For many mainstream automakers, their best-selling model typically sits in the popular two-row compact crossover segment. That’s true for Honda (CR-V), Toyota (RAV4), and Nissan (Rogue). For Hyundai, its best-seller in the U.S. has traditionally been the Tucson, but that picture has changed based on the latest October sales results. By the narrowest of margins, the three-row Santa Fe outsold the Tucson last month, a rare occurrence that suggests more buyers are gravitating towards the former’s better practicality.
Tucson Vs. Santa Fe Sales
Hyundai
Cole Attisha
While the Santa Fe set a new record for October sales, the Tucson experienced a decline. However, the Tucson remains the best-selling Hyundai model in 2026 so far.
| October 2026 | October 25 | % Change | 2026 YTD | 2025 YTD | % Change | |
| Hyundai Santa Fe | 17,959 | 11,800 | +52% | 121,074 | 113,960 | +6% |
| Hyundai Tucson | 17,808 | 23,036 | -23% | 199,495 | 188,275 | +6% |
With a huge 52% increase in sales versus October 2025, the Hyundai Santa Fe outsold its smaller sibling by just 151 units. The Santa Fe’s boxy styling, spacious interior, and punchy 277-horsepower engine appear to have found favor with American buyers. Starting at $35,300 for the 2027 model year, it’s one of the cheapest three-row crossovers on sale in the country.
The Tucson’s decline last month may be due to the fact that an all-new generation of the two-row crossover was revealed recently. Expected to go on sale in 2027, it has an entirely fresh design and a decidedly premium interior. As good as the current model still is, some buyers may have decided to wait for the new one.
The Santa Fe and Tucson have both seen a 6% increase in year-to-date sales.
Hyundai Posts Record October Sales
Hyundai
As with Kia, its corporate sibling, Hyundai’s overall sales shattered more records in October. Hyundai sold 73,452 vehicles in the U.S. last month, an increase of 5%. Besides the Santa Fe, the Palisade also set a new October record with 10,840 units of the SUV being sold. After the Santa Fe, the fastest-growing models were the Kona (+21%), Ioniq 5 (+21%), and Elantra (+17%).
Sales of hybrid Hyundai models also set a new record, with a 20% increase. Of all Hyundais sold, 29% of them were hybrids in October. For the year, hybrid sales are up by 50% so far.
“We had our best October ever, and customers responded across our lineup,” said Randy Parker, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor North America. “Retail grew 9%, a clear sign that customers are choosing Hyundai, and hybrids surged 20% to account for 29% of our total sales. Santa Fe grew 52%, Kona and Ioniq 5 each grew 21%, Elantra grew 17% and Palisade grew 14%, with Santa Fe and Palisade setting October records. Whether shoppers want an SUV, a hybrid or an EV, we have something for them.”
Not every Hyundai had a great October, though. The Ioniq 9 was down to just 169 units, a 47% drop. The midsize Sonata reached sales of 3,054 units, a decline of 29%.
What It Means
Hyundai
The Hyundai Santa Fe has flown somewhat under the radar for many years. The brand’s Tucson has been a consistent sales hit, while the Palisade provides the space, power, and luxury customers love at a higher price point. However, the latest Santa Fe may just be the sweet spot in the Hyundai SUV lineup and it seems that buyers are noticing.
As a brand, Hyundai continues to have a strong year. Year-to-date sales are up by 3% and the brand is seeing high demand for electrified models. However, Kia is growing at an even faster rate (+6% YTD), suggesting that Hyundai may not be the best-selling Korean marque in the U.S. for much longer.
About the author
Karl Furlong is a senior editor at Autoblog covering industry news, luxury cars, in-car technology, sales trends and model comparisons with more than nine years of experience as an automotive writer.
