If you’ve followed our YouTube channel for a while, you’ll know our storied past with the Hyundai Santa Fe. Despite our experiences, we still think it is a fantastic family SUV, and even more so with its major 2026 changes. So, is it time to finally pull the trigger on this new model? This article will cover the detailed specs of the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe but be sure to watch the video below for an in-depth design review!

What’s New for 2026?

  • Gas: 8-Speed Auto Added to replace DCT
  • XRT Gas: New Gloss Black Grille and Terrain Mode
  • Hybrid: New SE trim
  • Pecan Brown interior new on Calligraphy
  • Limited adds new 2nd Row Captain’s Chairs (and optional bench)
  • Dual Wireless Chargers on Limited (Gas XRT+)
  • 3rd Row USBs on SEL+

Trims and Pricing

MSRP for FWD unless noted

Gas:

SE: $34,800

SEL: $37,340

XRT AWD: $41,790

Limited: $44,350

Calligraphy: $47,350

Hybrid:

SE: $36,150

SEL: $38,440

Limited: $45,450

Calligraphy: $48,450

Prices do rise for 2026, especially if you are shopping for a Hybrid model. But, Hyundai does back it up with lots of luxury goodies.

Air Ball and Slam Dunk

Slam Dunk: We’re very glad about all of the 2026 Changes

Air Ball: The styling is still controversial for some potential buyers

Design and Features

The Santa Fe will continue to have the same design as last year, which can be summed up to the words of “boxy and bold!” While not everyone’s cup of tea, it has certainly grown on us. The only 2026 tweaks will be for the gas XRT model, which swaps out its old grill for a new gloss black one, for some more flare. As mentioned above, please watch the video linked below for a full in-depth exploration of the exterior design and differences.

Here is the full breakdown of feature availability for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe:

Feature

Availability

Exterior

LED Headlights

Standard with LEDs Projectors with “H” Motif

Fog Lights

Not Available

Wheels

18-21-inch wheels depending on trim

Paint Options

Unique Paint options, including Matte Colors

Mirrors

Standard BSM, Heating | Limited+: power-fold

Side-Mounted Roof Handle

On XRT and Upper trims

LED Taillights

Standard: Partial LED taillamps | Lower Mounted

Towing

Gas: 3,500lbs | HEV: 2,000 lbs

Forward Emergency Braking

Standard on all Santa Fe Models

Adaptive Cruise Control

Lane Keep Assist

Auto High Beams

Highway Drive Assist

XRT+: Version 1.0 | Calligraphy: Version 2.0

Driver Monitoring System

Standard on all models

 

When it comes to the Interior, the Santa Fe will also be well-equipped on all trims.

Interior

Smart Parking System

Limited+

Smart Entry and Remote Start

Standard

Digital Key 2.0

SEL+

Seat Materials

Cloth, Leatherette, Leather, or Nappa Leather depending on trim

Seat Adjustment

SEL+: 8-way Power | Limited+: 4-way lumbar and Memory | Calligraphy: relaxation seat with leg rest

Push Button Start

Standard

Gauge Cluster

Limited+: 12.3-in full digital reconfigurable gauge cluster

Blind-View Camera

Limited+

Steering Wheel

Standard: Leather Wrapped | Limited+: Heated

Head-Up Display

Calligraphy Exclusive

Rain Sensing Wipers

Limited+

Ambient Lighting

Limited+

Wireless Charging

Single Charger: SEL+ | Dual Charger on XRT+

UV Sterilization Tray

No longer offered

Front/Side/Rear Parking Sensors

Limited+

360 Degree Camera

Limited+

2-Zone Climate Controls

SE Hybrid+

Seat Climate

SEL+: Heated | Limited+: Ventilated Seats

Audio System

Standard 6-speakers | Limited+: 12-Speakers Bose Premium Audio

Screen

Standard: 12.3-inch display with touchscreen capability and WIRELESS Android Auto and CarPlay | Navigation

Auto-dimming mirror

Limited+

Moonroof

Standard Size: XRT+ | Dual Panel: Limited+

 

The rear of the Santa Fe is also well-equipped, making it one of the biggest in the segment.

Rear Amenities

Rear Vents and USBs

Standard

Heated Rear Seats

Limited+

Relaxation Seats

Limited+ with Power Adjustment (Bench is optional on Limited and standard on other trims)

Third Row Amenities

Standard: Recline, Air Vents, and USBs

Tailgate

Hands-Free Power

 

For in depth details on the 2026 Santa Fe, watch our full review linked at the bottom of this article.

LOOKING TO BUY One OF THis VEHICLE?

A smart next step would be to check our Car Quote Tool. This tool will connect you with local dealerships in your area to get you the BEST price, access to INVOICE PRICING information, and a monthly payment calculator. Get dealerships to compete for your business!

What’s Under the Hood?

The Santa Fe will be offered in two powertrains, with some important changes for this year:

Gas: 

  • 2.5L Turbo I-4: 277 hp | 311 lb.ft
  • Paired w/ NEW 8-speed Traditional Automatic

Hybrid: 

  • 1.6L Turbo I-4 + Electric motor + Lithium-ion battery: 232 hp | 271 lb ft
  • Paired w/ 6-speed automatic

FWD is standard on all models, except for the XRT which is AWD Exclusive. The available fuel economy figures for each model are listed below:

FWD: 20/29/24 MPG

AWD: 20/28/23 MPG (21 Combined on XRT)

FWD: 37/36/36 MPG

AWD: 35/34/34 MPG

We hope you have found this overview of the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe helpful! For a more detailed first look of the Santa Fe, please watch our video below! What do you think of the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe? Let us know in the comments!