2026 Toyota Highlander XLE vs 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL
On paper, the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL wins on $6,180 less. The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE has to win you at the dealer. Key numbers: 265 vs 277 hp, 24 vs 23 MPG.
The Santa Fe SEL leads on $6,180 less. 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 Toyota Highlander XLE | 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $45,570 | $39,390 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.4L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 265 hp | 277 hp |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | AWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | 21 | 20 |
| Highway MPG | 28 | 28 |
| Combined MPG | 24 | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 17.9 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Annual Fuel Cost (EPA) | $1,800/yr | No published data |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,376 lbs | 4,486 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 112.2" | 110.8" |
| Length | 194.9" | 190.2" |
| Width | 76.0" | 74.8" |
| Height | 68.1" | 69.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | 5/5 stars | 5/5 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 | 2yr/25k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE and 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL starts at $39,390, $6,180 less than the 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE at $45,570. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $108/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE?
The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE is the stronger pick when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $76/year less on fuel.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,180 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL covers your needs.
Which gets better fuel economy, the 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE or 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL?
The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE rates 24 combined MPG, 1 MPG ahead.
Which is more powerful, the 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE or 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL produces 277 hp, 12 more than the 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE at 265 hp. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL also leads in torque at 311 lb-ft vs 310 lb-ft. The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo.
Is the 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL?
The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE is 4.7″ longer at 194.9″ vs 190.2″. The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE has a 1.4″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
How do the warranties compare?
The Toyota Highlander 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: Toyota trims, Toyota Highlander trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Santa Fe trims
How the Highlander and Santa Fe Stack Up
Two midsize SUVs, two different takes on daily versatility. The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE ($45,570) and 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL ($39,390) solve similar problems in different ways. The $-6,180 gap adds up to $108/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: Highlander vs Santa Fe
The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE runs a 2.4L I4 Turbo; the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL uses a 2.5L I4 Turbo. The 12 hp difference (277 vs 265) is marginal in daily driving. Both use AWD.
What It Actually Costs to Own
The 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE saves roughly $76/year on fuel at $3.50/gallon and 12,000 annual miles. Over five years, that is $380.
Which One Should You Buy?
Choose the 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE when lower running costs matter to you, roughly $76/year less on fuel. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL when you want to keep $6,180 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL 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 Toyota or Hyundai or any dealership.