Phil Long Hyundai of Motor City

2027 Hyundai Santa Fe vs 2026 Toyota Highlander Comparison

The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe wins this comparison by offering a stronger 277 hp turbocharged engine, an accessible starting MSRP of $37,840, and an expressive design packed with standard technology. While the 2026 Toyota Highlander delivers solid hybrid efficiency, the Santa Fe provides significantly more overall value, superior passenger legroom, and an industry-leading warranty package for local families. And when you factor in #1 Hyundai Motor City's EXCLUSIVE 30 year / 300,000 Mile Powertrain Warranty - you've got an exceptional value!

Table of Contents

Which SUV Is the Best Overall for Colorado Springs Families: 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe or 2026 Toyota Highlander?

The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe is the superior choice for overall family utility, outmatching the 2026 Toyota Highlander with a standard 277 hp engine versus Toyota's 243 hp setup, alongside a lower starting price point.

Choosing a three-row crossover requires balancing daily usability with power and cabin flexibility. The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy 2.5 AWD, Limited 2.5 (Captain's chairs), and SEL 2.5 AWD lineups are designed from the ground up to handle both city pavement and steep mountain inclines around Colorado Springs. Powering the Santa Fe is a Smartstream 2.5L turbocharged inline 4-cylinder engine that generates 311 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. By comparison, the 2026 Toyota Highlander relies on a 2.5L hybrid powertrain producing just 175 lb-ft of torque, leaving it feeling underpowered when ascending higher elevations with a full load of passengers.

When comparing physical footprints, the Santa Fe sits on a 110.8 in wheelbase with an overall length of 190.2 in, a width of 74.8 in, and a height of 69.7 in. Its published curb weight ranges from 4,343 lbs in front-wheel-drive trims to 4,486 lbs in all-wheel-drive models like the Calligraphy 2.5 AWD. The Highlander comes in slightly heavier at 4,515 lbs curb weight. Both vehicles provide a gross trailer weight rating of 3,500 lbs for braked towing, making either option capable of pulling a light utility trailer or pop-up camper. However, the Santa Fe's higher torque output makes towing feel far more effortless.

For shoppers evaluating long-term value, browsing pre-owned vehicle options can highlight how well three-row crossovers hold their resale value over time. Ultimately, the Santa Fe delivers a more responsive driving feel, modern boxy styling, and a lower total entry price that makes it the more compelling buy for active households.

Engine & Performance

Powertrain specs by trim

Specification 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe 2026 Toyota Highlander
:-- :-- :--
Engine 2.5L 2.5L
Horsepower 277 hp 243 hp
Torque 311 lb-ft 175 lb-ft
Transmission SHIFTRONIC ECVT
Drivetrain Front-wheel drive All-wheel drive

Dimensions & Capacity

Capacity and dimensions by trim

Specification 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe 2026 Toyota Highlander
:-- :-- :--
Cargo 14.6 cu ft 16.0 cu ft
Towing 3,500 lbs 3,500 lbs
Payload 1,191 lbs 1,485 lbs
Seating 6 7
Curb weight 4,343 lbs 4,515 lbs

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How Do the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2026 Toyota Highlander Compare in Price and Trim Value?

The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe offers a vastly superior price-to-value ratio, starting at $37,840 MSRP for the SEL 2.5 trim compared to the 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD at $46,270.

Price transparency and feature packaging are critical when selecting your next family vehicle. Hyundai structures the Santa Fe lineup to deliver high-end convenience items much lower in the trim ladder. The well-equipped SEL 2.5 starts at $37,840, while adding all-wheel-drive capability brings the SEL 2.5 AWD to $39,640. Stepping up to the Limited 2.5 (Captain's chairs) trim brings premium leather seating and advanced convenience features at $44,850. The flagship Calligraphy 2.5 starts at $47,600, and the fully equipped Calligraphy 2.5 AWD tops the line at $49,650. Delivery charges for all Santa Fe models add 1650 USD.

Toyota positions the Highlander at a higher initial price point across its comparable trim structure. The Highlander XLE AWD begins at $46,270, while the Hybrid XLE AWD steps up to $48,020. The range-topping Highlander Platinum AWD commands $53,925. At every level, Hyundai provides more standard technology and premium materials for thousands of dollars less than a similarly equipped Toyota.

  • 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL 2.5: MSRP $37,840 | Dealer Invoice $36,061
  • 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL 2.5 AWD: MSRP $39,640
  • 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe Limited 2.5 (Captain's chairs): MSRP $44,850 | Dealer Invoice $42,742
  • 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy 2.5: MSRP $47,600 | Dealer Invoice $45,601
  • 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy 2.5 AWD: MSRP $49,650 | Dealer Invoice $47,316
  • 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD: MSRP $46,270
  • 2026 Toyota Highlander Hybrid XLE AWD: MSRP $48,020
  • 2026 Toyota Highlander Platinum AWD: MSRP $53,925

To help make your upgrade seamless, our team can help you value your current trade-in online to see how much equity you can apply toward a new Santa Fe. Furthermore, keeping your vehicle running smoothly for years to come is easy when you schedule a service appointment with our factory-trained technicians.

