2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy vs 2026 GMC Terrain Denali
102 more hp and 108 more lb-ft torque vs $7,600 less and 2 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 277 vs 175 hp, 23 vs 25 MPG.
The Santa Fe Calligraphy leads on 102 more hp, 108 more lb-ft torque. The Terrain Denali leads on $7,600 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 | 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy | 2026 GMC Terrain Denali |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $49,400 | $41,800 |
| 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 shiftable automatic | 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 | 69.7" | 66.2" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 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 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy and 2026 GMC Terrain Denali?
The 2026 GMC Terrain Denali starts at $41,800, $7,600 less than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy at $49,400. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $134/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy is the stronger pick when the extra 102 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali?
The 2026 GMC Terrain Denali is the stronger pick when you want to keep $7,600 in your pocket and the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $146/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy or 2026 GMC Terrain Denali?
The 2026 GMC Terrain Denali rates 25 combined MPG, 2 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy or 2026 GMC Terrain Denali?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy produces 277 hp, 102 more than the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali at 175 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy bigger than the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy is 9.2″ longer at 190.2″ vs 181.0″. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy 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
Santa Fe vs Terrain: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy and 2026 GMC Terrain Denali sit in the midsize SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $-7,600 gap adds up to $134/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 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy has 102 more hp (277 vs 175). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy 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 Denali 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 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy 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 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy when the extra 102 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali when you want to keep $7,600 in your pocket and the 2026 GMC Terrain Denali 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.