2026 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. the Competition: Which Three-Row SUV Is The Best?

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe offers turbocharged power with 277 horsepower and a new eight-speed automatic transmission for smooth performance. Interior highlights of the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe include quilted Nappa leather and flexible seating for up to seven passengers. Pricing of the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe starts around $35,000 with Hyundai's industry-leading powertrain warranty. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe continues to turn heads with its distinctive boxy design and premium features that belie its accessible price point. With its angular wheel arches, H-shaped lighting signature, and squared-off silhouette, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe stands apart from the sea of rounded crossovers on today's roads. For 2026, Hyundai has made significant improvements, including a new transmission that enhances the driving experience and additional features across the lineup that elevate this already impressive vehicle to new heights. 2026 Vehicle Overview The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe model year brings several noteworthy updates. Most significantly, Hyundai has replaced the problematic eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission with a conventional eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission, on all gas-powered models. Additional updates include new equipment on the XRT, Limited, and Calligraphy trims, with the Limited now featuring standard second-row captain's chairs and dual wireless charging pads. The 2026 Santa Fe is available in both gas-only and hybrid configurations, offering buyers flexibility based on their priorities for power versus fuel efficiency. Performance Under the hood of every gas-powered 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe sits a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four engine that produces 277 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 311 pound-feet of torque at 1,700 rpm. The new eight-speed torque-converter automatic transmission represents a major improvement over the previous dual-clutch unit. The transmission delivers smooth and prompt shifts across 800 miles of testing, eliminating the juddering and clunking that plagued earlier models. The 2026 Santa Fe suspension employs struts up front and a multilink setup in the rear. It’s tuned to prioritize ride comfort over sharp handling dynamics. Towing capacity varies by configuration and equipment. Standard models can pull up to 3,500 pounds when equipped with trailer brakes, or 1,650 pounds without. The adventure-oriented XRT trim raises the maximum towing capacity to 4,500 pounds with trailer brakes. All models include trailer sway control and pre-wiring for trailer connections as standard equipment. MPG Fuel economy figures for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe vary based on drivetrain configuration and trim level. Front-wheel-drive gas models achieve EPA-estimated ratings of 20 mpg city and 29 mpg highway, translating to 24 mpg combined. Adding all-wheel drive slightly reduces highway efficiency to 28 mpg while maintaining the 20 mpg city rating, resulting in 23 mpg combined. The rugged XRT trim, with its taller ride height and all-terrain tires, returns 19 mpg city and 25 mpg highway for a combined rating of 21 mpg. The hybrid powertrain delivers substantially better fuel economy across the board. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid achieves 37 mpg city and 36 mpg highway with front-wheel drive, maintaining 36 mpg combined. All-wheel-drive hybrid models see slight decreases to 35 mpg city and 34 mpg highway, with a combined rating of 34 mpg. Top Speeds During testing, a 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy AWD reached 100 mph in 16.1 seconds and 130 mph in 35.5 seconds. For buyers seeking maximum speed, the 2026 Santa Fe Hybrid configuration can sprint from zero to 60 mph in approximately 7.8 seconds. In real-world testing, the gas-powered powertrain enables the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe to accelerate from zero to 60 mph in 6.3 seconds. Interior The cabin of the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe represents one of its strongest attributes, combining thoughtful design with quality materials and abundant technology. Material quality escalates as you move up the trim ladder. The base SE model features cloth upholstery with a fabric headliner. SEL and XRT trims upgrade to synthetic leather seating surfaces, while the Limited receives genuine leather upholstery with heated front seats. The range-topping Calligraphy boasts quilted Nappa leather seating, with a new Pecan Brown option joining the lineup for 2026. Seating configurations vary by trim and buyer preference. Standard models accommodate seven passengers across three rows with bench seating throughout. For 2026, the Limited trim now comes standard with second-row captain's chairs, reducing capacity to six passengers but creating a more luxurious middle-row experience with easier third-row access. Climate control receives thoughtful attention, with dual automatic climate control standard on SEL and higher trims. Cargo capacity proves generous and flexible. Behind the third row, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe offers 14.6 cubic space. Folding the third row expands capacity to 40.5 cubic feet, accommodating strollers, camping gear, or luggage for a family vacation. With both rear rows folded, maximum cargo volume reaches 79.6 cubic feet, rivaling many larger SUVs. Technology The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe comes equipped with an impressive array of technology features that enhance convenience, connectivity, and entertainment. A curved panoramic display dominates the dashboard, merging a 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster with a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen in a seamless, modern presentation. This dual-screen setup provides excellent visibility for both driver information and infotainment functions while maintaining an uncluttered appearance. