Hyundai Santa Fe vs. Toyota Grand Highlander: Which Is the Better Hybrid 3-Row SUV?

I'm waiting for you guys to compare the Hyundai Kona vs the Cadillac Escalade next!!!

Not a reasonable comparison. Compare the Sante Fe to the standard Highlander, NOT the Grand Highlander. Come on guys!

I’ve only owned Toyotas, but this comparison feels a bit apples-to-oranges. The Grand Highlander isn't really Hyundai’s equivalent of the Santa Fe—the Palisade would be a better match. Also, comparing the Santa Fe’s regular hybrid to the Grand Highlander’s Hybrid Max doesn't quite make sense. A better comparison would be with the Grand Highlander’s standard hybrid powertrain.

These two are excellent options for those looking for a new family hauler, but they have different strengths. The Grand Highlander Hybrid has an edge in size and performance, while the Santa Fe's stylish interior and value give it serious appeal. Which approach resonates with you more? Let us know in the comments below!

I have a SF Hybrid non awd. im getting 38 to 40 mpg

Maximum payload and towing capacity, what about roof rack storage capability?

Missed opportunity. We were waiting for the Santa fe vs Highlander comparison.

I was shopping for a mid size three row SUV and we test drove most of them including Toyota GH Limited gas and Santa Fe hybrid. We loved the Santa fe and we would have purchased it if Hyundai stupidly didn’t offer only the base trim of Santa Fe with hybrid in Canada. We ended up buying a Palisade ultimate Caligraphy which in terms of interior space and luxury is on another level. It has a smooth V6 compared to 2.4 turbo that most others including Toyota GH offer. The build quality and refinement of the Toyota was the last in our list. This test should have been between the Palisade and GH and it that test Palisade would smash the GH.

My SF Hybrid SEL AWD gets 34 mpg around town without me trying to be frugal. I don't know how you guys are driving. Highway driving is a little less but definitely above 30 mpg.

The reason the someone would prefer the household outlet on the 3rd row (Santa Fe configuration) is a lot of families buy these 3 row SUVs and permanently just fold down the 3rd row. That allows you to open up the back and put a car fridge or some entertainment apparatus there for camping, tailgating, etc.