2026 Ford Explorer vs 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe
Comparing two vehicles side by side is one of the most practical ways to see which one fits your daily routine, your passengers, and your priorities. At Caruso Ford in Long Beach, we put together this page so you can compare the two options in one place before you decide.
2026 Ford Explorer vs 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe
Key Takeaways
- The Ford Explorer has a higher towing capacity than the Hyundai Santa Fe.
- The Ford Explorer gives third-row passengers a bit more legroom.
- The Ford Explorer has a larger infotainment screen.
- The Ford Explorer is a larger vehicle overall, with a longer wheelbase and a wider body.
At a Glance
| 2026 Ford Explorer | 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe | |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $38,465-$54,905 | $35,050 – $48,700 |
| Seating capacity | 7 seats | 7 seats |
| Maximum towing capacity | 5,000 lb | 4,500 lb |
| Torque | 310 lb-ft | 311 lb-ft |
| Standard engine | 2.3L EcoBoost I-4 (turbocharged, direct injection) with Auto Start-Stop | 2.5L turbocharged GDI + MPI DOHC 16-valve inline 4-cylinder (2,497 cc) |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive standard on 2.3L models; available Intelligent 4WD (standard on Tremor) | Front-wheel drive (standard); HTRAC all-wheel drive (optional) |
| EPA city fuel economy | 20 mpg | 20 mpg |
| EPA combined fuel economy | 23 mpg | 23 mpg |
| EPA highway fuel economy | 27 mpg | 28 mpg |
| Wheelbase | 119.1 in | 110.8 in |
| Overall length | 198.7 in | 190.2 in |
| Overall width | 78.9 in | 74.8 in |
| Overall height | 69.6 in | 67.7 in (69.7 in with roof rails) |
| Third-row legroom | 31.8 in | 30.0 in |
| Infotainment screen | 13.2 in | 12.3 in |
| Wireless Apple CarPlay | Wireless Apple CarPlay compatibility offered | Standard |
| Wireless Android Auto | Wireless Android Auto compatibility offered | Standard |
| Basic warranty | 3 years / 36,000 miles | 5 years / 60,000 miles |
| Powertrain warranty | 5 years / 60,000 miles | 10 years / 100,000 miles (original owner) |
Size and dimensions
The Ford Explorer has a longer wheelbase, greater overall length and a wider body than the Hyundai Santa Fe. These measurements highlight the exterior size difference, while cargo capacity should be evaluated separately.
Fuel Economy Comparison
In gasoline all-wheel-drive configurations, the 2026 Ford Explorer Active and Hyundai Santa Fe SE both achieve an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined. The Hyundai Santa Fe gets 28 mpg on the highway, compared with 27 mpg for the Ford Explorer. Hyundai also offers a Santa Fe Hybrid for shoppers prioritizing fuel efficiency.
Warranty coverage: Hyundai Santa Fe ahead
The Hyundai Santa Fe comes with a longer basic warranty and a longer powertrain warranty than the Ford Explorer. This is a real advantage for buyers who value extended factory coverage.
Technology
The Ford Explorer has a larger infotainment screen. For smartphone connectivity, the Hyundai Santa Fe offers wireless Apple CarPlay and wireless Android Auto as standard, while the Ford Explorer offers wireless compatibility.
Why the 2026 Ford Explorer
- The Ford Explorer has a higher towing capacity than the Hyundai Santa Fe.
- The Ford Explorer gives third-row passengers a bit more legroom.
- The Ford Explorer has a larger infotainment screen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which tows more, the Ford Explorer or the Hyundai Santa Fe?
The Ford Explorer has the higher maximum towing capacity of the two.
Which is more fuel efficient, the Ford Explorer or the Hyundai Santa Fe?
In comparable gasoline all-wheel-drive configurations, both SUVs achieve an EPA-estimated 23 mpg combined. The Hyundai Santa Fe has a slight highway advantage, at 28 mpg versus the Ford Explorer’s 27 mpg. The Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid offers higher fuel economy for shoppers considering a hybrid.
Which has the better warranty, the Ford Explorer or the Hyundai Santa Fe?
The Hyundai Santa Fe has a longer basic warranty and a longer powertrain warranty than the Ford Explorer.
Do both the Ford Explorer and the Hyundai Santa Fe seat seven?
Yes, both are listed with seven seats. The Ford Explorer gives third-row passengers slightly more legroom.
How does the Ford Explorer compare in price with the Hyundai Santa Fe?
Please contact the dealership for current Ford Explorer pricing.
Ready to see how they compare in person? Visit us at 3500 Cherry Avenue in Long Beach, or browse our website for details and current availability.
