The All New 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe: Specifications & What’s New

2026 Santa Fe Atlantic Blue 3 row SUV

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe moves forward as a versatile SUV that blends comfort, capability, and modern technology.

Designed with bold, rugged curb appeal, the Santa Fe stands out with its upscale styling and confident road presence.

Inside, you’ll find large digital displays, a spacious and thoughtfully designed interior, and premium features that feel more luxurious than the price suggests. With available three-row seating, confident towing capability, and a strong reputation for dependability, the Santa Fe continues to shine as a practical and stylish choice for daily driving and weekend adventures.

To compare year-to- year models, maintenance needs or specifications previous Santa Fe models, explore it all right here:

Or continue to read on and discover the specifications and what’s new for the 2026 Santa Fe below.

New Features

Overview

  • Part of the fifth-generation Santa Fe introduced for the 2024 model year
  • Updates for 2026 focus on drivetrain and trim-level equipment changes

Transmission Update

  • Gas-only models now use a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission
  • Replaces the previous 8-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission

Trim and Lineup Changes

  • New SE Hybrid trim added to the lineup
  • Limited trim now includes second-row captain’s chairs as standard
  • Second-row bench seat remains available as an option on Limited trims

Technology and Convenience Updates

  • Dual wireless phone chargers standard on Limited trim
  • Dual wireless phone chargers standard on XRT trim

Off-Road and Drive Features

  • XRT trim adds a Terrain Mode system
  • Terrain Mode includes settings for mud, snow, and sand

Interior Updates

  • Calligraphy trim adds a Pecan Brown Nappa leather interior option

Safety and Driver Assistance

  • Additional driver assistance features now standard across more trims

Recognition

Already gaining praise, the 2026 Santa Fe has been awarded Top Safety Pick+ by Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). While the all-new Santa Fe is still being reviewed, let’s explore highlights of what has been appreciated most of the prior year models including:

Best Trim

We recommend test driving the Santa Fe SEL.

Starting at around $37,000, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL is a well-equipped mid-level trim that strikes a strong balance between comfort, technology, and everyday convenience. It’s available with both a standard gasoline engine and an optional Hybrid powertrain to fit different driving needs.

For 2026, the gasoline model now features a traditional 8-speed automatic transmission instead of the previous dual-clutch setup, helping deliver smoother shifting and a more relaxed driving experience. Additional highlights include:

Drivetrain and Towing

  • Front-wheel drive standard
  • HTRAC all-wheel drive available on gasoline and hybrid models
  • Gasoline model towing capacity up to 3,500 pounds with trailer brakes
  • Hybrid model towing capacity up to 2,000 pounds with trailer brakes

Interior and Seating

  • H-Tex trimmed seating surfaces
  • Heated front seats included
  • Driver seat includes 8-way power adjustment with 2-way power lumbar support
  • Front passenger seat includes 6-way manual adjustment
  • Standard seven-passenger seating capacity
  • Second row features 60 40 split-folding bench seat
  • Third row features fixed 50 50 split bench seat
  • Dual-zone automatic climate control standard

Technology and Connectivity

  • 12.3-inch touchscreen audio display
  • Wireless Apple CarPlay standard
  • Wireless Android Auto standard
  • Third-row USB C ports included
  • Wireless phone connectivity included
  • Keyless entry with remote start
  • Hands-free smart liftgate

Safety and Driver Assistance

  • Forward collision-avoidance assist with pedestrian detection
  • Cyclist detection included
  • Junction turning detection included
  • Lane keeping assist
  • Lane following assist
  • Blind-spot collision warning
  • Rear cross-traffic collision-avoidance assist
  • Smart cruise control with stop and go
  • Parking distance warning for front and rear
  • Back-up camera standard

Trims Levels MSRP

Gasoline

  • SE: $34,800 MSRP
  • SEL: $37,340 MSRP
  • XRT (AWD Standard): $41,790 MSRP
  • Limited: $44,350 MSRP
  • Calligraphy: $47,350 MSRP

Hybrid

  • SE Hybrid: $36,150 MSRP
  • SEL Hybrid: $38,440 MSRP
  • Limited Hybrid: $45,450 MSRP
  • Calligraphy Hybrid: $48,450 MSRP

Performance

Gasoline Engine

  • Smartstream 2.5-liter turbo GDI inline 4-cylinder engine
  • Produces 277 horsepower at 5,800 rpm
  • Produces 311 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm
  • 8-speed automatic transmission with torque converter
  • Front-wheel drive standard
  • HTRAC all-wheel drive available
  • Maximum towing capacity up to 3,500 pounds with trailer brakes

