2026 Hyundai Santa Fe: MPG, NHTSA & IIHS Safety Ratings
— NHTSA, IIHS, EPA, AAA, RepairPal
In its segment, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe scores well across safety, fuel cost, and reliability, with NHTSA's 5-star rating and IIHS Top Safety Pick+ designation. NHTSA has 4 recall campaigns on file, more than the 1.7 average for SUVs.
- Starting MSRP
- $35,050 - $50,500
- EPA Combined MPG
- 23-36 MPG
- NHTSA Safety Rating
- 5-Star (Highest)
- IIHS Award
- Top Safety Pick+
- Est. Annual Fuel Cost
- $1,650 - $2,600 per year
- EPA GHG Score
- 7 / 10
- Recalls on File
- 4 recalls on file
- EPA: vs Avg Vehicle
- Save $2,500 over 5 yrs
- Owner Complaints
- 14 on file
- Est. Monthly Cost (with fuel)
- $1,270 per month
- Est. Cost per Mile (with fuel)
- $0.84
- Brand Origin
- South Korea
Priced from $35,050 to $50,500, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is one of 201 mid-range SUVs. Safety ratings, recall history, and ownership costs are all covered below.
- 5-year ownership cost $14,705 below mid-range SUVs average
- Avg repair cost $222 per year below SUV average
- IIHS Top Safety Pick+
2026 Hyundai Santa Fe at a Glance
Compared with similar SUVs in our dataset, the clearest positive signals for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe are high published crash-test results and an above-average RepairPal reliability rating, with lower estimated fuel cost. The main caution is that the recall history is not a standout.
- safety
- reliability
- fuel cost
Strengths in the data
- Safety: 5-star NHTSA + IIHS TSP+. Safest SUVs 2026 →
- Reliability: RepairPal 4.0/5 from RepairPal. Most reliable SUVs 2026 →
- Fuel: Below-average fuel cost among hybrid SUVs. Best-case annual fuel cost is $1,650. Cheapest SUVs to fuel 2026 →
Cautions in the data
- There are 4 recalls on file, above the current SUVs average. Zero-recall cars 2026 →
- AAA estimates $13,584 per year 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.
Similar vehicles to compare
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%
The NHTSA star rating covers frontal, side, and rollover crashes. IIHS picks up where NHTSA leaves off with small-overlap frontal tests, roof strength, and headlight evaluations.
How Did the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Perform in IIHS Crash Tests?
IIHS recognized the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe with a TSP+ award. This designation reflects strong performance across frontal, side, and roof strength evaluations, plus crash avoidance capabilities. 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
NHTSA and IIHS evaluate the design. Recalls evaluate the execution. A look at both tells you whether the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe performs as intended under real-world conditions.
Does the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Have Any Recalls?
With 4 recall campaigns on file, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe exceeds the 1.7 average for SUVs. Affected components include AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:CRITICAL FASTENERS, SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE. Note that more recalls can indicate more proactive defect identification. All recall repairs are free. Source: NHTSA.
4 recall campaigns on file with NHTSA.
Components: AIR BAGS:SIDE/WINDOW:CURTAIN, ELECTRICAL SYSTEM: INSTRUMENT CLUSTER/PANEL, ENGINE AND ENGINE COOLING:CRITICAL FASTENERS, SEAT BELTS:FRONT:ANCHORAGE
Most recent: April 2026
Units affected: 670,631
What Do 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Owners Report to NHTSA?
NHTSA has 14 owner complaints on file for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe. This is above the average of 9 complaints for 2026 SUVs. Owner complaints are self-reported and unverified, but patterns across many reports can indicate real issues.
11 in the last 90 days · most recent filed 2026-04-14
Most-reported problem areas
- ADAS / Safety Tech4
- Interior3
- Visibility3
- Tires1
- Powertrain1
Source: NHTSA Vehicle Complaints Database. Data last refreshed 2026-04-16.
Families drive more miles and make more trips. That makes fuel economy one of the biggest factors in the real cost of owning the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe.
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 $1,650, which is $458 below the $2,108 average for mid-range SUVs. Source: EPA.
Ranges from 23 to 36 combined MPG/MPGe depending on trim and drivetrain.
| Trim | Combined | City | Highway | Annual Fuel Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SE FWD GAS | 24 MPG | 20 | 29 | $2,500 per year |
| SE Hybrid FWD HEV | 36 MPG | 37 | 36 | $1,650 per year |
| SE AWD GAS | 23 MPG | 20 | 28 | $2,600 per year |
| SEL FWD GAS | 24 MPG | 20 | 29 | $2,500 per year |
| SE Hybrid AWD HEV | 34 MPG | 35 | 34 | $1,750 per year |
| SEL Hybrid FWD HEV | 36 MPG | 37 | 36 | $1,650 per year |
| SEL AWD GAS | 23 MPG | 20 | 28 | $2,600 per year |
| SEL Hybrid AWD HEV | 34 MPG | 35 | 34 | $1,750 per year |
| XRT AWD GAS | 23 MPG | 20 | 28 | $2,600 per year |
| Limited FWD GAS | 24 MPG | 20 | 29 | $2,500 per year |
| Limited Hybrid FWD HEV | 36 MPG | 37 | 36 | $1,650 per year |
| Limited AWD GAS | 23 MPG | 20 | 28 | $2,600 per year |
| Limited Hybrid AWD HEV | 34 MPG | 35 | 34 | $1,750 per year |
| Calligraphy FWD GAS | 24 MPG | 20 | 29 | $2,500 per year |
| Calligraphy Hybrid FWD HEV | 36 MPG | 37 | 36 | $1,650 per year |
| Calligraphy AWD GAS | 23 MPG | 20 | 28 | $2,600 per year |
| Calligraphy Hybrid AWD HEV | 34 MPG | 35 | 34 | $1,750 per year |
Estimated 5-year fuel costs range from $8,250 to $13,000 depending on trim.
