2026 Nissan Pathfinder S vs 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE
On paper, the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE wins on $3,400 less, 52 more lb-ft torque. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 284 vs 277 hp, 23 vs 23 MPG.
The Santa Fe SE leads on $3,400 less, 52 more lb-ft torque. 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 Nissan Pathfinder S | 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $39,500 | $36,100 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 3.5L V6 | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 284 hp | 277 hp |
| Torque | 259 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 9-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed automated manual |
| Drivetrain | 4WD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 27 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 23 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 18.5 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,482 lbs | 4,486 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 114.2" | 110.8" |
| Length | 197.7" | 190.2" |
| Width | 77.9" | 74.8" |
| Height | 70.9" | 67.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 4/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | No published data | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 3yr/36k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 5yr/60k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/unlimited | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 3yr/36k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S and 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE starts at $36,100, $3,400 less than the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S at $39,500. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $60/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S is the stronger pick when the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute.
Who should choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $3,400 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S or 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
Both achieve 23 combined MPG, so fuel cost is not a factor in this decision.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S or 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S produces 284 hp, 7 more than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE at 277 hp. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 259 lb-ft. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S runs a 3.5L V6; the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. Drivetrains differ too: 4WD on the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S, AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE.
Is the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S bigger than the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S is 7.5″ longer at 197.7″ vs 190.2″. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S has a 3.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S and 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S comes with 4WD, while the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE uses AWD. If you drive in snow, heavy rain, or on unpaved roads, the all-wheel or four-wheel drive option provides better traction. If you mostly drive on dry pavement, the two-wheel drive option saves fuel.
How do the warranties compare?
The Nissan Pathfinder 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: Nissan trims, Nissan Pathfinder trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Santa Fe trims
How the Pathfinder and Santa Fe Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S ($39,500) and 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE ($36,100) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-3,400 gap adds up to $60/month on a 60-month loan. That is real money, so the pricier option needs to earn it with capabilities you will actually use.
Powertrain: Pathfinder vs Santa Fe
The 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S runs a 3.5L V6; the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 7 hp difference (284 vs 277) is marginal in daily driving. The 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE adds 52 more lb-ft of torque (311 vs 259), giving it stronger low-end pull off the line. Drivetrains differ: 4WD on the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S, AWD on the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE.
What It Actually Costs to Own
Annual fuel costs are nearly identical, so running costs will not separate these two.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S when the 2026 Nissan Pathfinder S is more fuel-efficient for a lower-cost commute. Choose the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE when you want to keep $3,400 in your pocket and the 2025 Hyundai Santa Fe SE 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 Nissan or Hyundai or any dealership.