2026 Hyundai Santa Fe vs. 2026 Honda Passport
The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe offers three-row seating for up to seven passengers depending on trim, with six-passenger seating in Calligraphy models, higher engine torque from its available 2.5L turbocharged engine, an available hybrid rated at up to an EPA-estimated 36 MPG combined, and Hyundai's 10-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty for the original owner. The two-row 2026 Honda Passport provides a 5,000-lb towing capacity and generous rear cargo space, while the Santa Fe offers a versatile mix of passenger space, technology, and available hybrid efficiency.
Which SUV Is the Best Fit for Dublin Families: 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe or 2026 Honda Passport?
Deciding on the right midsize crossover comes down to how your family uses space, technology, and efficiency on a daily basis. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe and the 2026 Honda Passport take distinctly different approaches to serving suburban drivers. The Santa Fe leans heavily into premium passenger accommodation, modern tech integration, and diverse powertrain choices—including an available hybrid. On the other hand, the Honda Passport sticks to a traditional two-row setup powered by a naturally aspirated V6.
For households managing school carpools and corporate commutes, passenger flexibility is often a top priority. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe offers three-row seating for up to seven passengers depending on trim, while Calligraphy models feature a six-passenger configuration with second-row captain's chairs. The 2026 Honda Passport seats five passengers across two rows. That difference can change how parents handle multi-generational outings or sports team carpools.
Under the hood, Hyundai gives you turbocharged and electrified options. The Santa Fe Calligraphy features a 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine generating 277 hp and 311 lb-ft of torque. If maximum efficiency is your goal, the Calligraphy Hybrid utilizes a 1.6L turbocharged engine and electric motor to generate a combined 231 hp and 271 lb-ft of torque while achieving an EPA-estimated 37 city / 36 highway / 36 combined MPG with FWD. The Passport relies on a 3.5L V6 producing 285 hp and 262 lb-ft of torque, providing slightly more horsepower but less peak torque than the Santa Fe's 2.5L turbocharged engine.
When evaluating long-term value, Hyundai's ownership coverage is another factor to consider. Before visiting our showroom, local shoppers can easily value your trade-in online to see how much equity you may be able to apply toward a new Santa Fe.
How Pricing and Trim Options Match Family Budgets
Matching vehicle capabilities to a household budget requires examining both standard features and trim pricing structures. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy starts at $47,600 MSRP with FWD, while the 2026 Santa Fe Hybrid Calligraphy starts at $48,700 MSRP with FWD. HTRAC AWD is available at additional cost. Hyundai-listed MSRP excludes freight charges, tax, title, license fees, options, accessories, and applicable dealer charges.
The 2026 Honda Passport lineup focuses exclusively on two-row AWD configurations. The Passport RTL starts at $44,950 MSRP, the RTL Towing at $45,650 MSRP, and the RTL Blackout at $46,150 MSRP. Honda also offers TrailSport and TrailSport Elite variants at higher starting prices. Manufacturer MSRP does not include applicable taxes, license, registration, destination, options, accessories, or dealer charges.
For families cross-shopping features, the Santa Fe Calligraphy includes premium equipment such as Nappa leather seating surfaces, a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, 12.3-inch touchscreen, Bose® premium audio with 12 speakers, and advanced driver-assistance technology.
Budget-conscious shoppers exploring diverse purchasing routes can easily browse our inventory of quality pre-owned vehicles or streamline their acquisition by completing a secure online finance application ahead of time.
Pricing
Manufacturer-listed starting MSRP for selected compared trims. Prices exclude applicable freight/destination, tax, title, license, options, accessories, and dealer charges.
| 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Trim | Starting MSRP | 2026 Honda Passport Trim | Starting MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calligraphy FWD | $47,600 | RTL AWD | $44,950 |
| Calligraphy Hybrid FWD | $48,700 | RTL Towing AWD | $45,650 |
| Calligraphy HTRAC AWD | $49,400 | RTL Blackout AWD | $46,150 |
| Calligraphy Hybrid HTRAC AWD | $50,500 | TrailSport AWD | $48,650 |
Room and Versatility for School Runs and Weekend Gear
Cabin layout and storage flexibility determine how easily an SUV copes with morning rush hours and weekend sports tournaments. The gas-powered 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe offers 152 cu ft of passenger volume. Hyundai lists 44.4 inches of front legroom, 42.3 inches of second-row legroom, and 30.0 inches of third-row legroom for the gas-powered Santa Fe. Calligraphy models feature second-row captain's chairs and seating for six.