XRT Gasoline Performance

  • HTRAC all-wheel drive standard
  • Maximum towing capacity up to 4,500 pounds with trailer brakes
  • Increased ground clearance
  • All-terrain tires included

Hybrid Engine

  • Smartstream 1.6-liter turbo GDI inline 4-cylinder engine paired with electric motor
  • Combined system output of 231 horsepower
  • Combined system torque of 271 lb-ft
  • 6-speed automatic transmission
  • Front-wheel drive standard
  • Maximum towing capacity up to 2,000 pounds with trailer brakes

Acceleration

Fuel Economy Estimates

  • Gasoline FWD rated at 20 mpg city, 29 mpg highway, and 24 mpg combined
  • Gasoline AWD rated at 20 mpg city, 28 mpg highway, and 23 mpg combined
  • Gasoline XRT AWD rated at 19 mpg city, 25 mpg highway, and 21 mpg combined
  • Hybrid FWD rated at 37 mpg city, 36 mpg highway, and 36 mpg combined

Drive Modes and Handling

  • Drive Mode Select includes Normal, Sport, and My Drive
  • Terrain Mode Select includes Mud, Sand, and Snow
  • HTRAC AWD available across most trims
  • XRT trim includes suspension and tire setup designed for off-road conditions

Technology

Infotainment and Displays

  • Dual 12.3-inch curved displays standard on most trims
    • One display for the digital instrument cluster
    • One display for infotainment functions

Smartphone Integration

  • Wireless Apple CarPlay standard
  • Wireless Android Auto standard

Digital Access

  • Hyundai Digital Key 2 Premium available
  • Standard on SEL trim and above
  • Allows locking, unlocking, and starting with a compatible smartphone or smartwatch

Charging and Power

  • Wireless phone charging pad standard on SEL and higher trims
  • Dual wireless charging pads available on Limited and Calligraphy trims
  • USB C ports included in all three seating rows

Audio Systems

  • Bose 12-speaker premium audio system available
  • Included on Limited and Calligraphy trims

Software and Updates

  • Over-the-air updates supported for navigation maps and vehicle systems

Driver Assistance and Safety Technology

  • Hyundai SmartSense standard safety suite includes:
    • Forward collision-avoidance assist
    • Lane keeping assist
    • Blind-spot collision warning
    • Smart cruise control with stop and go

Advanced Driver Assistance Features

  • Remote smart parking assist available on Limited and Calligraphy trims
  • Blind-spot view monitor available on Limited and Calligraphy trims
  • Surround view monitor available on Limited and Calligraphy trims
  • Highway Driving Assist 2 available on Calligraphy trim

Convenience Features

  • Shift-by-wire gear selector standard
  • Steering wheel paddle shifters included
  • Center console opens from front and rear for easier access

Additional Technology

  • UV C sterilization lighting available in center console tray on Calligraphy trim
  • Full display digital rearview mirror available on Calligraphy trim

   2026 Santa Fe interior dashboard and infotainment 2026 Santa Fe trunk space 2026 Santa Fe back seats white 2026 Santa Fe Atlantic Blue back exterior view

Appearance

Exterior Features

Exterior Styling

  • Boxy and upright body design
  • Longer wheelbase for added interior space
  • H-shaped LED lighting used in front headlights and rear taillights
  • New alloy wheel designs across trims
  • Wheel sizes range from 18 inches to 21 inches
  • 21-inch wheels standard on Calligraphy trim
  • Wide and upright tailgate opening for easier cargo access

XRT Exterior Features

  • HTRAC all-wheel drive standard
  • Black exterior trim elements
  • 18-inch dark alloy wheels
  • All-terrain tires included
  • Increased ground clearance of approximately 1.3 inches

Exterior Dimensions

  • Overall Length: 190.2 inches
  • Overall Width (without mirrors): 74.8 inches
  • Overall Height (FWD): Approximately 67.7 inches (varies by trim and wheels)
  • Overall Height (AWD): Approximately 69.7 inches (varies by trim and wheels)
  • Wheelbase: 110.8 inches (This is a significant increase for a midsize SUV)
  • Minimum Ground Clearance (Non-XRT Trims): 7.0 inches
  • Minimum Ground Clearance (XRT Trim): 8.3 inches (Due to raised suspension and all-terrain tires)
  • Turning Diameter (Curb to Curb): 37.9 feet

