Hyundai’s midsize Santa Fe and compact Tucson have redesigned interiors and exciting new features. Both models come with a host of trims, including hybrid options, designed for the diverse tastes of today’s SUV enthusiasts.
Pragmatic Upgrades, Reasonable Cost
Hyundai’s decision to focus on its compact and midsize SUV models was a savvy move given the popularity of smaller-sized SUVs in today’s market. And while there are similarities between the two, these upgraded models have been carefully upgraded with an eye to strengthening the company’s position in two very important SUV niches.
Like the smaller model, the Hyundai Tucson offers lower pricing beginning at a base of just over $26,000. The Tucson’s 28 mpg offers slightly better fuel efficiency than the Santa Fe (26 mpg), though hybrid powertrain versions of both vehicles offer customers better fuel economy options.
Classic SUV Power
Like the larger model, the midsize Hyundai Santa Fe packs more pull and pick-up than the Tucson. The Santa Fe’s 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine generates 277 hp, a considerable jump up from the Tucson’s turbo 2.5-liter 187-hp generating engine. The Santa Fe comes standard with a 191-hp engine.
The Hyundai Santa Fe comes with several powertrain selections, including a hybrid and plug-in hybrid version with a six-speed automatic, turbo 1.6 liter with two electric motors. There’s also an eight-speed automatic and front- or all-wheel-drive transmission options.
Expansive Trims
The new Hyundai Tucson and Santa Fe have an expansive selection of trims, which give SUV customers who like choices lots to choose from. Of the 10 Hyundai Tucson packages, which range in price from $26,175 to $38,725, the SEL Convenience package, with its combination of high-tech safety features and comfort, delivers outstanding overall value.
The Hyundai Santa Fe’s lineup includes three hybrid trims, ranging from just under $35,000 to $41,385. An affordable mid-range package gives customers an attractive selection of features, from heated exterior mirrors to SiriusXM satellite radio and push-button ignition.
Bigger is Better
The new Hyundai Santa Fe was redesigned with more size and greater comfort, important qualities for people who like an SUV with plenty of legroom. The Santa Fe seats five adults comfortably. There’s also ample cargo space behind the back row, which can fit 15 bags, 18 more when folded under the back row.
The new Hyundai Tucson is a five-passenger, four-door, all-wheel-drive model. The Tucson’s redesign includes more cargo (39 cubic feet) and passenger space (106 cubic feet), making it an attractive buy for people who like the idea of a compact SUV with plenty of room for both people and baggage.
Emphasis on Safety
The redesign of both vehicles reflects an emphasis on safety. The Hyundai Tucson includes automatic emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and lane-departure warning. The Santa Fe’s extensive list of safety features includes forward collision warning and automatic emergency braking.
Both come with solid safety legacies. The Tucson performed well in U.S. News and World Report’s front crash prevention, side-impact, and rear crash prevention tests. The Santa Fe recently scored an impressive win, garnering the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety’s coveted Top Safety award.
Compact and Efficient or Powerful and Spacious
The new Hyundai Tucson and Santa Fe are both safer and better equipped with a wealth of tech features. The Tucson is a great choice for SUV loyalists who want a more compact and fuel-efficient vehicle than the typical SUV. If you’re into the power and space a midsize can provide, the Hyundai Santa Fe is a well-equipped option with plenty of power and a smooth ride.
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