2027 Kia Telluride SX vs 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT
9.0″ longer vs $6,750 less and AWD. That is the real fork. Key numbers: 274 vs 277 hp.
The Telluride SX leads on 9.0″ longer. The Santa Fe XRT leads on $6,750 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 SX | 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT |
|---|---|---|
| Pricing | ||
| MSRP | $48,790 | $42,040 |
| 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 | 19 |
| Highway MPG | No published data | 25 |
| Combined MPG | No published data | 21 |
| 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" | 69.7" |
| 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 SX and 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT starts at $42,040, $6,750 less than the 2027 Kia Telluride SX at $48,790. On a 60-month loan that is roughly $119/month. All prices are MSRP before destination and dealer fees.
Who should choose the 2027 Kia Telluride SX?
The 2027 Kia Telluride SX is the stronger pick when you prefer the Kia approach to the midsize SUV segment.
Who should choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is the stronger pick when you want to keep $6,750 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT covers your needs; you drive in snow, rain, or unpaved roads where AWD keeps you planted.
Which is more powerful, the 2027 Kia Telluride SX or 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT?
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT produces 277 hp, 3 more than the 2027 Kia Telluride SX at 274 hp. Drivetrains differ too: FWD on the 2027 Kia Telluride SX, AWD on the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT.
Is the 2027 Kia Telluride SX bigger than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT?
The 2027 Kia Telluride SX is 9.0″ longer at 199.2″ vs 190.2″. The 2027 Kia Telluride SX has a 6.1″ longer wheelbase, which typically means more rear-seat legroom.
Do the 2027 Kia Telluride SX and 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT have the same drivetrain?
No. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT comes with AWD, while the 2027 Kia Telluride SX 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 SX Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT Safety Ratings (NHTSA)
- Compare Fuel Economy (EPA)
The Telluride–Santa Fe Decision
Cross-shopping midsize SUVs means weighing interior space, ride quality, and ownership costs. Here is how the Telluride and Santa Fe compare. The $-6,750 gap adds up to $119/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
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 XRT comes with AWD; the 2027 Kia Telluride SX uses FWD. If you deal with snow, rain, or gravel roads, that traction advantage matters.
Living With the Telluride vs the Santa Fe
The 2027 Kia Telluride SX has a 6.1″ longer wheelbase, typically meaning a smoother ride and more rear-seat legroom.
The Decision
Choose the 2027 Kia Telluride SX when you prefer the Kia approach to the midsize SUV segment. Choose the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT when you want to keep $6,750 in your pocket and the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT 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.