2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE vs 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE
41 more hp and 9.2″ longer vs $3,550 less. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 277 vs 236 hp.
The Santa Fe SE leads on 41 more hp, 9.2″ longer. The RAV4 LE leads on $3,550 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 Hyundai Santa Fe SE | 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $36,850 | $33,300 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 hybrid |
| Horsepower | 277 hp | 236 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | No published data |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | continuously variable-speed automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 20 | No published data |
| Highway MPG | 28 | No published data |
| Combined MPG | 23 | No published data |
| Fuel Tank | 17.7 gal | 14.5 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,486 lbs | 3,715 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 110.8" | 105.9" |
| Length | 190.2" | 181.0" |
| Width | 74.8" | 73.0" |
| Height | 67.7" | 66.7" |
| 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 | 5yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/unlimited | 2yr/25k |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE and 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE?
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE starts at $33,300, $3,550 less than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE at $36,850. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $63/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 41 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE?
The 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,550 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE covers your needs.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE or 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE produces 277 hp, 41 more than the 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE at 236 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE uses a 2.5L I4 hybrid.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE bigger than the 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is 9.2″ longer at 190.2″ vs 181.0″. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE has a 4.9″ 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 Toyota RAV4 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, Toyota trims, Toyota RAV4 trims
- 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Santa Fe vs RAV4: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE and 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE sit in the midsize SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $-3,550 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.
Under the Hood
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE runs a 2.5L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE uses a 2.5L I4 hybrid. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE has 41 more hp (277 vs 236), enough to notice on highway on-ramps and when passing. Both use AWD.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE weighs 771 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 SE when the extra 41 hp matters for your commute or driving style. Choose the 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE when you want to keep $3,550 in your pocket and the 2026 Toyota RAV4 LE 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 Toyota or any dealership.