2026 Hyundai SANTA FE vs 2026 Toyota Highlander

2026 Hyundai SANTA FE vs 2026 Toyota Highlander in Springfield, PA

The Hyundai SANTA FE has become the blueprint for midsize SUVs, and the 2026 edition continues to innovate. If you’re on the fence, comb through this detailed comparison against the 2026 Toyota Highlander to witness how the Hyundai vehicle outdoes its contemporaries. Then, you can visit Springfield Hyundai to see it in action!

Performance

Ignite the SANTA FE’s powertrain and weave between lanes with fiery performance. A standard 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine idles at your fingertips, and it’s capable of generating 277 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque. You might fall behind the pack in the Highlander, since its standard 2.4L turbocharged 4-cylinder system is only capable of providing 265 horsepower and 310 lb.-ft. of torque on the streets of Springfield. If you plan on cruising off the beaten path, you’ll appreciate the Hyundai SUV’s available Terrain drive mode. This is a setting you simply will not find in the Highlander. Lastly, the SANTA FE showcases a 29 MPH hwy¹ fuel economy rating, while the Toyota has 28 MPH hwy². 

Technology

The 2026 Hyundai SANTA FE is a trendsetter in terms of cutting-edge technology. A 12.3-inch touchscreen comes standard to provide all of your multimedia features in crystal clarity. You won’t have the same amount of real estate in the 2026 Toyota Highlander, because it includes a standard 8-inch display. Are you an audiophile who craves concert-like acoustics? Choose the SANTA FE’s optional Bose® premium audio to have 12 speakers strategically placed throughout the cabin. The Highlander can’t achieve the same decibels, because its available JBL®³ setup comes with 11 speakers. To prioritize your wellbeing while traveling to Indian Rock Park, the SANTA FE has an optional 12-inch Head-Up Display. Unfortunately, the Toyota’s available HUD is only ten inches. 

Interior

The cabin accommodations don’t end there, as the 2026 SANTA FE boasts a variety of upscale comfort features. A leg cushion extension comes as an available upgrade for the driver’s seat, so you can sink into spa-like treatment. Pair that with the optional Relaxation Seat, and you’ll feel like you’re sitting in your recliner at home. Do you frequently carpool the kids to practice? The standard YES Essentials® cloth upholstery is stain-resistant, so after-school snacks will be easy to clean up. If you look toward the Highlander, you won’t be able to enjoy any of the aforementioned features. To seal the deal, the Hyundai SUV has available Nappa leather, while the Toyota features generic leather as an optional upgrade. Now that you know the SANTA FE has taken the crown, you can visit our dealership to test drive it!

• 277 horsepower       

• 29 MPG hwy

• Standard 12.3-inch touchscreen

• Available 12-inch Head-Up Display

• Available Relaxation seat (not offered at all in the Highlander)
  

1. EPA estimates for comparison. Your actual mileage will vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits, and vehicle's condition. Some accessories are not available on some models. While the information contained in this website was correct at time of publishing, specifications and equipment can change. Hyundai reserves the right to change product specifications and equipment at any time without incurring obligations. Some vehicles are shown with optional equipment. Specifications apply to U.S. vehicles only. Please contact your Hyundai dealer for current vehicle specifications.

2. EPA-estimated 21 city/28 highway/24 combined mpg rating for 2026 Highlander XLE, XSE, Limited, and Platinum; EPA-estimated 35 city/35 highway/35 combined mpg rating for 2026 Highlander Hybrid XLE; EPA-estimated 35 city/34 highway/35 combined mpg rating for 2026 Highlander Hybrid Limited, and Hybrid Platinum. Use for comparison purposes only. Your mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. See www.fueleconomy.gov.

3. JBL® is a registered trademark of Harman International Industries, Inc.