Cargo management is where the two crossover designs diverge significantly. Hyundai lists 14.6 cu ft of cargo volume behind the Santa Fe's third row, 40.5 cu ft behind the second row, and up to 79.6 cu ft behind the front seats. The two-row Honda Passport focuses on five-passenger seating and substantial cargo capacity behind its second row, while the Santa Fe provides the added flexibility of a third row.
The Santa Fe also offers useful cabin storage and charging features, with equipment varying by trim. Limited and Calligraphy models include additional third-row USB charging ports. To customize your SUV's load-carrying setup for bikes or roof boxes, our OEM parts department supplies genuine Hyundai accessories such as available cross rails and cargo solutions.
Performance and Handling Tailored to Rolling Terrain and Weather
A family crossover must be prepared for changing road and weather conditions. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy delivers robust performance through its 2.5L turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, outputting 277 horsepower at 5,800 rpm and 311 lb-ft of torque at 4,000 rpm. It is paired with an 8-speed automatic transmission.
For drivers prioritizing fuel economy, the Santa Fe Calligraphy Hybrid pairs a 1.6L turbocharged engine with an electric motor. This hybrid setup generates a combined 231 horsepower and 271 lb-ft of torque through a 6-speed automatic transmission. The FWD Hybrid achieves an EPA-estimated 37 city / 36 highway / 36 combined MPG, while HTRAC AWD models are rated at 35 city / 34 highway / 34 combined MPG. The non-hybrid Santa Fe Calligraphy is rated at 20 city / 29 highway / 24 combined MPG with FWD and 20 city / 28 highway / 23 combined MPG with HTRAC AWD.
The Honda Passport relies on a 3.5L naturally aspirated V6 paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. Producing 285 horsepower and 262 lb-ft of torque, the Passport has an 8-hp edge over the turbo Santa Fe, while the Santa Fe's 2.5L turbo produces 49 lb-ft more peak torque. Honda rates the 2026 Passport for up to 5,000 lbs of towing, while Hyundai rates the Santa Fe Calligraphy's 2.5L turbo for up to 3,500 lbs with trailer brakes and the Santa Fe Hybrid for up to 2,000 lbs with trailer brakes.
Santa Fe models equipped with Hyundai's available HTRAC all-wheel-drive system can distribute driving force between the front and rear wheels as conditions require. The 2026 Passport comes standard with Honda's i-VTM4® AWD system.
Tech Features That Enhance Commutes and Family Connectivity
Modern SUV cabins serve as mobile command centers for busy families, making intuitive infotainment technology important. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy features a panoramic curved display integrating a 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster and 12.3-inch touchscreen.
Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android Auto™ compatibility are standard across the Santa Fe lineup. Calligraphy models also include dual wireless device charging for supported devices and a Bose® premium audio system with 12 speakers.
Hyundai Digital Key technology on equipped models allows a compatible smartphone or supported device to provide convenient vehicle access. The Santa Fe Calligraphy also includes advanced convenience technology such as a fingerprint scanner.
Bluelink+ connected services and over-the-air update capability are available on the 2026 Santa Fe. Service availability, compatible devices, cellular coverage, subscription terms, and specific remote functions are subject to Hyundai's current connected-services terms and vehicle equipment.
Safety Systems Designed for Busy Streets and Outdoor Adventures
Protecting your loved ones is an important consideration, and the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe offers a broad range of active driver-assistance technologies. The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe is an IIHS TOP SAFETY PICK+ award winner. IIHS notes that the updated moderate-overlap evaluation applies to 2025–26 Santa Fe models built after November 2024. NHTSA selected the 2026 Santa Fe for testing under its 5-Star Safety Ratings program; shoppers should confirm the latest published NHTSA rating for the specific vehicle before relying on a star-rating claim.
Hyundai SmartSense driver-assistance and safety technologies include a variety of systems, with exact functionality and availability depending on trim and equipment:
- Forward Collision-Avoidance Assist: Can help detect certain vehicles, pedestrians, cyclists, and other potential hazards and may provide warnings or braking assistance when system conditions are met.
- Blind-Spot Collision-Avoidance Assist: Can warn of vehicles detected in the blind spot and may provide additional assistance in certain situations.
- Rear Cross-Traffic Collision-Avoidance Assist: Can warn of detected cross traffic while reversing and may apply braking assistance when appropriate.
- Lane Keeping Assist and Lane Following Assist: Can provide steering assistance to help the vehicle remain within detected lane markings.
- Surround View Monitor: Available camera technology can provide multiple exterior views to assist with low-speed maneuvering.
- Remote Smart Parking Assist: Standard on Santa Fe Limited and Calligraphy and designed to assist with certain parking maneuvers under appropriate conditions.
