In the past, three-row SUVs that were family oriented weren’t too often equipped with features that could allow the vehicle to go on thrill seeking adventures. That’s changed with the introduction of the 2026 Hyundai SANTA FE, which is destined to go on road trips with the occasional off-roading path in between. Its looks match its dynamic personality, too. There’s a lot to learn about this model, and you can pique your curiosity by reading this overview of it brought to you by Twin City Hyundai!

Exterior

Branding goes beyond the standard silver anodized exterior badges for the SANTA FE, as both the standard LED headlights and taillamps both have an H-theme when activated. Both the XRT and Calligraphy trims of this model contain optional black anodized exterior Hyundai insignias, which create a pleasing contrast between certain exterior colors. The accenting is especially eye-catching if you go for hues such as Terracotta Orange1, Ultimate Red, and Serenity White. Flaunt to other drivers on TN-9 that you went for a high trim level by showing off the available side mirrors with embedded LED turn-signal indicators each time you pivot to another lane. Another optional trait that you can flaunt when gathering your picnic equipment from the trunk of the SANTA FE is the hands-free smart liftgate with auto opening and adjustable height features.

Performance

Begin having fun with your 2026 Hyundai SANTA FE by shifting to its optional Terrain Mode drive setting. It is able to intelligently direct the 277 horsepower and 311 lb.-ft. of torque made from the standard 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine to the front and rear wheels, permitting optimal traction on slick surfaces. Whether it’s the slipperiness of slush or the viscosity of mud, the SANTA FE has the technology and force to muscle through them due to the available HTRAC AWD configuration. This SUV is also quite the daily driver if you often take the freeway to work, given its 20/29/24 MPG city/hwy/combined2 in estimated fuel economy ratings.

Comfort and Convenience

The 2026 Hyundai SANTA FE has amenities that you didn’t know you needed, such as the standard two-level storage armrest with a bi-directional opening. That means you don’t need to prompt your copilot to raise their hand to gain entryway into the compartment to fish out a USB cable or stick of gum. An optional dual automatic climate control system is also able to keep you both happy because of its ability to divide separate temperature settings between yourself and the front passenger, cutting down on frequently flipping dials while en route to the Knoxville Zoo. If one party is normally relegated to taking photos to commemorate an eventful day, they can keep their smartphone fully powered up with an available wireless device charger. You can even park ahead of time using the optional Hyundai Pay3 feature, which our staff can inform you more about!