The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe: A Refined SUV for the Modern Family
The Hyundai Santa Fe has always been a strong contender in the crowded mid-size SUV market, offering a blend of practicality, value, and style. For 2026, Hyundai has refined the Santa Fe, addressing some minor shortcomings and adding features that make it an even more compelling choice for American families. As someone who’s been analyzing and driving SUVs for over a decade, I’ve seen the Santa Fe evolve, and the 2026 model is a testament to Hyundai’s commitment to improvement.
What’s New for 2026?
The biggest (though perhaps least noticeable) change for 2026 is the introduction of a traditional eight-speed automatic transmission in the gas-powered models, replacing the previous dual-clutch unit. While the dual-clutch offered quick shifts, some drivers found it a bit jerky in low-speed situations. The new transmission provides smoother, more predictable performance, especially in city driving, enhancing the overall driving experience. This is a win for everyday drivability.
Beyond the powertrain tweak, Hyundai has wisely expanded the availability of advanced safety features. Forward collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection is now standard across the entire Santa Fe lineup. This is a crucial step in making advanced safety tech accessible to more drivers, a trend I’m thrilled to see in the industry.
For those seeking a touch of luxury, the Limited trim now comes standard with second-row captain’s chairs (a bench seat is still available for those who need maximum passenger capacity), creating a more spacious and comfortable experience for rear passengers. A new Peach Brown Nappa leather option for the Calligraphy trim adds an extra layer of sophistication.
Finally, the adventure-ready XRT trim gains a Terrain Mode selector with Mud, Snow, and Sand settings, further enhancing its off-road capabilities. Rear-seat USB ports are now standard on the SEL and XRT trims which is essential to today’s market where families want to keep their devices fully charged.
Pricing and Trim Levels
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe offers a range of trim levels to suit various budgets and needs:
SE: $36,400. Value For Money, This trim comes standard with features such as keyless entry, LED exterior lighting, and a 12.3-inch touchscreen.
SEL: $38,940. Enhanced Comfort and Technology. Building on the SE, the SEL adds synthetic leather upholstery, heated front seats, and wireless phone charging.
XRT: $43,390. Off-Road Readiness. The XRT, exclusive to the gas-powered Santa Fe, features a lifted suspension, all-terrain tires, and unique styling elements.
Limited: $45,950. Premium Features. The Limited offers a luxurious experience with leather seating, ventilated front seats, a heated steering wheel, and a premium Bose audio system.
Calligraphy: $48,950. Ultimate Luxury. The Calligraphy represents the pinnacle of the Santa Fe lineup, boasting quilted Nappa leather upholstery, a head-up display, and advanced safety technologies.
Santa Fe Hybrid Models:
SE: $37,750
SEL: $40,040
Limited: $47,050
Calligraphy: $50,050
(All prices include a $1,600 destination charge).
Key Features by Trim Level
SE: The base model offers a strong foundation with 18-inch wheels, LED lighting, heated mirrors, and a hands-free power liftgate. Inside, you’ll find a 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a must-have in today’s connected world. Standard safety features include forward collision warning with pedestrian and cyclist detection, automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assist, and blind-spot monitoring.
SEL: Stepping up to the SEL adds desirable comfort and convenience features like synthetic leather upholstery, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, heated front seats, a wireless phone charger, and Hyundai’s Digital Key 2, allowing you to use your smartphone as a key.
XRT: The XRT stands out with its rugged styling, increased ground clearance, and all-terrain tires. It also adds a moonroof, navigation, and a second wireless charger. The new Terrain Mode selector is a welcome addition for those who venture off the beaten path, providing optimized traction in various conditions.
Limited: The Limited trim elevates the Santa Fe to a near-luxury level. It boasts 20-inch wheels, dual moonroofs, rain-sensing wipers, leather seating, power-adjustable passenger seat, ventilated front seats, heated steering wheel, heated second-row captain’s chairs (with a bench option available), ambient lighting, rear window shades, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, and a 12-speaker Bose audio system. Advanced safety features include a 360-degree camera system, blind-spot cameras, side parking sensors, and automated parking.
Calligraphy: The top-of-the-line Calligraphy goes all-out with 21-inch wheels, premium exterior and interior trim, quilted Nappa leather upholstery, an upgraded driver’s seat, a head-up display, and a digital rearview mirror. It also gets additional safety equipment, including an enhanced forward collision warning system, blind-spot intervention, and Highway Driving Assist 2, which provides semi-autonomous driving capabilities on the highway.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The 2026 Santa Fe offers two distinct powertrain options:
Gas-Powered: A 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque, paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission.
Hybrid: A 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine combined with an electric motor, generating a total of 231 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
Fuel economy varies depending on the powertrain and drivetrain:
Gas-Powered (FWD): 20 mpg city / 29 mpg highway / 24 mpg combined.
Gas-Powered (AWD): 20 mpg city / 28 mpg highway / 23 mpg combined.
XRT: 19 mpg city / 25 mpg highway / 21 mpg combined.
Hybrid (FWD): 37 mpg city / 36 mpg highway / 36 mpg combined.
Hybrid (AWD): 35 mpg city / 34 mpg highway / 34 mpg combined.
Driving Experience
Having spent considerable time behind the wheel of various Santa Fe models, I can attest to its comfortable and refined driving experience. The standard suspension provides a smooth and controlled ride, while the available all-wheel-drive system offers added confidence in inclement weather.
The gas-powered engine delivers ample power for everyday driving, and the new eight-speed automatic transmission provides smooth and responsive shifts. The hybrid powertrain offers a more fuel-efficient alternative without sacrificing too much performance.
The Santa Fe’s interior is well-designed and spacious, with comfortable seating and user-friendly technology. The 12.3-inch touchscreen is easy to navigate, and the available premium audio system delivers excellent sound quality.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Right for You?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is a well-rounded SUV that offers a compelling combination of value, features, and performance. It’s an excellent choice for families seeking a comfortable, spacious, and safe vehicle with a variety of trim levels and powertrain options to suit different needs and budgets. If you’re in the market for a mid-size SUV, the Santa Fe deserves a spot on your shortlist. This family SUV really raises the bar!
Final Thoughts
Hyundai has addressed key areas with the 2026 Santa Fe, particularly with the transmission upgrade and expanded safety features. The availability of a hybrid option further broadens its appeal, making it a truly competitive choice in its segment.
Ready to experience the refined 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe for yourself? Visit your local Hyundai dealer for a test drive and discover why this SUV continues to be a top pick for American families.
