Safety battle: hyundai santa fe vs nissan murano – which suv protects your family best?
What To Know
- 5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged model returns 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway.
- The Santa Fe features a standard AWD system with a locking center differential, while the Pathfinder offers an optional all-terrain system with a low-range gearbox.
- On the other hand, if you prioritize towing capacity, off-road capability, and a spacious third row, the Nissan Pathfinder is a better choice.
In the competitive SUV market, the Hyundai Santa Fe and Nissan Pathfinder stand out as two formidable contenders. Both vehicles offer a compelling blend of performance, comfort, and technology, making it a challenging choice for buyers. This comprehensive comparison guide will delve into the key differences between the Hyundai Santa Fe vs Nissan, helping you make an informed decision.
Performance and Efficiency
The Hyundai Santa Fe offers a choice of two powerful engines: a 2.5-liter inline-four with 191 horsepower and a 2.5-liter turbocharged inline-four with 281 horsepower. The Nissan Pathfinder, on the other hand, is powered by a single 3.5-liter V6 engine producing 284 horsepower.
In terms of fuel economy, the Santa Fe holds an edge over the Pathfinder. The base Santa Fe with the 2.5-liter engine achieves an EPA-estimated 25 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the turbocharged model returns 22 mpg in the city and 29 mpg on the highway. The Pathfinder, meanwhile, gets 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
Interior and Comfort
Both the Hyundai Santa Fe and Nissan Pathfinder offer spacious and well-equipped interiors. The Santa Fe features a modern and intuitive dashboard with a user-friendly infotainment system. The front seats provide ample support and comfort, and the second row offers plenty of legroom and headroom.
The Pathfinder’s interior is equally impressive. It boasts a sleek and stylish design with high-quality materials. The front seats are heated and ventilated, and the second row features captain’s chairs for added comfort. The third row, however, is somewhat cramped and best suited for occasional use.
Technology and Features
The Hyundai Santa Fe comes standard with a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration. It also offers a range of advanced safety features, including lane departure warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control.
The Nissan Pathfinder also features a 10.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. However, it falls behind the Santa Fe in terms of standard safety features. Lane departure warning and automatic emergency braking are only available as optional extras.
Towing and Cargo Capacity
The Hyundai Santa Fe has a maximum towing capacity of 5,000 pounds when properly equipped. The Nissan Pathfinder, on the other hand, boasts a superior towing capacity of 6,000 pounds.
In terms of cargo capacity, the Santa Fe offers 36.4 cubic feet of space behind the second row of seats and 72.1 cubic feet with the second row folded down. The Pathfinder provides slightly more cargo space, with 16.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 45.3 cubic feet behind the second row, and 87.5 cubic feet with both rows folded down.
Price and Value
The Hyundai Santa Fe has a starting price of $30,895 for the base SE trim. The top-of-the-line Calligraphy trim starts at $43,295. The Nissan Pathfinder‘s starting price is slightly higher at $34,790 for the S trim. The top-tier Platinum trim starts at $52,690.
Based on price and features, the Hyundai Santa Fe offers better value for money. It provides a comparable level of performance, comfort, and technology at a lower cost than the Nissan Pathfinder.
Off-Road Capability
Both the Hyundai Santa Fe and Nissan Pathfinder offer all-wheel drive (AWD) systems for enhanced off-road capability. The Santa Fe features a standard AWD system with a locking center differential, while the Pathfinder offers an optional all-terrain system with a low-range gearbox.
However, the Nissan Pathfinder has a slight edge in terms of off-road prowess. Its all-terrain system provides better traction and control in challenging conditions, making it a more capable choice for serious off-roading.
Which is Right for You?
Ultimately, the choice between the Hyundai Santa Fe and Nissan Pathfinder depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you value fuel efficiency, value, and a comprehensive suite of standard safety features, the Hyundai Santa Fe is an excellent option. On the other hand, if you prioritize towing capacity, off-road capability, and a spacious third row, the Nissan Pathfinder is a better choice.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: Which vehicle has a better towing capacity?
A: The Nissan Pathfinder has a superior towing capacity of 6,000 pounds, compared to the Hyundai Santa Fe‘s 5,000 pounds.
Q: Which vehicle offers more cargo space?
A: The Nissan Pathfinder provides slightly more cargo space than the Hyundai Santa Fe, with 87.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity compared to 72.1 cubic feet.
Q: Which vehicle has a lower starting price?
A: The Hyundai Santa Fe has a lower starting price of $30,895, while the Nissan Pathfinder starts at $34,790.
Q: Which vehicle offers better fuel economy?
A: The Hyundai Santa Fe has better fuel economy than the Nissan Pathfinder. The base Santa Fe with the 2.5-liter engine achieves 25 mpg in the city and 28 mpg on the highway, while the Pathfinder gets 20 mpg in the city and 27 mpg on the highway.
Q: Which vehicle has a more comfortable interior?
A: Both vehicles offer spacious and well-equipped interiors. However, the Nissan Pathfinder has a slight edge in terms of comfort, with heated and ventilated front seats and captain’s chairs in the second row.