and an impressive turning radius, too, so it’s ready for twists and turns. While the Ford Maverick does offer this type of suspension, it’s only available on AWD models. Meanwhile, the Santa Cruz offers it standard on FWD and AWD models. So you don’t need to opt for AWD to enjoy the premium ride provided by the independent multi-link suspension. As a result, FWD Mavericks can have a stiffer, more utilitarian feel, rather than a crossover feel. A More Mobile Platform The platform supporting each of these vehicles also contributes to their on-the-road feel. The Santa Cruz is built on the N3 platform, which it shares with the Tucson. The N3 platform is designed to reduce harshness, all around, from road vibrations to noise, for a pleasant experience for the driver and passengers. The Maverick is built on the Ford C2 platform, which it shares with the Escape. It’s designed for utility applications and has a stiffer feel. So you’re going to feel every bump in the road more intensely. Superior AWD When the rainy season arrives in Farragut, you’ll be better off in the Santa Cruz, thanks to its advanced AWD system. It boasts Hyundai’s proprietary HTRAC AWD system, which works in a predictive rather than reactive manner. HTRAC AWD relies on electronic sensors to constantly monitor multiple inputs, including steering, throttle, and speed. The sensors then adjust torque delivery based on real-time information, instantaneously. That means you can get enhanced traction and stability as conditions change  The Ford Maverick’s AWD system is a bit more traditional, operating in a more reactive rather than predictive way. The Maverick’s AWD system is designed for those focusing on towing, hauling, and off-road use, while the Santa Cruz’s AWD system is designed more for everyday comfort and command on normal (but wet) roads. So if you’re after AWD ready for winter conditions, get the Santa Cruz. If you want AWD right for the trails, the Maverick is the one. Higher Towing and Horsepower Plan on doing a lot of towing around or outside of Farragut? The Hyundai Santa Cruz is the top choice because it offers 5,000 lbs of towing capacity. The Ford Maverick maxes out at 4,000 lbs, meaning you can tow 1,000 more lbs in the Santa Cruz. That's 20 percent more towing power, and it will make a big difference when you need to tow, well, a big boat, camper, or trailer. Not only can the Santa Cruz tow more, but it also has a higher max horsepower. The Santa Cruz’s top hp figure sits at 280, whereas the Maverick’s sits at 250. So not only can the Santa Cruz tow more, but it also has the muscle to back it up. When you need to accelerate, merge or go uphill whilst towing, the Santa Cruz hp can handle the job. A Better Warranty With the sky-high costs of maintaining a vehicle today, warranties matter — a lot. And, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Cruz has a better one than the Ford Maverick. Let’s take a quick look at the most important powertrains and how long you’re covered for in the Santa Cruz: Powertrain: 10 years or 100,000 miles Bumper-to-bumper: 5 years or 60,000 miles Roadside assistance: 5 years, unlimited miles Now let’s look at the same coverage for the Maverick: Powertrain: 5 years or 60,000 miles Bumper-to-bumper: 3 years or 36,000 miles Roadside assistance: 5 years or 60,000 miles The biggest difference that probably stood out right away is the powertrain. A vehicle’s powertrain contains everything that keeps it moving, like the engine, transmission, driveshaft, and differentials. Repairing or replacing any of these (especially the engine) can be astronomically expensive. The Santa Cruz’s powertrain coverage lasts twice as long for original owners if you go by years, and 40,000 extra miles if you go by distance. That’s a huge difference. In fact, it might outlast how long you even own the vehicle. The Maverick, on the other hand…could leave you footing a major bill if powertrain issues arise after that 5-year or 60,000-mile mark. The bumper-to-bumper warranty will cover most components between two bumpers, including the infotainment systems, safety features, air conditioning, steering, suspension, and brakes. Having two extra years of coverage in the Santa Cruz could also save you a substantial amount of money. Both vehicles offer 5 years of roadside assistance, but the Maverick has a mileage cap. Meanwhile, you’ll enjoy roadside assistance for unlimited miles in the Santa Cruz, making it the ideal choice for someone who exceeds the average annual mileage. See the Santa Cruz at Rusty Wallace Hyundai If you’re looking for an easy-to-drive compact truck that adapts to your environment and makes every mile more pleasant, come check out the Santa Cruz! With its predictive HTRAC AWD, the Santa Cruz optimizes traction, and its independent multi-link rear suspension delivers a smooth ride over bumpy roads. Its impressive towing and hp figures make a range of tasks and maneuvers easier. And its crossover frame makes for easy rides. Plus, its generous warranties provide peace of mind and real money-saving benefits, much longer than the Maverick’s. We’re proud to offer the Santa Cruz to Farragut drivers who want a fun, flexible, and efficient truck! With every Santa Cruz trim in stock, and more arriving daily, we have so many models to explore. Our in-house Hyundai specialists can give you an overview of every trim and help you understand which one offers the features you need. Then our finance team can secure a lease or loan that fits your budget. Visit us today for a test drive! The Santa Cruz is waiting for you!