Pricing

Manufacturer-listed pricing per trim, across compared vehicles.

2027 Hyundai Santa Fe Trim MSRP 2026 Toyota Highlander Trim MSRP
:-- :-- :-- :--
SEL 2.5 $37,840 XLE AWD $46,270
SEL 2.5 AWD $39,640 Hybrid XLE AWD $48,020
Limited 2.5 (Captain's chairs) $44,850 Platinum AWD $53,925

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Which SUV Offers More Passenger Comfort and Cargo Space for Outdoor Adventures?

The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe provides a more comfortable cabin experience with 44.4 in of front legroom and 42.3 in of second-row legroom, outperforming the Toyota Highlander's tighter passenger quarters.

Interior volume and seating versatility are essential for school carpools in suburban areas like Security Widefield as well as weekend trips to local parks. The Santa Fe offers two primary seating configurations: a 7-passenger layout ( 2+3+2) on the SEL 2.5 trim with a split-bench second row, and a 6-passenger layout ( 2+2+2) featuring luxurious second-row captain's chairs on the Limited 2.5 and Calligraphy 2.5 trims. Interior dimensions are generous across all three rows:

  • Front Row: 40.2 in headroom ( 41.1 in on SEL), 44.4 in legroom, 56.5 in hip room, 59.5 in shoulder room.
  • Second Row: 39.6 in headroom ( 40.6 in on SEL), 42.3 in legroom, 54.9 in hip room, 58.1 in shoulder room.
  • Third Row: 37.7 in headroom, 30 in legroom, 42.7 in hip room, 53.5 in shoulder room.

Total interior passenger volume reaches 4304.1608 l. Cargo space behind the third row measures about 15 cu ft. Folding the rear seats down expands cargo capacity to a massive about 80 cu ft, providing a wide, flat floor designed to accommodate bulky sports gear, camping supplies, or luggage. The Highlander offers about 16 cu ft of space behind its third row and a maximum payload allowance of 1,485 lbs compared to the Santa Fe's 1,191 lbs payload capacity, but Toyota's second-row legroom feels noticeably tighter on longer journeys.

Material choices inside the Santa Fe elevate the cabin ambiance. Buyers can select from Black H-Tex Leatherette or Gray H-Tex Leatherette on the SEL, smooth Black Leather, Pecan Brown Leather, or Gray Leather on the Limited, and ultra-premium Black Ink Nappa Leather, Gray Nappa Leather, or Pecan Brown Nappa Leather on the Calligraphy. Additional interior highlights include dual power-adjustable front bucket seats with 7 electrical adjustments and 2-way power lumbar for the driver, heated and ventilated front seats, heated second-row seats, and a power glass sunroof with an electric sunshade.

When you are ready to secure your next vehicle, you can submit a credit application online to explore flexible financing options tailored to your budget.

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How Do the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2026 Toyota Highlander Perform on Mountain and Plains Roads?

The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe delivers far superior highway acceleration and pass-through torque thanks to its 277 hp Smartstream turbo engine and 8-speed automatic transmission, outpacing the Highlander's 243 hp hybrid system.

Driving dynamics across varying road conditions require a responsive engine and a well-engineered chassis. The Santa Fe's 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine achieves its peak 277 hp at 5800 rpm and maintains 311 lb-ft of torque from low engine speeds up to 4000 rpm. Power is routed through an 8-speed SHIFTRONIC automatic transmission featuring steering-wheel-mounted paddle shifters for manual gear control. This conventional torque-converter transmission delivers crisp, decisive gear changes without the drone common to continuously variable transmissions.

In contrast, the Toyota Highlander relies on an Electronically Controlled Continuously Variable Transmission (ECVT) paired with its hybrid engine. While smooth during casual suburban cruising, the ECVT often holds high engine RPMs during steep climbs, creating extra cabin noise without delivering immediate acceleration.

