The mid-size SUV game is brutal. Every brand throws serious money at it, and even the so-called carryover years usually sneak in a few surprises. Hyundai knows how to play that game. Year after year, it keeps the Santa Fe sharp and competitive without losing sight of what buyers actually want. The 2026 Santa Fe is the latest proof.
On paper, it’s mostly a carryover, but look closer, and you’ll spot plenty of updates that could make it the best value mid-size SUV yet. To provide the most accurate and up-to-date information, this article uses data sourced from Hyundai, as well as various trusted sources, including TopSpeed.
### The XRT Trim Is Built for Rough Roads
#### The Santa Fe Is Up for Every Journey
Overlanding and off-roading are the buzzwords everyone throws around in the midsize SUV world. Sure, some SUVs are tougher than the Santa Fe, but it still holds its own if you want to stray off the pavement a bit—especially in the XRT trim.
The 2026 XRT gets a new gloss black grille that really pops, giving the Santa Fe some serious personality. Even better, it comes standard with HTRAC all-wheel drive and 1.3 inches of extra ground clearance compared to other trims. Rugged styling continues with 18-inch all-terrain tires and dark alloy wheels, and the exclusive Terrain Mode lets you tackle mud, snow, or sand at the flip of a switch.
**Bottom line:** the XRT is built for adventure—and it’s AWD only, so it’s ready to go wherever you want.
### A Fresh Transmission Makes the Ride Smoother
#### The Dual-Clutch Transmission Is Out
Under the hood, the 2.5-liter turbo-four carries over from last year, but don’t let that fool you. Hyundai made a key upgrade. Swapping the dual-clutch for a traditional eight-speed automatic adds noticeable smoothness and refinement to the drive.
The turbo engine still pumps out 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. It’s not the most powerful in the segment, but it’s far from weak—and paired with the new transmission, the Santa Fe feels completely different on the road. Small tweaks like this can make a big difference, helping the SUV evolve while staying competitive in a crowded mid-size segment.
### Upgraded Interior and Smarter Tech
#### Hyundai Packed Even More Value Inside
Hyundai has built a reputation over the past decade for interiors that punch above their weight. Many of its cabins are considered better than those in long-established brands, and the 2026 Santa Fe is no exception.
While this year’s updates are subtle, they still add meaningful improvements. Here’s what’s new inside the 2026 Santa Fe:
– **Dual wireless chargers:** Limited and XRT trims now come with two wireless phone charging pads in the center console.
– **New interior color:** Calligraphy trim gets a fresh Pecan Brown Nappa leather option.
– **Third-row USB ports:** SEL and XRT trims now include USB ports for third-row passengers.
– **Limited trim seating:** Standard second-row captain’s chairs, with a bench option still available.
– **Enhanced center console:** All trims now have a console box accessible from both the front and second row.
Depending on the trim and seating layout, the 2026 Santa Fe fits six or seven passengers. Bench-seat models can carry seven, while captain’s chair versions seat six—making it a great choice for families or anyone planning longer road trips.
### Rear Seat Headroom and Legroom
One of the Santa Fe’s standout perks is its cargo space. Fold all the seats down, and you’re looking at nearly 80 cubic feet—enough to rival some bigger, pricier SUVs.
### Our Take on the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe
Whether you’re looking at the adventurous XRT trim or one of the base models, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe proves why Hyundai keeps this midsize SUV feeling fresh and relevant.
Even in a mostly carryover year, it still ranks near the top in one of the toughest segments around. For families who need a versatile, reliable, and capable vehicle without breaking the bank, the 2026 Santa Fe is hard to beat.
With a torquey engine, near-luxury standard features, and a smart, spacious interior, it clearly stands out from the competition.
### 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Trims by Price
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### How It Stacks Up in the Mid-Size SUV Segment
When you line up the Santa Fe against rivals like the Kia Telluride, Honda Passport, and Toyota Grand Highlander, its value really stands out.
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With its combination of rugged capability, smooth driving dynamics, and impressive interior upgrades, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is a compelling choice for anyone in the market for a mid-size SUV.
https://www.howtogeek.com/why-the-2026-hyundai-santa-fe-could-be-the-best-value-mid-size-suv-yet/