Exterior Color Options

  • Serenity White
  • Phantom Black
  • Shimmering Silver
  • Hampton Gray
  • Atlantis Blue
  • Rockwood Green
  • Ultimate Red
  • Terracotta Orange
  • Ecotronic Gray
  • Earthy Brass Matte available on select trims

Interior Features

Interior Styling

  • Three-row seating layout standard
  • Seating for up to seven passengers with second-row captain’s chairs
  • Seating for up to eight passengers with second-row bench seat on SE and SEL trims

Displays and Controls

  • Panoramic curved display layout
  • 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster
  • 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen

Seating and Comfort

  • Relaxation seat available for driver on Limited and Calligraphy trims
  • Power leg rest included with relaxation seat
  • Quilted Nappa leather seats standard on Calligraphy trim
  • Power reclining second-row captain’s chairs available
  • Walk-through access to third row with captain’s chairs
  • Third-row power-folding function available on select trims

Interior Convenience Features

  • Front and rear opening center console available on SEL and above
  • UV C sterilization lighting available in center console on Calligraphy
  • Full display digital rearview mirror available on Calligraphy

Cargo Space

  • Approximately 14.6 cubic feet behind third row
  • Approximately 40.5 cubic feet behind second row
  • Approximately 79.6 cubic feet with all seats folded

Interior Dimensions

  • Seating Capacity: 7 passengers (standard bench seat in 2nd row) or 6 passengers (available 2nd row Captain’s Chairs)
  • Total Passenger Volume: 152.0 cubic feet
  • Front Legroom: 44.4 inches
  • Second Row Legroom: 42.3 inches
  • Third Row Legroom: 30.0 inches (An increase over the previous generation)
  • Front Headroom: 41.1 inches (non-sunroof)
  • Second Row Headroom: 40.6 inches
  • Third Row Headroom: 37.7 inches

Interior Color Options

  • Black
  • Gray
  • Pecan Brown available on Limited and Calligraphy trims

Safety

Safety Awards

Collision Avoidance Features (Hyundai SmartSense)

  • Hyundai SmartSense safety suite standard on all trims
  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist standard
    • Detects vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists
    • Includes junction turning detection
  • Blind-Spot Collision Warning standard
  • Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist available
    • Applies braking during lane changes if needed
  • Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist standard
    • Detects cross traffic when reversing
    • Can apply automatic braking

Driver Assistance Features

  • Lane Keeping Assist standard
  • Lane Following Assist standard
  • Smart Cruise Control with stop and go standard
  • Highway Driving Assist standard on XRT and Limited trims
  • Highway Driving Assist 2 available on Calligraphy trim
    • Includes automatic lane change support

Parking and Convenience Safety

  • Surround View Monitor available on Limited and Calligraphy trims
  • Blind-Spot View Monitor available on Limited and Calligraphy trims
  • Remote Smart Parking Assist available on Limited and Calligraphy trims
  • Safe Exit Warning standard
  • Safe Exit Assist available
    • Can delay door unlocking if traffic is detected
  • Advanced Rear Occupant Alert standard
    • Uses sensors to detect rear seat movement
    • Can send alerts through Bluelink
  • Parking Collision-Avoidance Assist Rear available
    • Applies braking to help prevent backing collisions

Airbags and Vehicle Structure

  • Total of 10 airbags included
    • Driver and front passenger airbags
    • Driver knee airbag
    • First-row side airbags
    • Second-row side airbags
    • Side curtain airbags for all three rows
    • Occupant classification sensor included

Hyundai Warranty and Maintenance Coverage

New Vehicle Limited Warranty

  • 5 years or 60,000 miles

Powertrain Limited Warranty

  • 10 years or 100,000 miles

Anti-Perforation

  • 7 years/unlimited miles

24/7 Roadside Assistance

  • 5 years/unlimited miles

Complimentary Maintenance

  • 3 years or 36,000 miles

View Warranty & Extended Protection Plans: The Hyundai Warranty

FAQS

Trim Levels & Pricing

What trim levels are available for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe (Gas)?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe (gas model) is available in five trims:

  • SE
  • SEL
  • XRT
  • Limited
  • Calligraphy

What trim levels are available for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid is available in four trims:

  • SE
  • SEL
  • Limited
  • Calligraphy

What is the starting MSRP for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE FWD has an estimated starting MSRP of $34,800, excluding destination charges.

What is the starting MSRP for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid SE FWD has an estimated starting MSRP of $37,645, excluding destination charges.

