Why the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Is a Great Fit for Dublin Families

For families prioritizing a spacious SUV, the Santa Fe makes a strong case with more maximum cargo capacity and a roomier footprint. The Sorento has a lower entry price in the trims compared here, but the Santa Fe Calligraphy delivers a premium feature package.

The Santa Fe Calligraphy is configured with second-row captain's chairs and seating for six. Lower Santa Fe trims can accommodate up to seven passengers with a second-row bench. The Sorento likewise offers seating for up to seven, with second-row captain's chairs available on selected trims.

The Santa Fe Calligraphy makes 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque; the Sorento EX makes 281 horsepower and 311 lb-ft. These outputs are closely matched, so cargo room, comfort, and technology may be more meaningful differentiators.

Shoppers interested in upgrading can value a trade-in online or browse new Hyundai inventory at Great Lakes Hyundai of Dublin.

Gas-Powered Trims, Pricing, and Premium Features

The gas-powered Santa Fe Calligraphy starts at 47,600MSRPinfront-wheel-driveform,whilethegasCalligraphyAWDislistedat49,400 MSRP in the supplied comparison. Calligraphy represents the premium end of the Santa Fe lineup, not its entry-level price.

Calligraphy equipment includes Nappa leather seating surfaces, second-row captain's chairs, a 12.3-inch touchscreen, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, Bose premium audio, dual wireless device charging, and additional comfort and driver-assistance technology.

For buyers who value a more premium cabin, sophisticated technology, and additional cargo flexibility, the Santa Fe Calligraphy offers a compelling combination of features that can help justify its higher price.

Buyers considering different ownership paths can browse pre-owned vehicles or submit a finance application online.

Passenger Comfort and Cargo Space for Active Families

One of the Santa Fe's most important advantages is its spacious interior. The 2026 Santa Fe offers generous passenger dimensions across all three rows, making it especially appealing for families who regularly carry passengers and cargo.

Hyundai lists 44.4 inches of front legroom, up to 42.3 inches of second-row legroom depending on configuration, and 30.0 inches of third-row legroom.

The Sorento provides 41.4 inches of front legroom, 41.7 inches in the second row, and 29.6 inches in the third row. While both SUVs offer three-row seating, the Santa Fe provides more room in several important measurements.

Cargo capacity is an even clearer advantage. The Santa Fe offers 14.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 40.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 79.6 cubic feet behind the first row. The Sorento offers approximately 12.6 cubic feet behind the third row and up to 75.5 cubic feet of maximum cargo capacity.

That extra room makes the Santa Fe particularly attractive for Dublin families transporting luggage, strollers, groceries, sports equipment, and gear for weekend trips.

Genuine cargo trays, crossbars, and other accessories are available through our Hyundai parts center.

Dimensions and Capacity Comparison

Performance for Dublin and Central Ohio Driving

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy uses a 2.5L turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 277 horsepower and 311 lb-ft of torque. This powertrain provides confident acceleration for everyday commuting, highway merging, and family travel.

For families who want a strong gasoline engine without relying on hybrid technology, the Santa Fe offers an appealing balance of performance, comfort, and practicality. Its generous passenger and cargo dimensions help distinguish it from the Sorento in everyday family use.

Properly equipped gas-powered Santa Fe configurations can tow up to 3,500 pounds, making them useful for smaller recreational trailers and other light towing needs. The Sorento EX is also rated for up to 3,500 pounds, while specialized X-Pro configurations can reach higher ratings.

Gas Engine and Performance Comparison

Actual towing capability depends on vehicle equipment, passengers, cargo, trailer configuration, and proper towing equipment.

Premium Technology That Makes the Santa Fe Stand Out

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy delivers a premium digital experience built around a 12.3-inch touchscreen and a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster. This expansive display arrangement helps create a modern, sophisticated cabin.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, while Calligraphy models include a 12-speaker Bose premium audio system and dual wireless device charging. These features add convenience for busy families and drivers who regularly travel with passengers.

