2027 Kia Telluride S vs 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE
9.0″ longer vs $5,240 less and AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 274 vs 277 hp.
The Telluride S leads on 9.0″ longer. The Santa Fe SE leads on $5,240 less, AWD. 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 | 2027 Kia Telluride S | 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $42,090 | $36,850 |
| Powertrain | ||
| Engine | 2.5L I4 Turbo | 2.5L I4 Turbo |
| Horsepower | 274 hp | 277 hp |
| Torque | 311 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Transmission | 8-speed shiftable automatic | 8-speed shiftable automatic |
| Drivetrain | FWD | AWD |
| Fuel Economy | ||
| City MPG | No published data | 20 |
| Highway MPG | No published data | 28 |
| Combined MPG | No published data | 23 |
| Fuel Tank | 19.0 gal | 17.7 gal |
| Dimensions | ||
| Curb Weight | 4,381 lbs | 4,486 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 116.9" | 110.8" |
| Length | 199.2" | 190.2" |
| Width | 78.3" | 74.8" |
| Height | 69.9" | 67.7" |
| Safety | ||
| NHTSA Overall | No published data | 5/5 stars |
| IIHS Award | TSP+ | TSP+ |
| Warranty | ||
| Bumper-to-Bumper | 5yr/60k | 5yr/60k |
| Powertrain | 10yr/100k | 10yr/100k |
| Corrosion | 5yr/100k | 7yr/unlimited |
| Roadside Assistance | 5yr/60k | 5yr/unlimited |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the price difference between the 2027 Kia Telluride S and 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE starts at $36,850, $5,240 less than the 2027 Kia Telluride S at $42,090. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $92/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2027 Kia Telluride S?
The 2027 Kia Telluride S is the stronger pick when you prefer the Kia approach to the midsize SUV segment.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE is the stronger pick when you want to keep $5,240 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE covers your needs; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which is more powerful, the 2027 Kia Telluride S or 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE produces 277 hp, 3 more than the 2027 Kia Telluride S at 274 hp. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2027 Kia Telluride S, AWD on the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE.
Is the 2027 Kia Telluride S bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE?
The 2027 Kia Telluride S is 9.0″ longer at 199.2″ vs 190.2″. The 2027 Kia Telluride S has a 6.1″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2027 Kia Telluride S and 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE comes with AWD, while the 2027 Kia Telluride S uses FWD. 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?
Both offer similar warranty coverage: 5yr/60k bumper-to-bumper and 10yr/100k powertrain.
Explore more: Kia trims, Kia Telluride trims, Hyundai trims, Hyundai Santa Fe trims
- 2027 Kia Telluride S Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
Telluride vs Santa Fe: What This Matchup Is Really About
The 2027 Kia Telluride S and 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE sit in the midsize SUV class, where cargo room, ride comfort, and family-friendly features define the competitive landscape. The $-5,240 gap adds up to $92/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
Both run the same 2.5L I4 Turbo engine. The 3 hp difference (277 vs 274) is marginal in daily driving. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE comes with AWD; the 2027 Kia Telluride S uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
How Each One Fits Your Daily Life
The 2027 Kia Telluride S has a 6.1″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
Bottom Line
Choose the 2027 Kia Telluride S when you prefer the Kia approach to the midsize SUV segment. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe SE when you want to keep $5,240 in your pocket and the 2026 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 Kia or Hyundai or any dealership.