2026 Hyundai Santa Fe
Now in its 2026 model year, the Hyundai Santa Fe is a SUV priced from $35,050 to $50,500 across 17 trims. This page compiles safety, fuel cost, reliability, and ownership data from six independent sources, all linked to the original publisher.
5-star safety. A fuel cost. 4.0/5 reliability. That is the snapshot for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe among mid-range SUVs. NHTSA has 3 recall campaigns on file, more than the 1.8 average for SUVs.
What the published data indicates
Compared with similar SUVs in our dataset, the clearest positive signals for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe are high published crash-test results and lower estimated fuel cost, with an above-average RepairPal reliability rating. The main caution is that the recall history is not a standout.
- safety
- fuel cost
- reliability
Strongest published signals
- Safety: 5-star NHTSA + IIHS TSP+. Safest SUVs 2026 →
- Fuel: Top 20% cheapest to fuel among hybrid SUVs. Best-case annual fuel cost is $1,200. Cheapest SUVs to fuel 2026 →
- Reliability: RepairPal 4.0/5 from RepairPal. Most reliable SUVs 2026 →
Limits and cautions
- There are 3 recalls on file, above the current SUVs average. Zero-recall cars 2026 →
- AAA estimates $13,584/yr in non-fuel costs for the Medium SUV class: insurance $1,873, maintenance $1,817, depreciation $5,074. These are class averages, not specific to this model.
- The trim range spans about $15,450 from entry trim to top trim, so value depends heavily on what you actually spec.
Comparable models
- Starting MSRP
- $35,050 - $50,500
- EPA Combined MPG
- 21-36 MPG
- NHTSA Safety Rating
- 5-Star (Highest)
- IIHS Award
- Top Safety Pick+
- Est. Annual Fuel Cost
- $1,200 - $2,100/yr
- Recalls on File
- 3 recalls on file
- EPA: vs Avg Vehicle
- Save $1,750 over 5 yrs
- Owner Complaints
- 8 on file
- Brand Origin
- South Korea
How Safe Is the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is one of 82% of SUVs to earn NHTSA's top 5-star rating. It also received TSP+ from IIHS, which tests different crash configurations. Source: NHTSA.
Overall Safety
82% of SUVs share this top rating
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Frontal Crash | |
| Side Crash | |
| Rollover |
Rollover Risk: 17.4%
While NHTSA uses a star rating system, IIHS rates individual crash types. The two together offer a fuller view of how this vehicle performs in different crash scenarios.
How Did the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Perform in IIHS Crash Tests?
IIHS awarded the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe a TSP+ designation, which requires good or acceptable ratings in all crashworthiness categories plus effective front crash prevention. IIHS tests are independent of NHTSA and use different crash configurations. Source: IIHS.
| Test | Rating |
|---|---|
| Small Overlap Front | G Good |
| Moderate Overlap Front | G Good |
| Side | G Good |
| Headlights | A Acceptable |
| Front Crash Prevention (Vehicle) | G Good |
| Front Crash Prevention (Pedestrian) | G Good |
| Seat Belt Reminders | G Good |
| Child Seat Anchors (LATCH) | A Acceptable |
IIHS vehicle class: Midsize SUVs
Test scores tell part of the safety story. The recall record adds another dimension: real-world defects identified after production.
Does the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Have Any Recalls?
With 3 recall campaigns on file, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe exceeds the 1.8 average for SUVs. Affected components include AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:CRITICAL FASTENERS. Note that more recalls can indicate more proactive defect identification. All recall repairs are free. Source: NHTSA.
3 recall campaigns on file with NHTSA.
Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:CRITICAL FASTENERS
Most recent: January 2026
Units affected: 670,631
Owner-Reported Problems
NHTSA has 8 owner complaints on file for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe. The average for 2026 SUVs is 8 complaints. Owner complaints are self-reported and unverified, but patterns across many reports can indicate real issues.
7 in the last 90 days · most recent filed 2026-02-22
Most-reported problem areas
- Visibility3
- ADAS / Safety Tech2
- Powertrain1
- Electrical1
- Engine1
Source: NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database. Data last refreshed 2026-03-07.
From safety to cost. How much fuel this vehicle uses directly affects what you pay month to month.
What Is the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Fuel Economy?
EPA rates the most efficient 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe trim at 36 combined MPG. At that rating, estimated annual fuel cost is $1,200, which is $508 below the $1,708 average for mid-range SUVs. Source: EPA.
