2026 Hyundai Santa Fe

The 2024-present Hyundai Santa Fe is the MX5 generation and represents the most dramatic visual change in the model's history, replacing the rounded shape of its predecessor with an upright, boxy body and an H-motif light signature. A third row returns, making this the first Santa Fe since the DM generation to offer seven seats. Powertrains are a 2.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder paired with an eight-speed dual-clutch and a 1.6-liter turbocharged hybrid with a six-speed automatic. Front-wheel drive is standard with all-wheel drive optional, and an XRT trim adds off-road-oriented equipment.

The longer body and squared-off roofline dramatically improved third-row headroom and cargo space behind it compared with what the nameplate previously offered. Interior technology is among the most advanced in the class, with a curved panoramic display and a dual wireless charging pad. The design reception has been strongly positive after initial surprise.

For used buyers, this generation is new enough that virtually all examples remain under Hyundai's factory warranty and long-term data does not yet exist. The dual-clutch transmission on the gasoline model behaves differently from a conventional automatic at low speed and is worth evaluating on a test drive. The hybrid is the more efficient choice and pairs with a conventional automatic. Third-row usability is the practical reason to choose this generation over a used TM.