It might seem a little early to call it, but the 2026 Hyundai Tucson Hybrid already looks to be the odds-on favorite in the compact crossover segment. The SUV was just treated to a thorough refresh back in 2025, which saw the Tucson add advanced infotainment tech and a little extra power under the hood. While the 2026 model returns largely unchanged, that does nothing to reduce the crossover’s appeal. Hyundai was early to the hybrid party, with the Tucson adopting an electrically assisted powertrain in 2022. The technology is only improving over time, with the automaker adding new features like a customizable My Drive mode and even a Baby mode that’s designed to keep infants safely ensconced in dreamland by muffling the hybrid’s throttle response. Let’s take a brief tour of the SUV’s 2026 trim ladder and see why so many drivers are looking for a Hyundai Tucson for sale. more Blue SE Hyundai goes green with an eco-friendly base model dubbed the Tucson Blue SE. The hybrid’s 1.6L four-cylinder engine is a bit smaller than the 2.0L version you’ll find on the gas-powered model, but actually produces more power even more efficiently thanks to two performance-enhancing components. First is the integrated turbocharger, which adds a bit of forced induction to squeeze 231 hp from the modest mill, compared to 187 hp in the standard Tucson. Second is the crossover’s hybrid powertrain. A 64 hp electric motor provides more than enough power to push the compact down the road, and up the SUV’s torque by some 50 percent. With an EPA-estimated 38 MPG combined, the Tucson Hybrid is the most efficient version on offer, eclipsing the internal combustion (ICE) version by 10 MPG and even besting the plug-in hybrid (PHEV) by 3 MPG. Like every trim, the Blue SE routes its power through a six-speed automatic transmission that’s a satisfying replacement for the continuously variable transmissions (CVT) found on many of its competitors. The same goes for the SUV’s standard AWD powertrain, which both increases the model’s utility and makes the Tucson a value-packed alternative to the typical crossover. In addition to its convincing performance profile, the Tucson Hybrid also includes a well-rounded interior complete with a 12.3-inch infotainment display, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smartphone connectivity, and ample USB-C ports spread throughout the cabin. LED headlights effectively cut through dark, dreary conditions, and the base model even includes proximity keyless entry with push-button start, improving the SUV’s accessibility and ergonomic appeal. SEL The SEL sees the Tucson Hybrid cut a unique figure with 18-inch wheels and a set of roof rails that serve both an aesthetic and practical function. The roof rails not only up the SUV’s sporty appeal, but they also allow the Tucson to improve on its 80 cu.ft. of cargo space with additional rooftop storage, accommodating rooftop tents, bike racks, kayak holders, and other adventure gear. Many of the SEL’s upgrades focus on improving the crossover’s comfort and convenience. The trim works a treat, adding a hands-free power liftgate, a power-adjustable driver's seat, heated front seats, and more, so every passenger can ride in comfort. Like the Blue SE, the SEL packs an extensive array of advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) that are sure to provide drivers with a healthy sense of confidence every time they step behind the wheel. From relatively basic features like lane-centering and forward collision warning with automatic emergency braking to premium tech like adaptive cruise control and even a driver attention warning system that monitors the operator for signs of distracted or drowsy driving, Hyundai has leveraged the latest safety tech to make the 2026 Tucson safer than ever. The strategy seems to have worked a treat with the new model landing a coveted five-star overall safety rating from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). SEL Convenience The SEL Convenience does just what it says on the box, imbuing the 2026 Tucson Hybrid with time-saving tech and other great features that create a seamless, satisfying ride. The crossover’s 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display is