Ranges from 21 to 36 combined MPG/MPGe depending on trim and drivetrain.
| Trim | Combined | City | Highway | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE FWD GAS | 24 MPG | 20 | 29 | $1,800/yr |
| SE Hybrid FWD HEV | 36 MPG | 37 | 36 | $1,200/yr |
| SE AWD GAS | 23 MPG | 20 | 28 | $1,900/yr |
| SEL FWD GAS | 24 MPG | 20 | 29 | $1,800/yr |
| SE Hybrid AWD HEV | 34 MPG | 35 | 34 | $1,300/yr |
| SEL Hybrid FWD HEV | 36 MPG | 37 | 36 | $1,200/yr |
| SEL AWD GAS | 23 MPG | 20 | 28 | $1,900/yr |
| SEL Hybrid AWD HEV | 34 MPG | 35 | 34 | $1,300/yr |
| XRT AWD GAS | 21 MPG | 19 | 25 | $2,100/yr |
| Limited FWD GAS | 24 MPG | 20 | 29 | $1,800/yr |
| Limited Hybrid FWD HEV | 36 MPG | 37 | 36 | $1,200/yr |
| Limited AWD GAS | 23 MPG | 20 | 28 | $1,900/yr |
| Limited Hybrid AWD HEV | 34 MPG | 35 | 34 | $1,300/yr |
| Calligraphy FWD GAS | 24 MPG | 20 | 29 | $1,800/yr |
| Calligraphy Hybrid FWD HEV | 36 MPG | 37 | 36 | $1,200/yr |
| Calligraphy AWD GAS | 23 MPG | 20 | 28 | $1,900/yr |
| Calligraphy Hybrid AWD HEV | 34 MPG | 35 | 34 | $1,300/yr |
Beyond fuel, the full ownership picture includes insurance, routine maintenance, depreciation, and financing. AAA publishes annual estimates for each vehicle class.
What Does the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Cost to Own?
Estimated 5-year total ownership cost for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe ranges from $78,035 to $126,820 depending on trim, based on AAA's Your Driving Costs study for the Medium SUV class. This includes insurance, maintenance, depreciation, registration, and financing. These are class averages, not specific to this model. Source: AAA.
| Maintenance | $1,817/yr |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,873/yr |
| Depreciation | $5,074/yr |
| Registration & Taxes | $862/yr |
| Financing | $1,815/yr |
| Total (excluding fuel) | $13,584/yr |
| Cost per mile | $0.84/mi |
Which trim offers the best balance of cost and equipment? The breakdown below compares all 17 options side by side.
How Do the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Trims Compare?
17 trims are available for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe, spanning $35,050 to $50,500. Trims are available with Gasoline and Hybrid powertrains, which affects fuel economy and pricing. Compare specifications and estimated costs in the table below. Prices are MSRP before destination and fees.
| Trim | Base MSRP | Combined MPG | Est. Annual Fuel Cost | Drive Type | Horsepower | Curb Weight | Est. 5-Year Cost | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE FWD GAS | $35,050 | 24 MPG | $1,800/yr | FWD | 277 hp | 4,343 lbs | $111,970 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SE Hybrid FWD HEV | $36,400 | 36 MPG | $1,200/yr | FWD | 231 hp | 4,431 lbs | $78,035 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SE AWD GAS | $36,850 | 23 MPG | $1,900/yr | AWD | 277 hp | 4,486 lbs | $114,270 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEL FWD GAS | $37,590 | 24 MPG | $1,800/yr | FWD | 277 hp | 4,343 lbs | $114,510 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SE Hybrid AWD HEV | $38,200 | 34 MPG | $1,300/yr | AWD | 231 hp | 4,575 lbs | $96,400 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEL Hybrid FWD HEV | $38,690 | 36 MPG | $1,200/yr | FWD | 231 hp | 4,431 lbs | $80,325 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEL AWD GAS | $39,390 | 23 MPG | $1,900/yr | AWD | 277 hp | 4,486 lbs | $116,810 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEL Hybrid AWD HEV | $40,490 | 34 MPG | $1,300/yr | AWD | 231 hp | 4,575 lbs | $98,690 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| XRT AWD GAS | $42,040 | 21 MPG | $2,100/yr | AWD | 277 hp | 4,486 lbs | $120,460 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Limited FWD GAS | $44,600 | 24 MPG | $1,800/yr | FWD | 277 hp | 4,343 lbs | $121,520 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Show 7 more trim(s)
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The Hyundai Santa Fe lineup has expanded from 15 trims in 2024 to 17 trims in 2026. Hybrid trims now represent 47% of the lineup, up from 40% in 2024. The entry price has increased $1,100 since 2024.