All trims earned EPA SmartWay certification for lower emissions and fuel cost. EPA smog rating ranges from 4 to 7 out of 10 across trims.
A family vehicle racks up miles fast. That means the hidden costs, insurance, maintenance, depreciation, matter as much as what you pay at the pump. AAA estimates them below.
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 per year |
|---|---|
| Insurance | $1,873 per year |
| Depreciation | $5,074 per year |
| Registration & Taxes | $862 per year |
| Financing | $1,815 per year |
| Total (excluding fuel) | $13,584 per year |
| Cost per mile | $0.84 per mile |
Families often prioritize safety features and cargo space over horsepower. The trim table below shows how those factors vary across the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe lineup.
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 | $2,500 per year | FWD | 277 hp | 4,343 lbs | $111,970 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SE Hybrid FWD HEV | $36,400 | 36 MPG | $1,650 per year | FWD | 231 hp | 4,431 lbs | $78,035 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SE AWD GAS | $36,850 | 23 MPG | $2,600 per year | AWD | 277 hp | 4,486 lbs | $114,270 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEL FWD GAS | $37,590 | 24 MPG | $2,500 per year | FWD | 277 hp | 4,343 lbs | $114,510 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SE Hybrid AWD HEV | $38,200 | 34 MPG | $1,750 per year | AWD | 231 hp | 4,575 lbs | $96,400 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEL Hybrid FWD HEV | $38,690 | 36 MPG | $1,650 per year | FWD | 231 hp | 4,431 lbs | $80,325 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEL AWD GAS | $39,390 | 23 MPG | $2,600 per year | AWD | 277 hp | 4,486 lbs | $116,810 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| SEL Hybrid AWD HEV | $40,490 | 34 MPG | $1,750 per year | AWD | 231 hp | 4,575 lbs | $98,690 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| XRT AWD GAS | $42,040 | 23 MPG | $2,600 per year | AWD | 277 hp | 4,486 lbs | $120,460 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Limited FWD GAS | $44,600 | 24 MPG | $2,500 per year | 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
added 2026
- SE (FWD, AWD)
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 23 MPG | $40,950 23 MPG | $42,040 23 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
Price and fuel economy are knowable before purchase. Reliability is the variable that matters most after. The RepairPal score below gives you a data point on what to expect.
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.
A warranty does not make a vehicle more reliable, but it does limit your financial exposure if something fails. Here is what Hyundai includes.
What Warranty Does the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Come With?
Warranty coverage defines Hyundai's financial commitment if something fails. The terms below apply to all 2026 Santa Fe trims. Longer powertrain coverage reflects the manufacturer's confidence in drivetrain durability.
| Basic Warranty | 5yr/60k |
|---|---|
| Powertrain Warranty | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion Warranty | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited |
What Are the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Specs?
Technical specifications for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe from manufacturer data. Engine size, horsepower, curb weight, and dimensions are shown for the primary configuration.
EPA vehicle class: Mid-size crossover SUV
| Engine | 2.5L I4, 1.6L I4 |
|---|---|
| Horsepower | 231 - 277 hp |
| Power-to-Weight | 101.0 - 127.6 hp per ton |
| Price per HP | $127 - $219 |
| 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 |
| Est. Range per Tank | 407 - 637 miles per tank (EPA combined) |
| 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 safety rating changed
- Recall status changed
All data shown for the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe comes from EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, AAA, manufacturers, and selected third-party references. The safety and reliability data above is especially relevant for a vehicle your family depends on. Data is refreshed periodically.
Source links
Verify this data
2026 Hyundai Santa Fe FAQ
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.
What vehicles compete with the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe?
Vehicles similar to the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe in price and segment include 2026 Acura ADX, 2026 Chevrolet Blazer, and 2026 Lexus UX. The Acura ADX is the closest in price (starting at $35,000, 5-star NHTSA, 28-29 MPG). Each has its own fact sheet with EPA, NHTSA, IIHS, and cost data for comparison. 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 $138 for fuel. That puts non-payment running costs around $1,270 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.
Where is Hyundai based?
Hyundai is a South Korea-based automaker. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe may be assembled in a different country than where Hyundai is headquartered. Check the window sticker or VIN decoder for the specific assembly location of any individual vehicle. See our South Korea-brand cars 2026 list.
What other Hyundai models are available for 2026?
Each 2026 Hyundai model on this site has its own fact sheet covering available safety, fuel, reliability, cost, and recall data. Visit our Hyundai models page for the full lineup.
What is the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe safety rating?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe earned a 5-star overall safety rating from NHTSA and has 4 recall campaigns on file. See the safety and recall sections above for the full breakdown, including IIHS results and specific recall details.
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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.