Hyundai Santa Fe: Price, Specs, Towing & Review
The Hyundai Santa Fe is a three-row midsize SUV for families who want a spacious cabin, bold design, useful cargo room, and more towing capability than the Santa Fe Hybrid.
Every 2026 Santa Fe uses a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. It comes with an eight-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel drive as standard on most trims, and available HTRAC all-wheel drive. The XRT has standard AWD, all-terrain tires, and a 4,500-pound towing rating when properly equipped.
The Santa Fe is best for buyers who want a six- or seven-passenger SUV for family life, road trips, cargo hauling, and occasional towing. Buyers who place fuel economy first should consider the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid.
WheelPedia Rating: 8.5/10
The Hyundai Santa Fe earns an 8.5/10 WheelPedia Rating for its strong turbocharged engine, roomy first and second rows, useful cargo space, strong safety results, and long warranty. Its main compromises are average fuel economy, a third row that is tight for adults, and upper trims that become expensive.
| Rating Category | Score | Weight |
| Safety | 9.5/10 | 20% |
| Reliability and Ownership | 8.0/10 | 15% |
| Performance and Driving | 8.5/10 | 15% |
| Comfort and Practicality | 9.0/10 | 15% |
| Efficiency | 7.0/10 | 15% |
| Features and Technology | 9.0/10 | 10% |
| Price and Value | 8.5/10 | 10% |
| Overall WheelPedia Rating | 8.5/10 | — |
See how WheelPedia rates cars for the full methodology.
Key Highlights
- Starts from $35,050 MSRP in the United States, before taxes, registration, options, and dealer charges.
- Turbocharged 2.5-liter engine produces 277 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque.
- Uses an eight-speed automatic transmission.
- Front-wheel drive is standard on most trims; AWD is available.
- XRT has standard AWD and all-terrain tires.
- Tows up to 4,500 pounds with trailer brakes in XRT form.
- Seats six or seven passengers, depending on configuration.
- Provides up to 79.6 cubic feet of cargo space.
- Returns up to an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined.
- Earned a 2026 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award.
Quick Specifications
| Specification | Hyundai Santa Fe |
| Vehicle type | Three-row midsize SUV |
| Seating capacity | 6 or 7 passengers |
| Engine | 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder |
| Output | 277 hp / 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD standard; AWD available |
| Best fuel economy | Up to 24 mpg combined |
| Maximum towing | Up to 4,500 lbs. |
| Cargo volume behind third row | 14.6 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo volume | 79.6 cu. ft. |
| Length | 190.2 in. |
| Width | 74.8 in. |
| Height | 69.7 in. |
| Wheelbase | 110.8 in. |
Expert Tip: The SEL is the best choice for most buyers. It adds meaningful comfort and technology upgrades over the SE without moving into premium-trim pricing. Choose the XRT if towing, all-wheel drive, and rough-road confidence matter more than fuel economy.
About the Hyundai Santa Fe
The Santa Fe is Hyundai’s family-focused three-row SUV. Its square shape gives it a more upright cabin and larger cargo area than many similarly priced crossovers.
For 2026, Hyundai replaced the previous eight-speed dual-clutch transmission in gas-only Santa Fe models with a conventional eight-speed automatic transmission. The change should appeal to buyers who want smoother low-speed driving and more conventional shift behavior.
The Santa Fe is not a heavy-duty SUV, but it has enough power and towing capacity for many family needs. The standard models can tow up to 3,500 pounds with trailer brakes, while the XRT can tow up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Price and Trims
The 2026 Santa Fe is offered in five trims.
| Trim | Starting MSRP | Drivetrain | Best For |
| SE | $35,050 | FWD; AWD available | Buyers seeking the lowest entry price |
| SEL | $37,590 | FWD; AWD available | Best overall value |
| XRT | $42,040 | AWD standard | Towing and outdoor-focused use |
| Limited | $44,600 | FWD; AWD available | Buyers wanting more comfort and technology |
| Calligraphy | $47,600 | FWD; AWD available | Buyers wanting the most premium cabin |
For current specifications, local availability, and pricing, see the official Hyundai Santa Fe page.
Which Hyundai Santa Fe Trim Is Best?
- Best overall: SEL
- Best low-price choice: SE
- Best for towing and outdoor use: XRT
- Best for family comfort: Limited
- Best for premium features: Calligraphy
The SE is a practical entry point with three-row seating, modern safety technology, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen.
The SEL is the trim most buyers should choose. It adds more convenience features, improved seat materials, heated front seats, and a better-equipped daily-driving experience.
The XRT is the choice for buyers who need standard AWD, all-terrain tires, higher ground clearance, Terrain Mode settings, and the 4,500-pound maximum towing rating.
The Limited adds leather seating, more advanced driver-assistance features, a surround-view camera, ventilated front seats, and extra family-comfort features. The Calligraphy adds Nappa leather, 21-inch wheels, a head-up display, Bose audio, and standard second-row captain’s chairs.