Calligraphy models also include advanced driver-assistance features such as Highway Driving Assist 2. Driver-assistance systems are not substitutes for attentive driving; system capabilities and limitations should be reviewed in the owner's manual.
Warranty, Maintenance, and Local Service Support
Long-term ownership also involves manufacturer warranty coverage. Hyundai lists the following coverage for the 2026 Santa Fe, subject to warranty terms, limitations, and eligibility:
- 10-Year / 100,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty: Applicable to the original owner under Hyundai's warranty terms and limitations.
- 5-Year / 60,000-Mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty.
- 5-Year / Unlimited-Mile 24/7 Roadside Assistance.
- 10-Year / 100,000-Mile Hybrid/Electric Battery Limited Warranty: Applicable to the Santa Fe Hybrid's lithium-ion battery subject to Hyundai's published terms, exclusions, and limitations.
Honda warranty coverage differs from Hyundai's program. Buyers should review the applicable Honda warranty booklet and current manufacturer terms for complete coverage details and exclusions when comparing ownership protection.
Keeping your Hyundai operating in peak condition is easier with factory-trained technicians and genuine OEM replacement parts. You can quickly schedule service appointments through our online service scheduler. Shoppers can also check out our selection of certified pre-owned vehicles.
If your Hyundai encounters an unexpected roadside issue, Hyundai Roadside Assistance at (800) 243-7766 provides manufacturer-backed roadside support, subject to Hyundai's applicable program terms.
Fuel Economy
EPA-estimated fuel economy for selected configurations
| Configuration | EPA-Estimated MPG |
|---|---|
| 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy FWD | 20 city / 29 highway / 24 combined |
| 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Calligraphy HTRAC AWD | 20 city / 28 highway / 23 combined |
| 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Calligraphy FWD | 37 city / 36 highway / 36 combined |
| 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid Calligraphy HTRAC AWD | 35 city / 34 highway / 34 combined |
| 2026 Honda Passport | Up to 19 city / 25 highway, depending on trim |
Common Buyer Questions Comparing the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2026 Honda Passport
Q: How does passenger space differ between the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe and 2026 Honda Passport?
A: The Hyundai Santa Fe has three rows and seats up to seven passengers depending on trim, while Calligraphy models seat six with second-row captain's chairs. The Honda Passport is a two-row, five-passenger SUV. Hyundai lists 14.6 cu ft of Santa Fe cargo volume behind the third row and up to 79.6 cu ft behind the front seats.
Q: Which SUV offers a hybrid powertrain?
A: The 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe offers an available hybrid powertrain. The Santa Fe Hybrid Calligraphy FWD is EPA-rated at 37 city / 36 highway / 36 combined MPG, while the HTRAC AWD version is rated at 35 city / 34 highway / 34 combined MPG. The 2026 Honda Passport is powered by a 3.5L V6 and does not offer a hybrid powertrain.
Q: Does the 2026 Honda Passport tow more than the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe?
A: Honda rates the 2026 Passport for up to 5,000 lbs of towing. Hyundai rates the 2026 Santa Fe Calligraphy 2.5L turbo for up to 3,500 lbs with trailer brakes, while the Santa Fe Hybrid is rated for up to 2,000 lbs with trailer brakes. Actual towing capability depends on vehicle configuration, equipment, trailer setup, loading, and other conditions.
Q: How does Hyundai warranty coverage compare?
A: Hyundai lists a 10-Year/100,000-Mile Powertrain Limited Warranty for the original owner, a 5-Year/60,000-Mile New Vehicle Limited Warranty, and 5-Year/Unlimited-Mile 24/7 Roadside Assistance for the 2026 Santa Fe. Warranty coverage is subject to manufacturer terms, limitations, exclusions, and eligibility requirements, so buyers should review the applicable Hyundai and Honda warranty documents when comparing coverage.
Q: Where can I test drive the 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe near Dublin, Ohio?
A: You can explore available 2026 Hyundai Santa Fe models at Great Lakes Hyundai of Dublin. Our showroom is located at 2441 Billingsley Rd, Columbus, OH 43235. You can view our current selection of new Hyundai Santa Fe inventory online or call our sales team at (614) 782-1029 to ask about availability and schedule a test drive.
Prices, MSRP, fuel economy estimates, feature availability, seating layouts, and safety ratings are for informational purposes only and may vary by trim, drivetrain, configuration, build date, inventory, and official manufacturer updates. MSRP excludes freight charges, tax, title, and license fees. See dealer for complete details and confirm any open campaigns, recalls, or required updates before purchase.
