If you're shopping for a three-row hybrid SUV, comparing the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid vs. Toyota Highlander Hybrid is a great place to start. You may be wondering, "Is the Santa Fe Hybrid worth it?" Our opinion is a resounding yes, but we'll let you make your own conclusions after reading our guide. As you'll see below, both of these sport-utes offer great fuel efficiency and seating for up to eight. However, with a much lower starting MSRP, more standard driver aids, longer warranties, and competitive amenities, we think the Santa FE Hybrid is the smarter investment. Join the Centereach Hyundai team as we dive into the details.
When it comes to powertrain performance, the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid specs are competitive with those of the Highlander Hybrid. Both models have over 230 horsepower. However, there are some key differences.
For starters, those 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid specs are the result of a lightweight 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder hybrid powertrain that pairs with either front- or all-wheel drive. The Highlander Hybrid uses a heavier 2.5-liter four-cylinder hybrid powertrain and only offers AWD. As you'll see below, this gives the Hyundai SUV an advantage in maximum fuel efficiency.
| 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid | 2026 Toyota Highlander Hybrid | |
| Price | Lower | Higher |
| Engine | 1.6L turbo 4-cyl | 2.5L 4-cyl |
| Horsepower | 231 | 243 |
| Torque | 271 lb-ft | N/A |
| Drivetrain | FWD or AWD | AWD |
| Max. Towing Capacity | 2,000 lbs1 | 3,500 lbs2 |
| EPA-Est. MPG (Cty / Hwy / Comb) |
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- / - / 354 (AWD) |
| Length | 190.2 in | 194.9 in |
| Body Width | 74.8 in | 76 in |
| Height | 67.7 in | 68.1 in |
| Max. Seating Capacity | 8 | 8 |
| Cargo Space (Behind 1st / 2nd / 3rd Row) | 14.6 / 40.5 / 79.6 cu ft | 16 / 48.4 / 84.3 cu ft |
| Standard Safety Features |
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| Warranty |
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Shoppers looking for a hybrid SUV are likely interested in fuel efficiency. The Santa Fe Hybrid earns up to an EPA-estimated 36 MPG (Combined) with front-wheel drive,3 or up to 34 MPG (Combined) with all-wheel drive.3 Meanwhile, the Highlander Hybrid, which only comes in all-wheel drive, has a maximum manufacturer-estimated MPG rating of 35 (Combined)4 – EPA ratings aren't available yet.
The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid fuel tank capacity is 17.7 gallons, whereas the Highlander Hybrid has a slightly smaller tank at 17.1 gallons. When it comes to gas, the Highlander Hybrid and Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid fuel type is the same: regular unleaded 87-octane.
Trim and feature availability are where the Toyota and Hyundai models really start to differ. The Highlander Hybrid is only available in three trim levels: XLE, Limited, and Platinum. The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid, on the other hand, has the following four variants:
Here are some key standard amenities for the Hyundai automobile:
The entry-level Highlander Hybrid XLE has some similar appointments, including a leather-trimmed steering wheel, SofTex-trimmed seats, 18-inch alloy wheels, and wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™. However, it has much smaller displays – an 8-inch touchscreen and a 7-inch multi-information display – and a much higher starting MSRP. Shop our new Hyundai vehicles to see what the full lineup of Santa Fe Hybrid models has in store.
In addition to having an additional trim level and better standard tech, the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid has a more comprehensive standard suite of driver-support systems than the Highlander Hybrid. As you can see in the chart above, both SUVs have some excellent modules, but the Santa Fe Hybrid boasts the broader menu. When it comes to keeping you and your loved ones secure, our new Santa Fe Hybrid inventory doesn't disappoint.
It's no secret that Hyundai has one of the best warranties in the automotive industry. If you're looking for a three-row SUV with extensive coverage, the Hyundai is the way to go. The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid comes with a 10-year/10,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty5 and a five-year/50,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty,5 compared to the five-year/60,000-mile Powertrain Warranty5 and three-year/36,000-mile New Vehicle Warranty5 for the Toyota option.
Get into the three-row hybrid SUV at Centereach Hyundai that provides an industry-leading warranty6 and plenty of options, all at a lower starting MSRP than one of its main competitors: the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid.
You can even take advantage of our Hyundai lease and finance deals to save on the 2026 Santa Fe Hybrid.
There's no question that, when comparing the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid vs. Toyota Highlander Hybrid, the Hyundai vehicle offers better value for your money. The Hyundai lineup has better standard features at a lower starting price, like a larger 12.3-inch touchscreen compared to Toyota's 8-inch display, as well as a more comprehensive safety suite than the Toyota model.
When comparing the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid versus the Highlander Hybrid third row and cargo space specs, it's neck and neck. For instance, the Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid has more third-row legroom and headroom, but the Highlander Hybrid has slightly more cargo volume. That being said, the Santa Fe Hybrid is plenty accommodating for your gear while being more comfortable in the third row.
The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid comes with industry-leading warranty coverage,6 including a 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty5 and a five-year/60,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty,5 that readily surpasses Highlander Hybrid coverage. Plus, it offers plenty of coverage for its hybrid battery and components. Contact us to learn more.
1Towing capability varies by configuration. See the towing guide in the Owner's Manual for proper use and additional information.
2Before towing, confirm your vehicle and trailer are compatible, hooked up and loaded properly and that you have any necessary additional equipment. Do not exceed any Weight Ratings and follow all instructions in your Owner's Manual. The maximum you can tow depends on base curb weight plus the total weight of any cargo, occupants, and added vehicle equipment. "Added vehicle equipment" includes additional standard/optional equipment and accessories added by the manufacturer, dealers, and/or vehicle owners. The only way to be certain of your vehicle's exact curb weight is to weigh your vehicle without passengers or cargo. [Calculated with the new SAE J2807 method.] Installation of a tow hitch receiver or other accessories located near the rear bumper or side-door kick sensors may require disabling or removing the kick sensor, and the sensor operation setting in your vehicle should be turned off. See Owner's Manual for limitations.
3All figures are EPA estimates and for comparison purposes only. Actual mileage may vary with options, driving conditions, driving habits and vehicle's condition.
4Use 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.
5Warranties listed on this web page shall not be solely relied upon. Warranties may be subject to specific terms, restrictions, exclusions, and fees. Additional warranty information may be obtained by visiting the official website of the warranty provider. Contact our dealership for complete details.
6America's Best Warranty claim based on total package of warranty programs. See dealer for LIMITED WARRANTY details. See your Hyundai dealer and HyundaiUSA.com/Assurance for details and limitations regarding Hyundai’s Powertrain Limited Warranty, New Vehicle Limited Warranty and Roadside Assistance program. Comparative claim based on comparison of warranty specifications on manufacturer websites.