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard across all trims. Multiple USB-C ports are distributed throughout the cabin, including high-power charging ports. The Calligraphy trim adds a 12-inch head-up display that projects critical driving information, including speed, navigation directions, and safety alerts, directly onto the windshield in the driver's line of sight. Audio quality varies by trim. Base models include a six-speaker audio system, while the Calligraphy tops the lineup with a premium Bose sound system featuring 12 speakers. Safety Safety represents a paramount consideration in the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe, which comes standard with Hyundai SmartSense. This comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies is designed to prevent accidents and protect occupants. Every 2026 Santa Fe includes forward collision warning with pedestrian and bicyclist detection, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure steering assist, lane-centering steering, front and rear cross-traffic alert, front and rear parking sensors, and a drive-monitoring system. The forward collision-avoidance system represents a significant upgrade for 2026. This system can detect vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists in the vehicle's path and automatically apply the brakes if the driver fails to respond to warnings. Price of the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe starts around $35,000 for the base SE trim with front-wheel drive. This entry price point provides access to three-row seating, the turbocharged 2.5-liter engine, comprehensive safety features, and the dual 12.3-inch display setup. It represents exceptional value in the midsize SUV segment. You can expect the top ranging 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy trim to cost around $48,000. Price by Trim The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe lineup consists of five distinct trim levels, each building upon the previous one with additional features and capabilities. Below prices are estimates only. We highly recommend that you visit your local Hyundai dealer in person to ensure 100% accurate pricing. SE: $35,050 SEL: $37,590 XRT: $42,040 Limited: $44,600 Calligraphy: $47,600 Hyundai Warranty The 2026 Santa Fe comes protected by Hyundai's comprehensive warranty package, often marketed as "America's Best Warranty." The centerpiece is a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty that covers the engine, transmission, and drivetrain components for the original owner. The powertrain warranty specifically covers internal engine components. A five-year/60,000-mile new vehicle limited warranty covers virtually all other components manufactured or installed by Hyundai. A seven-year/unlimited-mileage anti-perforation warranty protects against rust-through corrosion on body panels, demonstrating Hyundai's confidence in its corrosion protection processes. Five years of unlimited-mileage roadside assistance provides towing, battery jump-starts, flat tire changes, lockout service, and other emergency services. Test Drive a 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe at Tulsa Hyundai Specifications and reviews can only tell you so much about a vehicle. To truly understand whether the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is the right choice for your family, you need to experience it firsthand. Tulsa Hyundai invites you to schedule a test drive and discover what makes this bold midsize SUV such a compelling option in today's competitive market. Visit Tulsa Hyundai today to explore our Santa Fe inventory, which includes a variety of trims, colors, and configurations ready for immediate delivery. If you’d like to experience the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe for yourself, then Tulsa Hyundai has your back! If you’re not interested in the Santa Fe, then check out our plethora of other Hyundai vehicles. We carry the Hyundai Sonata, Hyundai Venue, Hyundai Santa Cruz, Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai Tucson, Hyundai Kona, Hyundai Palisade, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and the Hyundai Ioniq 6. We have an extensive certified pre-owned inventory where we’ll help you find something you enjoy. Phone 918-779-3064 Address 9777 S Memorial Dr., Tusla, OK 741333 Return to Blog

