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Toyota Highlander vs Hyundai Santa Fe: Which to Buy

Carummah Editorial
Last updated: November 4, 2026
Toyota Highlander vs Hyundai Santa Fe

Toyota Highlander starts at $46,270; the Hyundai Santa Fe starts at $35,050. Before taxes and fees, the Hyundai Santa Fe is $11,275 less. Hyundai Santa Fe makes more power, 277 hp against 265 hp. The Toyota Highlander seats 8, the Hyundai Santa Fe seats 7.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Toyota Highlander or the Hyundai Santa Fe cheaper?

The Hyundai Santa Fe costs less to start. Toyota Highlander: $46,270 plus $1,450 destination. Hyundai Santa Fe: $35,050 plus $1,395 destination. Taxes, title and registration are on top of both.

Which gets better fuel economy, the Toyota Highlander or the Hyundai Santa Fe?

The Toyota Highlander is rated 21/29 city/hwy, and the Hyundai Santa Fe is rated 20/29 city/hwy. Real-world results depend on how and where you drive.

How many people does each seat?

The Toyota Highlander seats 8. The Hyundai Santa Fe seats 7.

What are the trade-offs between the two?

Toyota Highlander: Exceptional predicted reliability and high resale value, though third row is less spacious than the Honda Pilot. Hyundai Santa Fe: Bold and unique exterior styling, though low-mounted rear turn signals.

Toyota Highlander is best for

Toyota Highlander is the better fit for mid-size suv buyers who need room for six or seven. Its standout: exceptional predicted reliability and high resale value.

Hyundai Santa Fe is best for

Hyundai Santa Fe is the better fit for mid-size suv buyers who want to carry a family. Its standout: bold and unique exterior styling.

Spec-by-Spec Comparison

AttributeToyota HighlanderHyundai Santa Fe
Starting MSRP$46,270$35,050
MSRP + destination$47,720$36,445
Fuel economy / range21/29 city/hwy20/29 city/hwy
Horsepower265 hp277 hp
Seating87
Body typeMid-Size SUVMid-Size SUV
Powertrains2.4L Turbo 4-Cylinder, Hybrid2.5L Turbo, 1.6L Turbo Hybrid

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