New trims since 2024
- SE Hybrid FWD HEV (added 2026)
- SE Hybrid AWD HEV (added 2026)
Price changes since 2024
- Limited Hybrid FWD HEV $43,850 (2024) → $45,700 (2026) +$1,850
- Limited Hybrid AWD HEV $45,650 (2024) → $47,500 (2026) +$1,850
- SEL Hybrid FWD HEV $36,950 (2024) → $38,690 (2026) +$1,740
- SEL Hybrid AWD HEV $38,750 (2024) → $40,490 (2026) +$1,740
- Calligraphy Hybrid FWD HEV $47,000 (2024) → $48,700 (2026) +$1,700
- Calligraphy Hybrid AWD HEV $48,800 (2024) → $50,500 (2026) +$1,700
- XRT AWD GAS $40,600 (2024) → $42,040 (2026) +$1,440
- Limited FWD GAS $43,350 (2024) → $44,600 (2026) +$1,250
- Limited AWD GAS $45,150 (2024) → $46,400 (2026) +$1,250
- SEL FWD GAS $36,450 (2024) → $37,590 (2026) +$1,140
View full trim timeline (2024–2026)
| Trim | 2024 | 2025 | 2026 |
|---|---|---|---|
| SE FWD GAS | $33,950 24 MPG | $34,300 24 MPG | $35,050 24 MPG |
| SE AWD GAS | $35,750 23 MPG | $36,100 23 MPG | $36,850 23 MPG |
| SEL FWD GAS | $36,450 24 MPG | $36,800 24 MPG | $37,590 24 MPG |
| SEL Hybrid FWD HEV | $36,950 36 MPG | $37,800 36 MPG | $38,690 36 MPG |
| SEL AWD GAS | $38,250 23 MPG | $38,600 23 MPG | $39,390 23 MPG |
| SEL Hybrid AWD HEV | $38,750 34 MPG | $39,600 34 MPG | $40,490 34 MPG |
| XRT AWD GAS | $40,600 22 MPG | $40,950 22 MPG | $42,040 21 MPG |
| Limited FWD GAS | $43,350 24 MPG | $43,700 24 MPG | $44,600 24 MPG |
| Limited Hybrid FWD HEV | $43,850 36 MPG | $44,700 36 MPG | $45,700 36 MPG |
| Limited AWD GAS | $45,150 23 MPG | $45,500 23 MPG | $46,400 23 MPG |
| Limited Hybrid AWD HEV | $45,650 34 MPG | $46,500 34 MPG | $47,500 34 MPG |
| Calligraphy FWD GAS | $46,500 24 MPG | $46,850 24 MPG | $47,600 24 MPG |
| Calligraphy Hybrid FWD HEV | $47,000 36 MPG | $47,850 36 MPG | $48,700 36 MPG |
| Calligraphy AWD GAS | $48,300 23 MPG | $48,650 23 MPG | $49,400 23 MPG |
| Calligraphy Hybrid AWD HEV | $48,800 34 MPG | $49,650 34 MPG | $50,500 34 MPG |
| SE Hybrid FWD HEV | — | — | $36,400 36 MPG |
| SE Hybrid AWD HEV | — | — | $38,200 34 MPG |
Compare Trim Costs
Select two trims and adjust your driving and financing to see how monthly costs compare. Only costs we can compute from EPA data and your inputs are shown. No estimates, no guesses.
Your driving & financing
After narrowing down a trim, it helps to check the broader reliability picture. The section below summarizes the third-party reliability rating we have on file.
How Reliable Is the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe scores 4.0 out of 5.0 on RepairPal's reliability index, above the average for mid-range SUVs. RepairPal data reflects repair frequency and severity from shops nationwide. Source: RepairPal.
Warranty coverage sets the floor for what the manufacturer will repair at no cost. Here are Hyundai's published terms.
What Warranty Does the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Come With?
