Written byThe Hyundai Santa Fe is getting a daring new look for 2026 — and it’s unlike anything we’ve ever seen before. Boasting a bold new design and interior upgrades, the 2026 Santa Fe will change the way we think about midsize SUV driving. Whether hitting the road for far-flung road trips or just tackling the daily commute, the all-new 2026 Santa Fe wants to blend rugged capability with family-friendly comfort.
Here’s everything we know so far — from the redesign to trims to new color options, specs, and pricing.
Must Check: 2026 Hyundai Palisade Debut: 329 HP, 619 Miles, and a New Hybrid King on the Block
A Bold New Look: What’s New in the 2026 Santa Fe Redesign?
Hyundai has doubled down on the rugged good looks of the 2026 Santa Fe, inspired by rough-and-tumble SUVs. The boxer exterior now features squared-off wheel arches, a flat roofline, and futuristic H-shaped LED lighting, ensuring it’s a presence buster. It’s significantly higher and looks substantially more hunkered down on the road.
This redesign is more than skin deep, however, and compared to last year’s model. It’s functional, too. The longer wheelbase results in increased interior space, and the upright rear allows for more cargo loading. Hyundai calls it a “lifestyle SUV,” and this aggressive exterior certainly helps drive home that message.
- New front and rear bumpers with H-pattern lighting
- Widen the base so you won’t feel so base
- Larger grille and roof rails
- More aggressive wheel arches and wheel options
In other words, it’s not just a refresh — it’s a complete reinvention.
Interior Upgrades: Technology Meets Everyday Comfort
It’s what’s inside that 2026 Santa Fe where the stars align. A luxurious cabin combines premium touches with high-tech features in a layout designed for families as well as those seeking adventure. The center of attention on the dashboard is the dueling 12.3-inch panoramic displays (one for the digital cluster and the other for infotainment) that give the big sedan a high-tech vibe.
Better still, Hyundai incorporates some environmentally friendly materials, including recycled plastics and soft-touch surfaces throughout the cabin. Third, for those who require more space, there is even more legroom in the second row and a more accessible third row, thanks to Santa Fe’s extra length.
- Regular dual 12.3-inch displays
- Optional Nappa leather and ambient light
- Power-folding third-row seats (optional)
- Wireless Android CarPlay & Apple CarPlay as standard
Whether you’re shuttling kids or heading for the mountains, this interior is designed to tackle it all in comfort and style.
Engine Options and Performance Specs
Digging deeper, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe offers several engine options to cater to the diverse needs of different drivers. Hyundai is likely to retain its popular 2.5-liter turbocharged engine and provide a range of hybrid models for drivers seeking to enhance their fuel efficiency.
Here’s a breakdown of the expected options:
| Engine Type | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission | Drivetrain |
| 2.5L Turbo I4 | 277 hp | 311 lb-ft | 8-speed DCT | FWD / AWD |
| 1.6L Turbo Hybrid | 226 hp (combined) | 258 lb-ft | 6-speed Auto | FWD / AWD |
| Plug-in Hybrid (expected) | TBD | TBD | TBD | AWD |
Hyundai has teased improved ride quality courtesy of modified suspension tuning and a more rigid body construction. Fuel economy numbers are anticipated to fall in the range of 26-28 mpg combined for gas and 35-38 mpg for hybrids, although we’ll update these figures when official EPA numbers are published.
Read More:
- 2026 Hyundai IONIQ 9 Blows Minds with 300+ Mile Range in Every Trim – But Which One’s Worth $60K?
- 2026 Honda Civic Type R Makes Its Debut — Is This the Hot Hatch That Beats Golf R, Elantra N, and GR Corolla?
- Is the 2026 Kia Sportage Hybrid Too Good to Be True? Release Date, Pricing & Specs Revealed!
Trim Levels and Features: What to Expect
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is expected to feature the same trim lineup as the current model, although with some changes in feature availability. Here’s what we anticipate:
- SE – Base model with strong standard safety features and infotainment
- SEL – Includes extra comfort features and driver assistance/driver safety features
- XRT – Rugged trim featuring all-terrain tires, skid plates, and unique wheels
- Limited – Luxury features like ventilated seats and premium sound
- Calligraphy – Fully loaded with Nappa leather and pano sunroof
Especially if you opt for the XRT trim, this new rugged design language is a call to outdoor enthusiasts.
Color Options for 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe
Hyundai has expanded the color spectrum to complement the Santa Fe’s aggressive new look. And while the lineup could be different for each market, here’s what to expect in terms of exterior paint options:
Exterior The Exterior Colors We Expect:
- Earthy Bronze Matte
- Terracotta Orange
- Abyss Black Pearl
- Serenity White
- Stormy Sea Blue
- Canyon Red
- Cyber Sage
Interior Options (Depending on Trim):
- Black Cloth or Leatherette
- Light Grey Leather
- Sage Green Two-Tone (Calligraphy Only)
The color selections are also designed to evoke a blend of modern luxury and rugged adventure.
Advanced Safety & Driver Assistance Features
The 2026 Santa Fe, of course, puts safety first. The SmartSense package of technology introduced previously by Hyundai comes back to the new car with some upgraded side sensors and AI help to give it better reliability. Expect features like:
Standard Safety Features:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Driver Attention Warning
- Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Go
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance
New for 2026, Hyundai could also offer hands-free highway driving on some trims—although that hasn’t been officially confirmed.
2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Release Date and Pricing
When can I buy the 2026 Santa Fe in the U.S.? Hyundai has announced that the 2026 Santa Fe will be available in the U.S. in early 2025, with March or April being the likely on-sale date. Pre-orders are expected to start by the end of 2025.
Here’s a look at the expected starting prices across the trim lineup:
| Trim | Starting MSRP (Estimated) |
| SE | $33,000 |
| SEL | $36,500 |
| XRT | $39,000 |
| Limited | $43,000 |
| Calligraphy | $47,000 |
The Hybrid versions are expected to cost $2,000–$3,500 more, depending on trim.
Is the 2026 Santa Fe Worth the Hype?
With its dramatic new look, upgraded interior technology, and family-friendly usability, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is rapidly becoming one of the most alluring midsize SUVs of the year. Whether you seek style, space, or hatchback vibes at a low entry cost, this SUV checks all the boxes.
It’s always been a solid choice in the Hyundai lineup, but this redesign could finally elevate the Santa Fe into premium consideration. If you’re looking for a creature of the trail that’s more civilized inside, the 2026 Santa Fe deserves a spot on your shortlist.