Chassis construction on the Santa Fe utilizes an independent front strut suspension with coil springs and a stabilizer bar, paired with an independent multi-link rear suspension. Unladen ground clearance stands at 7 in, supported by an approach angle of 17.4 deg and a departure angle of 20.3 deg. Front track width measures 64.7 in ( 64.8 in on SEL, 64.4 in on Limited) while rear track width measures 65.1 in ( 64.8 in on Limited). The curb-to-curb turning circle is 454.9 in, making the Santa Fe surprisingly nimble in tight parking lots. Braking is handled by 4-wheel disc brakes with 2 ventilated discs in the front, supported by ABS, Brake Assist, Electronic Hand Brake with Auto Hold, and Hill Start Assist.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy and range by trim

Specification 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe 2026 Toyota Highlander
:-- :-- :--
MPG 20 city / 29 hwy / 24 combined 35 city / 35 hwy / 35 combined

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Which SUV Provides Better Fuel Economy and Range for Daily Commutes and Weekend Trips?

While the 2026 Toyota Highlander Hybrid AWD leads in raw EPA ratings at 35 city / 35 hwy / 35 combined MPG, the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe offers competitive highway efficiency at 29 hwy MPG alongside a large 17.7 gal fuel tank that provides up to 425 mi of cruising range.

Fuel economy considerations often depend on your specific driving habits. For highway commuters and road-trippers, the front-wheel-drive 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe earns EPA ratings of 20 city MPG, 29 hwy MPG, and 24 combined MPG. All-wheel-drive models, such as the Calligraphy 2.5 AWD, post ratings of 20 city MPG, 28 hwy MPG, and 23 combined MPG. Annual estimated CO2 emissions are calculated at 374 g/mi for FWD variants and 389 g/mi for AWD variants ( 6.2 to 6.4 annual tons of CO2).

  • 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe FWD: 20 city / 29 hwy / 24 combined MPG | 425 mi estimated range
  • 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe AWD: 20 city / 28 hwy / 23 combined MPG | 407 mi estimated range
  • 2026 Toyota Highlander Hybrid AWD: 35 city / 35 hwy / 35 combined MPG

Both SUVs run on standard 87 octane unleaded petrol, keeping fill-up costs reasonable. While the Highlander's hybrid powertrain is unquestionably more efficient in stop-and-go city traffic, the Santa Fe's 17.7 gal fuel tank capacity ensures long stretches between gas station stops on the open highway. For buyers who prioritize passing power and towing confidence over city MPG, the Santa Fe's turbocharged performance easily justifies the trade-off.

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How User-Friendly Are the Technology Features in the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2026 Toyota Highlander for Active Lifestyles?

The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe leads in cabin technology with a standard 12.3 in digital instrument cluster and a matching 12.3 in central touchscreen display, creating a clean, modern interface compared to the Highlander's standard smaller screens.

Modern drivers expect intuitive connectivity without unnecessary complexity. Hyundai equips the Santa Fe with a sweeping curved panoramic display setup on higher trims, integrating the 12.3 in reconfigurable TFT instrument cluster with a 12.3 in touchscreen navigation system featuring 3D mapping and voice recognition. Mobile device integration includes standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility, supported by embedded SIM Wi-Fi hotspot capability ( 3 GB or 3 months included).

Audio quality inside the Santa Fe Calligraphy 2.5 and Limited 2.5 trims is delivered by a premium 12-speaker Bose audio system complete with a dedicated subwoofer and surround sound processing. The base SEL trim comes standard with an impressive 6-speaker layout. Device charging is well catered for across all three rows:

  • Front Row: 2 USB charging ports, 1 USB data connection, 1 12V power outlet, and a wireless charging pad.
  • Second Row: 2 USB charging ports built into the front seatbacks.
  • Third Row: 2 USB charging ports and 1 12V power outlet in the rear cargo area.

Convenience technology includes Hyundai's Blue Link telematics system, Proximity Key with push-button start, Digital Key 2 ultra-wideband smartphone access, a Surround View Monitor 360-degree camera system, a digital rearview mirror, an electric power liftgate with height memory, and Over-the-Air (OTA) software update capabilities.

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What Safety and Driver Assistance Systems Best Protect Families: Santa Fe or Highlander?

The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe offers exceptional family protection, featuring 9 standard airbags, an NHTSA 5-star overall crash rating, IIHS Top Safety Pick status, and advanced Forward Collision Avoidance Assist with Junction Turning.

Protecting your family on busy highways and mountain roads is a top priority. The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe comes standard with a comprehensive 9-airbag protection system, including driver and front passenger airbags, front and rear side airbags, driver knee airbag, and full-length side curtain airbags covering all 3 seating rows.

Crash test ratings demonstrate the structural integrity of Hyundai's N3 platform:

  • NHTSA Rating: 5-star overall safety rating, 5-star frontal crash rating, 5-star side impact rating, and a 4-star rollover rating.
  • IIHS Rating: Top Safety Pick status, earning "Good" ratings in moderate overlap front, driver-side small overlap front, and side impact tests, with "Acceptable" ratings for LATCH child seat ease of use and LED projector headlights.
  • Euro NCAP Rating: 4 stars overall ( 84% adult occupant score, 88% child occupant score).