The pros of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe impresses with bold, distinctive styling, generous standard technology features, strong turbocharged and hybrid powertrains. Major cons of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe include cramped third-row seating and subpar fuel economy in non-hybrid models. While it competes against the Honda Pilot and Toyota Highlander, the pros and cons of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe make it stand out with its unique design and value pricing. The midsize SUV segment continues to be one of the most competitive in the automotive market. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe enters the arena with bold styling and ambitious updates. After a complete redesign, this three-row family hauler aims to compete with established favorites while offering Hyundai's signature value proposition. But does it deliver on all fronts? There’s no doubt there are countless pros of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe, but what about the cons? Vehicle Overview The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe represents a significant departure from its predecessor, featuring a boxy, rugged exterior design that channels Land Rover aesthetics while maintaining its own unique character. Available in multiple trim levels including SE, SEL, XRT, Limited, and Calligraphy, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offers seating for up to seven passengers across three rows. Under the hood, buyers can choose between a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 277 horsepower or a hybrid powertrain that combines a turbocharged engine with an electric motor for improved fuel efficiency. Both powertrains are mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission, with all-wheel drive available across the lineup. Pricing starts in the mid-$30,000 range and can climb above $45,000 for fully loaded models. The following pros and cons of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe that we go over below proves it is a force to be recockoned with. Pros of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe There are pros of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe that make it excel in several key areas. From its head-turning exterior design to its comprehensive warranty package, Hyundai has packed this redesigned model with attributes that appeal to families. The combination of advanced technology, strong performance options, and excellent value proposition creates a compelling package that challenges the status quo of what buyers should expect at this price point. Bold, Distinctive Styling The pros of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe includes the fact that it makes an immediate visual impact with its squared-off, assertive design language. Gone are the curved, anonymous lines of previous generations. This 2025 Santa Fe features a blocky silhouette with vertical lighting elements, prominent fender flares, and a commanding road presence. The H-shaped LED daytime running lights have become a signature design element that helps the vehicle stand out in crowded parking lots. While polarizing to some, this design philosophy gives the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe a premium appearance that punches above its price point. The interior continues this upscale theme with dual panoramic curved displays, high-quality materials, and thoughtful design touches that rival luxury competitors. For buyers seeking a vehicle that doesn't blend into the background, this pro of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe delivers personality in spades. Impressive Standard Features and Technology Impressive standard features and technology is another one of the pros of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe. Even base SE models come equipped with advanced safety features including forward collision avoidance, lane keeping assist, blind spot monitoring, and rear cross-traffic alert. The infotainment system features a user-friendly interface with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Higher trims add features like a head-up display, digital key functionality, and a premium sound system. The dual 12.3-inch curved display setup creates a modern, tech-forward cabin environment that feels contemporary and easy to navigate. This level of standard equipment is one of the pros of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe because buyers don't need to stretch their budget to higher trim levels just to access essential safety and convenience features. Strong Powertrain Options The turbocharged 2.5-liter engine delivers robust performance with 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. This provides confident acceleration for highway merging and passing maneuvers. The eight-speed automatic transmission shifts smoothly and intelligently, contributing to a refined driving experience. The hybrid variant offers an excellent alternative without sacrificing too much performance. This is one of the pros of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe for those prioritizing fuel efficiency. The hybrid powertrain seamlessly blends electric and gasoline power, delivering improved fuel economy that can significantly reduce ownership costs over time. Both powertrains feel well-suited to the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe mission as a family hauler. Comprehensive Warranty Coverage Hyundai's industry-leading warranty remains one of the brand's strongest selling points. The 2025 Santa Fe comes with a 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty and an impressive 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty. This extensive coverage provides peace of mind that few competitors can match, effectively reducing the financial risk of ownership during the critical early years. Additionally, Hyundai offers complimentary maintenance for the first year or 15,000 miles, further sweetening the ownership experience. For buyers concerned about long-term reliability or unexpected repair costs, this warranty coverage can be the deciding factor