2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Review - Bold Looks, Smart Tech & Hybrid Power

2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Review - This SUV is not just a facelift. Hyundai’s mid-size hybrid is now bolder, boxier, and smarter than ever before. Whether you're after fuel efficiency, family practicality, or head-turning design, the 2026 Santa Fe Hybrid has a lot to offer.

Exterior Design

The Santa Fe has gone from sleek to rugged and adventurous. The 2026 model debuts a boxier, SUV-like profile with a commanding road presence. Key highlights include:

A striking H-shaped LED front light signature
Wider fenders and squared-off body lines
Standard 18-inch wheels (available up to 21 inches)
High ground clearance and a strong stance

This redesign gives the Santa Fe Hybrid a Land Rover Defender-like edge, appealing to both urban drivers and weekend explorers.

Interior & Tech

Inside, the Santa Fe Hybrid feels like a Scandinavian lounge. You get:

A 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster
A 12.3-inch curved infotainment touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto
Hyundai’s new ccNC interface with OTA updates and split-screen functionality
Dual wireless charging pads
UV-C sterilization compartment for your phone

The cabin features recycled eco-materials, soft-touch surfaces, and available Nappa leather upholstery.

The Santa Fe Hybrid also seats up to 7 passengers, thanks to a new third-row option — a rare offering in hybrid midsize SUVs.

Performance & Efficiency

Under the hood, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid features a:

1.6-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine
Paired with a 44.2-kW electric motor and a 6-speed automatic transmission
Combined output: 226 horsepower and 258 lb-ft of torque

All-wheel drive is available, and Hyundai offers an upgraded battery for improved efficiency and EV-only range.

You can expect an EPA-estimated 38 MPG combined and a total driving range of over 500 miles, making it ideal for long commutes or road trips.

Practicality & Features

Hyundai didn’t just redesign the looks — they upgraded the practicality too.

Cargo space: Up to 79.6 cubic feet with rear seats folded
Second-row captain’s chairs are available on top trims
Panoramic sunroof, ambient lighting, and power liftgate
Rear window shades, heated and ventilated seats (front and second row)

The tailgate now opens up wide with a squared-off hatch, perfect for camping, loading gear, or tailgating. You also get roof rails and an available tow rating of up to 2,000 pounds.

Safety & Driver Assistance

Safety is a big part of Hyundai’s appeal, and the 2026 Santa Fe Hybrid comes standard with Hyundai SmartSense, including:

Forward Collision-Avoidance with Pedestrian and Cyclist Detection
Lane Keeping and Lane Following Assist
Blind-Spot Collision Warning with View Monitor
Smart Cruise Control with Stop & Go
Highway Driving Assist 2 — enabling hands-on semi-autonomous driving on highways

Top trims also get a surround view monitor, remote smart parking, and Safe Exit Assist — perfect for families with kids.

Trims, Pricing & Value

In the U.S., the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid is available in these trims:

Blue (FWD) – Starting at $38,000
SEL Premium (AWD) – Starting at $42,000
Limited (AWD) – Starting at $47,000
Calligraphy (AWD) – Around $51,000

All models include Hyundai’s 10-year/100,000-mile powertrain warranty and 8-year/100,000-mile hybrid system warranty — industry-leading for peace of mind.