Hyundai Santa Fe FAQs
What engine options are available in the Hyundai Santa Fe?
The Hyundai Santa Fe offers two primary powertrains. Gas-only models use a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine producing 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. It's paired with a newly updated eight-speed automatic transmission for the 2026 model year, providing strong acceleration and confident highway performance.
Hybrid models combine a turbocharged 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine with an electric motor to produce 231 horsepower and 271 pound-feet of torque. The hybrid system focuses on smooth power delivery and improved efficiency, making it a practical option for daily commuting and longer trips.
Is the Hyundai Santa Fe available with all-wheel drive?
Yes. The Santa Fe comes standard with front-wheel drive, while HTRAC all-wheel drive is available across the lineup. This system helps improve traction on wet roads, loose surfaces, and uneven terrain. It's especially useful for drivers who regularly encounter changing weather or unpaved roads.
How much passenger and cargo space does the Hyundai Santa Fe offer?
The Hyundai Santa Fe is a three-row SUV that sits on the border of the compact and midsize segments. With comfortable seating for up to seven passengers, it's an excellent choice for families who need extra seatbelts with a bit more maneuverability than a larger model. Buyers can also opt for second-row captain's chairs, reducing capacity to six while improving access to the third row.
Cargo space is competitive for the segment, with multiple configurations depending on seat position. Folding the third row expands capacity from 14.6 to 40.5 cubic feet. When your Nashua or Concord, NH, outings require more storage, you can fold all rear seats to access 79.6 cubic feet.
What are the key differences between Santa Fe trim levels?
The Santa Fe is available in several trims, each adding more comfort, technology, and convenience features.
- SE / SE Hybrid: Includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen, wireless smartphone integration, full LED lighting, and a comprehensive driver-assistance suite.
- SEL / SEL Hybrid: Adds heated front seats, upgraded interior materials, a power driver's seat, and Hyundai Digital Key functionality.
- XRT: Focuses on rugged styling and added utility, along with navigation and enhanced driver-assistance features.
- Limited / Limited Hybrid: Introduces leather upholstery, ventilated front seats, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bose audio, and surround-view monitoring.
- Calligraphy / Calligraphy Hybrid: Adds premium Nappa leather, second-row captain's chairs, a head-up display, and Highway Driving Assist 2.
For the 2026 model year, dual wireless charging pads are now standard on Limited and XRT trims, improving convenience for front-seat passengers.
What technologies are available in the Hyundai Santa Fe?
The Santa Fe is equipped with a wide range of modern technologies, including a standard 12.3-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, along with an available dual-screen panoramic display that combines infotainment and driver information.
Other notable features include:
- Hyundai Digital Key 2 (phone-as-a-key functionality)
- Head-up display (Calligraphy)
- Bose premium audio system
- Surround View Monitor and Blind-Spot View Monitor
- Multiple USB ports across all three rows
What safety features come standard on the Hyundai Santa Fe?
The Hyundai Santa Fe includes a comprehensive roster of advanced driver aids as standard equipment. So, regardless of trim level, this SUV supports your Salem, NH, travels with assistive technologies like:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Pedestrian, Cyclist, and Junction Detection
- Blind-Spot Collision Warning
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Parking Distance Warning - Forward/Reverse
- Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
- Lane Keeping and Lane Following Assist
- Safe Exit Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
Is the Hyundai Santa Fe a good choice for families?
Yes. Its three-row layout, flexible seating configurations, and practical cargo space make it an excellent choice for family duties. It provides the added seating capacity many households need without the imposing space requirements of a full-size SUV, helping it remain easier to park and maneuver in everyday driving.