that tips the scales in Hyundai's favor. Cons of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Despite its many strengths, there are a few cons of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe. These drawbacks may be dealbreakers for certain buyers, particularly those with specific needs around passenger capacity and fuel efficiency. While no vehicle is perfect, understanding these limitations is crucial for making an informed purchase decision. Third-Row Space Limitations While one of the pros of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is that it offers three rows of seating, it’s also one of the cons. The third row of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is best reserved for children or very short trips with adults. Legroom and headroom are compromised in the wayback, and access requires a somewhat awkward climb past the second row. Additionally, with the third row in use, cargo space becomes limited. These factors make the third row an unintended con of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe. Fuel Economy Could Be Better (Non-Hybrid Models) While the turbocharged engine delivers satisfying performance, fuel efficiency takes a hit compared to some competitors. Non-hybrid 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe models achieve EPA estimates in the low-to-mid 30s mpg combined. This is considered one of the cons of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe because the fuel economy is merely adequate for the segment. The hybrid model addresses this concern, but it commands a premium price that may put it out of reach for budget-conscious buyers. How Does It Compare to the Competition? The midsize three-row SUV segment is fiercely competitive, with established players like the Honda Pilot, Toyota Highlander, and Mazda CX-90. The Honda Pilot offers a more spacious and usable third row along with legendary reliability, though it lacks the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe bold styling and feature-rich standard equipment. The Toyota Highlander, particularly in hybrid form, delivers superior fuel economy and Toyota's reputation for bulletproof dependability. However, its conservative design and higher pricing may deter some shoppers. The Mazda CX-90 provides a more premium driving experience with upscale materials and engaging handling. Its smaller interior dimensions and higher price, though, position it slightly differently in the market. Where the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe distinguishes itself is in the combination of bold design, generous standard features, and competitive pricing. It offers a more distinctive appearance than the more conservative Honda and Toyota entries, while undercutting many competitors on price when similarly equipped. The comprehensive warranty coverage also provides an advantage that shouldn't be overlooked. Experience the Pros and Cons of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe at Tulsa Hyundai The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe represents a compelling option in the crowded midsize SUV market, offering bold styling, generous standard equipment, strong performance, and excellent warranty coverage. Ultimately, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is best suited for families who prioritize style, technology, and value. This vehicle is for those who won't regularly need the third row for adult passengers. For those who can live with its compromises, the pros of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offers a fresh, appealing alternative to segment stalwarts. As with any vehicle purchase, potential buyers should take a thorough test drive, evaluate their specific needs. If you’d like to experience the pros and cons of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe for yourself, then Tulsa Hyundai has your back! If you’re not interested in the Santa Fe, then check out our plethora of other Hyundai vehicles including the Hyundai Sonata, Hyundai Venue, Hyundai Santa Cruz, Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai Tucson, Hyundai Kona, Hyundai Palisade, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and the Hyundai Ioniq 6. We have an extensive certified pre-owned inventory where we’ll help you find something you enjoy. Phone 918-779-3064 Address 9777 S Memorial Dr., Tusla, OK 741333 Return to Blog

The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe has designs that deliver an exceptionally epic driving experience, from inside to out. Notable updates for the 2025 Santa Fe include improved technological aspects as well as further building on the exterior design. Buy the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe from Tulsa Hyundai and elevate your driving experience today! Are you tired of the constant complaints in your car? What about lack of legroom, endless arguments over cup holders, or the need to adjust the temperature for everyone in the back? Yeah… that’s what we thought. If you have found that your daily commute or road trips have become everything except convenient, comfortable, and efficient, it’s time for a change. That positive change could be the Hyundai Santa Fe! The Hyundai Santa Fe takes any kind of driving to the next level. 