2026 Ford Explorer Platinum vs 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy
23 more hp and 8.6″ longer vs $3,565 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 300 vs 277 hp, 23 vs 23 MPG.
The Explorer Platinum leads on 23 more hp, 8.6″ longer. The Santa Fe Calligraphy leads on $3,565 less. The spec table compares 4 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 4 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 | 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum | 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $52,965 | $49,400 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.3L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 300 hp | 277 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 10-speed automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 20 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 27 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 23 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 20.2 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 4,486 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 119.1" | 110.8" |
| Length | 198.8" | 190.2" |
| Width | 78.9" | 74.8" |
| Height | 69.9" | 69.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum and 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy starts at $49,400, $3,565 less than the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum at $52,965. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $63/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum?
The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum is the stronger pick when the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,565 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum or 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy?
Both achieve 23 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum or 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy?
The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum produces 300 hp, 23 more than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy at 277 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 310 lb-ft. The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum runs a 2.3L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy?
The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum is 8.6″ longer at 198.8″ vs 190.2″. The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum has a 8.3″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Ford Explorer comes with 3yr/36k bumper-to-bumper and 5yr/60k powertrain. The Hyundai Santa Fe offers 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain. Longer warranty coverage can offset higher maintenance costs over time.
Explore more: Ford trims, Ford Explorer trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Santa Fe trims
The Explorer–Santa Fe Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Explorer and Santa Fe compare. The $-3,565 gap adds up to $63/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
What Powers Each Vehicle
The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum runs a 2.3L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum has 23 more hp (300 vs 277), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Living With the Explorer vs the Santa Fe
The 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum has a 8.3″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum when the 2026 Ford Explorer Platinum is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy when you want to keep $3,565 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy 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 Ford or Hyundai or any dealership.