Honda Pilot vs Hyundai Santa Fe: Which to Buy

Honda Pilot starts at $42,195; the Hyundai Santa Fe starts at $35,050. Before taxes and fees, the Hyundai Santa Fe is $7,245 less. Honda Pilot makes more power, 285 hp against 277 hp. The Honda Pilot seats 8, the Hyundai Santa Fe seats 7.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Honda Pilot or the Hyundai Santa Fe cheaper?
The Hyundai Santa Fe costs less to start. Honda Pilot: $42,195 plus $1,495 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 Honda Pilot or the Hyundai Santa Fe?
The Honda Pilot is rated 19/27 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 Honda Pilot seats 8. The Hyundai Santa Fe seats 7.
What are the trade-offs between the two?
Honda Pilot: Thoughtful, user-friendly interior layout, though no hybrid option available for fuel-conscious buyers. Hyundai Santa Fe: Bold and unique exterior styling, though low-mounted rear turn signals.
Honda Pilot is best for
Honda Pilot is the better fit for mid-size suv buyers who want to carry a family. Its standout: thoughtful, user-friendly interior layout.
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
| Attribute | Honda Pilot | Hyundai Santa Fe |
|---|---|---|
| Starting MSRP | $42,195 | $35,050 |
| MSRP + destination | $43,690 | $36,445 |
| Fuel economy / range | 19/27 city/hwy | 20/29 city/hwy |
| Horsepower | 285 hp | 277 hp |
| Seating | 8 | 7 |
| Body type | Mid-Size SUV | Mid-Size SUV |
| Powertrains | 3.5L V6 | 2.5L Turbo, 1.6L Turbo Hybrid |