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe Overview The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is the perfect SUV for those who need space, safety, AND versatility. With three-row configuration, two of which are foldable, the 2025 Santa Fe makes it easy to provide the ride you desire. For the new model year, we see minimal updates as the model is still riding high with the full exterior redesign the 2024 model underwent. The 2025 Santa Fe retains its bold, boxy exterior, longer wheelbase, and standard third-row seating. The cabin, though, does see some updated features and upgraded materials. Also inside the cabin, a revised center console with updated HVAC controls, and a refreshed steering wheel design has been implemented. Wheel options range from 18 to 20 inches, and the only notable change for the exterior is the introduction of a new Atlantis Blue color. Engine Under the hood, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe offers a turbocharged 2.5-liter inline-four engine, delivering an impressive 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. Whether you choose the front-wheel drive or all-wheel drive configuration, this SUV drives like a dream. Both engines are paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission. The smooth handling and sturdy suspension ensure a comfortable ride, even on the roughest roads. Top Speeds With an estimated top speed of 135 mph for the non-hybrid version, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is quick AND capable. The hybrid model reaches a top speed of 119 mph, just a little lower than the non-hybrid. Acceleration is also  impressive. With the ability to go from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.3 seconds, this is a notable achievement for an SUV in this class. MPG The 2025 Santa Fe offers impressive fuel economy for its size. The front-wheel drive version achieves 20 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. While the all-wheel drive drops the highway figure to 28 mpg. For those who choose the rugged XRT trim, the fuel economy stands at 19 mpg in the city and 26 mpg on the highway. Rest assured that each engine option gets the power you need without sacrificing efficiency. Interior The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is definitely designed with families in mind. The spacious cabin boasts a boxy, strong design with plenty of functional storage spaces along the doors. Generous legroom and dual-zone climate control make it even better for families. The Limited and Calligraphy trims even feature a UV-C sterilization compartment, which can eliminate up to 99.9% of germs from exposed surfaces—perfect for families with kids. Safety Features The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe comes equipped with a robust suite of safety features to give you peace of mind on every journey. Standard features include: forward-collision warning automated emergency braking adaptive cruise control lane-departure warning lane-keeping assist automatic parking Infotainment The infotainment system is centered around two 12.3-inch displays, one serving as a gauge cluster and the other as a touchscreen for easy access to multimedia and navigation controls. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, and dual-phone charging pads are available for added convenience. The intuitive climate control and audio volume are adjusted via simple knobs, ensuring ease of use while keeping your focus on the road. Price of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe is packed with value, providing premium features at a competitive price. The price of the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe starts at around $35,000 for the lowest trim, and goes up from there. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE trim is the well-equipped base model with a large 12.3-inch touchscreen and full suite of safety features. Going up another level, the SEL trim adds heated seats, wireless charging, and Hyundai Digital Key 2. Built for adventure with standard AWD, the XRT trim has a higher towing capacity, and rugged styling. The Limited trim elevates luxury with leather seats, a surround view monitor, and premium Bose audio. Lastly, the most upscale option is the Calligraphy trim. This trim comes with high-end materials, exclusive styling, and top-tier tech. Price of the 2025 Santa Fe by Trim The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe prices by trim below are all estimates and might change depending on additional features and location. To ensure 100% accurate prices, be sure to visit your local Hyundai dealer in person. SE – $34,300 SEL – $38,175 XRT – $42,325 Limited – $45,075 Calligraphy – $48,225 Hyundai Warranty Hyundai offers an exceptional warranty with all 2025 Hyundai models. Our warranty includes a 5-year or 60,000-mile limited warranty and a 10-year or 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Additionally, Hyundai includes complimentary maintenance for the first 3 years or 36,000 miles, ensuring peace of mind long after your purchase. Buy a 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe at Tulsa Hyundai If you’re looking to buy a Hyundai Santa Fe in Oklahoma, Tulsa Hyundai is the place to go. With a vast inventory of new Hyundai vehicles, knowledgeable staff, and competitive financing options, Tulsa Hyundai makes the car-buying process seamless. If you’d like to enjoy the smooth ride of the Hyundai Santa Fe, then Tulsa Hyundai has your back! If you’re not interested in the Santa Cruz, then check out our plethora of other vehicles including the Hyundai Sonata, Hyundai Venue, Hyundai Santa Cruz, Hyundai Santa Fe, Hyundai Tucson, Hyundai Kona, Hyundai Palisade, Hyundai Ioniq 5, and the Hyundai Ioniq 6. We have an extensive certified pre-owned inventory where we’ll help you find something you enjoy. Phone 918-779-3064 Address 9777 S Memorial Dr., Tusla, OK 741333 Return to Blog