2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE vs 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation
102 more hp and 108 more lb-ft torque vs $4,000 less and 2 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 277 vs 175 hp, 23 vs 25 MPG.
The Santa Fe SE leads on 102 more hp, 108 more lb-ft torque. The Terrain Elevation leads on $4,000 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 | 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,100 | $32,100 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 1.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 277 hp | 175 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 203 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automated manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 20 | 24 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 23 | 25 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.7 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,750/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,486 lbs | 3,598 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 107.5" |
| Length | 190.2" | 181.0" |
| Width | 74.8" | 74.5" |
| Height | 67.7" | 65.8" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 4/5 stars | No published data |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | No published data |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 3yr/36k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 5yr/60k |
| Corrosion | 7yr/unlimited | 6yr/100k |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/60k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE and 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation starts at $32,100, $4,000 less than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE at $36,100. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $71/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 102 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation is the stronger pick when you want to keep $4,000 in your pocket and the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation 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 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation rates 25 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE or 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE produces 277 hp, 102 more than the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation at 175 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE bigger than the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is 9.2″ longer at 190.2″ vs 181.0″. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE has a 3.3″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Hyundai Santa Fe comes with 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. The GMC Terrain offers 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Santa Fe trims, GMC trims, GMC Terrain trims
- 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Santa Fe vs Terrain: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE and 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation sit in the midsize SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $-4,000 gap adds up to $71/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 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE has 102 more hp (277 vs 175). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE adds 108 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 203), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
Running Costs: Santa Fe vs Terrain
The 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation 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 888 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 102 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation when you want to keep $4,000 in your pocket and the 2026 GMC Terrain Elevation 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 GMC or any dealership.