The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe: A Deep Dive from a Seasoned Driver
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe has arrived, and after a week of testing and evaluation, it’s time to give you the straight goods. I’ve been driving SUVs for over a decade, everything from bare-bones workhorses to luxury behemoths. So, when I tell you the Santa Fe holds its own, I mean it. Hyundai’s 2026 Santa Fe has received some considerable upgrades as well, making it more valuable than the previous model.
What’s New for 2026?
Hyundai hasn’t just slapped a new badge on last year’s model. They’ve listened to feedback and made some key improvements. The most significant change is the replacement of the dual-clutch transmission in the gas-powered models with a traditional eight-speed automatic. While the dual-clutch offered quick shifts, it wasn’t always the smoothest in stop-and-go traffic. This new transmission provides a more refined driving experience, especially for those daily commutes.
Safety is paramount, and Hyundai has upped the ante by making advanced forward collision warning tech standard across all trims. Previously reserved for higher-end models, this feature adds a layer of security for every Santa Fe driver.
Inside, the Limited trim now boasts standard second-row captain’s chairs, catering to families prioritizing individual space. However, if maximizing seating is your goal, a bench seat remains an option. The Calligraphy trim gets a touch of elegance with a new Peach Brown Nappa leather option, elevating the interior’s premium feel.
For the adventurous souls, the XRT model now includes Terrain Mode with Mud, Snow, and Sand settings. This feature fine-tunes the Santa Fe’s traction control system to handle various off-road surfaces, expanding its capability beyond paved roads.
Trim Levels and Features: Breaking It Down
The 2026 Santa Fe offers a diverse range of trim levels to suit different needs and budgets. Let’s break down the key features of each:
SE: The base model is far from basic, featuring 18-inch wheels, keyless entry and start, LED lighting, heated side mirrors, and a hands-free power liftgate. Inside, you’ll find a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Safety features are comprehensive, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane departure steering assist, lane-centering steering, and more.
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SEL: Stepping up to the SEL adds synthetic leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, a wireless phone charger, and Hyundai’s Digital Key 2. This innovative feature allows you to use your smartphone or smartwatch as a key, adding a touch of convenience to your daily routine.
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XRT: Exclusive to the gas-powered Santa Fe, the XRT boasts a 1.3-inch lift, dark-gray 18-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, a moonroof, black exterior trim, navigation, and a second wireless charger. This trim is designed for those who want a more rugged look and enhanced off-road capability.
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Limited: The Limited trim is where luxury begins to shine. It features 20-inch wheels, dual moonroofs, rain-sensing windshield wipers, leather seating, power-adjustable passenger seat, ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, heated second-row captain’s chairs, ambient lighting, rear window shades, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. Safety is further enhanced with a 360-degree camera system, blind-spot cameras, side parking sensors, and automated parking.
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Calligraphy: The top-of-the-line Calligraphy trim pulls out all the stops with 21-inch wheels, upgraded exterior and interior trim, quilted Nappa leather upholstery, an upgraded driver’s seat, a head-up display, and a digital rearview mirror. It also includes advanced safety features like an upgraded forward collision warning system, blind-spot intervention, and Highway Driving Assist 2, which combines adaptive cruise control and lane-centering for semi-autonomous highway driving.
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Powertrain Options and Fuel Economy
The 2026 Santa Fe offers two powertrain options:
Gas-Powered: A 277-horsepower, turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 311 pounds-feet of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Hybrid: A turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor, generating a total of 231 hp and 271 pounds-feet of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel economy varies depending on the powertrain and drivetrain. The gas-powered Santa Fe achieves an EPA-rated 20/29/24 mpg city/highway/combined with FWD and 20/28/23 mpg with AWD. The XRT model, with its taller ride height and all-terrain tires, is rated at 19/25/21 mpg. The hybrid powertrain delivers 37/36/36 mpg with FWD and 35/34/34 mpg with AWD.
Driving Experience: Real-World Impressions
After spending a week behind the wheel of both the gas-powered and hybrid Santa Fe models, here are my impressions:
Gas-Powered: The turbocharged 2.5-liter engine provides ample power for daily driving and highway passing. The new eight-speed automatic transmission is smooth and responsive, offering a more refined driving experience compared to the previous dual-clutch unit. The steering is precise, and the suspension provides a comfortable ride, even on rough roads.
Hybrid: The hybrid powertrain offers a good balance of performance and fuel efficiency. The electric motor provides instant torque, making the Santa Fe feel quick off the line. The transition between electric and gasoline power is seamless, and the regenerative braking system helps to recoup energy and improve fuel economy. The hybrid model is an excellent choice for those who prioritize fuel efficiency without sacrificing performance.
The Competition: How Does the Santa Fe Stack Up?
The midsize SUV segment is highly competitive, with rivals like the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, Nissan Rogue, and Ford Escape all vying for market share. The 2026 Santa Fe holds its own against these competitors with its stylish design, spacious interior, long list of features, and competitive pricing.
Toyota RAV4: The RAV4 is known for its reliability and fuel efficiency. However, the Santa Fe offers a more spacious interior and a more powerful engine.
Honda CR-V: The CR-V is another popular choice, known for its practicality and resale value. The Santa Fe offers a more upscale interior and a more comprehensive suite of technology features.
Nissan Rogue: The Rogue has a stylish design and a comfortable ride. The Santa Fe offers a more powerful engine and a more spacious interior.
Ford Escape: The Escape offers a variety of powertrain options, including a plug-in hybrid. The Santa Fe offers a more spacious interior and a more comprehensive suite of standard safety features.
Value for Money: Is the Santa Fe Worth It?
Considering its features, performance, and pricing, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe represents excellent value for money. The base SE trim offers a comprehensive list of standard features, while the higher trims provide a luxurious and feature-rich experience. The hybrid models offer excellent fuel economy, making them a smart choice for those who want to save money at the pump.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe right for you?
If you’re looking for a stylish, spacious, and feature-rich midsize SUV, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is definitely worth considering. With its range of trim levels and powertrain options, there’s a Santa Fe to suit every need and budget.
Pricing and Availability
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is available now. Here’s a breakdown of the pricing for each trim level:
Santa Fe
SE: $36,400
SEL: $38,940
XRT: $43,390
Limited: $45,950
Calligraphy: $48,950
Santa Fe Hybrid
SE: $37,750
SEL: $40,040
Limited: $47,050
Calligraphy: $50,050
All prices include a $1,600 destination charge.
Final Verdict: A Solid Choice in a Crowded Field
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is a well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling combination of style, space, features, and value. While it faces stiff competition, its updates and improvements make it a strong contender in the midsize SUV segment.
Ready to experience the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe for yourself? Visit your local Hyundai dealer for a test drive and see why it’s earning rave reviews. You might just find your next perfect SUV.
