2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Vs. Toyota Highlander
Buckle up, folks, because this year's Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Toyota Highlander review is about to get juicy. We're exploring technology, safety, specs, and overall design to answer two questions: Which vehicle performs best in daily life, and is the more expensive Highlander really worth the cost? Want a closer look at the accessibly priced, newly redesigned Santa Fe that's a clear Car and Driver favorite?1 Visit Homer Skelton Hyundai for a tour.
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2026 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Toyota Highlander: What's New and What's Not?
You're smart to pit the Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Toyota Highlander against one another: These rivals have a long history of jockeying for the top spot in the three-row SUV market. The trouble is, while the Highlander relies on its tried-and-true formula, the Santa Fe leaps ahead with its bold 2026 refresh.
- 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe: Swaps in a new eight-speed transmission, increases standard safety features across all trim levels, and adds tech like dual wireless chargers to select variants
- 2026 Toyota Highlander: Now comes with standard all-wheel drive
While standard AWD is a great perk for the Highlander, the Santa Fe offers drivers more flexibility. You can add capable all-wheel drive to any Santa Fe trim level you choose – allowing you to get the exact features you want, backed by a considerably longer warranty, all while keeping your budget intact.
2026 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Toyota Highlander Comparison Chart
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| 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe | 2026 Toyota Highlander | |
|---|---|---|
| Car and Driver Rank | 6th1 | 14th2 |
| Size | ||
| Passenger Seating | 6 or 7 | 7 or 8 |
| First-Row Legroom | 44.4 in | 42 in |
| Second-Row Legroom | 42.3 in | 38.7 in |
| Third-Row Legroom | 30 in | 28 in |
| Standard Trunk Size | 14.6 cu ft | 16 cu ft |
| Specs | ||
| Standard Engine | 2.5L turbo 4-cyl | 2.4L turbo 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 277 | 265 |
| Max Towing Capacity | 4,500 lbs3 | 5,000 lbs4 |
| Warranty | 10 yr / 100,000 mi5 | 3 yr / 36,000 mi6 |
| Tech | ||
| Entry Touchscreen | 12.3 in | 8 in |
| Wireless Smartphone Charging | Standard (all but entry trim) | Standard |
| Collision-Avoidance Assist w/ Pedestrian Detection | Standard | Standard |
| Safe Exit Assist | Standard | No |
| Features | ||
| Hands-Free Liftgate | Standard | Standard |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ Compatibility | Standard | Standard |
| Trailer Sway Control | Standard | Standard |
Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Toyota Highlander: Which SUV Prioritizes Cabin Space?
Right off the bat, the Santa Fe offers more space for its passengers in every single row. Take legroom, for example: Compared to the Highlander, the Santa Fe gives its front row an extra 2.4 inches, second-row riders enjoy an extra 3.6 inches, and third-row kiddos have an extra 2 inches. While the last row in both SUVs is tight, the Santa Fe's boxy, headroom-friendly shape helps its interior feel and function like a larger vehicle.
The same pattern continues when comparing the Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Toyota Highlander headroom: This smart use of space gives the Santa Fe a major advantage, especially since the Highlander is physically longer and trickier to park, yet offers less room where it counts.
Winner: Hyundai Santa Fe
Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Toyota Highlander: Which SUV Performs Best?
With nearly identical MPGs from very similar turbocharged four-cylinder engines, you'd expect Santa Fe and Highlander performance to be pretty evenly matched, and you would be right. Real-world test drives of these sport-utes reveal that both have predictable handling and prioritize ride comfort with well-tuned suspensions that smooth over potholes and rocky roadways.
The only noticeable differences between the Toyota Highlander vs. Hyundai Santa Fe specs are engine output, takeoff speeds, and towing capacity. In the first two categories, the Santa Fe gains the upper hand with its higher 277 horsepower and Car and Driver-tested 6.9-second 0-60,1 edging out the Highlander's 265 horsepower and 7.2-second 0-60 mph sprint.2 As for towing, you'll enjoy a higher maximum capacity in the Highlander at 5,000 pounds4 compared to the Santa Fe's 4,500 pounds.3
Winner: It's a tie!
Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Toyota Highlander: Which SUV Serves Up Advanced Tech?
The new Hyundai Santa Fe truly shines when it comes to standard technology, even though the Highlander holds its own with wireless device charging and Full-Speed Range Dynamic Radar Cruise Control across its available trims.
We're still partial to the Hyundai model for its standard 12.3-inch center touchscreen, LED interior lighting, and enhanced safety systems – including Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning and Oncoming Traffic detection. While both vehicles offer comprehensive automated braking and Brake Assist features, the Santa Fe bundles more of these advanced intersection safety features into its base retail price.
