2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE vs 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT
102 more hp and 108 more lb-ft torque vs $6,250 less and 3 MPG better. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 277 vs 175 hp, 23 vs 26 MPG.
The Santa Fe SE leads on 102 more hp, 108 more lb-ft torque. The Equinox LT leads on $6,250 less, 3 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 SE | 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,850 | $30,600 |
| 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 | 29 |
| Combined MPG | 23 | 26 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.7 gal | 15.6 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | No published data | $1,700/yr |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,486 lbs | 3,583 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 107.5" |
| Length | 190.2" | 183.2" |
| Width | 74.8" | 74.9" |
| Height | 67.7" | 65.6" |
| 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 SE and 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT starts at $30,600, $6,250 less than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE at $36,850. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $110/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is the stronger pick when the extra 102 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,250 in your pocket and the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $211/year less on fuel.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE or 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT rates 26 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE or 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE produces 277 hp, 102 more than the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT at 175 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 203 lb-ft. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE bigger than the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is 7.0″ longer at 190.2″ vs 183.2″. The 2026 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 Chevrolet Equinox 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, Chevrolet trims, Chevrolet Equinox trims
- 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Santa Fe–Equinox Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Santa Fe and Equinox compare. The $-6,250 gap adds up to $110/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 Hyundai Santa Fe SE runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT uses a 1.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 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 2026 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.
The Ownership Math
The 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT saves roughly $211/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,055.
Living With the Santa Fe vs the Equinox
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE weighs 903 lbs more. Heavier vehicles tend to feel more planted at highway speed but use more fuel and are harder to stop quickly.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE when the extra 102 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT when you want to keep $6,250 in your pocket and the 2025 Chevrolet Equinox LT 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 Chevrolet or any dealership.