Engine, Performance, and Towing
Every Santa Fe uses a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. It has an eight-speed automatic transmission.
The engine provides noticeably stronger acceleration than the Santa Fe Hybrid. It feels confident in normal highway merging, passing, carrying passengers, and towing lighter trailers.
| Configuration | Maximum Towing Capacity* |
| SE, SEL, Limited, and Calligraphy | Up to 3,500 lbs. |
| XRT | Up to 4,500 lbs. |
| All trims without trailer brakes | Up to 1,650 lbs. |
*When properly equipped. Towing capacity varies by trim, drivetrain, cargo, passengers, trailer equipment, road conditions, and vehicle configuration.
The XRT is the Santa Fe to choose for towing. Its standard AWD, extra ride height, and all-terrain tires make it better suited to rough roads, trailheads, and heavier trailers. It is still not a serious off-road SUV, but it is the most rugged version of the lineup.
Driving Experience
The Santa Fe is designed for comfortable family driving rather than sporty handling. It rides smoothly, has a quiet highway character, and feels stable on long trips.
Its steering is light enough for city driving and parking, though the upright body and three-row layout make it feel larger than a compact SUV. The turbocharged engine gives it useful low- and mid-range power, especially compared with many naturally aspirated three-row SUVs.
FWD models are best for buyers in warm climates who want the best fuel economy. AWD makes more sense for snow, wet roads, gravel routes, and light towing.
Fuel Economy
| Configuration | EPA-Estimated City/Highway/Combined MPG |
| SE, SEL, Limited, and Calligraphy FWD | 20 / 29 / 24 mpg |
| SE, SEL, Limited, and Calligraphy AWD | 20 / 28 / 23 mpg |
| XRT AWD | 19 / 25 / 21 mpg |
The Santa Fe’s fuel economy is reasonable for a turbocharged three-row SUV, but the Santa Fe Hybrid is the better choice for drivers who spend a lot of time commuting or covering high annual mileage.
Actual fuel economy varies with driving style, passenger load, cargo, trailer use, tire choice, weather, and terrain.
Interior, Comfort, and Technology
The Santa Fe has a spacious, modern interior with a wide dashboard, useful storage, and a practical family-oriented layout.
Standard and available features include:
- 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment display
- Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
- Bluetooth and USB ports
- Available 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
- Hyundai Digital Key 2
- Bluelink+ connected-car services
- Available dual wireless phone charging
- Available Bose premium audio system
- Available heated and ventilated front seats
- Available heated second-row seats
- Available head-up display
- Available dual-pane sunroof
- Available surround-view monitor
- Available Remote Smart Parking Assist
The first and second rows have good room for adults. The third row works well for children and smaller adults, but taller passengers will not find it comfortable for long trips.
The SE and SEL use a second-row bench and seven-passenger layout. The Limited can be configured with a bench or captain’s chairs. Calligraphy models have captain’s chairs and seat six.
Dimensions, Cargo, and Practicality
| Measurement | Santa Fe |
| Front legroom | 44.4 in. |
| Second-row legroom | 42.3 in. |
| Third-row legroom | 30.0 in. |
| Cargo behind third row | 14.6 cu. ft. |
| Cargo behind second row | 40.5 cu. ft. |
| Maximum cargo space | 79.6 cu. ft. |
| Seating | 6 or 7 passengers |
With all three rows in use, the Santa Fe has enough room behind the third row for backpacks, groceries, and smaller bags. Fold the third row down, and the 40.5-cubic-foot cargo area becomes much more useful for strollers, luggage, sports equipment, and weekend errands.
With the second and third rows folded, maximum cargo space reaches 79.6 cubic feet.
Exterior Design
The Santa Fe has a boxy, upright exterior that gives it a more rugged look than many family SUVs. Its H-shaped lighting signature, squared-off rear end, and tall roofline make it easy to recognize.
SE and SEL trims have a clean, modern design. The XRT adds darker trim, a more rugged grille, standard AWD, all-terrain tires, and a higher ride height. Limited and Calligraphy models add more upscale exterior details, larger wheels, and a more premium appearance.
The styling will not suit every buyer, but the shape is functional. It helps create a more open cabin and a larger cargo area.
Safety Features and Ratings
The Santa Fe includes Hyundai SmartSense driver-assistance technology. Standard and available features include:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Pedestrian, cyclist, and junction-turning detection
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Lane Following Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- High Beam Assist
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Safe Exit Assist
- Rear Occupant Alert
- Smart Cruise Control
- Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control
- Highway Driving Assist
- Available Highway Driving Assist 2
- Available surround-view monitor
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe earned an IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. IIHS lists Good results across the required crashworthiness and front-crash-prevention evaluations. Review the full IIHS Santa Fe safety information and verify the exact vehicle’s build date and equipment before buying.
Check the current NHTSA record and run a VIN-specific recall search before purchasing a new or used Santa Fe.