already one of the market’s most generous standard offerings, and the SEL Convenience allows buyers to double down on their screen time with the addition of a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. The display can be customized to show whatever information you deem most relevant, without the distractions that can come with a cluttered set of gauges. A wireless smartphone charger means more time on the road and less time overturning couch cousins in the search for the right cable. The SEL Convenience also adds premium materials and modern style, including H-Tex upholstery and an ambient interior lighting system to help set the mood. Limited If you’re hunting for a refined ride that puts a premium on comfort, convenience, and high-end materials, look no further than the Tucson’s Limited trim. Despite the name, there’s no limit to the crossover’s potential, with the trim offering an indulgent suite of contemporary tech and ride-enhancing components while still keeping the starting price well within the range of the average buyer. A panoramic sunroof sheds plenty of light on the SUV’s interior, illuminating the Limited’s heated, ventilated, and power-adjustable leather seats. A heated steering wheel and heated rear seats will also help keep everyone cozy when cold winter weather hits Tennessee, and an exclusive set of 19-inch wheels goes a long way towards upping the Tucson’s curb appeal. However, it’s the advanced infotainment and safety tech that really deserves a closer look. A Bose premium audio system delivers a high-fidelity listening experience that’ll breathe new life into your favorite playlist, and the dashboard gains some futuristic appeal with a head-up display that projects relevant driving data directly onto the windshield for easy reference. Hyundai’s ADAS arsenal is expanded with key tech like front, side, and rear parking sensors, a parking collision-avoidance feature, a 360-degree surround-view camera system, and even a blind-spot camera that routes a live feed of that hard-to-see area directly to the digital instrument panel. Tucson PHEV In addition to the traditional hybrid powertrain, the 2026 Tucson Hybrid is available as a plug-in hybrid in the SEL and Limited trims. This option allows the model to reach its full performance potential. The PHEV is powered by the same 1.6L turbocharged I-4 engine, but a more powerful electric motor and a larger 13.8 kWh battery help the SUV churn out 268 hp. If you don't plug it in, the Tucson PHEV isn’t quite as efficient as the regular hybrid, but it still represents a significant improvement over your typical gas-burning SUV. When running on its gas engine, it gets an estimated 35 MPG combined. However, if you charge the battery, the 2026 Tucson PHEV can travel an estimated 33 miles solely on battery power, getting an exceptional 77 MPGe. The ability to drive on electricity over shorter distances makes the Tucson PHEV an enticing prospect for drivers looking to save a little cash as they commute into town. Step Into a Hybrid at Rusty Wallace Hyundai From its potent powertrain options with standard AWD to its unparalleled efficiency to its tech-forward cabin, there’s a lot to get excited about when it comes to the 2026 Tucson Hybrid. That said, we haven’t even touched on one of the SUV’s biggest selling points. Like all Hyundai models, the new Tucson Hybrid is backed by one of the industry’s most comprehensive warranty programs. The brand’s five-year/60,000-mile limited warranty and 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty are exceptional, and even include three years or 36,000 miles of complimentary maintenance. Factor in the Tucson Hybrid’s low starting price, and it’s easy to see why this SUV has become one of the market’s best-selling electrified models. Hyundai’s popular crossover isn’t just a good deal on the day of sale; its generous warranty means that you'll be able to avoid the big-ticket repairs that can turn even the best bargain into a financial burden. Still have questions about the hybrid lifestyle, or just want to test drive the new 2026 Tucson for yourself? Cruise into Rusty Wallace Hyundai and learn how this compact crossover can pave the way to a more efficient driving experience.