Winner: Hyundai Santa Fe
Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Toyota Highlander: Which SUV Is More Elegant?
As if winning the space, speed, and safety categories weren't already enough, the Santa Fe continues its streak with its gorgeously decorated interior. The Hyundai SUV has such an accessible price point that it's almost shocking how regal its cabin can look, especially with Nappa leather upholstery in the Calligraphy trim. Just contact us to set up a test drive and see for yourself!
The Highlander also has a beautiful cabin; every variant is fitted with a soft-touch center console, three-zone climate control, and SofTex or leather seats. However, given that its entry-level model costs more than the highest-tier Santa Fe option, the Highlander should look more upscale.
Winner: Toyota Highlander
Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Toyota Highlander: Which SUV Is Most Versatile?
Versatility can be defined in a number of ways, so let's look at the most common: cabin configurations and off-road prowess. The six- or seven-seat Santa Fe comes with either a second-row bench or second-row captain's chairs, both with power folding. The Santa Fe's third row folds in a 50/50 split and can sink completely into the floor, creating a level and expansive cargo surface.
In comparison, the Highlander offers seating for seven or eight passengers with second-row bench or captain's chairs and standard fold-flat rows. However, its second row is not power-operated, meaning you'll have to manually slide or fold the seats to access the third row.
Winner: Hyundai Santa Fe
Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Toyota Highlander: Which SUV Suits Your Lifestyle?
The Santa Fe may have the highest horsepower, excellent passenger space, and a highly accessible price point by a long shot, but that doesn't automatically make it your first choice. You might prefer the larger towing capacity of the Highlander. If you're torn between the two options, here's a quick rundown of which model different types of customers tend to prefer.
- Hyundai Santa Fe: Choosing the Santa Fe over the Toyota Highlander makes sense if you prioritize cutting-edge technology, striking boxy styling, and a more usable third row. Upper Santa Fe trim levels can also save you money with their significantly lower prices and 10-year/100,000-mile warranties.5
- Toyota Highlander: With its 5,000-pound towing capacity,4 a new Toyota Highlander might work best for your lifestyle if you often trailer outdoor equipment like ATVs or small boats on weekend getaways. Additionally, the Highlander has seating for seven or eight compared to the Santa Fe's maximum of six or seven, though its third row is a tighter fit.
Come See the New Hyundai Santa Fe at Homer Skelton Hyundai
This year's Santa Fe is elevated, modern, equipped with a fresh transmission, and thoughtfully warrantied. When paired with our dealership's current Hyundai financing and leasing incentives, it's a hard SUV to turn down.
If you're an Olive Branch, MS, local who's curious to see the 2026 Santa Fe in person, visit Homer Skelton Hyundai for a tour and test drive or to explore all new Hyundai inventory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a Hyundai Santa Fe a good car to buy?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is a great SUV to lease or purchase. It has a versatile six- or seven-seat cabin, advanced safety technology in every trim level, a high-end interior aesthetic, and more headroom and legroom than its Highlander rival in all three rows.
What is the most common problem with a Toyota Highlander?
According to RepairPal.com, the most common Toyota Highlander problems include: massive oil leaks, loss of oil pressure, problematic center airbag sensors, disconnected air filter hoses, failed oxygen sensor components, and failed ignition coils.7
1Reference to this third-party review/claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For more details, please visit https://www.caranddriver.com/hyundai/santa-fe
2Reference to this third-party review/claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For more details, please visit https://www.caranddriver.com/toyota/highlander
3Towing capability varies by configuration. See the towing guide in the Owner's Manual for proper use and additional information.
4Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner's Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment. "Added vehicle equipment" includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers, and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle's exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. (Calculated with the new SAE J2807 method.) Installation of a tow hitch receiver or other accessories located near the rear bumper or side-door kick sensors may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. See Owner's Manual for limitations.
5Hyundai vehicles are backed by America's Best Warranty, which includes multiple limited warranties covering specific vehicle components for defined time and mileage periods. Coverage terms, conditions, exclusions, and eligibility requirements apply and may vary by model, model year, ownership, and state. Warranty benefits require proper use, maintenance, and care of the vehicle as outlined in the Owner's Manual and Warranty Handbook. Certain items, services, or damages may not be covered, and some benefits may require service by an authorized Hyundai dealer. This summary is for general informational purposes only and does not replace the official Hyundai warranty documents, which govern all coverage.
6Whichever time/mileage designation comes first. Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.
7Reference to this third-party claim is solely for informational purposes and not to be relied upon. For details regarding this rating, visit https://repairpal.com/problems/toyota/highlander