Engine & Performance

What engine options does the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe offer?
The 2026 Santa Fe offers two powertrain options:

  • A standard 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine
  • An available 1.6L turbocharged hybrid system

How much horsepower and torque does the 2.5L turbo engine produce?
The 2.5L turbo engine produces about 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque and uses an 8-speed automatic transmission.

How much horsepower and torque does the Santa Fe Hybrid produce?
The hybrid system delivers a combined output of about 231 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.

Fuel Economy

What is the estimated MPG for the 2026 Santa Fe 2.5L Turbo FWD?
Most FWD trims are estimated at:

  • 20 MPG city
  • 29 MPG highway
  • 24 MPG combined

The XRT AWD trim is estimated at 19 city / 25 highway / 21 combined MPG.

What is the estimated MPG for the 2026 Santa Fe Hybrid?
The Santa Fe Hybrid FWD is estimated at up to:

  • 29 MPG city
  • 30 MPG highway
  • 29 MPG combined

Some hybrid trims can reach up to 36 MPG on the highway.

Towing & Capability

What is the maximum towing capacity of the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe?

  • Gas FWD models: up to 4,500 lbs. when properly equipped
  • Gas AWD models (including XRT): up to 3,500 lbs.
  • Hybrid models: up to 2,000 lbs.

Does the 2026 Santa Fe offer an off-road trim?
Yes. The XRT trim is designed for light off-road use and includes:

  • Standard HTRAC® All-Wheel Drive
  • All-terrain tires
  • 1.3 inches of added ground clearance
  • Terrain modes for Mud, Snow, and Sand

Interior & Seating

How many passengers can the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe seat?
The 2026 Santa Fe seats up to seven passengers with three rows of seating.

  • Limited and Calligraphy trims come standard with second-row captain’s chairs (six passengers)
  • A second-row bench is optional on the Limited trim

What is the third-row legroom and headroom?
The third row offers about:

  • 30.0 inches of legroom
  • 37.7 inches of headroom
    It is best suited for children or short trips.

Technology & Infotainment

What size infotainment screen comes with the 2026 Santa Fe?
All models feature a curved panoramic display that includes:

  • A 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system
  • A 12.3-inch digital gauge cluster

Does the 2026 Santa Fe have wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto?
Yes, but availability depends on trim:

  • Lower trims with the standard 12.3-inch screen offer wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
  • Higher trims with the dual 12.3-inch panoramic display usually require a wired connection

Convenience Features

What new or upgraded convenience features are available for 2026?
Available features include:

  • Standard second-row captain’s chairs on Limited and Calligraphy trims
  • Exclusive Pecan Brown Nappa leather interior on Calligraphy
  • Dual wireless phone chargers on XRT and Limited trims
  • A C-pillar assist handle for easier roof access

Safety & Driver Assistance

What safety features come standard on the 2026 Santa Fe?
Standard Hyundai SmartSense features include:

  • Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
  • Lane Keeping Assist
  • Blind-Spot Collision Warning
  • Driver Attention Warning

Higher trims add features like Highway Driving Assist and Blind-Spot View Monitor.

What safety rating is expected for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe?
Final ratings are still pending. However, the previous model earned a TOP SAFETY PICK+ rating from IIHS when properly equipped. The 2026 Santa Fe has been selected for NHTSA testing.

Reliability & Ownership

What is the expected reliability rating for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe?
Early ratings are positive. The Santa Fe has received:

  • 81/100 for Quality and Reliability from J.D. Power
  • 3.5 out of 5 from RepairPal, ranking well among midsize SUVs

Hybrid-Specific Questions

Does the 2026 Santa Fe Hybrid need to be plugged in?
No. The Santa Fe Hybrid is not a plug-in hybrid. It charges itself through regenerative braking and the gas engine.

Drivetrain & Equipment

How does HTRAC All-Wheel Drive work and is it standard?
HTRAC All-Wheel Drive electronically adjusts power between the front and rear wheels for better traction.

  • It is standard on the XRT trim
  • Optional on other trims

Is a full-size spare tire available on the 2026 Santa Fe?
No. The Santa Fe typically comes with a temporary spare tire or tire repair kit. A full-size spare is generally not offered.

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Disclaimer by Wolfchase Hyundai:

Wolfchase Hyundai believes the information and specifications on this website to be correct at the time of publishing.

Model specifications provided may vary based on selected trim, options, and installed accessories. Specifications, standard features, options, fabrics, accessories, colors, and other features related to the vehicles are subject to change without notice. Values are based on MSRP and exclude taxes, fees, and adjustments. Please visit certified dealers for more accurate pricing.

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