Reliability, Warranty, and Ownership
The Santa Fe comes with Hyundai’s long standard warranty package.
| Coverage | Length |
| New vehicle limited warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Powertrain limited warranty | 10 years / 100,000 miles |
| Roadside assistance | 5 years / unlimited miles |
| Anti-perforation warranty | 7 years / unlimited miles |
The 2026 conventional automatic transmission may be preferable for buyers who were concerned about the earlier gas-only Santa Fe dual-clutch transmission. Still, long-term ownership depends on regular maintenance, proper tire care, and keeping service records.
XRT, Limited, and Calligraphy models will cost more to own than the SE or SEL because of their larger wheels, extra equipment, higher purchase prices, and potentially higher fuel use.
Pros and Cons
What We Like
- Strong 277-hp turbocharged engine
- Up to 4,500 pounds of towing capacity
- Spacious first and second rows
- Large maximum cargo area
- Available all-wheel drive
- XRT offers useful rugged-style upgrades
- Strong standard technology
- Long powertrain warranty
- 2026 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award
- Conventional automatic transmission for 2026
What We Don’t Like
- Third row is tight for taller adults
- Fuel economy trails hybrid rivals
- XRT loses fuel economy because of its all-terrain tires
- Upper trims get expensive
- Not built for serious off-road driving
- Limited cargo space with the third row in use
- Bold styling may not appeal to everyone
Competitors
The Hyundai Santa Fe competes with midsize three-row SUVs such as the Honda Pilot, Kia Telluride, Toyota Highlander, Toyota Grand Highlander, Mazda CX-90, and Nissan Pathfinder.
The Santa Fe is a strong option for buyers who want a turbocharged engine, modern cabin technology, family-friendly cargo space, and useful towing capability. The Toyota Grand Highlander is worth considering for buyers who need more third-row room. The Honda Pilot is a better fit for buyers who want a more spacious third row and more traditional SUV proportions.
Related WheelPedia Content
Before financing a Santa Fe, review how car financing works and consider getting a car loan preapproval before visiting a dealership.
If you are deciding between a new and older SUV, read our new vs. used car guide. Used-car shoppers should also learn how to check a car’s accident history before making an offer.
Should You Buy the Hyundai Santa Fe?
Buy the Hyundai Santa Fe if you want a roomy three-row SUV with strong turbocharged power, useful cargo space, modern technology, and more towing capability than a hybrid-focused family SUV.
Choose the SE if you want the lowest entry price. Choose the SEL if you want the best all-round value. Choose the XRT if you need standard AWD and maximum towing capacity. Choose the Limited if comfort and technology are your priority. Choose the Calligraphy if you want a more premium six-passenger SUV.
Skip the Santa Fe if you need a full-size third row for adults, heavy-duty towing, serious off-road hardware, or hybrid-level fuel economy.
Hyundai Santa Fe FAQs
How much does the Hyundai Santa Fe cost?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe starts at $35,050 MSRP in the United States, before taxes, registration, options, and dealer charges.
How much horsepower does the Hyundai Santa Fe have?
Every 2026 Santa Fe uses a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque.
How much can the Hyundai Santa Fe tow?
Most Santa Fe trims can tow up to 3,500 pounds with trailer brakes. The XRT can tow up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped.
Does the Hyundai Santa Fe have all-wheel drive?
Yes. HTRAC all-wheel drive is available on SE, SEL, Limited, and Calligraphy trims. It is standard on the XRT.
How many people can the Santa Fe seat?
The Santa Fe seats six or seven people, depending on whether it has a second-row bench or second-row captain’s chairs.
What mpg does the Hyundai Santa Fe get?
FWD SE, SEL, Limited, and Calligraphy trims return up to an EPA-estimated 24 mpg combined. AWD versions return up to 23 mpg combined, while the XRT AWD is rated at up to 21 mpg combined.
Is the Hyundai Santa Fe good for towing?
Yes, for light and moderate towing. The XRT can tow up to 4,500 pounds when properly equipped, making it the best Santa Fe trim for buyers who tow regularly.
Does the Hyundai Santa Fe have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are available across the Santa Fe range.
Is the Hyundai Santa Fe safe?
Yes. It includes a useful set of driver-assistance features and earned a 2026 IIHS Top Safety Pick+ award. Check the exact trim, build date, and current VIN-specific recall status before buying.
How much cargo space does the Hyundai Santa Fe have?
The Santa Fe has 14.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 40.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and up to 79.6 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded.
How long is the Hyundai Santa Fe warranty?
It includes a 5-year/60,000-mile new-vehicle limited warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain limited warranty.
Final Verdict
The Hyundai Santa Fe is one of the more useful and distinctive three-row SUVs in its price range. It combines strong turbocharged power, a large cargo area, modern technology, and a warranty package that adds ownership confidence.
Its third row is not ideal for tall adults, and its fuel economy is only average. But for families who value power, cargo flexibility, towing capability, and a well-equipped cabin, it makes a strong case.
For most buyers, the SEL is the Santa Fe to choose. Buyers who tow more often or need standard AWD should move to the XRT.