2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL vs 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL
On paper, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL wins on $790 less. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: $790 price gap, 277 vs 277 hp, 23 vs 23 MPG.
The Santa Fe SEL leads on $790 less. The spec table compares 0 specifications head to head.
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 0 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 SEL | 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $38,600 | $39,390 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 277 hp | 277 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed automated manual | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 20 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 23 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.7 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,486 lbs | 4,486 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 110.8" |
| Length | 190.2" | 190.2" |
| Width | 74.8" | 74.8" |
| Height | 69.7" | 69.7" |
| 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 | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL and 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL starts at $38,600, $790 less than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL at $39,390. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $14/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $790 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL covers your needs.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL is the stronger pick when the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL or 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL?
Both achieve 23 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL or 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL?
Both produce 277 hp.
Is the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL?
Both measure 190.2″ in overall length.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Santa Fe trims
How the Santa Fe and Santa Fe Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL ($38,600) and 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL ($39,390) solve similar problems in different ways. The $790 gap is about $14/month on a 60-month loan. Noticeable but not dramatic enough to be the deciding factor on its own.
Powertrain: Santa Fe vs Santa Fe
Both run the same 2.5L I4 Turbo engine. Both produce 277 hp. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL when you want to keep $790 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL when the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. At $14/month apart, the price difference alone will not decide this.
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 any dealership.