2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE vs 2025 Kia Sportage LX
90 more hp and 133 more lb-ft torque vs $6,910 less and 2 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 277 vs 187 hp, 23 vs 25 MPG.
The Santa Fe SE leads on 90 more hp, 133 more lb-ft torque. The Sportage LX leads on $6,910 less, 2 MPG better. The spec table compares 6 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 6 specifications.
Full Specification Comparison
Specifications and pricing reflect available data as of early 2026 and may not match current manufacturer figures. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision.
| Spec | 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE | 2025 Kia Sportage LX |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,100 | $29,190 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 |
| Horsepower | 277 hp | 187 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 178 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automated manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 20 | 23 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 27 |
| Combined MPG | 23 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.7 gal | 14.3 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,486 lbs | 3,809 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 108.5" |
| Length | 190.2" | 183.5" |
| Width | 74.8" | 73.4" |
| Height | 67.7" | 66.1" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 5yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE and 2025 Kia Sportage LX?
The 2025 Kia Sportage LX starts at $29,190, $6,910 less than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE at $36,100. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $122/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is the stronger pick when the extra 90 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2025 Kia Sportage LX?
The 2025 Kia Sportage LX is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,910 in your pocket and the 2025 Kia Sportage LX covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $146/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE or 2025 Kia Sportage LX?
The 2025 Kia Sportage LX rates 25 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE or 2025 Kia Sportage LX?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE produces 277 hp, 90 more than the 2025 Kia Sportage LX at 187 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Kia Sportage LX uses a 2.5L I4.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE bigger than the 2025 Kia Sportage LX?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is 6.7″ longer at 190.2″ vs 183.5″. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE has a 2.3″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Santa Fe trims, Kia trims, Kia Sportage trims
- 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2025 Kia Sportage LX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Santa Fe vs Sportage: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE and 2025 Kia Sportage LX sit in the midsize SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $-6,910 gap adds up to $122/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Under the Hood
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Kia Sportage LX uses a 2.5L I4. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE has 90 more hp (277 vs 187). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE adds 133 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Santa Fe vs Sportage
The 2025 Kia Sportage LX saves roughly $146/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $730.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE weighs 677 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE when the extra 90 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2025 Kia Sportage LX when you want to keep $6,910 in your pocket and the 2025 Kia Sportage LX covers your needs.
Specifications shown combine licensed third-party automotive data with official manufacturer, EPA, and NHTSA source material. Actual pricing, features, and availability may vary by region and dealer. Always confirm details with an authorized dealer before making a purchase decision. TrimAtlas is not affiliated with Hyundai or Kia or any dealership.