2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT: A Comprehensive Overview
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT emerges as a versatile mid-size SUV, designed to cater to both urban commuters and outdoor enthusiasts. Positioned within the competitive mid-size SUV segment, it faces rivals such as the Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V, and Ford Edge. With its rugged styling and advanced features, the Santa Fe XRT aims to carve out a niche for those seeking adventure without sacrificing comfort.
What’s New
- Updated exterior design with a more aggressive stance
- Enhanced off-road capabilities with improved suspension
- New engine options for better performance and efficiency
- Updated infotainment system with larger touchscreen
- Expanded safety features including new driver assistance technologies
What We Think
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT showcases significant improvements over its predecessors, particularly in terms of off-road capability and technology integration. The rugged aesthetic appeals to adventure seekers, while the spacious interior remains a strong selling point. However, some may find the fuel economy less competitive compared to rivals. Overall, the Santa Fe XRT stands out in a crowded market with its blend of style, functionality, and advanced features.
Performance and Fuel Economy
The 2026 Santa Fe XRT offers two engine options designed to deliver a balance of power and efficiency:
- 2.5-liter Inline-4 Engine: Produces 191 horsepower and 182 lb-ft of torque.
- 2.5-liter Turbocharged Inline-4 Engine: Generates 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque.
Both engines are paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission, providing smooth shifts and responsive acceleration. The standard all-wheel-drive system enhances traction on various terrains. The estimated 0-60 mph time for the turbocharged variant is approximately 6.5 seconds, while fuel economy figures range from 24 to 28 MPG combined, depending on the engine choice.
Engine Options
2.5-liter Inline-4 Engine
This base engine offers adequate power for daily driving needs while maintaining commendable fuel efficiency. It is ideal for those who prioritize economy over performance.
2.5-liter Turbocharged Inline-4 Engine
The turbocharged option provides a significant boost in power, making it suitable for those who require more performance for towing or off-road adventures. This engine also features improved torque delivery for better acceleration.
Safety and Driver Assistance Features
The 2026 Santa Fe XRT is equipped with a comprehensive suite of safety features:
- Standard Features:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Lane Keeping Assist
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist
- Highway Driving Assist (hands-free driving)
- Pilot Assist with adaptive cruise control
- Surround View Monitor for enhanced visibility
- Passenger Space:
- Front Legroom: 41.4 inches
- Rear Legroom: 40.0 inches
- Behind Front Seats: 72.1 cubic feet
- Behind Rear Seats: 36.4 cubic feet
- Screen Size: A standard 10.25-inch touchscreen display.
- Connectivity:
- Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility.
- Bluetooth connectivity for hands-free calling.
- Available heads-up display (HUD).
- Dual-zone automatic climate control.
- Premium audio system options available.
- XRT Base: Starting at $30,000 – Includes essential features and safety systems.
- XRT Plus: Starting at $35,000 – Adds upgraded infotainment and comfort features.
- XRT Ultimate: Starting at $40,000 – Includes premium audio, advanced safety tech, and luxury finishes.
- Aggressive styling suitable for off-road adventures.
- Spacious interior with ample cargo capacity.
- User-friendly technology interface with modern connectivity options.
- A comprehensive suite of safety features.
- Lesser fuel economy compared to some competitors.
- The base engine may feel underpowered for some drivers.
- Lack of hybrid or electric variants in the lineup.
Interior, Cargo Space, and Dimensions
The interior of the Santa Fe XRT is designed for comfort and practicality:
This cargo space is competitive within its class, offering more room than the Honda CR-V but slightly less than the Toyota RAV4.
Technology and Infotainment
The infotainment system in the Santa Fe XRT has been upgraded for 2026:
Trim Levels and Pricing
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe XRT is available in several trims:
Pros and Cons
- Pros: