Why the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Could Be the Best Value Mid-Size SUV Yet

The mid-size SUV recreation is brutal. Each model throws severe cash at it, and even the so-called “carryover” years often sneak in a number of surprises.

Hyundai is aware of the right way to play that recreation. 12 months after 12 months, it retains the Santa Fe sharp and aggressive with out shedding sight of what patrons truly need.

The 2026 Santa Fe is the most recent proof. On paper it’s principally a carryover, however look nearer, and also you’ll spot loads of updates that would make it the very best worth mid-size SUV but.

The XRT Trim Is Constructed for Tough Roads

The Santa Fe Is Up for Each Journey

Credit score: Hyundai

Overlanding and off-roading are the buzzwords everybody throws round within the midsize SUV world. Certain, some SUVs are more durable than the Santa Fe, however it nonetheless holds its personal if you wish to stray off the pavement a bit—particularly within the XRT trim.

The 2026 XRT will get a brand new gloss black grille that basically pops, giving the Santa Fe some severe persona. Even higher, it comes normal with HTRAC all-wheel drive and 1.3 inches of additional floor clearance in comparison with different trims.

Rugged styling continues with 18-inch all-terrain tires and darkish alloy wheels, and the unique Terrain Mode helps you to deal with mud, snow, or sand on the flip of a change. Backside line: the XRT is constructed for journey—and it’s AWD solely, so it’s able to go wherever you need.

A Recent Transmission Makes the Trip Smoother

The Twin-Clutch Transmission Is Out

Credit score: Hyundai

Underneath the hood, the two.5-liter turbo-four carries over from final 12 months, however don’t let that idiot you—Hyundai made a key improve. Swapping the dual-clutch for a conventional eight-speed automated provides noticeable smoothness and refinement to the drive.

The turbo engine nonetheless pumps out 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. It’s not probably the most highly effective within the phase, however it’s removed from weak—and paired with the brand new transmission, the Santa Fe feels fully totally different on the highway.

Small tweaks like this may make an enormous distinction, serving to the SUV evolve whereas staying aggressive in a crowded mid-size phase.

2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Gas Financial system

Upgraded Inside and Smarter Tech

Hyundai Packed Even Extra Worth Inside

Credit score: Hyundai

Hyundai has constructed a repute over the previous decade for interiors that punch above their weight. Lots of its cabins are thought of higher than these in long-established manufacturers, and the 2026 Santa Fe is not any exception. Whereas this 12 months’s updates are delicate, they nonetheless add significant enhancements. Right here’s what’s new contained in the 2026 Santa Fe:

• Twin wi-fi chargers: Restricted and XRT trims now include two wi-fi telephone charging pads within the heart console.
• New inside colour: Calligraphy trim will get a recent Pecan Brown Nappa leather-based choice.
• Third-row USB ports: SEL and XRT trims now embrace USB ports for third-row passengers.
• Restricted trim seating: Normal second-row captain’s chairs, with a bench choice nonetheless obtainable.
• Enhanced heart console: All trims now have a console field accessible from each the entrance and second row.

Relying on the trim and seating structure, the 2026 Santa Fe matches six or seven passengers. Bench-seat fashions can carry seven, whereas captain’s chair variations seat six—making it an amazing alternative for households or anybody planning longer highway journeys.

Rear Seat Headroom and Legroom

One of many Santa Fe’s standout perks is its cargo house. Fold all of the seats down, and also you’re taking a look at practically 80 cubic ft—sufficient to rival some larger, pricier SUVs.

Our Tackle the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe

Updates That Hold It Recent, Aggressive, and Nice Worth

Credit score: Hyundai

Whether or not you’re wanting on the adventurous XRT trim or one of many base fashions, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe proves why Hyundai retains this midsize SUV feeling recent and related. Even in a principally carryover 12 months, it nonetheless ranks close to the highest in one of many hardest segments round.

For households who want a flexible, reliable, and succesful automobile with out breaking the financial institution, the 2026 Santa Fe is difficult to beat. With a torquey engine, near-luxury normal options, and a sensible, spacious inside, it clearly stands out from the competitors.

2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Trims by Value

How It Stacks Up within the Mid-Dimension SUV Phase

Credit score: Hyundai

Whenever you line up the Santa Fe in opposition to rivals just like the Kia Telluride, Honda Passport, and Toyota Grand Highlander, its worth actually stands out.

• Engine & Efficiency: The Santa Fe’s turbocharged 2.5-liter engine packs 311 pound-feet of torque, greater than each the Telluride and Passport, even when their V6s make barely increased horsepower. That additional twist of torque is noticeable when merging onto highways or hauling a full load, and it even offers the Santa Fe a faster 0–60 mph time than the Passport and Grand Highlander.
• Options & Tech: Hyundai clearly outpaces the competitors right here. The Santa Fe comes normal with a 12.3-inch touchscreen and wi-fi Apple CarPlay/Android Auto—options that many rivals solely supply on increased trims. In different phrases, you get premium tech with out paying additional.
• Inside House & Versatility: The Grand Highlander has a bigger third row and barely extra cargo room (97.5 vs. 79.6 cubic ft), however the Santa Fe’s sensible, boxy design makes it really feel roomy with out the majority. It’s additionally shorter with a tighter turning radius, making metropolis driving and parking a breeze.