Hyundai Santa Fe vs Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe was available in SE, SEL, XRT, Limited, and Calligraphy trims, with prices ranging from $36,650 to $49,400, including a $1,600 destination charge. The XRT trim, priced at $44,380 with optional carpeted floor mats, featured a rugged, blacked-out appearance that polarized opinions. Its boxy design, introduced in the 2024 redesign, aimed to maximize practicality with a third-row seat. The interior boasted a high-tech display, quality materials, and ample storage, though the gloss-black control panel was prone to dust. The Santa Fe XRT's taller stance and all-terrain tires enhanced its off-road appeal, but darker colors diminished its visual contrast.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid, offered with a turbocharged gas engine, a hybrid powertrain, and a powerful Hybrid Max configuration, ranged from $43,855 to $61,770. The top-tier Hybrid Max Platinum trim, priced at $61,770, featured a conservative design reminiscent of the RAV4, offering seating for up to eight and substantial cargo space. The interior prioritized function over form, with a layer of luxury in the Platinum trim. While the climate system was user-friendly, the infotainment interface had a small volume knob and lacked a tuning knob. The Grand Highlander's styling and interior design choices reflected Toyota's focus on practicality and familiarity.

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe featured a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 277 horsepower and 311 pound-feet of torque. The switch to a traditional eight-speed automatic transmission improved driving smoothness. Front-wheel drive was standard, with all-wheel drive optional on most trims and standard on the XRT. The XRT's off-road capabilities included all-terrain tires, a raised suspension, and additional driving modes. However, its aerodynamics reduced fuel efficiency to 21 mpg combined, with observed figures of 21.7 mpg on flat terrain and 18.6 mpg in mountainous areas. The Santa Fe Hybrid offered better fuel economy at 34 mpg combined but wasn't available in XRT trim. The XRT's off-road focus slightly compromised on-road handling, though it excelled in off-road conditions.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid Max emphasized performance with a turbocharged 2.4-liter engine and electronic full-time AWD, delivering 362 horsepower. Its six-speed automatic transmission avoided the droning typical of CVTs. The Hybrid Max traded some fuel efficiency for power, achieving 27 mpg combined, compared to the standard hybrid's 36 mpg. It towed up to 5,000 pounds, outperforming the standard hybrid. During testing, it averaged 26 mpg on a balanced city-highway route and 23.3 mpg on mountainous terrain. The Hybrid Max's acceleration was smooth and confident, aided by electric motors. Its ride quality was soft and isolating, though handling was secure only up to a point, with early tire scrub and squeal.

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe prioritized practicality and utility, though the XRT trim lacked some desirable features like a panoramic sunroof and ventilated front seats. Entry and exit were easy for the front and second-row seats, but the third row was best for occasional use. Thoughtful touches included dual wireless charging pads, a manually height-adjustable front passenger seat, and bi-directional access to under-armrest storage. The Santa Fe offered 14.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 40.5 cubic feet with it folded, and 79.6 cubic feet with the second row down.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid provided comfortable seating across all three rows and nearly 100 cubic feet of maximum cargo space. The Platinum trim featured a Portobello interior with leather and artificial suede upholstery, heated and ventilated front and second-row seats, and supportive cushions. The second-row captain’s chairs allowed easy access to the third row. The Grand Highlander offered 20.6 cubic feet of cargo space behind the third row, expanding to 57.9 cubic feet with it folded, and 97.5 cubic feet with the second row down. However, unlined storage locations could contribute to cabin noise.

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe featured a dual-screen panel with digital gauges and a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system angled towards the driver. Standard tech included wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, SiriusXM satellite radio, and Bluelink+ connected services. Optional features included a native navigation system and dynamic voice recognition. Bluelink+ offered safety features like automatic collision notification and remote conveniences like engine starting and door lock/unlock.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid offered a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and access to Apple Music and Amazon Music. Toyota Connected Services provided features like a Wi-Fi hotspot and a digital voice assistant. The system was user-friendly, though it lacked the ability to display multiple main-menu screens simultaneously. The Platinum trim included a head-up display, digital rear-view mirror, and surround-view camera system. The JBL premium audio system delivered impressive sound quality.

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe came with a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, including a junction turning detection system and safe-exit assist. Higher trims featured Highway Driving Assist, adaptive cruise control, and lane-keep assist. The Santa Fe received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA and was named a 2026 Top Safety Pick+ by the IIHS.

The 2026 Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid was equipped with Toyota Safety Sense 3.0, offering a range of standard safety features and driver-assistance technologies. Proactive Driving Assist was standard but could be irritating. The Grand Highlander received a five-star overall rating from the NHTSA but did not achieve a Top Safety Pick rating from the IIHS due to "Acceptable" ratings for headlight performance and small overlap frontal-impact protection.