Active driver assistance technology on the Santa Fe includes Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA) with Junction Turning, Blind Spot Collision Avoidance Assist (BCA), Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist (RCCA) with automatic braking, Lane Keep Assist (LKA), Navigation-based Smart Cruise Control (NSCC) with Stop & Go, Rear Occupant Alert, Safe Exit Warning, and a Surround View Monitor parking system.

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What Warranty and Maintenance Benefits Should Buyers Expect from the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2026 Toyota Highlander?

#1 Hyundai Motor City EXCLUSIVELY provides industry-leading warranty protection with a 30-year / 300,000-mile powertrain warranty and 5-year / 60,000-mile bumper-to-to-bumper coverage, doubling the length of Toyota's standard powertrain warranty.

Long-term ownership confidence comes down to warranty backing. Every 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe sold at #1 Phil Long Hyundai of Motor City is backed by America's Best Warranty, significantly outclassing Toyota's standard 5-year / 60,000-mile powertrain coverage:

  • Whole Vehicle Limited Warranty: 60 months / 60,000 miles
  • Powertrain Limited Warranty: 360 months / 300,000 miles
  • Anti-Corrosion Perforation Warranty: 84 months / unlimited miles
  • Roadside Assistance Coverage: 60 months / unlimited miles

Additionally, buyers benefit from our dealership's exclusive promise. The #1 Hyundai Motor City Warranty Promise protects original owners for up to 30 years or 300,000 miles on powertrain components, good at any ASE Certified Service Center nationwide. If you ever experience a breakdown or flat tire, manufacturer-backed support is just a phone call away via Hyundai Roadside Assistance: 1-800-633-5151.

To explore our current inventory in person, stop by our showroom at 170 W Motor Way, Colorado Springs, CO 80905 or give our team (719) 453-0549 a quick call. You can also browse our new Hyundai Santa Fe inventory online to find the exact trim and color for your lifestyle.

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Frequently Asked Questions About the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2026 Toyota Highlander

Q: Is the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe a better value than the 2026 Toyota Highlander?

Yes. The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe SEL 2.5 starts at $37,840, making it $8,430 less expensive than the base 2026 Toyota Highlander XLE AWD at $46,270. Despite its lower price, the Santa Fe includes more standard horsepower ( 277 hp vs 243 hp), larger 12.3 in digital displays, and a superior 10-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty.

Q: Which SUV offers more horsepower and passing torque?

The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe generates 277 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque from its Smartstream 2.5L turbocharged engine. The 2026 Toyota Highlander Hybrid produces 243 hp and 175 lb-ft of torque, giving the Santa Fe a decisive advantage during highway passing maneuvers and steep mountain climbing.

Q: Does the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe offer second-row captain's chairs?

Yes. The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe offers a 6-passenger configuration ( 2+2+2) featuring plush second-row captain's chairs on both the Limited 2.5 (Captain's chairs) trim (starting at $44,850) and the top-tier Calligraphy 2.5 trim.

Q: How does warranty coverage compare between the Hyundai Santa Fe and Toyota Highlander?

Hyundai includes a 5-year / 60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty and a 10-year / 100,000-mile powertrain warranty. Toyota offers a shorter 3-year / 36,000-mile basic warranty and a 5-year / 60,000-mile powertrain warranty. Original owners buying from #1 Phil Long Hyundai of Motor City also receive our extended powertrain promise for up to 30 years or 300,000 miles.

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Final Verdict: Why the 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe Wins for Local Families

The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe stands out as the ultimate three-row crossover for active households. With its bold exterior styling, turbocharged 277 hp output, ultra-spacious cabin with 42.3 in of second-row legroom, and starting price of just $37,840, it delivers an unbeatable combination of capability and value. While the Toyota Highlander offers good hybrid fuel economy, its higher price tag, weaker torque output, and shorter warranty coverage make it less appealing overall.

Visit #1 Phil Long Hyundai of Motor City today to experience the 2027 Santa Fe firsthand. Our friendly sales team is proud to serve military members, healthcare professionals, and growing families with transparent pricing and exceptional customer care. Schedule your test drive today and start your next family adventure with confidence.

© 2026 #1 Phil Long Hyundai of Motor City. All rights reserved.

Vehicle specification data © JATO Dynamics Limited.

 
Categories: Model Comparisons, New Vehicle Reviews, Buying Guides, Technology & Innovation, Safety Features
Tags: hybrid vs turbocharged SUV, SUV towing capacity, SUV passenger comfort, Hyundai Santa Fe pricing, SUV warranty comparison, turbocharged engine, three-row crossover, Hyundai Santa Fe vs Toyota Highlander, 2026 Toyota Highlander, 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe, Colorado Springs SUVs, Family SUVs

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