MSRP: From ~$35,050
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Overview
The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe is a midsize SUV with 3-row seating, but it offers a more compact footprint than most other midsizers, which maximizes cabin volume with its boxy design and comes in at a high-value price point. Up to seven people can be accommodated, and the cabin tech is right up to date. Powertrain choices include a 277-horsepower 2.5-liter turbo-four and a hybridized 231-hp 1.6-liter turbo-four, with a choice of FWD or AWD.
Cole Attisha
What’s New for 2027
Last year’s update replaced the 8-speed dual-clutch auto with a conventional torque converter auto, but the 2027 Santa Fe won’t be seeing any changes and marches into the new model year in the same guise as before.
Hyundai
Hyundai
Exterior
The Santa Fe’s boxy design still stands out and is characterized by upright proportions and flat panels that make the most of the footprint with a roomy cabin and usable 3rd-row space. Distinctive H-pattern LED lighting signatures are used front and rear, further separating the Santa Fe from the conservative class average. Wheel sizes range from 18 to 21 inches.
Hyundai
Hyundai
Hyundai
Interior
Perceived cabin quality is near-premium and retains several physical switches and knobs. Upholstery is upgraded from cloth to leatherette to Nappa leather as you progress up the trim ladder. Dual 12.3-inch displays look modern, and features include wireless smartphone integration, dual wireless charging pads, and a UV-C sterilization compartment. Interior space is generous, and even the third row is perfect for children, if not for adults.
Hyundai
Hyundai
Hyundai
Price Range and Best Value Trim
The 2027 Hyundai Santa Fe’s price isn’t expected to change much; these figures are based on preliminary information.
| Trim Level | Price |
| Base trim: SE | ~$35,050 |
| Top trim: Calligraphy Hybrid | ~$49,000 |
| Best value trim: SEL | ~$38,000 |
The SEL is the sweet spot, adding heated front seats, leatherette upholstery, rear climate control, the panoramic digital display, and two wireless charging pads for just ~$2,500.
2027 Hyundai Santa Fe Key Specs
The Santa Fe comes with a 2.5-liter turbo-four gas engine or a 1.6-liter turbo-four hybrid.
Powertrain Options
| Engine | Horsepower | Torque | Transmission | Drivetrain |
| 2.5L Turbo I4 | 277 hp | 311 lb-ft | 8-speed Automatic | FWD/AWD |
| 1.6L Turbo I4 Hybrid | 231 hp | 271 lb-ft | 6-speed Automatic | FWD/AWD |
Performance and 0-60 MPH
The gas Santa Fe trims accelerate to 60 MPH in around 6.3 to 7.4 seconds, depending on the trim, drivetrain, and as-tested weight. The hybrids are considerably slower, taking anything from 8.0 to nearly ten seconds. Ride comfort is good, and handling is composed, but the Santa Fe does not feel sporty.
Fuel Economy (MPG)
EPA estimates for the 2.5-liter gas trims vary from 20/29/24 MPG city/highway/combined with FWD and 20/28/23 MPG with AWD to 19/25/21 MPG for the AWD XRT. The hybrids return 37/36/36 MPG with FWD and 35/34/34 MPG with AWD, but rarely reach these figures in practice, often returning about 27 MPG instead.
AWD System Overview
HTRAC AWD is optional on all trims but standard on the XRT. It distributes torque automatically based on driving conditions, but it’s not meant for going off-road, even if the XRT’s all-terrain tires and Snow, Mud, and Sand drive modes make light trail work possible.
Dimensions
The Santa Fe sits halfway between the 200-inch Palisade and the 182-inch Tucson in the lower-midsize segment, its boxy shape maximizing cabin space and allowing for three rows.
| Dimension | Measurement |
| Length | 190.2 inches |
| Width | 74.8 inches |
| Height | 67.7-69.7 inches |
| Wheelbase | 110.8 inches |
Interior Space (Front, Middle, and Rear)
| Row | Headroom | Legroom | Hip Room |
| First Row | 40.2 – 41.1 inches | 44.4 inches | 56.5 inches |
| Second Row | 39.6 – 40.6 inches | 42.3 inches41.5 inches (hybrid) | 54.9 inches |
| Third Row | 37.7 inches | 30.0 inches | 42.7 inches |
Cargo Space
The gas and hybrid models have the same cargo capacity. There is a limited 14.6 cu-ft of space behind row three, but this increases to 40.5 cu-ft behind row two and 79.6 cu-ft behind row one. A hands-free power liftgate is standard.
Ground Clearance
The standard trims’ 7.0 inches of ground clearance is a bit marginal for an SUV, but the XRT does offer a more useful 8.3 inches and all-terrain tires for light trail work.
Warranty
Hyundai offers a market-leading warranty package.
| Warranty Type | Coverage |
| Basic | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Powertrain | 10 years / 100,000 miles |
| Hybrid System & Battery | 10 years / 100,000 miles |
| Complimentary Maintenance | 3 years / 36,000 miles |
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Bold styling with upscale appearance
- Class-leading warranty coverage
- Competitive pricing
- Comprehensive standard safety features
Cons:
- Tight 3rd-row legroom for adults
- Hybrid fuel economy falls short of EPA estimates
- Limited cargo space behind the 3rd row
- Max towing capacity of 4,500 lbs
Verdict
The 2027 Santa Fe maintains its distinctive design, versatile 3-row cabin, good standard feature count, and high-value pricing. The SEL offers the best value and is a great lower-midsize SUV for those who want 3-row practicality in a smaller footprint. Its market-leading warranty coverage adds peace of mind as well.
Cole Attisha
Competitors
About the author
Cobus F. Potgieter
Reviews and Features Editor