Hyundai's available Bluelink+ connected services support compatible remote and vehicle-information functions. Supported software can also receive over-the-air updates.

The Kia Sorento EX includes a 12.3-inch touchscreen with navigation, Kia Connect, SiriusXM, and wireless smartphone integration. Higher Sorento trims add additional premium technology.

For buyers considering a luxury-oriented three-row SUV, the Santa Fe Calligraphy makes a particularly strong impression through its combination of digital displays, premium audio, wireless charging, and upscale interior appointments. Because the Sorento EX is a lower-positioned trim, shoppers should compare equipment and pricing carefully.

Safety and Driver Assistance for Dublin Families

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe offers a broad selection of safety and driver-assistance technology designed to support drivers during daily commuting, school drop-offs, highway travel, and parking.

Santa Fe Calligraphy equipment includes Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist, Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Smart Cruise Control, Surround View Monitor, and additional parking assistance.

The Kia Sorento also provides comprehensive driver-assistance technology, including Auto Emergency Braking, Blind-Spot Detection, Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, and other Kia Drive Wise features depending on trim.

Warranty Coverage and Ownership Convenience

Hyundai backs the 2026 Santa Fe with a 5-year/60,000-mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty and a 10-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty for the original owner, subject to Hyundai's complete warranty terms and exclusions.

Hyundai also provides 5 years/unlimited miles of Roadside Assistance and 7 years/unlimited miles of anti-perforation coverage.

Gas-powered Santa Fe models offer the familiar ownership experience of a conventional internal-combustion engine without plug-in charging requirements. For buyers who prefer gasoline-powered transportation, the Santa Fe combines strong performance with substantial warranty protection.

Kia likewise offers extensive factory coverage, including a 10-year/100,000-mile limited powertrain warranty and 5-year/60,000-mile basic warranty, subject to Kia's complete eligibility rules, limitations, and exclusions.

*Long-term powertrain coverage is subject to manufacturer ownership, transfer, eligibility, and warranty provisions. Review the applicable warranty booklet for complete details.

Great Lakes Hyundai of Dublin customers can browse certified pre-owned inventory or schedule Hyundai service online.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gas-Powered Santa Fe and Sorento Models

Which SUV has more cargo space?

The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe offers more maximum cargo capacity. Hyundai lists 14.6 cubic feet behind the third row, 40.5 cubic feet behind the second row, and 79.6 cubic feet behind the first row. Kia lists 12.6 cubic feet behind the Sorento's third row and up to 75.5 cubic feet behind the first row.

What makes the Santa Fe a compelling family SUV?

The Santa Fe combines 277 horsepower with 311 lb-ft of torque, generous legroom, and more cargo capacity than the Sorento. Premium available technology and upscale cabin features make the Santa Fe especially attractive for families who value everyday comfort and versatility.

Does the Santa Fe seat six or seven passengers?

It depends on trim. The Santa Fe can seat up to seven with a second-row bench, while Calligraphy models use second-row captain's chairs and seat six.

Which SUV can tow more?

Gas-powered Santa Fe models can tow up to 3,500 pounds in eligible configurations. The Sorento EX is also rated for up to 3,500 pounds, while the specialized Sorento X-Pro SX Prestige can reach up to 4,500 pounds.

Do both SUVs offer second-row captain's chairs?

Yes. The Santa Fe Calligraphy includes second-row captain's chairs, while Kia offers captain's chairs on selected Sorento trims and packages. Both vehicles can be configured for six-passenger seating.

Where can I shop for a 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe near Dublin, Ohio?

Visit Great Lakes Hyundai of Dublin at 2441 Billingsley Rd, Columbus, OH 43235. You can also call (614) 782-1029 or browse new Hyundai inventory online.

Explore the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe at Great Lakes Hyundai of Dublin

Discover why the Hyundai Santa Fe is such a compelling choice for Dublin families. With generous cargo space, confident turbocharged performance, available premium technology, and flexible three-row seating, the Santa Fe is ready for your everyday adventures.