2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL vs 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL
$7,090 less and 3 mpg better vs 90 more hp and 133 more lb-ft torque. That is the real fork. Key numbers: $7,090 price gap, 187 vs 277 hp, 26 vs 23 MPG.
The Tucson SEL leads on $7,090 less, 3 MPG better. The Santa Fe SEL leads on 90 more hp, 133 more lb-ft torque. The spec table compares 5 specifications head to head.
Key Differences at a Glance
What's Actually Different
These two vehicles differ in 5 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 Tucson SEL | 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $32,300 | $39,390 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 187 hp | 277 hp |
| Torque | 178 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 24 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 30 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 26 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 14.3 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,700/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | No published data | 4,486 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 108.5" | 110.8" |
| Length | 182.7" | 190.2" |
| Width | 73.4" | 74.8" |
| Height | 66.3" | 69.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | 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 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL and 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL?
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL starts at $32,300, $7,090 less than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL at $39,390. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $125/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL?
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $7,090 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL covers your needs; lower running costs matter to you, roughly $211/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL is the stronger pick when the extra 90 hp matters for your commute or driving style.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL or 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL?
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL rates 26 combined MPG, 3 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL or 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL produces 277 hp, 90 more than the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL at 187 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 178 lb-ft. The 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL is 7.5″ longer at 190.2″ vs 182.7″. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL has a 2.3″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Explore more: Hyundai trims, Hyundai Tucson trims, Hyundai Santa Fe trims
The Tucson–Santa Fe Decision
Cross-shopping compact SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Tucson and Santa Fe compare. The $7,090 gap adds up to $125/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 Tucson SEL runs a 2.5L I4; the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL has 90 more hp (277 vs 187). You will feel the difference merging, passing, and driving with a full car. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL adds 133 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 178), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Both use AWD.
The Ownership Math
The 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL saves roughly $211/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $1,055. The 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL wins on both sticker price and running costs, making it the stronger value on paper.
The Decision
Choose the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL when you want to keep $7,090 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Tucson SEL covers your needs. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL when the extra 90 hp matters for your commute or driving style. At $125/month more, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL needs to earn that gap with something you use weekly.
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.