Fuel efficiency duel: toyota highlander hybrid vs hyundai santa fe hybrid – which will save you more?

The Toyota Highlander and Hyundai Santa Fe are two of the most popular midsize SUVs on the market, offering a combination of space, versatility, and performance. In this comprehensive comparison, we will delve into the key features, specifications, and capabilities of these two SUVs to help you make an informed decision about which one is the right choice for you.

Performance and Fuel Economy

Engine Options:

• Highlander: 2.7L 4-cylinder, 3.5L V6
• Santa Fe: 2.5L 4-cylinder, 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder, 3.5L V6

Horsepower and Torque:

• Highlander: 185 hp / 184 lb-ft (2.7L), 295 hp / 263 lb-ft (3.5L)
• Santa Fe: 191 hp / 181 lb-ft (2.5L), 277 hp / 311 lb-ft (2.5L turbo), 290 hp / 262 lb-ft (3.5L)

Fuel Economy:

• Highlander: 21 mpg city / 29 mpg highway (2.7L), 21 mpg city / 27 mpg highway (3.5L)
• Santa Fe: 25 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (2.5L), 22 mpg city / 28 mpg highway (2.5L turbo), 20 mpg city / 27 mpg highway (3.5L)

Interior and Features

Seating Capacity:

• Highlander: 7 or 8
• Santa Fe: 7 or 8

Cargo Space:

• Highlander: 16.1 cubic feet (behind third row), 48.4 cubic feet (behind second row), 84.3 cubic feet (with both rows folded)
• Santa Fe: 13.5 cubic feet (behind third row), 36.4 cubic feet (behind second row), 72.1 cubic feet (with both rows folded)

Standard Features:

• Both models offer a wide range of standard features, including a touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration, and a rearview camera.

Optional Features:

• Highlander: Leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front seats, panoramic sunroof
• Santa Fe: Leather upholstery, heated and ventilated front and rear seats, hands-free liftgate, panoramic sunroof

Safety and Technology

Safety Features:

• Both models have received high safety ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS).
• Standard safety features include automatic emergency braking, lane departure warning, and adaptive cruise control.

Technology Features:

• Highlander: 8-inch or 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, wireless charging
• Santa Fe: 8-inch or 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system, navigation, wireless charging

Off-Road Capabilities

Both the Highlander and Santa Fe offer optional all-wheel drive systems, but the Highlander has a slight edge in terms of off-road capabilities.

• Highlander: Available with a Multi-Terrain Select system that optimizes performance on different surfaces
• Santa Fe: Available with an HTRAC all-wheel drive system with a lockable center differential

Pricing and Availability

Starting Price:

• Highlander: $36,420
• Santa Fe: $28,300

Availability:

• Both models are widely available at Toyota and Hyundai dealerships across the country.

Which One Is Right for You?

The Toyota Highlander and Hyundai Santa Fe are both excellent choices for midsize SUV buyers. The Highlander offers more space, better fuel economy, and more off-road capabilities, while the Santa Fe is more affordable, has a more modern interior, and comes with a longer warranty. Ultimately, the best choice for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Alternatives to Consider

If you’re not sure which SUV is right for you, here are a few alternatives to consider:

• Kia Sorento
• Honda Pilot
• Mazda CX-9

Answers to Your Questions

Q: Which SUV has the most interior space?
A: The Toyota Highlander has more interior space than the Hyundai Santa Fe.

Q: Which SUV is more fuel-efficient?
A: The Toyota Highlander has better fuel economy than the Hyundai Santa Fe.

Q: Which SUV has the best safety features?
A: Both the Toyota Highlander and Hyundai Santa Fe have excellent safety features, but the Highlander has a slight edge in terms of available safety technologies.

Q: Which SUV is more affordable?
A: The Hyundai Santa Fe is more affordable than the Toyota Highlander.

Q: Which SUV has the longest warranty?
A: The Hyundai Santa Fe has a longer warranty than the Toyota Highlander.