Hyundai provides the following warranty coverage for the 2026 Santa Fe. Warranty terms are published by the manufacturer and apply to all trims. Coverage begins from the date of original purchase. Warranty terms shown here reflect the most recently published manufacturer data.
| Basic Warranty | 5yr/60k |
|---|---|
| Powertrain Warranty | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion Warranty | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited |
What Are the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Specs?
Detailed specifications for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe as reported by the manufacturer. Specifications may vary by trim, market, and production date. Source: manufacturer-reported data.
| Engine | 2.5L I4, 1.6L I4 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 231 - 277 hp |
| Torque | 271 - 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic, 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drive Type | Front-Wheel Drive, All-Wheel Drive |
| Fuel Type | regular unleaded |
| Fuel Tank | 17.7 gal |
| Length | 190.2 in |
|---|---|
| Width | 74.8 in |
| Height | 67.7 - 69.7 in |
| Wheelbase | 110.8 in |
| Curb Weight | 4,343 - 4,575 lbs |
What Changed for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe?
- Number of available trims changed
- Pricing changed across one or more trims
- EPA fuel economy ratings changed
- nhtsa changed
- Recall status changed
This page reflects published data from EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, AAA, manufacturers, and selected third-party references for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe. The trim evolution section above shows how pricing and lineup composition have changed since 2024. All data updates automatically when source agencies publish new information.
2026 Hyundai Santa Fe FAQ
How does the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe compare to other suvs?
Based on published data, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe has a safety grade of A, a fuel cost grade of A, and a RepairPal reliability score of 4.0/5. These grades compare it against similar suvs in its price range. No single metric tells the whole story, so we recommend reviewing each section on this page. See our Safest SUVs 2026 list.
Which 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe trim has the lowest ownership cost?
Among 17 available trims, the SE Hybrid FWD HEV has the lowest estimated five-year ownership cost at $78,035, starting at $36,400 MSRP. The most expensive trim to own is about $126,820. See the full trim comparison table above for a side-by-side breakdown.
How much does 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe insurance cost?
AAA estimates the annual insurance cost for the Medium SUV class at $1,873 per year, or about $156 per month. This is a class-level average, not specific to the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe. Your actual premium will depend on your driving history, location, and coverage choices. Source: AAA Your Driving Costs study.
How much does 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe maintenance cost per year?
AAA estimates average annual maintenance for the Medium SUV class at $1,817 per year. This covers routine services, wear items, and unscheduled repairs. Combined with insurance ($1,873/yr) and depreciation ($5,074/yr), total non-fuel ownership costs run about $13,584 per year. These are class averages from the AAA Your Driving Costs study.
How fast does a 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe depreciate?
AAA estimates the Medium SUV class depreciates about $5,074 per year, or roughly $25,370 over five years. On a base MSRP of $35,050, that represents about 72% of the purchase price. These are class averages and actual depreciation varies by trim, condition, mileage, and market demand. Source: AAA.
How much will I spend on gas with a 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe?
The most efficient 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe trim costs an estimated $1,200 per year in fuel, or about $100 per month, based on EPA ratings and national average fuel prices. That is about $508 less than the average for similar suvs. See our Cheapest SUVs to fuel 2026 list.
What vehicles compete with the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe?
Based on price range, body type, and segment positioning, the closest competitors to the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe include 2026 Acura ADX, 2026 Chevrolet Blazer, and 2026 Lexus UX. Each of those pages includes the same safety, fuel cost, reliability, and recall data so you can compare directly. Browse all 2026 SUVs.
What changed on the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe from last year?
Compared to the previous model year, 2 new trims were added and the entry price increased by $1,100 for the Hyundai Santa Fe lineup. See the trim evolution timeline above for full year-by-year pricing and availability details.
How much does a 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe cost per month to own?
Excluding your car payment, estimated monthly costs for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe include about $1,132 for insurance, maintenance, depreciation, and fees, plus roughly $100 for fuel. That puts non-payment running costs around $1,232 per month. These are estimates based on AAA class averages and EPA fuel data. Actual costs depend on your driving, location, and coverage.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe available as a hybrid?
Yes, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is available with a hybrid powertrain option alongside conventional powertrains. Hybrid trims typically offer better fuel economy at a higher starting price compared to conventional gas trims. See our Hybrid SUVs 2026 list.
Compare to Similar Vehicles
Other Model Years
Data on this page is compiled from government agencies and independent research organizations. It is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, purchasing, or safety advice. Verify all data with the original source before making decisions.